Melisa O.
Melisa joined the Bright Side team as a writer in 2025, bringing her love for storytelling and sharp eye for detail from her experience in copyediting. She enjoys diving into a variety of topics, making content both engaging and reader-friendly. When she’s not playing with words, you’ll probably find her baking something sweet, because a good story, much like a good dessert, is all about the right ingredients!

8 Silent Red Flags Your Immune System Is Struggling

8 Silent Red Flags Your Immune System Is Struggling
Health
day ago

Your immune system is your body’s defense against illness, but when it's not working properly, even common infections can become a bigger problem. From frequent colds to unusual fatigue, your body may be sending subtle signals of a weak immune system. In this article, we’ll explore 8 warning signs that could indicate a weakened immune system—and why it’s important not to ignore them. Don't forget to consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

18 Ancient Greek Facts That Might Change How You See History

18 Ancient Greek Facts That Might Change How You See History
Curiosities
4 days ago

Ancient Greece is traditionally remembered for its philosophy, mythology, and great buildings—but there's a lesser-known side that hardly finds its way into textbooks. Under the neat image is a world of strange customs, polarizing beliefs, and odd rituals. These facts reveal a raw and shocking glimpse at a civilization that held sway over much of the modern world, but that had secrets few are ready to admit.

12 Jewelry Trends That Can Make You Rethink Your Go-To Pieces

12 Jewelry Trends That Can Make You Rethink Your Go-To Pieces
Girls stuff
6 days ago

Accessorize in 2025 is having its say — from statement drama to subtle throwbacks with a twist. No matter your style, if you love clean, minimalist looks, or you love over-the-top sparkle, these 12 jewelry trends are already flexing their muscle on runways, social media, and street fashion. Ready to discover what all the fashionistas are wearing? Let's dive into the year's essentials.

Katy Perry’s Space Return Sparks Backlash Over Her Dramatic Gesture

Katy Perry’s Space Return Sparks Backlash Over Her Dramatic Gesture
People
week ago

On April 14, 2025, pop star Katy Perry and five other accomplished women embarked on a groundbreaking journey aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. The mission, which lasted approximately 4 minutes, reached the Kármán line—the internationally recognized boundary of space—offering the crew a brief experience of weightlessness and a unique perspective of Earth.​

I Publicly Humiliated My Stepmother After She Belittled My Late Mom

I Publicly Humiliated My Stepmother After She Belittled My Late Mom

People often emphasize the importance of setting boundaries in romantic relationships or with family, but they can be just as crucial—and just as tricky to navigate. One of our readers reached her breaking point when her stepmother made a demeaning comment about her late mother during a family gathering. What followed was a moment of public reckoning that changed their dynamic forever.

My Son Used Me for Free Childcare—So I Gave Him a Reality Check

My Son Used Me for Free Childcare—So I Gave Him a Reality Check

Many grandparents cherish time with their grandchildren, but for one of our readers, that joy turned into an exhausting responsibility. What began as a relaxing vacation quickly shifted when her son joined the trip with his wife and kids in tow. Before long, it became painfully clear that she was expected to care for the children while the couple relaxed and enjoyed their time off.

My MIL Doesn’t Want to Be a Grandma—She Wants to Be My Baby’s Mom

My MIL Doesn’t Want to Be a Grandma—She Wants to Be My Baby’s Mom
Family & kids
2 weeks ago

A mother-in-law is supposed to offer love, wisdom, and maybe the occasional unsolicited advice—but for Natalie, what her MIL asked for left her speechless. Just weeks after giving birth to her son Ethan, she was blindsided by a shocking request: her mother-in-law wanted to legally adopt her newborn baby. Reeling from confusion, Natalie reached out to us with one question: Is there ever a good reason for someone else to adopt your child?

I Billed My Stepkids for a Sleepover — Because Surprise Visits Aren’t Free

I Billed My Stepkids for a Sleepover — Because Surprise Visits Aren’t Free
Family & kids
3 weeks ago

We recently heard from a stepmom whose quiet day turned into one she won’t soon forget. After planning a romantic dinner with her husband, she opened the door to an unexpected surprise: his three kids, dropped off unannounced by his ex-wife. She’s now turning to BrightSide for advice: how do you navigate surprise visits, set healthy boundaries, and protect your peace?

7 Psychological Marketing Hacks That Can Play You Like a Game

7 Psychological Marketing Hacks That Can Play You Like a Game
Psychology
3 weeks ago

We like to think we’re savvy shoppers—but even the smartest consumers can fall for clever marketing tactics. From eye-catching sales to subtle pricing tricks, brands have mastered the art of persuasion to get us to spend more than we intended. In this article, we’ll break down 7 common marketing tricks that catch people off guard and explain how you can spot (and avoid) them. Knowledge is power—and in this case, it could save you some serious cash.

I Refuse to Share My Home With My Husband’s Son Unless He Respects My Rules

I Refuse to Share My Home With My Husband’s Son Unless He Respects My Rules
Family & kids
3 weeks ago

Monica never wanted to live in the same house with her husband’s teenage son. However, when the son asked to move in, Monica felt she couldn’t simply say no. She agreed but made it clear that her stepson would need to respect her rules. Monica didn’t expect her request to lead to family drama and conflict, so she turned to Bright Side seeking advice.

12 Nail Looks in 2025 That Scream “Main Character Energy"

12 Nail Looks in 2025 That Scream “Main Character Energy"
Girls stuff
3 weeks ago

Nails have always been a form of self-expression, but in 2025, they’re reaching celestial levels of creativity. This year’s top nail trends are all about balance—think minimalist elegance meets bold, head-turning details. From soft, barely-there tints to futuristic chrome finishes and playful textures, there’s something for every vibe and every occasion. Whether you’re into subtle shimmer or full-on statement art, these 12 standout styles will have your nails looking—and feeling—like a total star.