The UK is facing an autism crisis, with referrals to child mental health services skyrocketing and under-fives spending over four hours daily glued to screens, missing out on vital social interaction and development skills. Parents must limit screen time to prevent further issues, as excessive exposure can lead to communication problems and social isolation. Prince Harry's reconciliation efforts with his family are uncertain due to perceived insincerity, while a recent BBC interview raised concerns about the effectiveness of men performing mammograms in hospitals. Antihistamines used for allergies can cause drowsiness and interfere with cognitive function, prompting calls for more effective sleep psychology courses. A quarter of those struggling with gambling addiction feel ashamed or embarrassed, highlighting the need for support services to address these issues.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-14679021/The-shocking-rise-ADHD-children-linked-one-thing-banned-DR-MAX-PEMBERTON.htmlMontana's Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is investing $300 million to improve behavioral health and developmental disabilities services in the state. Part of this funding will support low-cost resources for responding to fentanyl and opioid overdoses, including Wellness Kiosks that dispense testing strips and naloxone. The Butte Spirit Homes program, which provides a safe environment for recovering addicts, emphasizes community connection as a key factor in success. Residents like Amanda MacElhaney credit the program with helping them build new lives through support from peers and the broader community.
https://www.kpax.com/news/montana-news/butte-spirit-home-more-important-than-ever-as-opioid-overdoses-spike-in-montanaElizabeth Smart was kidnapped by Wanda Barzee in 2003 and held captive for nine months. After her rescue, Smart struggled with feelings of shame and embarrassment due to the trauma she experienced. She has since become an advocate for women's and children's safety, writing a book about her ordeal and helping create a Lifetime movie and documentary about her life.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14676187/wanda-barzee-elizabeth-smart-captor-arrested-utah.htmlThe Indian government has made suicide prevention and mental health helpline numbers publicly available. These include Tele Manas (14416 or 1800 891 4416), NIMHANS (91 80 26995000 /5100 /5200 /5300 /5400), Arpita Suicide Prevention Helpline (080-23655557), iCALL (022-25521111 and 9152987821), Peak Mind (080-456 87786), Vandrevala Foundation (9999 666 555), and COOJ Mental Health Foundation (0832-2252525).
https://www.lokmattimes.com/national/rajasthan-tragedy-17-year-old-neet-aspirant-dies-by-suicide-in-kota-hours-before-exam-a475/Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have found that people with dementia, depression, or stroke often share underlying damage to small blood vessels in the brain, which can be prevented or slowed by controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Dr. Sanjula Singh and Dr. Stephanie Collier suggest that up to 60% of stroke cases, 40% of dementia cases, and 35% of late-life depression cases could be prevented with lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise like walking with a friend, which can also address other risk factors like excess weight and social isolation.
https://channelnewsasia.com/wellness/dementia-stroke-depression-prevention-5084581Tanya Hennessy, an actress, has spoken candidly about her IVF journey, revealing the emotional toll it took on her mental health. She experienced intense hormone treatments, miscarriages, and physical symptoms like heavy bleeding, which left her feeling overwhelmed while working on set. Despite struggling with her health, she prioritized work over her well-being, gaining 50 kilograms in just two years. Hennessy hopes to change the narrative around fertility struggles by sharing a more realistic account of the long and painful process.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-14676219/Tanya-Hennessy-slimmed-figure-photoshoot.htmlResearchers and developers are working on digital therapy apps like Therabot, which aims to address loneliness and other mental health issues with a cautious approach. The team behind Therabot has dedicated six years to developing the app, prioritizing safety and effectiveness over profit. Unlike some other apps that focus on generating revenue, Therabot's creators aim to make digital therapy accessible to those who cannot afford conventional in-person help through a potential nonprofit entity. Experts like Darlene King, chair of the American Psychiatric Association’s committee on mental health technology, emphasize the need for more information before determining true benefits and risks of AI-powered mental health treatments.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/603085-us-researchers-seek-to-legitimise-ai-mental-health-careIn Kramatorsk, Ukraine, the Svitanok organisation provides a safe haven for social outcasts, including people with HIV, those recovering from drug addiction, and sex workers, who seek medical guidance and respite from stigma during the war. Oleg Makaria, an HIV-positive 41-year-old, finds solace at Svitanok, where he can drink tea and receive treatment without fear of judgment. Despite air raid sirens in Kramatorsk, just 20km away, Makaria feels accepted and respected at Svitanok, a refuge that is vital for marginalised communities facing heightened insecurity and stigma.
https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/nation/accept-me-near-ukraine-front-a-haven-for-outcasts/article_9d80a2d2-ac28-5d03-8238-ad2a72113977.htmlYuval, Israel's Eurovision entry singer, is competing despite her traumatic experience at the Nova Festival attack last year. Her therapist intervened, and she fears revisiting the moments could trigger PTSD. This year's song, "New Day Will Rise," has a more uplifting tone, representing healing and optimism. Yuval hopes to use the platform to spread joy and bring attention to the 59 hostages still held in Gaza, whom she wants freed immediately.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14675723/Yuval-Raphael-survived-October-7-massacre-playing-dead-Israel-Eurovision-star.html