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Using Our Catholic Faith to Reclaim Our Mental Health

It is undeniable that social media has changed the way we interact with the world. But not all of those changes are positive. Over the last decade we have seen an increase in mental health struggles across all ages and demographics, from a rise in anxiety and depression to an increase in loneliness. Experts across many disciplines have recognized the growing problems, but what exactly needs to change? And how can a uniquely Catholic perspective help individuals - and wider communities - find authentic happiness?

In this conversation, Darnell Miller, Creative Director of MAX Studios at the University of St. Thomas - Houston, talks to Dr. Greg Bottaro, a Catholic psychologist and author of the book, "Catholic Mindfulness," about the practical steps we can take to respond to the concerning mental health trends and how our Catholic faith offers us a way forward.

Darnell and Dr. Bottaro discuss the basic roots of the problem and how modern technology exacerbates natural difficulties. They cover how Catholics understand human anthropology and how understanding how we are created can help illuminate what we're made for. They also talk about Dr. Bottaro's first and most important piece of advice for helping adults get out of the negative trend and how parents can try to help their children avoid it as much as possible.

Learn more about Dr. Greg Bottaro.

Unpacking AAPI Hate

Host Eric Diaz sits down with two University of St. Thomas - Houston (UST) professors, Dr. Crystal Tran, assistant professor of psychology, and Dr. Hans Stockton, dean of the Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences & Global Studies. They discuss the increased reporting and coverage of hate crimes on Asian Americans in the U.S. Dr. Tran breaks down the psychology behind hate and fear of the other. Dr. Stockton describes how it is important to separate the workings of a government from the people.

Both share how UST is trying to open the minds of their students to understand more about diversity and human dignity.

Dr. Crystal Tran
Assistant Professor, Psychology

Dr. Hans Stockton
Dean, Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences & Global Studies

Asian Americans are the fastest-growing racial or ethnic group in the U.S. - Pew Research Center

WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard - World Health Organization

Department of Education Designates UST an Asian-Serving Institution - University of St. Thomas - Houston

BOLD - A Student Perspective on Protests and Racism - University of St. Thomas - Houston

Not only is Houston getting more diverse, but residents' households are, too - Rice Kinder Institute for Urban Research

maxstudios@stthom.edu
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