Real World Dialogue

Tag: mental-health

  • Science-Backed Ways to Boost Wellbeing

    Wishing you a wonderful holiday and a very Happy New Year!
    As we step into 2026, many of us hope to feel lighter, calmer, and more grounded. A recent article from BBC highlights practical, science-backed ways to boost wellbeing—small shifts that can make a meaningful difference over time.

    Science-Backed Ways to Feel Better in 2026

    1) Stop striving for perfection
    Perfectionism is often praised, but research links it to higher stress, anxiety, and low mood. The antidote is self-compassion: treating yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend. Mistakes aren’t failures—they’re part of being human. Creating environments (at work and at home) where imperfection is accepted helps everyone thrive.

    2) Forge better friendships
    Strong friendships support both mental and physical health. One simple habit that strengthens bonds is actively celebrating others’ good news—asking follow-up questions, expressing joy, and sharing in their success. Consistent warmth beats “hot-and-cold” interactions.

    3) Take up social hobbies
    New hobbies aren’t just about skill; they’re about connection. Creative classes or team sports quiet the mind, lift the mood, and foster a sense of belonging. Shared goals—what psychologists call shared intention—can even make effort feel easier and more enjoyable.

    4) Put your anger to good use
    Anger isn’t inherently harmful; how it’s handled matters. When recognized early, its energy can be redirected into exercise, persistence, or short bursts of creativity. Techniques like pausing, gaining perspective, and choosing a constructive outlet help keep reactions healthy.

    Arthur Lubow has described The Scream as “an icon of modern art, a Mona Lisa for our time.”[20] It has been widely interpreted as representing the universal anxiety of modern humanity.[1] Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.” Norwegian: Skrik, German: Der Schrei der Natur. The abstracted figure represents the modern individual’s alienation and existential angst, a shared feeling in a rapidly changing world. stemming from Munch’s own panic attack while witnessing a blood-red sunset over Oslo, feeling the “infinite scream passing through nature”. 

    5) Count your blessings
    A simple gratitude practice—writing down three good things each day—has been shown to increase happiness and reduce low mood across various cultures and age groups. The key is reflecting on why those moments felt positive, however small they seem.

    6) Make your phone work for you
    Phones can distract—but they can also support wellbeing. Use note-taking to offload mental clutter, batch notifications to reduce interruptions, or try leaving your phone in another room for short periods. Small changes can improve focus and calm.

    The takeaway

    You don’t need a total life overhaul to feel better in 2026. Research suggests that kindness to yourself, meaningful connections, mindful use of technology, and simple daily habits can add up to lasting wellbeing. Start small—and let consistency do the rest.

    Reference:

    BBC Future. (31 December 2025). Nine simple steps to feeling better in 2026. BBC.
    https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20251231-nine-simple-steps-to-feeling-better-in-2026

    “We worship perfection because we can’t have it; if we had it, we would reject it. Perfection is inhuman, because humanity is imperfect.”― Fernando Pessoa, The Book of Disquiet Just like life outside, the workplace is a hugely diverse environment. When we think about diversity and inclusion, our minds often go to racial or gender representation. But there’s another essential form of diversity that deserves equal attention — neurodiversity.

    Neurodiversity: Rethinking Inclusion in the Workplace:

    What Is Neurodiversity?

    Neurodiversity refers to the natural variations in how people think, process information, learn, and behave. It reminds us that differences in brain function are part of normal human diversity — just like differences in culture, language, or background.

    It’s estimated that up to 20% of the global adult population is neurodivergent, meaning they have a neurotype such as Dyslexia, Autism, or ADHD. That’s one in five people — yet only one in ten organizations actively consider neurodiversity in their management and inclusion practices.

    The Value of Neurodivergent Thinkers

    Neurodivergent individuals bring unique perspectives and strengths to any workplace. They often excel in areas like creativity, pattern recognition, problem-solving, and innovative thinking. From Albert Einstein to Daryl Hannah, from Elon Musk to Anthony Hopkins—many influential figures have identified with or been linked to neurodivergent traits that shaped their brilliance.

    Every word and action by Elon Musk carries significant influence in the business world. His revelation on Saturday Night Live that he has “Asperger’s Syndrome” made that impact even more powerful. In just a few moments, Musk raised global awareness of neurodiversity in business—combining humor and candor when he remarked, “that’s how my brain works…Did you think I was going to be a chill normal dude?” One might say Musk has become a symbol of a new, boldly inclusive era of work (Brodey, 2021).

    However, many neurodivergent employees still face barriers due to limited awareness and non-inclusive workplace structures. By understanding and embracing neurodiversity, organizations can unlock new forms of talent, creativity, and collaboration.

    The Business Case for Neurodiversity

    1. Positive Impact on Business Objectives

    Research shows that companies with more diverse workplaces are more profitable.

    • Disability-inclusive organizations can see up to 28% higher revenue, double the net income, and 30% higher profit margins than their peers.
    • Consumers increasingly prioritize brands that are inclusive and accessible.

    2. A Wider Talent Pool

    Inclusive workplaces attract and retain neurodivergent talent.

    • 93% of neurodivergent workers say they would apply for or stay at companies that actively support neurodivergent employees.
    • Many employers still unintentionally screen out valuable skills by overlooking neurodiversity during recruitment.

    3. Extraordinary Skills

    Neurodivergent employees bring creativity, visualization, cognitive flexibility, logical reasoning, and complex problem-solving — all key to innovation.

    • The Dyslexic Thinking Movement (recognized by LinkedIn) celebrates these traits as skills of the future, aligning with findings from the World Economic Forum.

    4. A Loyal Workforce

    When employees feel valued and supported, they stay.

    • 63% of neurotypical employees also prefer to work for companies that support neurodiversity.
    • Yet 64% of neurodivergent employees feel their organizations could do more — meaning there’s significant opportunity for progress.

    Key Terms to Understand

    • Neurodiversity:
      The range of natural differences in brain function and behavior across the human population.
    • Neurotypical:
      Describes individuals whose brain function and development align with what is considered typical within society.
    • Neurodivergent (or Neuroatypical):
      Refers to individuals who process information differently — including those with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and other neurological variations.

    Is Neurodivergence a Disability?

    The relationship between neurodivergence and disability is complex. For some, barriers in the environment — rather than their neurological differences — create disabling conditions. For others, neurodivergence is an integral part of their identity. What’s clear is that inclusion requires understanding, not assumptions.

    Why Language Matters

    Person-first language places the person before the condition and helps reduce stigma:

    • ✅ Say: “A person with autism”
    • ❌ Not: “An autistic person” (unless preferred)
    • ✅ Say: “A person with a disability”
    • ❌ Not: “A disabled person”

    Avoid ableist language, which can unintentionally reinforce stereotypes. Replace terms like “crazy,” “insane,” or “confined to a wheelchair” with inclusive, factual alternatives like “surprising,” “unexpected,” or “uses a wheelchair.”

    Inclusive communication builds empathy and belonging.

    Creating Neuroinclusive Workplaces

    To foster inclusion and innovation:

    • Offer flexible schedules and sensory-friendly environments.
    • Use plain language and visual aids.
    • Encourage feedback and ongoing awareness training.
    • Design policies that celebrate different working and thinking styles.

    When we design workplaces that support neurodivergent people, everyone benefits. Innovation, empathy, and collaboration thrive.

    Reference:

    Brodey, D. (2021, May 13). How Elon Musk’s neurodiversity comment showed the power of getting personal. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/denisebrodey/2021/05/13/how-elon-musks-neurodiversity-comment-showed-the-power-of-getting-personal/

    McKay, M. & Houghton, J. (2024). Workplace inclusion: Building the case for neurodiversity and creating inclusive experiences for all.
    Disability:IN & Texthelp.

    Author’s Note

    At Real World Dialogue (RWD), we help mission-driven organizations build inclusive communication and leadership practices that value every mind. Through consulting, training, and digital strategy, we create spaces where diversity of thought thrives — because inclusion isn’t just good ethics; it’s good business.

    🌐 Visit: http://www.rwdialogue.com
    💡 Inclusive Communication. Real World Impact.

