Becky Murray

Director, Content Development

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…but can be the hardest on your mental health. Hear from a psychologist on how to get ahead of your holiday stress. 

How To Hang Onto Your Mental Health During the Holidays

Ask yourself this question: “Would my life be better if I drank less?” If the answer is “yes,” maybe it’s time to reassess your relationship with alcohol.


When to Consider Being ‘Sober Curious’

An expert breaks down what you should know about the upgraded boosters and the future of COVID-19 vaccines. 

Omicron COVID-19 Boosters Are Now Available for Kids 5 and Up

It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And if you're 25 or older, you're not too young to talk to your doc about it. Here's why.

Breast Cancer: Why Your 20s Isn't Too Young to Talk to A Doc About It

Even in a state that is increasingly red, Democrats aren’t giving up. Here are the races that could change Ohio’s political future. 

7 Ohio Midterm Races that Could Change the State's Political Future

About 5%-15% of women between the ages of 15 and 44 have PCOS, but there’s a lot of confusion about what it is. No need to Google it. We got you. 

PCOS Is Hard to Diagnose. Here’s What to Look Out For.

‘Sittervising’ helps kids get important independent play and parents get a much-needed breather. 

Sittervising: A Parenting Trend That Actually Helps Kids and Moms

The CDC approved the Novavax vaccine for teens, giving parents a different option to fight against COVID-19. An expert breaks down the science behind the shot.

The Novavax Vaccine Is Approved for Kids Over 12. Here’s What to Know

Here’s what you need to know about quarantining, vaccinations, and testing for students.

The CDC's COVID-19 Guidelines for Schools, Explained

The ‘cellphone in schools’ debate is back. A lawyer broke down what schools can do with your child’s phone. Spoiler alert: Schools have more power than you might think.  

Can Teachers Read Your Kid’s Texts?

Millions of the popular 4moms MamaRoo swings and RockaRoo rockers have been recalled. Here are the risks and what you need to do next to keep your baby safe.

Recall Alert: If You Have a 4moms MamaRoo Baby Swing, Get This ASAP 

A Florida school district added warning labels for the first time to more than 100 books, including some you probably read in school. We looked into why the district made the move and why some are worried it could lead to a total book ban. 

Toni Morrison’s ‘Beloved’ and 100 Other Books Now Have Warning Labels in Dozens of Florida Schools

The first day of school is almost here, and it’s got us feeling * all the feels * for our own ‘90s back to school trends. We took a trip down memory lane to see what the first day of school is like now vs then. You’ve been warned: Get ready to feel old. 

We’re Nostalgic for Back to School…Only it (Literally) Looks a Lot Different Today

The Inflation Reduction Act — a slimmed down version of Build Back Better — may soon become law. But benefits for families were left out of the landmark climate, healthcare, and tax package. Here are five programs that didn’t make the cut. 

The Inflation Reduction Act is Missing 5 Key Things That Would Have Helped Families

Will monkeypox become a pandemic? An expert answered that question, plus broke down symptoms and treatment, to help parents plan their family’s next move. 

Should Parents Worry About Monkeypox? An Expert Answers All of Your Questions

Welcoming a new child is already a lot. Figuring out how to cover the costs of your plus one shouldn’t be, too. So we did the research for you. 

Your Ultimate Guide to Navigating Paid (and Unpaid) Family Leave in the US

Adults aren’t the only ones who can get diagnosed with long COVID. Kids are also at risk, though very little research has gone into the impacts of that age group. We spoke to two experts who are trying to change that. 

What We Know About Kids and Long COVID — And All the Things We Don’t

The news is hard on everyone, even kids. We asked experts to describe behavioral and emotional warning signs in kids to help you know when it’s time to call in a professional. 

The News is Hard for Everyone, Even Your Kids — Here's When to Get Help

About 3,500 babies a year die in their sleep, and pediatricians say many of those deaths were preventable. We couldn’t agree more. A new rule goes into effect today that will restrict what products can be marketed “for baby sleep.” We spoke to an expert about safe sleeping habits and why you should never let your baby sleep in a rocker. 

Reminder: Babies Should Never Sleep in Rockers. Here’s Why. 

The Supreme Court has officially reversed Roe v. Wade. Prior to the SCOTUS decision, we surveyed Skimm’rs about how they feel about reproductive rights. From the legal right to an abortion to who should have final say.

We Asked Skimm'rs Where They Stand on Abortion Rights. Here's What They Had to Say

And that applies to alllll kids older than one, according to an expert. She also shared other safety tips and explained the trouble with floaties. 

