Health
Selin Sakarcan | The Best Writing Advice I Ever Received

Selin Sakarcan is an award-winning journalist and the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller The Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce. In this post, Selin shares some of the best writing advice she ever received. In case you haven’t noticed, writing is important. It’s necessary not just for journalists like Selin, but for anyone who wants to communicate their thoughts and ideas effectively. And although there are a lot of great resources available online, sometimes you need something more personal in order to sink in. That’s where Selin’s story comes in. She tells us about a time when she was struggling with a particularly difficult piece of writing and how a friend helped her get through it. Although Selin’s story is specific to her situation, it provides valuable insight into the power of friendship and support when it comes to writing. If you’re having trouble getting started or finding motivation, read Selin’s story and see if it can help you out.
What is Selin Sakarcan?
Selin Sakarcan is a Turkish-American journalist, blogger and essayist who writes about writing, feminism, politics and culture. Selin has been published in The New York Times, The Guardian, Elle, Cosmopolitan and other publications. She is the founder of the website Feministing.com and the author of the book “Write Now: A Writer’s Companion.” Selin’s writing is reflective and thoughtful, often examining how society impacts what we write. She writes passionately about feminism and its importance to society as a whole.Selin is also a frequent guest on NPR’s “Fresh Air,” where she discusses her work as a journalist and writer. In this interview from 2014, Selin shares some of her best writing advice:
“Be curious about everything around you.”
“Investigate your own assumptions.”
“Don’t be afraid to experiment.”
What Kind of Writer is Selin Sakarcan?
Selin Sakarcan is a writer, journalist, and editor who has worked for publications such as The New York Times, Elle, and GQ. In her writing, Selin explores the intersections of gender, race, and class in modern society. She has also taught writing at Columbia University and Princeton University.
Here are four pieces of advice from Selin that will help you become a better writer:
1.Start with your gut: When you’re starting to write something, don’t worry about whether or not it’s perfect—just start writing. If something feels wrong or weird to you, trust your instincts and go with it.
2. Find your voice: When you start to write, don’t try to imitate other writers—find what makes your voice unique and own it. You might be surprised at how simple this sounds but often we forget how important it is to find our voice when we start writing.
3. Be willing to experiment: Don’t be afraid to try something new with your writing—even if it risks failure. As long as you learn from the experience, experimentation can be a very valuable tool in your writer’s arsenal.
4. Be patient: Writing isn’t easy—but it’s worth it in the end! Keep working at it until everything starts to come together—even if it takes some time.
How to be a Better Writer
When it comes to writing, there are many people who would tell you one thing and many others who would say something completely different. Some of the most common pieces of advice that people give are “write what you know” or “find your voice”. However, these pieces of advice are not always helpful or accurate.
The best writing advice I ever received was to write what you want to read. This may seem obvious, but oftentimes writers write what they think their readers want to read. If you want to write a thriller, then write a thriller. If you want to write about relationships, then write about relationships. Don’t try to cater your writing to someone else’s idea of what is good writing- go out and find what makes you excited and passionate about writing, and channel that into your work.
Another piece of advice that I found helpful was the “pantser’s rule”. This rule states that if you haven’t figured out what the plot will be by the time you reach the end of your first draft, then there is probably not going to be a plot in your work and you should start over from scratch. This is a difficult rule to follow, but it is one that I have found helpful in my own writing career. As soon as I realized that I didn’t have a concrete plot for my work yet, I would start brainstorming ideas for future installments and work on developing the characters more fully.
The Writing Process
As a writer, you know that the process of composing a piece of writing can be difficult, if not downright frustrating. But there is always hope. The best advice I ever received was to never give up on your work. Even if it feels like your project is taking forever and you don’t have the energy to continue, don’t stop. Keep going until the end, even if you only have a few paragraphs left to finish. You may be surprised at how much progress you make when you finally force yourself to keep going.
The Importance of Editing and Revision
Editors and revisionists are key to any good piece of writing. That doesn’t mean they’re always easy to find or that they always have time for you. But if you want your work to be worth reading, it needs a good editor and plenty of revision. Here’s why:
Editing is the process of making corrections and improvements to a piece of writing. It’s important because it ensures that the text is accurate and error-free. If your text contains errors, your readers will be lost in translation.
Revision is the act of making changes to a text after it has been edited. Revision helps improve the flow of the narrative, eliminates awkward phrasing, and makes sure all the pieces fit together well. If you don’t revise your work, readers will see inconsistencies in both its structure and its message.
Both editing and revision are necessary steps in any writing project – even if you only have a few minutes to spare each day. By paying attention to these crucial steps, you’ll make sure that your words ring true with your readers and hold their attention from beginning to end.
The Formatting Process
When it comes to writing, there are a few things that can help make your work look better. However, the best advice I ever received was to keep everything simple and easy to read. This means using clear, concise language and following standard formatting guidelines.
One of the most important things to remember when formatting your work is to use headings and subheadings whenever possible. This will help readers navigate your content more easily and make it easier for them to find the information they’re looking for. Additionally, always use bold when necessary to draw attention to key points or highlight important passages.
Another way to improve your writing style is by using active voice instead of passive verbs. This will make your work sound more lively and engaging, as well as easier for readers to follow. Finally, keep paragraphs short and punchy so that readers don’t have to WAIT for you to finish a sentence!
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your work looks professional and easy to read.
Tips for Avoiding common Writing Errors
When it comes to writing, there are a few things you should always keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you avoid common writing errors:
1. Use proper grammar and punctuation
One of the most important things you can do when writing is to make sure your grammar and punctuation are correct. If your sentence doesn’t have proper grammar or incorrect punctuation, it will likely be difficult for readers to understand what you’re trying to say.
2. Structure your sentences carefully
Another key element of good writing is ensuring that your sentences are well structured. In order for readers to understand what you’re saying, they need to be able to follow the logic of your argument. Make sure each sentence follows a specific pattern and flows naturally from the one before it.
3. Pay attention to word choice
One of the most important aspects of good writing is choosing the right words. Whenever possible, choose words that will convey your message in an effective way without being too complex or hard to understand. Make sure all words are used in a reasonable manner and avoid using terms that are outdated or unlikely to be understood by your audience.
Conclusion
When I was first starting out as a writer, I felt like my writing was terrible. I had no idea what made good writing or how to improve my skills. Selin Sakarcan is one of the most talented writers out there, and she generously offered some of her best advice on how to become a better writer in this short video. If you are still struggling with your writing, be sure to watch it and take heed. After all, learning from the best isn’t a bad thing.
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Health
PTSD in Veterans vs. Civilian Trauma Survivors: Key Differences

Introduction
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone who has lived through a traumatic experience—whether it’s a combat veteran returning home or a civilian who has survived abuse, accidents, or natural disasters. While PTSD symptoms may look similar on the surface, the causes, experiences, and treatment needs often differ between veterans and civilians.
Understanding these differences isn’t about comparing pain—it’s about creating better awareness and more personalized support. In this article, we’ll explore the key distinctions in how PTSD shows up in veterans versus civilian trauma survivors and how each group can move toward healing.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening or deeply distressing event. It affects how the brain processes fear, memory, and safety, and symptoms often include:
– Flashbacks or nightmares
– Hypervigilance or being easily startled
– Emotional numbness or detachment
– Avoidance of trauma reminders
– Irritability or angry outbursts
According to the National Center for PTSD, about 7 out of every 100 veterans (7%) will have PTSD in their lifetime, compared to about 6% of the general U.S. population (VA.gov, 2023). However, the nature of the trauma—and its impact—can vary greatly.
The Nature of Trauma: Combat vs. Civilian Events
Veterans: Combat and Duty-Related Trauma
For many veterans, PTSD stems from combat exposure, military sexual trauma, or witnessing the death or injury of fellow soldiers. The trauma may be prolonged, repeated, and tied to a strong sense of duty, survival, or moral conflict.
Common triggers include:
– Loud noises (like fireworks)
– Crowded places
– Media coverage of war or military events
– Survivor’s guilt or moral injury
Many veterans struggle not only with what happened, but with what they had to do—or were unable to do—under the pressure of war.
Civilians: Accidents, Abuse, and Unexpected Tragedy
Civilian trauma often includes experiences such as:
– Car accidents
– Sexual or physical abuse
– Domestic violence
– Sudden loss of a loved one
– Natural disasters or mass shootings
While the environment is different, the brain’s response to trauma—feeling unsafe, overwhelmed, or powerless—is very much the same.
