5) Writing Fresh Content For 7 Cups: Guidelines and Best Practices
Through this discussion, we will discuss the basic guidelines for writing fresh content articles for 7 Cups. After understanding the general requirements to keep in mind whilst submitting your content articles for 7 Cups publication, this discussion also highlights some general writing tips to keep in mind when writing content that relates to mental health.
The following are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
Include an Article Sub-headline/header: one sentence, no punctuation at the end, this subheader goes under the title that encapsulates the piece -- (We will discuss this soon)
Article Length: 1000-2000 words.
Break up the article using Subheadings.
The article should not be previously published.
Include at least one non-copyrighted photo, at least 1200 pixels x 630 pixels in size (from Unsplash, etc). If one is not provided, it will be sourced for you!
For any facts or studies quoted, please provide sources as footnotes/listed at the end of your article.
For quotes from other professionals, consider back-linking to their professional websites, research-work links, etc. All articles will go through an editing process for optimization after submission as well!
Submit your Article as a Google Doc link to ayesha@7cups.com / Link it to the dashboard with editing access if provided a dashboard/ OR use the required form for submission as per what you have been guided on protocol.
You will be informed once your article has been published so that you can share and promote it as well! We will also share it on 7 Cups social media accounts.
When provided, please ensure that you include as many keywords, these keyword insights can also be used to guide the outline of your article.
Best Practices
Things to Do:
Make sure the article is empathetic, kind, helpful & informative (it fulfills the reader who found it), empowering. Replace mental “illness” or “disease” with “condition” or “issue” and soften any other mental health stigma language that might pop up. This helps ensure that your tone is supportive.
Think of story ideas that will be sharable in social media
Be concise
Be conversational and accessible in your writing
Back up statements with research or facts if applicable (cite sources) - try to confirm facts by ensuring at least 2 different sources mentioning them.
Include expert quotes and insights -- you can reach out to a psychologist or expert about your story and offer a quote and link to their practice for the collaboration. Make sure their title/expertise is attributed in the article
Be thorough, don’t gloss over specifics
Give the reader empathy and hope
Put yourself in the reader’s shoes: ask yourself what they need out of reading your piece and then deliver that
Try to combine personal experiences with expert insight to strengthen your piece.
Consider including friends and family members of people impacted by your topic in your audience.
For more tips on reporting mental health conditions and choosing words carefully, read the American Psychiatric Association’s article here
Other Tips:
The following are general guidelines to help find facts, help link things with 7 Cups as well as outreaching tips for personal stories and expert insight:
Always try to hyperlink some of your main sources.
Use authentic reporting websites such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization, or American Psychological Association, etc. for facts and up-to-date statistics. (Can be hyperlinked as mentioned above)
Use Google Scholar to search for relevant research work. Abstracts usually summarize research findings.
When outlining your article, consider asking yourself which information and what type of information can be added as a priority. For example, an article about mental health during the pandemic would likely report authentic global statistics and could use published research information.
When reviewing other resources that cover your topic or something close to it, always ask yourself what can help enhance that available content. How can you ensure you are providing a unique take on the topic? Consider thinking about what is missing that could be worth mentioning.
7 Cups has lots of free services, including available self-help guides, subcommunities with forums, and other areas - generally, editorial assistants at 7 Cups help backlink to these resources, but you are welcome to directly mention them if it applies, for instance, mentioning how Sharing Circles can help users cope with loneliness or the lack of support in their daily lives.
Outreaching for both personal or expert quotes can be done via social media, contact forms of blog posts, or even email considering which information is available. You are welcome to PM @SoulfullyAButterfly if you think a 7 Cups Expert can help provide you the quote or required insight.
When outreaching for personal stories, introduce yourself and 7 Cups and explain your article topic briefly, and why you think their personal experience could help. Share how you can back-link (link back) to the person’s blog or other resources if they would like that in return for sharing their quote. Ensure that you ask them if they would like their name to be disclosed, or if they would like a pseudonym. Finally, let them know you will share the final published version so they can also share it with their acquaintances.
When requiring an expert quote, use the same procedure discussed, but consider asking for the expert’s availability. Mention how the expert’s work can aid your write-up and any questions you have. Ask for the expert’s professional practice page link and if they are interested, mention how they can have a published expert profile at 7 Cups (you can CC ayesha@7cups.com if needed).
Things To Avoid:
The overuse of cliches or corny language
Making it overly formal or using references most wouldn’t understand
Using extraneous words/phrases. For example, you don’t have to write, “it’s important to…” If you’re writing it, the reader will assume it’s important. Unless, of course, it really is a surprise that this piece of advice is important - in which case say that
Forgetting to explain the “why”
Repeating the same word or phrase often (unless intentional, i.e. in an article about a mantra you might repeat the mantra several times)
Overusing exclamation points
Activity
Write a 100-word minimum paragraph on a mental health topic of your choice. Begin with a brief heading to inform the reader whether your paragraph is a general introduction or focuses on something specific. Ensure your paragraph includes factual information and mention your sources. Additionally, include a link to at least one source within the paragraph to support your claims.
