Transparency strengthens teams, reduces uncertainty, and supports well-being — especially during times of change. Prioritizing clear, honest communication can ease stress, build trust, and create space for meaningful dialogue, even when conversations are difficult. Read the full Well-being at Iowa article to learn how a thoughtful approach to openness helps foster a workplace culture grounded in respect and accountability.

Social media platforms are designed to keep you scrolling — but the habit can be hard to break. In this episode of "Talk of Iowa" on Iowa Public Radio, UI professors explain how social media affects your mental health and offer practical ways to set boundaries, stay present, and protect your well-being.

Smartphones keep us connected, but they can also distance us from the people and moments right in front of us. Everyday scrolling can interrupt attention, relationships, and well-being — and small, practical changes can help create more meaningful, phone-free connection.

As the holiday season ramps up, stress can feel unavoidable. University of Iowa psychological and brain sciences professor Jason Radley, a global and national expert on the neurobiology of stress, suggests some ways to help.

Tim Havens, professor of communication studies and an expert in TV history and culture at the University of Iowa, offers insight to help you navigate where to find your holiday favorite, and how you can start your own viewing tradition to rejuvenate your holiday spirit.

Rachel McLaren, associate professor of communication studies at the University of Iowa, explains that despite today’s era of online digital communication, the tradition of sending paper holiday greetings is a gesture toward building, maintaining, or reshaping personal relationships with friends and family.

Respiratory viruses tend to spike in fall and winter. Now is the right time to make sure you are ready when the three most common viruses (flu, COVID-19, and RSV) reach their peak. Learn about vaccines and easy ways to prevent illness.

Kathy Mellen, a registered dietitian and professor of instruction in the Department of Health, Sport, and Human Physiology at the University of Iowa, shares practical insights on how to enjoy holiday meals, manage social pressures, and feel good during this season of celebration.

UI expert: Work smarter, not harder, when dealing with leaves this fall

As the back-to-school season approaches, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital injury prevention team and Safety Store offer some tips to help keep children safe throughout the school year.

The University of Iowa has welcomed a new cohort of alumni at the close of the spring 2025 semester, with many Hawkeyes receiving their degrees.

Lauren Steinke, assistant professor of health and human physiology at the University of Iowa, shares tips on how to work fitness into your schedule and realize that the goal is to “focus on progress, not perfection.”