Today Maddy and Jennifer dive into the evolving culture surrounding mental health, wellness, and the ways we talk about our struggles. Together, they examine how social media and influencer culture have fueled the trend of pathologizing everyday emotions and labeling discomfort as illness, often overshadowing the real challenges of mental health. From the rise of “trauma talk” to labeling normal feelings as conditions, Maddy and Jennifer question whether we're losing sight of resilience and self-compassion along the way.

Key Takeaways:

• Mental Health Isn’t Always a Crisis: Not every uncomfortable emotion requires immediate intervention; sometimes, it's about learning to ride the wave.
• Labeling Pitfalls: The tendency to label everyday struggles as disorders can lead to a misunderstanding of what mental health treatment is really for.
• Social Media Influence: Understanding how influencer culture and viral trends impact our views on mental health and self-care practices.
• Coping Strategies vs. Wellness Overload: Why sticking to simple, sustainable routines can be more effective than following every wellness trend.

Resources & Links:

• Email us your questions at: hello@areweokay.com
• Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @manhattan.wellness
• Follow Maddy on Instagram: @downtownbehavioralwellness

Downtown Behavioral Wellness: Founded by Maddy Ellberger, Downtown Behavioral Wellness is a private therapy practice in NYC specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The practice focuses on providing evidence-based treatments for young adults and middle-aged clients dealing with life transitions, anxiety, and the unique challenges of their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Whether you're grappling with relationship issues, career stress, or emotional regulation, Downtown Behavioral Wellness is there to support you every step of the way.

Manhattan Wellness: Led by Jennifer Teplin, Manhattan Wellness is a boutique therapy practice dedicated to helping young professionals in New York City. Specializing in issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and major life transitions like dating, engagements, and new motherhood, the team at Manhattan Wellness provides compassionate, individualized care to help clients navigate the ups and downs of their 20s and 30s.

---

Co-Host: Maddy Ellberger

Co-Host: Jennifer Teplin

Executive Producer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach