Happy Friday and Happy National Siblings Day!

National Siblings Day is a holiday recognized in parts of the US and Canada annually on April 10. It honors the relationship of siblings of all ages. Founded in 1995 by Claudia Evart, this day recognizes the essential bond between siblings.

This day is often marked by sharing memories, giving gifts, or spending time together. Many use social media (hashtag #NationalSiblingsDay) to share photos, while others offer acts of kindness or messages of appreciation.

Welcome to The Mental Minute where our goal is to make mental health an everyday conversation. Take a few minutes to enjoy today’s news, tips, key resources and product reviews.

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Actors Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor are reminding us that one of the most underrated mental-health moves is simple: surround yourself with people who genuinely make you feel good. In a recent conversation, they opened up about how easy it is to fall into isolation — especially in a post-pandemic world — and how meaningful relationships can help pull you back into connection.

They also called out social media for creating a fake highlight reel that can make people feel disconnected or not “enough.” After going through their own ups and downs, the couple emphasized that honest communication, emotional openness, and supportive relationships are what actually keep you grounded.

Read More: Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor on the Importance of Surrounding Yourself 'with People That Make You Feel Good' (People)

Thousands of oil tanker workers stranded in the Gulf for over six weeks are reaching a breaking point, with many reporting extreme stress, fear, and emotional exhaustion as conflict in the region keeps them stuck at sea. Some crews have witnessed mental breakdowns among colleagues, as they live under constant threat from missile strikes, drones, and mines while waiting for safe passage. 

With limited mental-health support and no clear timeline for escape, many workers say they feel trapped — and about 90% on some ships are refusing to continue sailing due to safety concerns. The situation highlights how invisible workers behind global supply chains are facing intense psychological strain, often without the resources or recognition they need.

Read More: ‘Mental Breakdown’: Oil Tanker Workers Stuck In Gulf For Six Weeks Are Reaching Their Limit (The Guardian)

The UK is seeing a surge in mass animal rescues, and it’s not just about pets — it’s about people in crisis. The RSPCA says a mix of the cost-of-living crisis and worsening mental health is leaving many owners overwhelmed, unable to afford care or manage growing numbers of animals. In some extreme cases, situations spiral into hundreds of animals living in unsafe conditions, often because people started with good intentions but couldn’t keep up. 

Experts say many of these individuals are dealing with financial stress and emotional overload, making it harder to recognize when things are getting out of control or to ask for help. 

Read More: Cost Of Living And Mental Health Crisis Driving Mass Animal Rescues (The Guardian)

MYTH: Mental health problems are best treated by my primary care physician or a general practitioner.

FACT: Nearly every mental health professional agrees that diagnosable mental disorders are best treated by a trained specialist — a mental health professional. Whether the professional is a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other clinician specially trained to diagnose and treatment mental health problems, you can expect to receive the highest quality care and treatment when seen by one of them over a general practitioner.

Mental disorders should be taken as seriously as any potentially chronic and disabling medical condition. You’d go to an oncologist for cancer, a dermatologist for skin problems, etc., etc. Don’t expect or demand any less in the quality of care you receive when dealing with mental health problems.

The Mental Minute is your #1 source for the latest mental health news, tips, key resources and product reviews. Our goal is to make mental health an everyday conversation.

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Thanks, and Be Well.

— The Mental Minute