  • Communication & Culture

    The Quest for Deeper Meaning — David Brooks

    (Google Talk, Presenting his book The Social Animal, and a discussion on
    The Quest for Deeper Meaning and How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen

    “We live in a dehumanizing age. Seeing another human being is the most practical and aggressively effective way to fight back against dehumanization. We live at a time when people are not seeing each other—in this country… and everywhere—and it’s a brutalizing time to be here. The natural urge is to close in, to be protective, and I understand that urge. The people I admire are the defiant humanists who say: ‘I will not be callous. I will not put up barriers. I will not declare war on the other.’ They choose the essential humanistic act—to try to understand your point of view, to acknowledge you as a person worthy of respect, curiosity, and investigation. It is not naïve to lead with respect, trust, and curiosity. It is the most practical and effective thing we can do in a time of brutal dehumanization” (Brooks, 2018, 40:43–41:44).

    In his Google talk and in The Social Animal, David Brooks argues that modern societies are facing a profound crisis of isolation, trust, and meaning, driven by an overextension of individualism. While material conditions have improved, social and emotional well-being have eroded. Loneliness has increased, trust in institutions has diminished, and many—especially younger people—struggle with purpose and resilience.

    Three Interconnected Crises

    Brooks identifies three overlapping social crises:

    1. Isolation – More people live alone, entertain less, and report chronic loneliness. Social disconnection fuels despair, addiction, and declining mental health.
    2. Alienation and Distrust – Trust in institutions and in one another has fallen sharply across generations, weakening social cohesion.
    3. Loss of Meaning (the “Telos Crisis”) – Many people lack a guiding purpose. Without a “why,” setbacks become crushing rather than formative.

    When healthy relationships and shared meaning disappear, Brooks argues, people revert to tribalism—seeking belonging through rigid identities, “us vs. them” politics, and conflict-driven worldviews. This dynamic fuels polarization and makes societies vulnerable.

    Technology as a Bridge—Not a Replacement

    Brooks presents a nuanced and optimistic view of technology, using Facebook as a key example. The central question, he says, is not whether technology replaces face-to-face relationships, but whether it supplements them.

    “It’s not Facebook. It’s what you bring to Facebook.”

    Research suggests that for most people, social platforms deepen existing relationships—helping organize gatherings, maintain ties, and strengthen community life. For some, technology becomes a substitute for genuine connection, serving as a solace for loneliness. The difference lies not in the tool, but in the social habits, intentions, and communities people bring to it.

    Importantly, Brooks challenges the assumption that technology is destroying younger generations. On the contrary, many social indicators for people under 35—violence, teen pregnancy, divorce—are improving, suggesting that digital tools can coexist with healthy social development when embedded in real-world relationships.

    Community, Commitment, and the Power of Sport

    For Brooks, the antidote to isolation and tribalism is community-building rooted in shared commitments.

    This is where sport and collective activities become especially powerful. Sport:

    • Transcends cultural, ethnic, and social boundaries
    • Builds trust through teamwork and shared goals
    • Challenges stereotypes through embodied cooperation
    • Creates rituals, belonging, and interdependence

    Local sports teams, community leagues, and shared physical activities exemplify what Brooks calls social capital—the dense networks of trust and reciprocity that hold societies together. They provide a healthy form of “tribe,” grounded not in exclusion or conflict, but in solidarity, mutual respect, and joy.

    From Individualism to Community Building

    Brooks concludes with a hopeful vision. He argues that societies move forward not only through policy, but through cultural and personal transformation.

    A flourishing life, he suggests, rests on four core commitments:

    • To family and loved ones
    • To vocation and service
    • To moral or spiritual frameworks
    • To community and friendship

    We are, Brooks believes, on the verge of a renewal of covenant—a turn away from isolation and tribalism toward communion, solidarity, and healing. Technology, when paired with real-world communities like sports, civic organizations, and shared cultural practices, can help bridge divides and support this renewal.

    In short, technology does not determine our social fate. Commitment, community, and meaning do.

    Brooks, D. (2023, November 2). How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwENbKn3tqI

    Brooks, D. (2019, August 19). David Brooks — The Quest for Deeper Meaning [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG6KsronKLc&t=323

    Brooks, D. (2011, May 3). The Social Animal | David Brooks | Talks at Google [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzsnPi3vqKk

    At Real World Dialogue (RWD), we help mission-driven organizations build inclusive communication and leadership practices that value every mind. Through consulting, training, and digital strategy, we create spaces where diversity of thought thrives — because inclusion isn’t just good ethics; it’s good business.

