Mentally Stronger with Therapist Amy Morin

Do you ever feel trapped by shame, guilt, or the stories you tell yourself about your past? Those are some of the hidden prisons that can keep us stuck in life. In today’s episode, I’m talking to Shaka Senghor. He spent 19 years in prison, including 7 in solitary confinement. But his story isn’t just about survival—it’s about how he transformed his life. And now, he’s a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and inspiration to millions. Some of the things we talk about are: How to identify the hidden prisons of shame, grief, and fear that keep you stuck How reading and journaling can set your mind free Why forgiveness is tricky—and how to truly let go How to change the story you've been telling yourself about who you are and what you're capable of accomplishing The small, everyday joys that can transform your mindset Why your past doesn’t define you—and how to stop punishing yourself for it How Shaka went from solitary confinement to teaching executives about leadership and culture If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of your past, this episode will inspire you to take the first step toward freedom. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources ⁠ShakaSenghor.com How to Be Free Follow Shaka on Instagram - @shakasenghor Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Cowboy Colostrum - Get 25% Off @CowboyColostrum with code STRONGER at cowboycolostrum.com. #CowboyColostrumPod HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Quince - Go to ⁠⁠Quince.com/stronger⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Mentally Strong App — Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at ⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you feel like you’re walking on eggshells around someone or someone tries to guilt you into things you don't want to do, emotional manipulation can drain you of mental strength. The good news is, once you know how to spot the red flags, you can take back your power and stay mentally strong. Some of the things I talk about today are: The 5 red flags that are signs of emotional manipulation The damage you may experience on the receiving end of it Why it's important to note why it happens without excusing it The psychology behind why people use emotional manipulation Five strategies to protect yourself and the responses that are most effective How to set boundaries with emotionally manipulative people How to recognize when it may be time to walk away Mentally Strong App Get mental strength coaching (subscribers only) — ⁠⁠⁠⁠Episode 246 Exercise⁠ ⁠ Subscribe to the app to unlock all the features — ⁠⁠⁠⁠MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Quince — Go to ⁠⁠Quince.com/stronger⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the life you’ve been living no longer aligns with your values? Would you have the courage to reinvent yourself and start over? Mental strength isn’t just about enduring a painful situation—it’s about knowing when to let go and create a life that truly fulfills you. In this episode of Mentally Stronger, I sit down with Christine Brown Woolley, star of TLC’s Sister Wives and author of the new book Sister Wife. Christine shares what helped her find the courage to leave a 25-year polygamous marriage and build a new life. From navigating complex family dynamics to embracing a new definition of mental strength, Christine’s story is a powerful reminder that change is possible at any stage of life. Some of the things we talk about are: How Christine's values and beliefs changed. How she found the courage to leave a 25-year marriage and start over. How Christine's definition of strength changed over time. How she started building confidence. The role of faith, family, and personal values in her transformation. Why hard conversations and setting boundaries are essential for growth. The daily habits and strategies she uses to stay grounded, creative, and mentally strong. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a life that no longer serves you, this episode will inspire you to take charge, embrace change, and build a life that aligns with your values. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources Sister Wife Follow Christine on Instagram - christine_brownsw Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Quince - Go to ⁠Quince.com/stronger⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Mentally Strong App — Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at ⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you struggle to stick to your work out routine or you have a hard time staying motivated to write a book, one small shift in your mindset could make all the difference. Motivation isn't something you either have or you don't. It's something you can create. One of the best ways to maintain motivation involves the way you describe yourself. Instead of looking at what you want to achieve, consider the person you want to become. Some of the things I share include: Why focusing on your identity, not just your goals, is the key to lasting motivation. How to reframe your goals to align with the person you want to become. The surprising science behind identity-based motivation — and how it rewires your brain. Four steps to put this strategy into action — and one common mistake to avoid. How small changes in your language can transform your mindset and behavior. Mentally Strong App Get free mental strength coaching — ⁠⁠⁠Episode 244 Exercise⁠ Get mental strength coaching with voice (subscribers only) - Episode 244 Voice Exercise⁠ Subscribe to the app to unlock all the features — ⁠⁠⁠MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai⁠⁠⁠ Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Quince — Go to ⁠Quince.com/stronger⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve ever sidestepped a tough conversation, ignored a problem, or avoided something that scares you, this episode is for you. Avoidance and anxiety