Happy Friday!
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.
Missed a newsletter? Check out our archives!
🗞 In The News
Credit: The Guardian | Getty Images
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg took the stand in a landmark Los Angeles trial where a 20-year-old plaintiff alleges Instagram and YouTube played a big role in her depression and suicidal thoughts by keeping her hooked on the platforms from a young age. In court, he defended Meta’s design choices, denied that the apps are intentionally addictive, and said the company has made improvements — but lawyers challenged him using internal documents about engagement goals and under-age users.
This case is one of the first bellwether trials testing whether social media companies can be held accountable for youth mental-health harms instead of hiding behind traditional legal protections. The outcome could set a major precedent for how tech companies must balance user safety with profit as concerns about teen emotional well-being grow.
Read More: Zuckerberg Grilled In Landmark Social Media Trial Over Teen Mental Health (The Guardian)
Credit: People Magazine
Prince William opened up in a BBC interview about how it took him a long time to understand his own emotions, stressing that checking in with yourself isn’t a one-and-done thing but a process many people struggle with. He also highlighted the importance of having strong role models — especially men — talk openly about mental health so others don’t feel alone or ashamed when they’re struggling.
To back that up, his foundation is donating £1 million to create a National Suicide Prevention Network in the UK that will coordinate support and help uncover why people think about suicide in the first place. William’s message is a simple but powerful reminder that emotional health matters just as much as physical health, and that sharing your story can help others feel less alone.
Credit: Statista
🆘 Help for All
Credit: Pexels
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
Credit: Scoop Upworthy | Getty Images
Ever notice how people almost hate silence and keep the TV, radio, or music on even when they’re not really watching? Psychologists say it’s not just habit — silence can sometimes open the door to uncomfortable thoughts and anxiety, so many people use background noise as a way to distract their brains and feel more comfortable.
One striking experiment found that many people would rather experience an unpleasant sensation than sit alone with their thoughts, showing how powerful our need for distraction can be. While background sound can offer temporary comfort and reduce loneliness, experts warn that relying on it to avoid your feelings can turn it into a crutch that makes it harder to face stress and real emotions.
Read More: Ever Wonder Why The TV Is Always On Even When You’re Not Watching? Psychologists Says There's A Reason For That (Scoop Upworthy)
🛍 Product Review
Someone tried out the viral “potato bed” trend — basically a bed piled with soft blankets and pillows arranged like a cozy potato nest — and reports that it was surprisingly comfy and calming, especially on cold or low-energy days. Instead of being weird or gimmicky, the setup felt like creating a personal comfort cocoon that made it easier to relax, slow down, and unwind after a stressful day.
The idea taps into the same logic as weighted blankets or cozy spaces: when your environment feels safe and soft, your nervous system can chill out more easily.
Read More: I Tried the Viral “Potato Bed”—And It's So Cozy (Real Simple)
📞 Share the Health
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
