Healthy fast food - Yes, it’s possible!

Imagine going to order your favorite smoothie at a popular juice chain, and discovering that it packs over 400 calories! By seeing that daunting number clearly on the menu board, would you be encouraged to choose a lower-calorie beverage? A New York City law now requires large restaurant chains to post calorie and fat information for all items on their menus.

Eating just one fast food meal can pack enough calories, sodium and fat for an entire day, but the quick-and-cheap temptation can be hard to resist.  Our new Helpguide article, Healthy Fast Food, can be your best defense against the perils of fast food eating. With practical tips and seven illustrated sections covering the best and worst menu items at many types of popular chain restaurants, you’ll be armed and ready to enjoy fast food meals while still sticking to your diet goals!

Turning the tables on gambling

Gambling is everywhere – not just in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. It’s on the Internet, at race tracks, and at sporting events. For some people, gambling is a harmless but expensive form of entertainment. But for millions of others, gambling is an addiction they can’t control despite the negative consequences. Fortunately, problem gamblers can learn to resist their cravings with proper help and support.

Helpguide’s new article on gambling addiction explains how the problem develops, what the signs are, how to resist gambling cravings, and exciting new treatments that work. Family members can find advice on helping a problem gambler while protecting family finances. To learn more, read Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling.

Preventing suicide by reaching out

Feeling connected to others goes a long way in combating everything from stress to depression. And according to Dr. David Kahn, a New York psychiatrist and suicide expert, social connection and support play a huge role in preventing suicide, too.

"Connection and a feeling of social belonging is I think the most important initial step in preventing suicide," Kahn said in an interview with Reuters Health. "Once the [suicidal] person feels that sense of trust in belonging to the community, they may be more receptive to suggestions that they seek help, if they haven't sought it already."

If someone you care about is suicidal, you can help by demonstrating your compassion and concern. Ask how the person is feeling and listen without judgment. By showing that you care, you can help your friend or family member feel less isolated.

For more advice on how to help, read Suicide Prevention: Understanding and Helping a Suicidal Person.