often go hand-on-hand. Avoiding a problem helps you feel better right now, but it leads to long-term problems. It also makes anxiety worse in the long run. Today I’m joined by Dr. Robin Walser, clinical psychologist and expert in acceptance and commitment therapy. Together, we explore why we avoid, how it impacts our mental health, and—most importantly—how to break free from the avoidance cycle. Some of the things we talk about are: Why avoidance feels good in the short term but keeps you stuck in the long run How avoidance shrinks your life and disconnects you from the things that matter most to you The surprising ways avoidance is reinforced—and how to break the cycle How to face uncomfortable emotions without feeling overwhelmed Why connecting with your values can help you face the things you're trying to avoid How to take small steps toward the things you’ve been avoiding The link between facing your discomfort and mental strength Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources RobynWalser.com You Are Not Your Trauma Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Quince - Go to Quince.com/stronger for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Mentally Strong App — Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at AmyMorinLCSW.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel like there just isn't enough time to get things done? Or do you feel guilty for not spending enough time on the things that matter most—whether it’s your health, your relationships, or your personal goals. You’re not alone. Today I'm talking about how to make intentional trade-offs that align with your values so your life feels more in balance. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear plan to prioritize what matters most to you. Some of the things I talk about are: The 7 key areas of your life that need attention How to decide where to focus your energy and attention Why trade-offs aren’t a bad thing The surprising research on happiness and balance—and why it’s not about doing everything equally How to align your actions with your values Real-life strategies that will help you create the right balance for you Mentally Strong App Get mental strength coaching (subscribers only) — ⁠⁠⁠Episode 242 Exercise⁠ ⁠ ⁠Get mental strength coaching via voice (subscribers only) — ⁠Episode 242 Voice Exercise⁠ Subscribe to the app to unlock all the features — ⁠⁠⁠MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai⁠⁠⁠ Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit Amy's website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel stuck in the middle of family drama while trying to make the "right" decision? Maybe you’ve been asked to take sides in a family feud or you want to help someone but you're afraid you might enable their poor choices. These kinds of dilemmas can leave you feeling stressed out and anxious--unless you have a strategy for dealing with family drama. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Bobby Parmar, professor at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business and author of Radical Doubt. Dr. Parmar is an expert in decision-making, ethics, and navigating uncertainty. Together, we tackle common real-life family dilemmas that I often hear about in my therapy office and explore how to make the best decisions. Some of the things we talk about are: How to reframe family feuds so you’re not stuck choosing sides Why your character doesn’t determine your decisions (and what does) The surprising link between uncertainty and mental strength How to set boundaries without feeling guilty or selfish What to do when you know information you wish you didn’t How to handle family drama, like wedding conflicts or sibling rivalries Why your gut instinct might not always be the best guide (and how to use it wisely) How to make decisions when you’re caught between your values and relationships The key to avoiding regret when making tough choices Why small, actionable steps are the secret to solving big problems Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources Radical Doubt University of Virginia Faculty Page Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Mentally Strong App — Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠mentallystrong.downpat.ai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel like having a less than ideal childhood somehow holds you back? Maybe you grew up in a chaotic household or you just weren't taught the skills other kids learned. As an adult, you might find yourself feeling stunted by the adversity you faced. On today's episode, we’re diving into science-backed strategies to overcome a difficult childhood. And don't worry, you don't have to rehash the past to overcome it. Instead, you can use these tools to grow stronger, and create the adulthood you want to have. Some of the things I share are: How childhood adversity impacts mental strength. Why you don’t have to talk about your past to heal from it. The surprising benefits of having a rough start in life(and how to unlock them). 7 actionable strategies to help you move forward. How to develop a growth mindset and learn the skills you didn’t get as a kid. Mentally Strong App Get free mental strength coaching — ⁠⁠Episode 240 Exercise⁠ ⁠Get mental strength coaching via voice (subscribers only) - Episode 240 Voice Exercise Subscribe to the app to unlock all the features — ⁠⁠MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai⁠⁠ Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit Amy's website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why would someone confess to a crime they didn’t commit? Or why would someone join a cult? Most of us think we’re too mentally strong to fall for brainwashing, but subtle forms of persuasion might already be shaping the way we think, feel, and act—without us even realizing it. In this episode, I sit down with historian, professor, and author Rebecca Lemov to explore the psychology of brainwashing and how it shows