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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🗞 In The News
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, just 24, died in an apparent suicide after a police search following a car chase. The news shocked fans and teammates, especially since he had scored his first NFL touchdown just days earlier and was known for his big smile and “light-up-the-room” energy.
His death is a heartbreaking reminder that even the people who look like they’re winning on the outside can be hurting on the inside. We all need safe spaces to talk, check in on each other for real, and drop the stigma around asking for help. If you’re struggling — or if someone around you seems off — reaching out can truly save a life. You’re never alone, and there’s always someone ready to listen.
Unemployment doesn’t just hit your wallet — it hits your mind. According to the latest piece in The New York Times, being without work can fuel anxiety, depression, and a sinking sense of self-worth. It’s not just job-hunting stress — losing your routine, your social circle, and your sense of purpose all add up.
But here’s the hopeful twist: finding even a small way to stay connected, keep goals alive, or get support can make a big difference in how you cope. If you’re feeling stuck, know this isn’t about failure—it’s about what you’re facing—and help is out there.
40%
“Among employed adults, 40% worry about job security, and two-thirds are concerned about their financial well-being. “
📖 What’s The Meaning
Depression is a negative state of being that ranges from feelings of sadness or discontentment to feelings of extreme sadness and pessimism.
Depression interferes with daily functioning and can exhibit various physical, cognitive, and social symptoms such as changes in eating habits, altered sleep patterns, lack of energy or motivation, difficulty with concentration or decision making, withdrawal from social activities.
Feeling depressed? Common remedies include professional treatments like therapy or medication, and lifestyle adjustments such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and social support.
🆘 Help for All
Mental Health: In Crisis? Call or Text 988
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press ‘1’ or Text 838255
Youth Helpline: 2NDFLOOR - (888) 222-2228
National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-SAFE (7233)
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-TALK (8255)
Addiction: Start Your Recovery - (800) 662-4357
🗞 More News
It turns out people who put up holiday decor early might actually be boosting their mood. According to CBS Minnesota, decorating can help us feel more connected to our community — like we’re all in it together — which eases anxiety and loneliness.
Therapist Amy Morin points out that seeing lights and festive stuff can even help with seasonal sadness by giving your brain a little spark of joy. Plus, nostalgia plays a big role: hanging up favorite ornaments brings back warm memories and lifts spirits. So yeah, if you’re itching to plug in those twinkle lights early, science says go for it — it’s not just holiday hype, it might be good for your mental health.
🕹 Mind Games
Check out Flappy Bird. It’s is a side-scrolling browser game where you control a small bird by tapping the screen to make it flap and fly. MUCH better than play Solitaire!
Try Flappy Bird #1 or Flappy Bird #2
✏ Take The Quiz: Depression
Online screening is a quick and easy way to see what mental health symptoms you may be experiencing. It’s quick, free, confidential, and backed by science.
Mental health conditions are real and common.
Take the DEPRESSION QUIZ or the UNIVERSAL MENTAL HEALTH QUIZ
🛍 Product Review
Nike recently announced its first neuroscience-based footwear designed to help athletes reset their mindset before and after competition. The shoes use 22 independent foam nodes per foot to stimulate the nervous system, enhancing sensory awareness and grounding athletes in the present—potentially clearing distractions and boosting focus.
These products are the result of over a decade of research by Nike’s Mind Science Department, which leverages mobile brain and body imaging labs to decode the mind-body connection in athletes. Every detail—materials, construction, form—was engineered for an immersive sensory experience.
The Mind collection rolls out globally in January 2026.
📞 Share the Health
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Thanks, and be well.
— The Mental Minute