This exercise will help you practice writing informative, well-researched, and engaging content while ensuring proper citation and credibility.
Bonus: Consider using previous discussions to research and use keywords.
Reply to at least one other trainee and highlight the strengths of their work as well as areas for improvement.
I have submitted my article, but not yet get a response~
@SoulfullyAButterfly
mental health awareness.
mental health awareness is vital. it’s estimated 1 in 5 people in the UK experience a mental health condition, up from 1 in 6 a decade ago (https://www.mind.org.uk/ ) but if people have more awareness on this topic, it could save lives. it also reminds people to check in on their friends and normalise asking for help - whether that’s online, therapy or just talking to friends or family, even one conversation can make a massive difference. 1 in 3 people have self-harmed in their life, and around half of them haven’t told anyone about it (YoungMindshttps://www.youngminds.org.ukYoungMinds). this is just a reminder that you don’t know what people are going through and what you see on the outside may be completely different to what’s going on inside.
@alwayslove123
This is a strong and meaningful piece already. You’ve tied in statistics with a compassionate reminder.
The Connection Between Autism and Mental Health
One in 127 people worldwide are autistic (Duboust, 2024). This means understanding autism and its connection to mental health is vital for a healthier world, as well as healthier autistic people. A study by Cooper, Smith, and Russell from 2017 suggests autistic people have a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety due to self-esteem. Reasons include lack of understanding about the condition, lack of support services, and the language professionals use when talking with their clients. To encourage greater mental health in the autistic population, further research should explore the "understanding of social identity as defined by autistic individuals" (Cooper et al., 2017, p. 21).
References
Cooper, K., Smith, L., & Russell, A. (2017). Social Identity, self‐esteem, and mental health in autism. European Journal of Social Psychology, 47(7), 844–854. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejsp.2297
Duboust, O. (2024, December 24). Number of people with autism worldwide almost double previous estimate. Euronews. https://www.euronews.com/health/2024/12/24/study-finds-1-in-127-people-worldwide-have-autism-almost-double-the-previous-estimate
@Lemurian51611
I really liked your post on the connection between Autism and Mental Health. I think the information covered was concise and precise to the heading which was used. I like seeing stats which gives me a sense of the significance of the issue. Also the topic on the mental health impact of Autism looks to be covered more in depth in the references made by you and feels like a soild back to the claims made here. I think one suggestion I could give is maybe shedding more light on the impact this has on the life of the Autistic person.
@Lemurian51611
This is already clear and well-structured. You’ve highlighted prevalence, contributing factors, and the need for further research.
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Introduction to Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder affects nearly 50 million people worldwide each year. This accounts for 0.6% of the world's population. The average age when this condition presents itself is between 25 and 29 years, and most individuals get diagnosed in their thirties. [1] The condition is characterized by extreme mood dysregulation, with extreme happiness or complete depression on the 2 ends of the spectrum. These swings in moods are also accompanied by the exhibition of high energy or complete listlessness seen in the manic or depressive phases, respectively. Other presenting symptoms may be high emotionality (laughing, crying, anger, etc), delusions, hallucinations, paranoia, etc. [2] All these presenting problems make it very hard to function normally in one's everyday life, with logical thinking and rationale being affected. It also puts strain on relationships at home and the workplace due to the hyperemotionalism and impaired thinking of the individual.
References
|
[1] |
S. Team, “Bipolar disorder statistics 2025; By | Updated on,” 4 Feb. 2025. [Online]. |
|
[2] |
WHO, “Bipolar disorder,” 8 July 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/bipolar-disorder. |
@AK245
This is a strong post. It’s factual, clear, and paints a good picture of the condition. Great work!
Many helping people should learn there is a connection between sexual assault, self-harm and hallucination, and there is a great deal of general literature on adverse childhood experience and complex PTSD. There is little specific guidance, however, on how to hope treat these kind of clients. Using some clients as an example, this paper studies clients need multiple counseling methods to treat the presenting problems. The research focuses on knowing the exact problems and treat these kind of clients. Problems of clients and treatment are categorized in order to ascertain what kind of doctors and psychiatrists can help these clients. These findings have implications for more professional workers to aid these kind of clients.
@loveagape
This is an essential and often underexplored issue: the connection between sexual assault, self-harm, hallucinations, adverse childhood experiences, and complex PTSD. You are correct in noting that, while general literature on trauma is abundant, there is relatively little specific guidance on how to treat clients with overlapping and complex presentations. This focus makes your post relevant for both researchers and practitioners. Well done!
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Being that making friends and dating are often sought out by individuals on the autistic spectrum, they can be an easy target for an individual living with narcissistic personality disorder. For one thing, an autistic individual may not be able to recognize when they are being controlled of manipulated. Rather, they may perceive this person to come across as someone who is warm and friendly who appears to be trusting. Furthermore, they may not recognize that they are being abused by someone who otherwise shares a lack of empathy. All the while, the autistic individual may be seen as an empath who looks to use them for supply and validation. As that trauma bond is built, the autistic may not be able to communicate that they are being abused.
Canton, P. (2025). Autism and Narcissistic Abuse: Navigating Unique Challenges and Pathways to Healing. Autism and Narcissistic Abuse: Vulnerabilities & Healing - Circles
@Summershy
This response raises an important and often overlooked issue about the vulnerability of autistic individuals in relationships, especially when faced with people who may display narcissistic traits or behaviors. It effectively highlights how difficulties with social cues, trust, and communication can make autistic individuals more susceptible to manipulation or emotional abuse. The description of how narcissistic individuals may appear warm and friendly at first, only to exploit that trust, is both accurate and impactful.
The writing also draws attention to the painful reality of trauma bonds, where the autistic person may feel unable to recognize or verbalize the abuse, making intervention and support all the more critical. By stressing the importance and the need for intervention and support, the audience is made to feel more responsible and engaged in addressing this issue. The contrast between the autistic individual’s genuine empathy and the narcissistic individual’s lack of it provides a clear lens through which readers can better understand the imbalance in such relationships.
One way to enhance this piece is by emphasizing the importance of protective strategies, awareness, and supportive resources. This will not only balance the heavy focus on vulnerability but also instill a sense of hope and empowerment in the readers. Additionally, clarifying a few sentences for improved flow and precision, as some points are repeated and could be condensed, further strengthens the piece.
Overall, it’s an intense and thought-provoking piece that sheds light on a nuanced topic that deserves more awareness. To further intensify the impact, the piece could delve deeper into the emotional toll of these relationships or provide more thought-provoking questions for readers to consider.
Well done!
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Title: Understanding Insomnia
Insomnia is a condition when a person is not able to have adequate sleep. A person who has trouble sleeping at least 3 days in a week and has faced the problem for a duration of more than a month can have the symptoms of Insomnia. This condition is mostly found in women and older adults. In women it is found to be progressed with the onset of menopause. People working on night shifts or rotation shifts, people with psychiatric disorders and medical disorders are more likely to face this sleep disorder. It can be dealt with making some few changes in lifestyle like having less screentime, practice mindfulness, yoga and meditation etc.
The link of the research
https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/full/10.5664/jcsm.26929
@Tuliphealing
The title provides a clear and concise introduction to a condition that affects many individuals worldwide. The explanation of insomnia as inadequate sleep that persists for at least three days a week for more than a month is informative yet straightforward, helping readers quickly grasp when everyday sleep difficulties may cross into a diagnosable disorder.
One of the strengths of this piece is the attention to risk factors. Highlighting how insomnia is more prevalent among women, older adults, shift workers, and individuals with psychiatric or medical conditions helps the audience understand that this disorder does not occur in isolation but is often linked to life stage, health, and environment. The mention of menopause in women adds a specific and vital detail that shows awareness of biological influences.
The article also offers practical coping strategies, such as reducing screen time and practicing mindfulness, as well as yoga and meditation. These lifestyle recommendations are not only accessible to most readers but also reinforce the idea that small daily changes can significantly improve sleep quality, empowering readers to take control of their sleep patterns.
That said, two areas could be strengthened by expanding on them:
- Effects of insomnia – briefly touching on the physical, emotional, and social consequences would help readers understand why addressing it is crucial.
2. Treatment options – alongside lifestyle changes, mentioning when to seek professional help (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia or medical guidance) would make the article more comprehensive and reassure readers that they are not alone in their struggle with insomnia.
The title succeeds in being informative, approachable, and practical. With more detail on the broader impact of insomnia and treatment pathways, it could evolve into a well-rounded resource for anyone struggling with sleeplessness. Remember, if you're experiencing persistent sleep difficulties, it's important to seek professional help and make the necessary lifestyle changes to improve your sleep quality.
@Tuliphealing
Heyy!! <3 I love that you explained what insomnia is, including risk factors and practical lifestyle tips which makes it more actionable for readers. This really helps give a complete picture and makes it actionable.
One area for improvement is to perhaps add a little more detail as you'd carry on the article -- maybe about statistics or how it affects daily life and mental health.
@izzyy528 Thank you 😊 I will surely add those points..
