Self-Care for Mental Health:

The Secret Habit That Changes EverythingIn this powerful first episode of the Substance Stories series, Dr. Richard Bradlow breaks down one of the most misunderstood concepts in mental wellness—real self-care.

This isn’t the social-media version of SelfCare. No bubble baths. No spa days.Instead, Dr. Bradlow reveals practical, science-backed habits that actually strengthen your mental health and emotional resilience.

With compassion and clarity, he explains the crucial difference between mental health and mental illness, showing how you can maintain strong mental health even while managing conditions like depression, anxiety, or addiction—and how the opposite can also be true.Using relatable metaphors (like the way we maintain a car),

Dr. Bradlow shows how simple daily actions—showering, making your bed, cleaning your space, staying organized—are not small chores, but powerful reminders of self-worth, dignity, and stability.

This episode offers more than encouragement—it’s a step-by-step blueprint for rebuilding your confidence, regaining control, and creating a life grounded in routine, recovery, and genuine self-respect.

Whether you’re on a recovery journey or simply trying to stay mentally strong, this conversation will shift the way you understand self-care.

Perfect for anyone searching for:mental health tips, real self-care routines, addiction recovery tools, emotional resilience, daily wellness habits, and how to build mental strength.