How to talk to conspiracy theorists

Uncertainty and Misinformation

[This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on 11/23/22.] My uncle is knee-deep in science conspiracy theories. Any tips on respectfully engaging him? A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember Read more…

Absolute vs Relative Risk

Data Literacy

This has been updated from the original post from May 26, 2020. ❓Friendly Pop Quiz! Which of these two statements sounds more impressive? (1) “Terrific Treatment reduced COVID mortality risk 50%!” (2) “Terrific Treatment reduced COVID mortality risk from 2 per 100 to 1 per 100!” The first of these two equivalent statements is, of Read more…

Let’s talk about bone health!

Aging General Health Videos

🦴Hey everyone! Let’s talk about something that matters to all of us—bone health! 💡Did you know your skeleton is constantly being rebuilt—so much so that every 10 years, you basically have a brand-new skeleton! So, how can you keep your bones strong and healthy now and throughout life? 👀Watch this video to find out! Additionally, Read more…

Let’s talk about Lyme disease.

Infectious Diseases

This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…

What is osteoarthritis?

Aging General Health

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is caused by joint breakdown over time. There’s currently no cure, but lifestyle changes and certain treatments can help with symptoms Osteoarthritis, or OA, is caused by chronic breakdown of the entire joint, including cartilage (the soft connective tissue “shock absorber”), tendons and ligaments (tissues connecting Read more…

Why does ensuring people all over the world have access to vaccines matter? How can we help support global vaccine access?

Health Policy Social and Racial Justice Vaccines

Vaccine access is a global issue that saves lives and reduces the spread of pathogens worldwide. We can contribute by advocating for funding global vaccine initiatives and supporting organizations dedicated to addressing vaccine equity. Global vaccine equity means ensuring that people all over the world have equal access to lifesaving vaccines. The COVID-19 pandemic has Read more…

Is therapy speak going viral helping or hurting?

Mental Health

Is therapy speak going viral helping or hurting? Online mental health content can offer language, comfort, and connection for those curious or struggling, but remember it’s a starting point, not the whole journey. If you’ve spent time on short video platforms lately, you’ve likely come across content discussing mental health topics, like burnout and attachment Read more…