Today is National Day of the Deployed.

Established in 2006, this day was created to honor U.S. military service members who are currently deployed, have served abroad, or are preparing to deploy, as well as the families who support them.

The observance was first proclaimed by North Dakota Governor John Hoeven after a petition by Shelle Michaels Aberle, a volunteer with Soldiers' Angels. October 26 was chosen because it was the birthday of Aberle’s cousin who was deployed to Iraq at the time.

Today we highlight the sacrifices, dangers, and demanding conditions faced by troops stationed far from home across global outposts, ships, and bases. We also recognize military spouses, children, and parents who "serve on the home front."

Missed a newsletter? Check out our archives!

🗞 Jason Sudeikis at Center of Mental Health Fears After 'Ted Lasso' Self-Harm Admission. Jason Sudeikis recently opened up on a podcast, sharing that playing the relentlessly optimistic Ted Lasso helped carry him through thoughts of self-harm that he hadn’t felt since his teenage years. He was honest that these feelings can bring up shame, and he described how creative work has long been a source of support for him. The more hopeful takeaway is how openly he spoke about his inner life, which can help others feel less alone. Read more at RadarOnline

🗞 The Trump administration moves to treat millions of mentally ill veterans with psychedelics.  A senior adviser at the Veterans Health Administration says the VA wants to expand access to psychedelic treatments for veterans with conditions like PTSD or depression, though no government regulator has yet found these drugs safe or effective for mental illness. The FDA rejected an MDMA-assisted therapy application in 2024, and President Trump’s April executive order aims to speed up research, clinical trials, and patient access. The VA adviser also acknowledged that demand would likely outpace supply, and some arguing these treatments work best when paired with psychotherapy. Read more at Politico

🗞 The scientific reason why the days feel shorter as you age. Time really does seem to fly as we age, and researchers have offered several reasons. Proportional theory suggests each year becomes a smaller slice of our total experience, while novelty deficit means that routines blur together in memory. Burnout, stress, and autopilot habits can also make time feel compressed. The good news is that we can slow things down by trying new things, adding surprises, and making moments worth remembering. Read more at The Independent

🗞 Horse-assisted therapy is linked to lower stress in children with autism. Ever wondered why some kids light up around horses? Dr. Caiti Peters of Colorado State explains that equine-assisted occupational therapy helps autistic children stay calm and engaged, and a published study found lower stress hormones after sessions with horses compared to traditional clinic settings. Riding gives the body the kind of rhythmic movement that helps the nervous system settle, and horses, as prey animals, are highly tuned to human emotions. Read more at TheStreet.com

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

Four Supplements That Science Says Could Boost Your Mood. Feeling a little blah lately? You’re not alone, and it’s completely normal to wonder whether a supplement could help lift your mood. Research points to a few options, including L-theanine (the calming compound in green tea), vitamin D, vitamin B12, and St. John’s wort, though the evidence varies, and St. John’s wort can interact dangerously with many medications. Correcting a true vitamin D or B12 deficiency can make a real difference in how you feel, but no supplement replaces therapy or medical treatment. Read More at Yahoo! Health

MYTH: If you’re struggling, you aren’t praying enough

FACT: Struggling with your mental health doesn’t mean that you are being spiritually tested or punished for your sins. We all need support with our mental health sometimes, and seeking out help is an act of humility. Spiritual support can come in many forms, such as the people and resources that are put in your path to help you heal.

Working with a mental health professional can supplement other sources of spiritual or emotional support. Many therapists are also spiritually-minded. You may be able to find a therapist who belongs to the same religious denomination as you. Finding someone who recognizes the importance of faith in your life can make your healing experience more personal and effective.

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.

🤫 Don’t keep us all to yourself. Sharing is caring - so share The Mental Minute with all of your friends!

Thanks, and Be Well.

— The Mental Minute