 Why Swimming Lessons Are Essential for Your Family — This Summer and Always

Very few dads take family leave, even when it's paid. We asked experts why and what needs to happen to reduce the stigma.

The Benefits (For the Whole Family) When Dads Take Family Leave

If international baby formula sounds foreign, you’re not alone. We asked an expert to decode what ingredients to look for, serving size, and safety precautions. 

International Baby Formula Is Finally Hitting Shelves. Here’s How To Figure Out Which One To Buy

Vaccinations could start as early as this week for roughly 20 million babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. We asked two experts to break down the latest data from the Modern and Pfizer vaccines, which are both being called “safe and effective.”


The CDC Endorsed COVID-19 Vaccines for Kids Under Five: What You Need to Know

More abortion restrictions have been enacted across the country in 2022 than in any previous year. And you might have questions. Here are answers about laws, terminology, and the procedure itself.

Everything You Need to Know About Abortion

The Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade, and there could be major repercussions on your health. Let’s break it down.

What Overturning Roe v. Wade Could Mean for Your Health

You know that climate change threatens the planet. But you might not know that it threatens our health, too.

How Climate Change Could Affect Your Health

People of color face a disproportionate level of health risk compared to white people in the US. We’ve broken down some of the numbers and reasons why there’s such a gap.

How Systemic Racism Impacts Health Care — And What You Can Do

Talking to HR about taking paid or unpaid family leave can be overwhelming. So we spoke with an expert on how and when you should talk to HR about taking your leave. 

How to Talk to HR About Taking Family Leave

Not long ago, being gay was considered a medical disorder. Even today, new laws limit the ability for young transgender individuals to receive certain medical treatments or play sports. How did we get here, and how is mental health impacted?

The History of Queer Stigma — And How it Affects the Community's Mental Health Today

When people talk about the vagina, they're probably referring to the vulva. Let’s clear up some misconceptions about the female anatomy.

What You Didn’t Learn About the Vagina in Sex-Ed Class

A COVID-19 vaccine could be available for children from 6 months to 4 years old in the coming months. So we called up pediatric infectious disease experts to answer all of the questions parents may have about it.

What To Know About Pfizer’s COVID-19 Vaccine for Kids Under 5

If you’re not hitting all of the non-REM and REM sleep stages several times a night, you’re not getting enough quality sleep. Let’s go deep.


The Sleep Cycle: Why You Shouldn't Skimp on Sleep

A perfect attendance award at work doesn’t exist. So let’s talk about how to actually use your PTO.

6 Perfectly Good Reasons to Call Out of Work — and Not Feel Guilty About It

One of the many questions pregnant people have: 'Should I test my baby for genetic disorders?' And if yes, 'which kinds of tests should I get?' We talked to an expert to help you find the As to these important Qs.

Prenatal Genetic Testing: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re deciding whether you want to have kids or already know you want to be childfree, author Emma Gannon can recommend some books.


 7 Books to Read When It Feels Like You’re the Only One Who Doesn’t Want Kids

We asked Skimm'rs how they're feeling one year out from the midterm election, and they have two things on their minds: reproductive rights and health care. 

Reproductive Rights and Health Care Are Deal Breakers in 2022 Midterm Elections

Can the COVID-19 vaccine affect your period? The short answer is maybe, but only temporarily, and you should still get vaccinated anyway. Fertility physician Dr. Natalie Crawford explains.

Why Your Period Could Seem 'Off' After You Get the COVID Vaccine

Pasta. Dumplings. Cheese soufflé. Here are 14 dinner recipes to try this year. Knives, sharpened.

14 New Dinner Recipes To Try

Enough of the pity party. Here are some science-backed ways to feel better and get back out there. Note: Don't rule out a rebound.

How to Get Over a Breakup: Science-Backed Tips to Help You Move On

We asked Skimm HQ’rs about the best podcasts for mental health and they delivered. Whether you want to stop feeling anxious, learn something new, or escape from the world, you’ll find something worth listening to.

The Best Podcasts for Mental Health, According to Skimm HQ’rs 

If you ask someone who’s postpartum, they’d probably say that returning to work right after giving birth sounds harder than…well, giving birth. 


Body After Birth: A Timeline of Recovery and How It Compares to Paid Family Leave

It’s time to deal with your favorite to-do list item (not). Health insurance. But we're here to help.

Health Insurance Tips: How To Max Out Your Benefits This Year

A number of health societies recommend that pregnant people get vaccinated for COVID-19. So we asked a doctor why there might be some hesitation. The answer involves new data, a quick science lesson, and a personal story.