    🌐 Visit: http://www.rwdialogue.com
    💡 Inclusive Communication. Real World Impact.

    Health Communication and Culture

    Health communication encompasses interpersonal and mass communication activities aimed at enhancing the health of individuals and populations. Skills in understanding and applying information about health issues are crucial to this process and can have a substantial impact on health behaviours and health outcomes (Ishikawa & Kiuchi, 2010).  Improved Healthcare Literacy may enhance the ability and motivation of individuals to find solutions to both personal and public health problems, and these skills could be used to address various health problems throughout life. The process underpinning Healthcare communication literacy involves empowerment, one of the major goals of health communication (Ishikawa & Kiuchi, 2010).  

    How was health communicated in different cultures before the era of globalization?

    Health was communicated differently across cultures before globalization. In some cultures, patients were not made aware of their condition for various reasons.

    Communication occurs at many different interdependent hierarchical levels of analysis (Kreps, 1988b). Multicultural communication in health care can be examined at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, group, organizational and societal levels of analysis, as depicted in the Hierarchical Levels of Multicultural Communication Model (Kreps and Kunimoto, 1994).

    Culture has strong influences on both encoding and decoding processes because culture provides us with guidelines for creating appropriate messages for different situations and audiences, and also provides us with logics for interpreting and understanding different messages (Kreps and Kunimoto, 1994). As a healthcare language interpreter, I facilitate communication between predominantly foreign-born patients and medical professionals, who may also be foreign-born and educated. A healthcare environment which is described by Kreps and Kunimoto as a cultural melting pot.

    I understand that effective health communication must consider the diverse cultural orientations within the healthcare system, including national, regional, ethnic, racial, socioeconomic, occupational, generational and health status differences. As a language interpreter, I apply a “two-eyed seeing” approach. This approach involves understanding and integrating multiple cultural perspectives simultaneously to facilitate effective communication. My proficiency in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese allows me to gain deeper insights into various cultural worldviews, enhancing my ability to interpret not just words, but also the meanings and contexts across cultures for patients seeking healthcare.

    For example, I recently assisted a French-speaking, elderly Asian patient from Mauritius who required a healthcare team for her condition: a doctor of Indian origin, a resident doctor in training from Nigeria and a nurse from the Philippines.

    This case highlights the importance of health communication, as healthcare participants must share relevant information and coordinate effectively to achieve their healthcare goals. Developing interprofessional respect, coordination, and egalitarianism can help the health care team fully utilize group members’ expertise and work together to effectively deliver care (Gifford, 1983). The greater the number of diverse groups one can communicate with successfully to achieve results, gain attitude change or reinforcement and skill acquisition or behaviour change, the greater the reduction of uncertainty and stress (Gudykungst, 1988, p. 39).

    Medical professionals should also be culturally sensitive to the patient’s needs. This case exemplifies the importance of understanding not only the surface aspects of the “iceberg” model of multicultural influences on communication but also the hidden cultural influences which are not as apparent and which include: socioeconomic status, occupation, health condition, religion, sexual preference, group membership, educational background and political orientation (Kreps and Kunimoto, 1994). These hidden cultural factors can have major influences on communication in health care contexts.

    The multicultural influences on modern health care are not just limited to differences in nationality, sex, age, educational background, or occupation of health care consumers and providers, but they may also act as cultural barriers to effective health communication (Kreps and Kunimoto, 1994). Developing effective multicultural relations between culturally unique participants in the modern health care system is a prerequisite to effective health care delivery (Howe-Murphy, Ross, Tseng, & Hartwig, 1989; McNeil, 1990).

    Reference:

    Ishikawa, H., & Kiuchi, T. (2010). Health literacy and health communication. BioPsychoSocial medicine, 4, 18. https://doi.org/10.1186/1751-0759-4-18

    Kreps, G.L., & Kunimoto, E.N. (1994). Effective communication in multicultural health care settings. Thousand Oaks, CA:

    At Real World Dialogue (RWD), we help mission-driven organizations build inclusive communication and leadership practices that value every mind. Through consulting, training, and digital strategy, we create spaces where diversity of thought thrives — because inclusion isn’t just good ethics; it’s good business.

    🌐 Visit: http://www.rwdialogue.com
    💡 Inclusive Communication. Real World Impact.