up in modern life. From social media algorithms to toxic relationships, Rebecca explains how small, seemingly insignificant choices can shape the way we see ourselves and the world. Some of the things we talk about are: The psychology of brainwashing The modern day forces that shape our beliefs and emotions (like social media) How social media algorithms are designed to impact you The Facebook experiment that manipulated emotions and what that reveals about brainwashing and social media The privacy paradox: why we give up our data even when we know better How addiction and trauma make us more vulnerable to coercive tactics How you might be being brainwashed right now without even realizing it The role of gut instincts in protecting yourself from manipulation The signs that you're being brainwashed in everyday life Practical strategies to stay grounded, self-aware, and mentally strong in a world of hidden influence Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources RebeccaLemov.com Follow Rebecca on Instagram - @RebeccaLemov The Instability of Truth Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Mentally Strong App — Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at ⁠⁠mentallystrong.downpat.ai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel stuck in a rut or frustrated that you keep falling back into the same old patterns that aren’t working? If so, this episode is for you. We often go through life on autopilot. We rely on routines that feel comfortable even when they aren't working for us. The good news is, you have the power to break free and the answer is as simple as DSD — "Do Something Different." Some of the things I talk about are: Why our brains love comfort zones — and how they keep us stuck The science behind psychological flexibility (and why it's so important) How small, intentional changes can rewire your brain How to apply DSD to your situation to create change The two biggest mistakes people make when trying to change — and how to avoid them Three simple steps to start practicing DSD today How to identify what's keeping you stuck and brainstorm creative solutions Mentally Strong App Get mental strength coaching via text — ⁠⁠Episode 238 Exercise⁠ ⁠ Get mental strength coaching via voice - Episode 238 Voice Exercise Subscribe to the app to unlock all the features — ⁠⁠MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai⁠⁠ Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit Amy's website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove - Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How often do you laugh? If it’s been a while, you’re not alone. But laughter isn’t just enjoying a good joke. It is actually a powerful tool for building mental strength. I sit down with Dr. Steven Sultanoff, a psychologist and leading humor expert, to explore the science behind humor and why laughter is good for your health. Some of the things we talk about are: The difference between humor and laughter — and why it matters for your mental health How laughing can reduce pain and boost your immune system Why humor is one of the top qualities people look for in relationships (even more than a good sex life) How humor reduces depression and anxiety The science behind why we laugh when we’re nervous — and how it helps us cope How dark humor can be helpful during tough times How to use humor to build stronger relationships and reduce loneliness The surprising ways laughter can rewire your brain for resilience Why humor is a secret weapon for managing stress How to find more humor in everyday life — even when you’re feeling down Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources HumorMatters.com Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Mentally Strong App — Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at ⁠mentallystrong.downpat.ai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if most of the self-help advice you’ve been hearing might actually make things worse? Unfortunately, there's a lot of bad advice being shared on social media and in the news that could be downright destructive to your mental health. So today, I'm busting 10 of the biggest mental health myths and mindset. When you understand the truth about mental health, it's easier to prioritize your mindset and take care of your well-being. Some of the things I talk about are: Why your mental health is constantly fluctuating and what that means for you The difference between mental health and mental strength Why therapy isn’t just for people with “serious problems” How technology can both harm and help your mental health The surprising truth about socializing and solitude Why not all mental health conversations are helpful—and how to have better ones Mentally Strong App Want 24/7 mental strength coaching? Try Mentally Strong free for 7 days - ⁠⁠MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai⁠⁠ Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit Amy's website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you trust your gut? Have you ever had a gut feeling about something but couldn't really explain why you felt it? Intuition is often misunderstood and sometimes, we're reluctant to listen to it because it doesn't seem to make sense. But intuition is a science-backed process that can help you make better decisions once you understand how to listen to it. In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Huang, a professor at Northeastern University, leading researcher on intuition, and author of the book You Already Know. We explore how to better understand your gut feelings so you can make better decisions. Some of the things we talk about today are: How to differentiate between your intuition and your feelings. The “intuiting process” and how to train your intuition like a muscle. The past experiences that shape your gut instincts. The practical strategies that will help you recognize your inner voice (including the toothbrush exercise). How to use intuition for big decisions, like career moves. How to use intuition for smaller decisions, like first impressions of the people you meet. Why intuition is a superpower that can make you mentally stronger. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources LauraHuang.com You Already Know Follow Laura on Instagram — ⁠⁠@proflaurahuang Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠⁠Lolablankets.com⁠⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠⁠ from NPR. Mentally Strong App - Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at mentallystrong.downpat.ai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the tools you need to build mental strength and live your best life. In Mentally Stronger with Therapist Amy Morin, psychotherapist and bestselling author Amy Morin breaks down science-backed strategies to help you overcome challenges, build better habits, and grow stronger every day. On Mondays, Amy interviews world-class experts—from scientists to athletes—about how they stay mentally strong. And every Friday, she shares actionable strategies straight from her therapy office that you can start using right away. If you’re ready build the mindset you need to reach your greatest potential, hit play and subscribe to Mentally Stronger with Therapist Amy Morin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt like you needed to bounce back fast after something traumatic happened? Or felt pressured to show people that you've actually grown and become better because of what you went through? Post-traumatic growth is real. But the concept is often misunderstood, and it leads to unrealistic expectations and unnecessary guilt. In this episode, I explore what it really means to grow after trauma — and why your growth isn't proof of how mentally strong you are. Some of the things I share are: The biggest misconceptions surrounding post-traumatic growth. What post-traumatic growth actually means. Why we shouldn't jump to look for a silver lining or strive to bounce back overnight. How growth and pain can coexist — and why it’s okay to have ongoing emotional scars. Why resilient people actually experience less growth compared to people who lack resilience. Why you shouldn't pressure yourself (or anyone else) to find meaning in your trauma right away (skip the '"everything happens for a reason" speech). Five areas where growth often occurs after trauma — and why growth looks different in different people. How to work through a traumatic experience and the science-backed strategies that can help you grow and recover. Mentally Strong App Get free mental strength coaching — ⁠Episode 234 Exercise ⁠ Subscribe to the app to unlock all the features — ⁠MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai⁠ Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit Amy's website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors Lola Blankets — Get 35% off your entire order at ⁠Lolablankets.com⁠ by using code STRONGER at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to ⁠⁠honeylove.com/STRONGER⁠⁠ #honeylovepod BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠⁠Life Kit podcast⁠⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever wonder if herbal remedies could help you feel calmer, sleep better, or even help you become mentally stronger? What if there was a natural way to manage stress, improve focus, and improve your mental health? Herbs have been used for centuries to support well-being, and modern science is now catching up to their incredible potential. In this episode, we’re breaking it all down to help you understand how herbalism can transform your mental and physical health. I'm talking to Rachelle Robinette, a clinical herbalist, wellness expert, and author of the book Naturally. Rachelle has dedicated her career to blending the wisdom of ancient herbalism with the science of today. Together, we explore how specific herbs can act as powerful allies in boosting mental clarity, reducing stress, and even enhancing resilience. Some of the things we talk about today are: How to start incorporating herbs into your daily routine with simple, accessible steps. The difference between nervines, adaptogens, and nootropics—and how they can help with anxiety, stress, focus, and more. Why herbalism is about more than just medicine—it’s a holistic approach to health and resilience. How to evaluate herbal products and avoid common misconceptions. The surprising ways herbalism can support emotional healing, grief, and mental strength. The exact herbs you should take to help with various issues like sleep, stress, and anxiety. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources Naturally RachelleRobinett.com Follow Rachelle on Instagram — ⁠@RachelleRobinett Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen now to the ⁠Life Kit podcast⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Practice the skills from this episode for free with this tool I made for you —Episode 232 Exercise. What if you could build mental strength in just a few minutes a day? No complicated routines, no drastic life overhauls — just five practical habits that help you feel stronger and take more control of your life. In this episode, I’m sharing the simple, everyday strategies I rely on (and teach my therapy clients) for improving mental strength so you can handle stress, overcome setbacks, and manage challenges with greater confidence. Some of the things I talk about are: The 5 daily habits that will build mental strength — without turning your whole schedule upside down. Why practicing gratitude isn’t just a positive thinking fad, but an evidence-based way to build mental strength (plus practical ideas for making it a natural part of your day). How to challenge unhelpful thoughts and the key to gaining power over your mindset so you can build lasting mental strength. The big impact of doing something kind for others — and how acts of kindness help you become mentally stronger. The number one thing you can do to gain