We all see those picture-perfect holiday moments on social media—the sparkling lights, the perfect meals, the beaming families. It’s easy to feel like you should be doing more, that your holiday should look like that too. But here’s the truth: chasing perfection is exhausting and—to be honest—unnecessary. When I think about it, does anyone actually remember the teeny tiny details of a perfectly set table, or do they remember the laughter and connection? Imperfection is part of what makes the moments we have memorable. Sometimes, the burnt cookies or the slightly crooked tree end up being the most cherished stories

At FRANK BERLIN, we’re all about creating spaces where honest conversations about mental health can thrive. Sharing stories is such a powerful way to connect and break down stigmas. That’s why we’re excited to share this interview with Elena Solonnikov, a poet and writer with a knack for turning her thoughts and experiences into something deeply relatable and meaningful.

Uncertainty can feel overwhelming, leaving us questioning the future and doubting ourselves. A study by the American Psychological Association reveals that uncertainty triggers stress responses in the brain similar to physical threats, making us crave control and stability. But life doesn’t come with a manual, and often, our plans are subject to forces beyond our control.

Winter follows and for some of us, the change of seasons triggers a type of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). According to Hopkins Medicine website, “It is thought that shorter days and less daylight may set off a chemical change in the brain leading to symptoms of depression.” SAD may be a hindrance in our daily lives and alters the way we think and feel.

Throughout our lives we go through different changes and emotions, consequently, some of these situations cause us to overthink. It’s as if our minds are overflowing with noise and these thoughts look for a way out, a way to spill over. We may end up desperately looking for peace of mind. There are many solutions for this common problem but for many people, the solution is: writing.

These days, many influencers, content creators and artists openly discuss mental health and well-being on their platforms. But the big question is: Can these online spaces actually help prevent something as serious as suicide? Suicide is a significant global health issue, with over 700.000 lives lost every year, according to the World Health Organization. Each of these tragedies has a ripple effect, impacting families, friends, and entire communities.