3 Mental Health Lessons from Oprah’s Royal Interview

Welcome to the new Sunday edition of the Verywell Mind newsletter. Let's take five minutes to see the week in a new light. By Wendy Rose Gould & Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief
Top of Mind Mindful Takeaways From the Meghan, Harry, and Oprah Interview
Trying to imagine ourselves in Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's shoes is difficult, but that's not to say there aren't small ways in which we can still relate. The dynamics of any family and interpersonal relationships are complicated in their own right and navigating those murky waters can be a real challenge. In a way, Oprah's interview left viewers feeling connected to the couple precisely because aspects of the issues they're dealing with are relatable. Here are a few takeaways.
We Need to Advocate for Our Own Mental Health Even if you're surrounded by people who care about you, at the end of the day only you know what is best for you. When you're feeling pulled one way or another by outside forces, try to center yourself and tap into what you truly need. This grounding can help provide a sense of inner clarity and perspective on where to go from here. Get help if you need it, even if those around you discourage you from doing so.
And I share this because, there are so many people who are afraid to voice that they need help, and I know how hard it is to not just voice it but to be told no. — MEGHAN MARKLE
Drawing Protective Boundaries Is OK If you sense that you're in a situation that's not conducive to your well-being, create healthy boundaries. This looks different for everyone depending on the circumstances. Maybe it's a full extrication, or maybe it's strongly communicating your feelings and needs and then clearly outlining healthy parameters. It Takes Enormous Courage to Share Your Struggles There's a strong urge to tuck into yourself and sort through complex thoughts all on your own. The reality is that we don't have all the answers ourselves, and talking with others—be it a friend, family member, or therapist—can be incredibly helpful. Remember, sharing your struggles indicates strength, not weakness.
On the Bright Side
Get Inspired What to Listen to This Week The Verywell Mind Podcast with Editor-in-Chief, Amy Morin, debuted this week! As a psychotherapist, leading mental health expert, and bestselling author, Amy's goal with every episode is to help listeners prioritize their mental health and create more balance in their lives. The Verywell Mind Podcast is available across all streaming platforms and new episodes are released every Monday and Friday morning. You can look forward to upcoming interviews with Melissa Bernstein, founder of Melissa & Doug, IT Cosmetics founder Jamie Kern Lima, and more. Subscribe Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts / RSS Take Care Ways to Nurture Your Mind and Body Daylight Saving Time may steal one hour—but it means more light is on the way! Still, research finds this shift can impact your mind and body in the days that follow. Here are a few ways you can make the transition easier. Skip anything stimulating around bedtime, including bright lights, screens, food, and alcohol. Spend some time in the sunshine today to help your body and mind wake up. Go easy on yourself. Avoid long drives if you can, prepare simple meals, and give yourself a break when it comes to the work day. Keep Shining Products to Help You Feel Your Best Light therapy lamps have gotten us through dark winter months, and they can continue to help improve our circadian rhythm even with longer days now arriving. We've rounded up some of the best light therapy lamps out there to find the one that's right for you. In honor of Sleep Awareness Week (March 14–20), give the WAVE Sleep app a try to help you with any bedtime struggles. It offers on-demand guided sleep sessions, as well as pre-recorded options that'll lull you into dreamland.
Mindful Moment Before starting your day, take a moment to run through this morning belly breathing exercise from Chopra. Relax your abdominal muscles and place one hand on your belly. Slowly inhale through your nose as if you're drawing air into your lower lungs. Feel your rib cage expand outward and abdomen rise. Hold the breath for a count of 7 seconds Pause for a moment, then exhale out of your mouth. Imagine you are releasing air from the top of your lungs downward. At the end of your exhalation, draw your belly toward your spine to push out any residual air. Repeat for five to 10 minutes.
Related Reading How to Know When It's Time to See a Therapist If you've ever wondered whether it's time to start seeing a therapist, this article can help you figure it out. How to Deal With Losing an Hour of Sleep for Daylight Saving Time Everyday Health writer, Lauren Bedosky, walks you through simple ways to make Daylight Saving Time less of a struggle.
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