Key Differences in PTSD Between Veterans and Civilians
1.Type and Duration of Trauma
– Veterans often face repeated trauma over months or years, especially during long deployments. This can lead to complex PTSD, which includes deep emotional and interpersonal challenges beyond traditional PTSD symptoms.
– Civilians may experience a single event or short-term trauma, though repeated exposure (like childhood abuse) can also lead to complex PTSD.
2. Moral Injury
Moral injury is more commonly reported among veterans. It refers to the emotional and spiritual pain that comes from acting against one’s values during high-stakes situations—like killing in combat or being unable to save a fellow soldier.
Civilians can also experience moral injury—such as survivors of domestic violence who blame themselves—but it’s often framed differently.
3. Reintegration Challenges
For veterans, PTSD is often compounded by the difficulty of reintegrating into civilian life. After living in a high-alert combat zone, everyday tasks can feel meaningless, frustrating, or confusing.
Civilians may not face this type of identity shift, but they may struggle with returning to routines that now feel unsafe or unfamiliar.
4. Support and Stigma
– Veterans often have access to VA services and peer support but may also face a “tough-it-out” culture that discourages seeking help.
– Civilians may have less structured support but sometimes face less stigma around talking about emotions—especially women or survivors of abuse.
That said, both groups often deal with shame, isolation, or the fear that others won’t understand.
Shared Symptoms, Shared Humanity
Despite these differences, the core experience of PTSD is deeply human Whether someone is haunted by gunfire or a car crash, the feeling of being stuck in the past, unable to feel safe or connected, is universal.
Both veterans and civilians may experience:
– Emotional outbursts or withdrawal
– Trouble sleeping or concentrating
– Difficulty trusting others
– Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness
And both groups deserve compassion, understanding, and access to healing.
Paths Toward Healing
Healing from PTSD is not one-size-fits-all. But these approaches have shown success across both veteran and civilian populations:
1. Trauma-Informed Therapy
– EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps reprocess traumatic memories.
– CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) teaches coping skills and addresses unhelpful thinking patterns.
– Somatic therapies focus on how trauma lives in the body and help release physical tension.
2. Peer Support
Veterans may benefit from groups like Wounded Warrior Project or Vet Centers, while civilians might find healing in community-based survivor groups or trauma support circles.
3. Creative Expression
Art, music, journaling, and storytelling can help process emotions in ways words sometimes can’t. These tools are especially helpful for those who struggle to talk about their trauma.
4. Mind-Body Practices
Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can calm the nervous system and help reconnect with the present. These practices are now commonly used in veteran recovery programs and civilian trauma centers alike.
Conclusion
While the roots of PTSD may differ between veterans and civilians, the pain—and the hope for healing—is something they share. By understanding the unique challenges each group faces, we can build more compassionate communities, better treatment programs, and stronger support networks.
No one should have to walk through trauma alone—whether they wore a uniform or not.
References:
– U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (2023). PTSD Statistics. [www.ptsd.va.gov](https://www.ptsd.va.gov)
– National Institute of Mental Health (2023). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. [www.nimh.nih.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov)
Health
Why Regular Eye Checkups at a Reputed Eye Hospital Matter

Early Detection of Silent Eye Conditions
Some of the most damaging eye diseases, like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration, develop slowly and show no symptoms in the early stages. By the time noticeable changes in vision occur, permanent damage may have already occurred. Regular eye checkups help in identifying these conditions early, allowing for timely treatment that can preserve vision. Benefits of early detection include:- Reduced risk of permanent vision loss
- More treatment options available
- Slower disease progression with proper care
Managing Refractive Errors and Prescription Changes
Vision changes aren’t limited to kids and the elderly. Adults in their 20s to 40s can also experience gradual shifts in eyesight due to digital screen use, stress, or lifestyle changes. Regular eye exams help keep prescriptions up to date, whether for glasses or contact lenses. Outdated prescriptions can lead to eye strain, headaches, and reduced productivity. With better diagnostic tools, eye care professionals can now do visual correction to meet your exact needs.Monitoring Eye Health for Systemic Diseases
Your eyes can often reveal early signs of systemic health problems like diabetes, hypertension, and even high cholesterol. Changes in the retina or blood vessels at the back of the eye are clues that something may be wrong elsewhere in the body. During an eye exam, ophthalmologists use advanced imaging to detect these changes. This makes eye checkups an important part of your health care, especially if you have a family history of chronic conditions or are over the age of 40.Children’s Vision Care
Children may not realize they have a vision problem. Poor eyesight can go unnoticed and may be misinterpreted as learning disabilities or behavioral issues in school. Regular pediatric eye checkups ensure that any refractive errors, amblyopia (lazy eye), or alignment problems are diagnosed and treated early. Key signs to watch for in kids:- Squinting or blinking often
- Sitting too close to the TV
- Difficulty reading or concentrating
Senior Eye Care
As we age, our risk for conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration increases. Seniors should have more frequent eye exams to ensure these issues are detected and managed in time. Treatment options are most effective when started early, which can significantly improve quality of life. Regular checkups also allow doctors to adjust visual aids or recommend surgical interventions when needed.Why Choose a Reputed Eye Hospital Over Local Clinics?
