The Mental Compass

Super Monsters, a popular animated series, offers valuable psychological lessons for mental health awareness and emotional development. The show features young monsters who navigate the challenges of childhood while learning about their unique powers and emotions. One key lesson from the series is the importance of self-acceptance.  Each character has distinct traits and abilities, emphasizing that everyone is different and that embracing one’s individuality is crucial for mental well-being. This message encourages children to develop a positive self-image and resilience in the face of societal pressures. Another significant aspect of Super Monsters is the emphasis on friendship and teamwork. The characters often work together to solve problems, highlighting the importance of social support in maintaining mental health. Building strong friendships can provide emotional comfort, reduce feelings of loneliness, and foster a sense of belonging. The show also depicts the value of open c...

Australia’s decision to restrict social media access for children under sixteen has sparked global discussion about childhood, technology, and mental health. At the center of this move lies a growing concern that early and excessive exposure to digital platforms is reshaping how young minds regulate emotions, form identity, and relate to the real world. This policy is not merely about limiting screen time. It reflects a deeper psychological recognition that childhood development requires boundaries, delayed gratification, and spaces free from constant digital validation. Children’s brains are still developing, particularly the regions responsible for impulse control, emotional regulation, and long term decision making. Social media platforms are intentionally designed to stimulate dopamine release through likes, comments, and endless scrolling. For an adult brain, this can already be addictive. For a child, whose neural pathways are still forming, repeated exposure can create dependenc...

Fifteen years after its release, Tangled still feels emotionally fresh. What looks like a bright animated fairy tale slowly reveals itself as a deeply human story about fear, freedom, and the painful courage it takes to grow. Beneath the songs, colors, and humor lies a psychological journey that many viewers recognize in their own lives, even if they first watched it as children. At the center of Tangled is Rapunzel, a girl raised in isolation under the illusion of protection. Her tower is not just a physical space but a psychological one. She is told the world is dangerous, that she is weak, and that safety exists only in obedience. This is a familiar pattern in human relationships. Many people grow up hearing similar warnings, sometimes from parents, teachers, or society itself. The intention may appear caring, but the effect is limiting. Psychology shows that fear based upbringing often creates dependency rather than strength. Rapunzel’s daily routine is striking. She fills her time...