My Son, Superhero In Training
The air is cooling, the days are shortening, and store aisles are lined with fresh notebooks and colorful pens, that familiar sign that it’s time to go back to school. For some students, this season feels exciting: a chance to reunite with friends, step into new opportunities, and embrace a fresh start.
But for many others, the back-to-school season brings anxiety. It might show up as sleepless nights, a knot in your stomach, racing thoughts, or a sudden drop in appetite. Even if you had a relaxing, carefree summer, the thought of returning to school can feel heavy. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Anxiety during times of transition is incredibly common, and with the right tools and support, it doesn’t have to take over.
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect millions worldwide, transcending age, gender, and cultural boundaries. They are not simply about food but involve a range of psychological, physical, and social issues. Supporting a loved one through this struggle can be challenging, requiring understanding, patience, and knowledge of the right approaches to truly make a difference.
We often hear about dopamine as the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. But what exactly does that mean, and how does it affect behaviors like eating or seeking pleasure in other ways? For many people, understanding dopamine can shine a light on why we turn to certain habits, and how we might create healthier, more balanced sources of joy in our lives.