Your Questions About the COVID-19 Vaccine and Pregnancy, Answered

We often talk about pregnancy in terms of three trimesters. But after your baby is out in the world, surpriseeee: You have to deal with even more physical and mental changes. Here's what you need to know.

Your Fourth Trimester, Skimm’d

Seasonal affective disorder has the most appropriate acronym ever: SAD. Here are some ways to spark joy.

How to Manage Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

We live in a diet culture. So it's no wonder that three out of four American report having disordered eating, aka an unhealthy relationship with food and their bodies. Here's what you need to know.

Do I Have...Disordered Eating?

In a world where everything's happening online, here's your reminder to set boundaries for your social accounts.

How To Keep Your Social Media Use in Check

Picking a health insurance plan probably sounds about as fun as going to the doctor. But choosing the one that’s right for you is an important step in taking care of yourself. Ready, set, enroll. 

How to Choose the Right Employer-Backed Health Insurance Plan

The gov extended the ACA enrollment period to August 15, 2021. Here’s what that could mean for your health (and health insurance coverage).

It's Open Enrollment Season — Here Are Your Health Insurance Options

Long COVID impacts up to 30% of people who get COVID-19. Don't bother asking Dr. Google about it. We talked to an infectious disease expert.

Do I Have...Long COVID?

Pot. Weed. Mary Jane. This drug goes by many names and serves many needs — including medical ones — but its health impacts are hazy. 


How Marijuana Could Impact Your Health

Because sometimes it takes a village...to birth a child. We Skimm'd who you can add to your team.

Everything You Need To Know About Midwives, Nurses, and Doulas

Because what to expect when you're expecting should not include surprise costs.

Questions to Ask Your Health Insurance Company When You're Pregnant

Because when it comes to your health, your body cues are a lot more important than numbers on a scale or food label.

Nutrition Labels and Beyond: How To Eat ‘Healthy’

There’s a jungle of supplements out there, but it’s hard to know what they do (if anything). So here's your guide to vitamins A through zinc.

Vitamins and Supplements, Skimm'd

Just because you had an office job before the pandemic, doesn't mean you can't negotiate where you work from now. So let's talk about the best location for your 9-5ish. 

The Office, WFH, or a Hybrid: The Pros and Cons of Where You Work

"Fat" is not a bad word. But weight stigma is a clear public health problem. It’s time we talk about fatness and anti-fat bias.

What To Know About Fat Stigma, BMI, and Diet Culture

The global pandemic disrupted everything, including fitness routines. But here's the science behind why you should prioritize being active again. And walking totally counts.

Getting Physical Again: Why You Should Exercise (but Not Torture Yourself)

It's hard to avoid feeling FOMO after spending so much time socially-distanced. But setting boundaries is important.

How To Hang Out IRL Again (Without Overdoing It)

No amount of typical prep can solve for the curveballs this school year may bring. So we turned to some experts for tips on getting your kids ready.

How To Get Your Kids Ready for School IRL

Here's your skintionary. Ready, set, glow.

Which Skincare Products To Put on Your Face and When

You’ve heard that beauty is only skin deep. But when it comes to skin care, the glow starts from within. As in, it matters what you put in your body, not just on it. 

The Skin Care Routine You Won't Find in a Bottle

The Botox boom might be new. But the desire to look younger isn’t exactly young. Let's talk about "regenerative" skincare, "Instagram face," "Zoom dysmorphia," and what they all have to do with the centuries-old anti-aging movement.

The Anti-Aging Movement, Skimm'd

Chances are you've experienced burnout. Not fun. We talked to a psychologist about how to spot and manage it. Because it's time to do something about it. 

Do I Have...Burnout?

Let's talk everything from latching and leaking to feelings and formula. Because breastfeeding is a lot more complicated than it sounds.

Breastfeeding, Skimm'd

Your body’s a wonderland...of moles, freckles, and dark spots. But before you Google, “What does skin cancer look like,” know the facts. 


Do I Have...Skin Cancer?

Let’s face it: asking friends and family members about their vaccination status can feel awkward. But you might want answers, even if you’re fully vaxxed and the risk of getting the coronavirus is low.

How To Ask People if They're Vaccinated

Chances are you’ve complained about feeling ‘hormonal.’ But you might not know what that word actually means. 

Hormones, Skimm'd

Seems like everyone's into “alternative” or integrative medicine these days. But turns out, many of these treatments have been around for thousands of years. Here's theSkimm on tai chi, acupuncture, cupping, and more.

How Traditional Chinese Medicine Is Becoming More Mainstream

If you read to relax, great news. These books take it one step further: each one aims to explore or improve some aspect of your mental health. Inhale, exhale, and dive in.