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Introduction to Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD)
Trauma can leave deep and lasting marks on a person's mind, body and life. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (or PTSD for short) is a well known and normal response to a highly traumatic experience. However, what happens when trauma doesn't just happen once, but continues over months or years? After surviving repeated or prolonged trauma, some people find that usual symptoms of PTSD don't tell the whole story. Complex PTSD (CPTSD) captures the deeper struggles and the ways trauma can affect day-to-day life; this goes beyond the symptoms that we'd usually associate with PTSD.
CPTSD encompasses the core symptoms of PTSD, which include flashbacks, nightmares and heightened arousal. However, it also includes additional symptoms like difficulties in emotional regulation, negative self-perception, dissociative symptoms and challenges in forming or maintaining relationships. As mentioned, these additional symptoms often arise from prolonged or repeated exposure to trauma, such as ongoing abuse or captivity; this is what distinguishes CPTSD from standard PTSD.
Sources:
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/complex_ptsd.asp
@izzyy528
This piece provides a clear and thoughtful explanation of the difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD. It begins by acknowledging the profound and lasting impact trauma can have, which immediately grounds the discussion in empathy and recognition of the seriousness of the topic. The transition from standard PTSD to Complex PTSD is well structured, showing how prolonged or repeated trauma can create a more layered and enduring set of challenges.
What truly distinguishes this piece is its emphasis on the fact that CPTSD is not merely an amplified form of PTSD, but a condition with its own unique characteristics. These include challenges with emotional regulation, self-perception, dissociation, and relationship struggles. By drawing this distinction, the piece does an excellent job of enlightening the reader about why CPTSD merits its own recognition and understanding, rather than being viewed as a mere extension of PTSD.
The language is accessible and sensitive, making it approachable for readers who may be personally affected by trauma, as well as those seeking to learn more. At the same time, the content remains informative and clinically accurate without being overly technical.
One area for potential improvement could be expanding on real-world examples of how CPTSD symptoms manifest in everyday life. This would help readers connect more effectively with the material on a practical level. Additionally, highlighting treatment approaches or sources of support can instill a sense of hope and optimism, balancing the more somber discussion of symptoms.
Overall, this is a concise, well-written, and empathetic overview that succeeds in empowering readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of trauma and the crucial importance of recognizing CPTSD as distinct from PTSD.
The number of people patients has likely being sexual problems. This world is forming this kind of trend. I think we should do something to stop them. Walking freely is not the wanted way to do, and solve this problem. We need the proof to go to the polite station, and also go to the hospital to connect if this is the right solution. There are many ways to help these people. When this type of issue arouse people should be against it, for it is not helping the clients. Do not let the next generation face with this ugly truth.
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The number of people patients has likely being sexual problems. This world is forming this kind of trend. I think we should do something to stop them. Walking freely is not the wanted way to do, and solve this problem. We need the proof to go to the polite station, and also go to the hospital to connect if this is the right solution. There are many ways to help these people. When this type of issue arouse people should be against it, for it is not helping the clients. Do not let the next generation face with this ugly truth.
Many helping people should learn there is a connection between sexual assault, self-harm and hallucination, and there is a great deal of general literature on adverse childhood experience and complex PTSD. There is little specific guidance, however, on how to hope treat these kind of clients. Using some clients as an example, this paper studies clients need multiple counseling methods to treat the presenting problems. The research focuses on knowing the exact problems and treat these kind of clients. Problems of clients and treatment are categorized in order to ascertain what kind of doctors and psychiatrists can help these clients. These findings have implications for more professional workers to aid these kind of clients.
@loveagape
This post raises awareness about an urgent and sensitive issue. The growing number of patients struggling with sexual trauma and its long-term effects, including the perpetuation of specific examples of repeating cycles of harm. You emphasize the importance of intervention, not only through medical and psychological treatment but also by involving law enforcement and community action. The call to protect future generations from these repeating cycles of harm highlights the post's strong advocacy tone.
A significant strength of this work is its recognition of the profound links between sexual assault, self-harm, hallucinations, adverse childhood experiences, and complex PTSD. The post correctly points out the dearth of specific, practical guidance for treating clients who present with multiple, interconnected problems, despite the abundance of literature on trauma in general. The understanding that clients often need a variety of counseling methods and interdisciplinary care is both accurate and valuable, highlighting the need for more targeted solutions.
The post would benefit from slight improvements in clarity and structure. Some sentences are complex to follow, and ideas occasionally repeat without elaboration. Including concrete examples, case studies, or references to existing research would strengthen the arguments and lend more credibility. Additionally, adopting a consistent academic tone—rather than shifting between emotional appeals and clinical language—would make the work more professional and impactful.
Overall, this post illuminates a crucial and under-addressed issue in trauma care. With clear organization, a more robust foundation of evidence, and a more formal presentation, it could evolve into a significant contribution to both advocacy and research on how to support survivors of sexual trauma best, emphasizing the importance of a robust foundation for their work.
