Posts from Those Nerdy Girls

All the posts from our Those Nerdy Girls Facebook page dating back to May 1st, 2020, are currently archived here and can be searched for by category, key words, etc. Be sure to check back often as additional posts are being added each day.

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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…

Social safety nets save lives and help people grow. See what’s possible…

Health Policy Nerdy Notes Social and Racial Justice

This is another in our new series: Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse In these posts, our Nerdy Girl scientists and clinicians will share personal stories, insights, poetry, and more. While these posts may be lighter in terms of numbers and figures, they will still be rooted in our tradition and commitment to providing Read more…

What are your favorite stress-busters?

Mental Health

🌞Summertime and the living is easy…right? 🌞 Well not always. Even as many of us enjoy our favorite season of the year, we’re stressed by what’s going on in the world. Those Nerdy Girls often chat amongst themselves about ways to (try to!) stay calm and grounded in stressful times. We thought we’d share some Read more…

Thimerosal is safe

Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines

Thimerosal is safe. It’s only used in some multi-dose flu shots and not in routine childhood vaccines. This week the newly appointed vaccine advisors to the CDC are expected to meet to vote on “recommendations regarding thimerosal containing flu vaccines.” [archived link] Thimerosal, also known as ethyl mercury [archived link], is a harmless preservative found Read more…

How can I help trans youth feel emotionally safe if they are worried about access to medical care that supports their gender?

Families/Kids Health Policy Social and Racial Justice

Every one of us wants our children and our neighbors’ children to be safe, healthy, and happy. On June 18, 2025, many of us read headlines about the United States v. Skrmetti case in the Supreme Court. Six of the nine judges ruled to allow Tennessee (and all other states whose legislative bodies currently have Read more…