17 Books To Read if Your Group Chat Can’t Stop Talking About Mental Health

If you're feeling anxious about the world opening back up, you're not alone. We're here to help you explore and understand what you may be feeling, because the pandemic impacted all of us differently.  

The Pandemic and Your Mental Health: Why You May Be Nervous About the World Opening Up

We get it: You need a box in order to feel the joy of unboxing. But delivery comes at an environmental cost.

How Online Shopping Impacts the Environment

Plus, what to know about the different types of therapy out there and whether insurance covers it. 

theSkimm on Therapy And If It's Right For You

Trauma can be all-consuming. And it can impact both your mental and physical health. A clinical psychologist explains how it happens and the symptoms to look for.

How Traumatic Events Can Affect Your Health

There are plenty of ways to reduce your carbon footprint. We have some ideas.

How To Make Your Routine More Green

You’ve heard that recycling and composting are good for the environment. But there's a good chance you're tossing things in the wrong bins. We're here to help sort through all that.

Recycling and Composting, Skimm'd

Beauty is a multi-billion dollar industry. But between all the buzzwords, it can be tricky to navigate the impact your routine has on the environment. We're here to help.

theSkimm on if 'Clean Beauty' is Good for the Environment

If you've suffered from a miscarriage, you're not alone. Here's a look at how to grieve a pregnancy loss, and how to be there for someone going through it.

Miscarriage: How Common It Is, Recovery, and 'Rainbow Babies'

Whether you’re struggling to conceive or interested in learning more about the journey of someone close to you, these reads will help illuminate the infertility experience.

11 Books To Read if You — or Someone You Know — Is Struggling With Infertility

From tracking your menstrual cycle on an app, to taking your basal temperature or wearing an Ava bracelet, there are many tools that can help you figure out when you're ovulating. 

All The Ways to Track When You’re Ovulating

For those TTC: Science can help. Here's a breakdown of the process and price of different fertility methods.

Trying to Get Pregnant? How IUI, IVF, and Other Fertility Methods Could Help

Putting your eggs on ice could keep your future family planning options open. But it also could be emotionally, physically, and literally costly. Here's what you need to know. 

Egg Freezing: How It Works, What It Costs, and Whether It's Right For You

There’s a lot more to sex than... just sex.

How To Have a Healthy Sex Life: Orgasms, Safety, and Your Brain

The beauty industry has historically served white women, leaving women of color with less options and more reasons to feel othered. That narrative is changing.

These Black Women Are to Thank for a More Inclusive Beauty Industry

These books illuminate the reality of systemic racism and individual stories of being Black in America throughout history. 

16 Essential Books to Read This Black History Month

So you can be in control of your birth control.

Birth Control: What to Know About the Pill, IUD, Ring, Arm Implant, and More

It seems like everything’s happening online these days. And that includes selling yourself to potential employers. Here's how to use LinkedIn to your advantage.

How to Brand Yourself on LinkedIn

“Stay safe out there” doesn’t just refer to the real world. The internet is the Wild West, and password managers are your security system.

Online Security, Skimm'd

Are you there, pod? It’s me, choices. Here are some of our faves for learning something new.

Podcasts for Learning Something New 

Does looking at your iPhone feel like sorting through a messy desk? It’s time to clean up your home screen.

How to Organize Apps on Your iPhone

If your 9 to 5 has become your 9 to 7...or 8 or 9, check out our tips for setting boundaries and working smarter from home.

 Refresh Your WFH Routine

Whether you believe ‘you are what you eat’ or have muted all nutrition and wellness coaches on your IG, you have the right to know that not all foods are created equal.

theSkimm on Processed Foods

If “the more the merrier” is usually your holiday season motto, you’ll have to rethink things this year. Here's how to celebrate safely.

How to Celebrate Safely During the Holiday Season

Stressed about your stress? Deep breaths. Here are some fresh ways to tame the beast. 

How to Manage Stress

Losing sleep over losing sleep? Rest easy. Here's how to overhaul your bedtime routine to get quality sleep.

How to Clear Your Mind and Get Some Rest

Time for a checkup check-in. Here's what doctor visits should be on your calendar every year.

When, Why, and How Often to Schedule Doctor Checkups

Anxiety isn’t “just in your head.” Like taking your temperature, we all need to check in to make sure we’re feeling mentally well, not just physically well. 

How to Recognize, Treat, and Live With Anxiety

During a global pandemic people aren’t exactly shaking hands, but that's not an excuse to stop networking. Here's how to network from your couch. 

theSkimm on Networking Online

You might think of meditation as putting your head in the clouds. It’s actually the opposite.