HEALTH NOW
ANOTHER OPTION
For those who are on an oral contraceptive pill but have trouble remembering to take it each day, scientists are currently developing a contraceptive pill that only needs to be taken once a month. The gelatine capsule dissolves in the stomach, releasing a six-armed structure that sits in the stomach and releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for at least three weeks. The technology and dosage is still in the early stages of development and has only been tested on pigs so far, but experts are excited at the prospect of more expanded options for female contraceptives, especially for those in the developing world where health services can be limited or difficult to access.
TAKE CONTROL
Live More Think Less (Icon Books, $27.99) from Danish psychiatrist Dr Pia Callesen is the first practical book on metacognitive therapy, a new treatment that has been proven to stop depression in its tracks. As its title suggests, the book provides strategies for taking back control of our thinking processes. From training your attention, to leaving your negative thoughts behind, you’ll learn how to be more present instead of stuck in your head.
