This month, we’re focusing on how to recognize when stress may be turning into an anxiety disorder, along with timely support for common triggers many of us are facing right now — including health-related fears during flu season, sound sensitivities like misophonia, and the growing pull of digital and AI-based connections when real-life relationships feel harder.
If any of this resonates, you’re not alone. Anxiety shows up for a reason, even when its strategies aren’t helpful. We hope that this month’s content helps you feel more informed, supported, and compassionate toward your hard-working nervous system as you step into the year ahead.
Warmly,
Dr. Debra Kissen
In this Issue:
10 Signs Anxiety Might Be Taking Over - Stress is normal. Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or on edge all the time is not. Learn how to tell when stress becomes an anxiety disorder—and when it’s time for support.
When Fear of Getting Sick Takes Over - Flu season can make health fears skyrocket—especially emetophobia (vomit phobia). You’re not weak, and you’re not alone. Check out these 10 tips to tackle emetophobia and build resilience.
Why Certain Sounds Feel Unbearable - If certain sounds feel unbearable, it’s not “just being sensitive.” Misophonia is real—and your brain can learn to respond differently through CBT. Take a test and listen to our clinician's video!
AI Intimacy and Real Connection - AI connection feels easy—for a reason. But your brain still needs real people, real emotion, and real connection. Here are 10 reasons it still makes sense to get the majority of your intimacy from real people.
Why “Admin Night” Works - "Admin night" is a viral social trend where friends gather to tackle tedious life tasks (like paying bills, scheduling appointments, organizing emails) together. Turning procrastination into a productive, social activity with snacks and drinks. “Admin night” works because we function better together.
Stress vs. Anxiety: Knowing the Difference
Stress is part of life—but when it starts to feel constant, overwhelming, or limiting, anxiety may be taking over. Discover the key signs that indicate it’s more than stress and when support can be beneficial.
Flu season can intensify fears around illness and vomiting, especially for those with emetophobia. Dr. Kissen explains why your brain goes into high alert—and how to move through the fear without letting it run your life.
Understanding Triggers: Sound-Related vs. Person-Related
For people with misophonia, everyday sounds can trigger intense emotional reactions. Learn why the brain responds this way—and how treatment can help reduce distress and regain control.
AI interactions can feel safe, easy, and comforting—but they don’t fully meet our emotional needs. This article examines why genuine human connection remains crucial for maintaining mental health.
Life tasks are draining because they tax your brain in invisible ways. Admin nights work by adding structure, companionship, and body doubling (having another person present, physically or virtually, while you work) — making small tasks feel lighter and more doable with a splash of fun!
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