While local clinics may offer basic eye exams, a reputed eye hospital brings together expertise, technology, and comprehensive care under one roof.- Access to experienced ophthalmologists and specialists
- Availability of advanced diagnostic equipment
- Multidisciplinary care for complex cases
- Assurance of sterile, well-regulated environments
Advanced Technology and Expertise Under One Roof
From scans to robotic-assisted surgeries, modern eye hospitals are equipped with the latest diagnostic and surgical tools. This ensures early and accurate detection of complex eye problems and offers minimally invasive treatment options. Combined with the expertise of trained specialists, these technologies enable:- Faster recovery times
- Higher success rates in surgery
- Custom treatment plans based on individual eye structure
Health
Common Myths and Facts About Hair Transplants

Myth 1: Hair Transplants Are Only for Men
While men are often more publicly associated with hair transplants due to male-pattern baldness, women also experience significant hair thinning and loss. Female-pattern hair loss, hormonal imbalances, or even stress can lead women to seek professional restoration methods. Modern hair transplant techniques are effective for both genders and are customized according to the pattern and cause of hair loss. In fact, more women today are opting for hair transplants.Myth 2: Results Look Unnatural and Obvious
This myth likely comes from older transplant techniques like “hair plugs” that resulted in patchy or doll-like appearances. Today, procedures like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) allow doctors to implant individual hair follicles in a way that mimics natural growth patterns. A skilled surgeon ensures the angle, depth, and density are all taken into account.Myth 3: Hair Transplants Are Painful and Risky
Modern hair transplants are minimally invasive and generally performed under local anesthesia. While you might feel slight discomfort during or after the procedure. Most patients resume normal activities within a few days. Like any medical procedure, there are risks, but serious complications are rare when performed by a qualified professional.Myth 4: You Get Instant Results After the Procedure
Hair transplant results don’t appear overnight. The transplanted hair typically falls out within the first few weeks, which is a natural part of the process known as “shock loss.” New growth usually begins around the 3 to 4 month mark, with visible improvements by 6 months and full results appearing after 9-12 months. Patience and realistic expectations are essential. Hair transplants are a long-term solution, not an instant fix.Myth 5: Hair Transplants Don’t Work for Older People
Age alone isn’t a barrier to getting a hair transplant. What matters more is the condition of the scalp, the pattern of hair loss, and the availability of healthy donor hair. Many people in their 50s or even 60s undergo successful transplants. A thorough evaluation by a specialist helps determine eligibility. In fact, older patients often have more stable hair loss patterns, making it easier to design a lasting solution.Myth 6: You Can Use Someone Else’s Hair
This is a common and dangerous misconception. Hair transplants involve taking your own healthy hair follicles (usually from the back or sides of your scalp) and moving them to thinning areas. Using someone else’s hair would trigger immune rejection, much like organ rejection without a donor match. There’s no such thing as “hair donation” in this context. If your donor area has limited density, your surgeon will help design the best coverage strategy possible within those constraints. Jaipur has quietly gained a reputation for offering high-quality cosmetic and medical procedures, including hair transplants. The city is home to well-equipped clinics that combine skilled dermatologists, advanced tools, and personalized care, all at competitive pricing compared to metropolitains. If you’re considering this procedure, the Best Hair Transplant in Jaipur offers quality results with a patient-centered approach. Understanding the facts helps set accurate expectations and ensures you’re choosing the right solution for your hair loss. Whether you’re just starting to consider options or are ready to take the next step, separating myth from reality is the best way to begin. Do your research and consult professionals.-
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