control over your emotions The single practice I use every day to build mental strength no matter what is going on around me. Mentally Strong App Get free mental strength coaching — Episode 232 Exercise Subscribe to the app to unlock all the features — MentallyStrong.Downpat.Ai Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit Amy's website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the ⁠Life Kit podcast⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel like someone knows exactly how to push your buttons — and it leaves you spiraling long after your interaction? Whether it’s a snide comment, a frustrating situation, or an awkward interaction, triggers can feel like they’re controlling your emotions. But what if those triggers were actually trying to teach you something? Triggers can feel overwhelming. But they’re also opportunities for growth. In this episode, I’m joined by Michelle Chalfant, psychotherapist and author of The Adult Chair, to explore how understanding and working through your triggers can help you build mental strength. Some of the things we discuss are: Why triggers are a gift and what they reveal about your unconscious beliefs. How to tell the difference between being angry and being triggered. The surprising ways triggers can show up in your relationships, work, and daily life. Seven actionable steps to uncover and heal the root of your triggers. How working through your triggers can make you mentally stronger and more resilient. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources TheAdultChair.com Follow Michelle on Instagram — @themichellechalfant Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen now to the ⁠Life Kit podcast⁠ from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Work through today’s strategies with a free, interactive too — Episode 230 exercise. Have you ever felt like life has hit you so hard that it knocked the wind out of you? Maybe you're in one of those moments right now, wondering how to even take the next step. In this deeply personal episode, I’m sharing the seven strategies that helped me navigate the darkest days of my life. From losing my mom at 23, to becoming a widow at 26, I had to figure out how to rebuild my life while facing unimaginable grief. These aren’t textbook solutions. They are real, raw strategies that helped me move forward, one small step at a time. Whether you’re going through a tough time or want to build resilience for the future, these strategies can help you find strength, hope, and a way forward. Some of the things I discuss today are: Why focusing on small steps forward can help you regain a sense of control. How rediscovering childhood comforts, like reading or gardening, can bring unexpected healing. The surprising power of stepping outside your comfort zone to try new things. Why patience and humor are essential tools for navigating grief and tough times. How faith can serve as an anchor during life’s most difficult storms. If you’re struggling right now, I hope this episode leaves you feeling less alone and gives you the tools to face whatever life is throwing your way. Mentally Strong App Get free mental strength coaching for this episode — Episode 230 Exercise Subscribe to the Mentally Strong App Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit Amy's website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen to the Life Kit podcast from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are the stories you tell yourself holding you back? After all, there's always more than one way to tell the same story. You could be a victim of tragic circumstances or a hero who survived them. The way we interpret our past influences our identities, but it doesn’t have to define who we are forever. This week, I’m joined by Lauren Sisler, a sports journalist, broadcaster, and author of Shatterproof. Lauren shares her remarkable story of navigating unimaginable loss, overcoming shame, and redefining her narrative to build resilience and mental strength — not just for herself but to inspire and support others. Some of the things we discuss are: How the stories we believe about ourselves can shape our mental health, for better or worse. The challenges Lauren faced after unexpectedly losing both parents in one night. Why Lauren kept the truth about her parents’ deaths hidden for seven years and how she finally found the courage to share. How to rewrite your narrative in a way that fosters healing, growth, and self-compassion. The mental strength it takes to face shame and use your story to create meaningful connections. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mentally Stronger Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources LaurenSisler.com Shatterproof Follow Lauren on Instagram — @LaurenSisler Connect with the Show Buy a copy of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Amy on Instagram — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmyMorinAuthor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit my website — ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AmyMorinLCSW.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors BetterHelp — Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠betterhelp.com/mentallystrong⁠⁠ CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at ⁠⁠cocoavia.com⁠⁠. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.oneskin.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ZocDoc — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Zocdoc.com/STRONGER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! AirDoctor — Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AirDoctorPro.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use promo code STRONGER to get UP TO $300 off today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shopify.com/mentallystronger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Life Kit — Listen now to the Life Kit podcast from NPR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices