NewsFeed

March 28, 2025

Pakistan's Growing Autism Crisis Requires Specialized Care

A recent event at a hospital highlighted the growing concern of autism in Pakistan, where Dr. Nosheen Kazmi emphasized the need for specialized services to diagnose and manage Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dr. Faiza Badar stressed the importance of therapists in improving behavior, communication, and daily living skills in children with autism. The event brought together teachers, parents, and healthcare professionals who discussed the significance of early diagnosis, intervention, and therapy to support affected children.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1295979-shifa-hospital-hosts-awareness-session-on-world-autism-day

March 28, 2025

Prabowo Launches Child Protection Digital Regulation

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasized the need to safeguard children from the adverse effects of digital technology through a new government regulation aimed at child protection in electronic systems implementation. The regulation, launched at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, was developed based on input from various stakeholders focused on children's welfare.

https://en.antaranews.com/news/350169/need-to-protect-kids-from-ill-effects-of-technology-prabowo?utm_source=antaranews&utm_medium=desktop&utm_campaign=top_news

March 28, 2025

Reeves' Budget Plan Slashes Carer Support Funds

Rachel Reeves is set to deliver the Spring Budget Statement as Chancellor, but her plan to slash sickness and disability support has sparked controversy. The move will affect an estimated 150,000 unpaid carers, including Tory MP Danny Kruger, who warned that the Government is "balancing the books on the backs of the people least able to take the weight." Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, a carer for his disabled son, described the plan as "appalling," saying it will hit disabled people and their loved ones hard. The changes are expected to save £200 million in 2027-28, rising to £500 million by the end of the decade.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14545177/Labours-betrayal-unpaid-carers-Prime-Minister-rebellion.html

March 28, 2025

Rinna Battles Cyberbullying on 'Real Housewives' Set

Rinna admitted that as time went on, she felt like the negative comments and criticism from viewers took a toll on her mental health, making it difficult for her to enjoy her role on the show. She recalled instances where fans would publicly shame her or call out her for perceived mistakes, which made her feel isolated and unsupported.

https://deadline.com/2025/03/lisa-rinna-blames-fans-rhobh-exit-1236352749/

March 28, 2025

San Diego Foundation Funds Mental Health Services

The San Diego Foundation has awarded a $500,000 grant to support expanded mental health services for Asian Americans and Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) youth and young adults. The funding will be used to enhance access to culturally sensitive mental health care, address the unique needs of this community, and promote resilience among AANHPI individuals.

https://www.cbs8.com/video/news/local/500k-grant-expands-mental-health-services-for-aanhpi-community/509-783ca137-0fb8-4164-bc9d-537712941a0f

March 28, 2025

Siti's Lonely Aidilfitri Amidst Methamphetamine Struggle

In Malaysia, women recovering from drug addiction at the Bachok Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre are struggling to celebrate Aidilfitri with family and friends. For Siti, 43, a decade-long methamphetamine addiction has left her regretful of her past, particularly during Syawal celebrations when she usually visits her parents' graves but can only pray from afar this year due to her condition.

https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2025/03/28/festive-songs-silent-tears-aidilfitri-in-recovery-at-puspen-bachok/171083

March 28, 2025

Sleep and Meditation Boost Brain Cell Growth

Sleep promotes neurogenesis by enhancing neural progenitor cells in the hippocampus and regulating stress molecules like glucocorticoids. Stress control through techniques such as meditation, yoga, and mental stimulation can improve BDNF signalling, decrease pro-inflammatory molecules, and enhance stress resilience, creating a positive feedback loop that supports neurogenesis. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, particularly those requiring moderate mental exertion, can increase growth factors like BDNF, IGF-1, and FGF-2, promoting the maturation of new neurons. A holistic approach incorporating healthy diets, regular exercise, quality sleep, stress management, and mental stimulation can support brain development and regeneration in adults, regardless of age.

https://www.thestar.com.my/food/food-for-thought/2025/03/28/curious-cook-brain-food-part-2

March 28, 2025

UK Mental Health Claims Soar Amid Pandemic

The UK has seen a significant rise in mental health disability claims, with 2 million more people claiming since the pandemic, increasing from 3.8 to 5.8 million. In England, 48% of working-age individuals report suffering from mental problems, making it the most common form of impairment. Labour backbenchers are pushing for ministers to scrap plans that would make it harder to get disability benefits, which aim to save £5 billion and address worklessness. The impact varies by region, with higher rates in Scotland and Wales compared to England, and women being more likely to claim disability than men.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14546741/A-quarter-Brits-say-DISABLED-benefit-cuts.html

March 28, 2025

Victoria Warns of Hidden Dangers in Non-Addictive Substances

Health Victoria is warning the public that even non-addictive substances can cause serious side effects and death, advising people to start low and go slow if they're considering using them. If you or someone you know needs help with substance use, call DirectLine on 1800 888 236 for information and support.

https://www.9news.com.au/national/drug-warning-heroin-sold-as-cocaine-and-methamphetamine-meth-in-melbourne-victoria/5f396dc8-600b-40d0-8562-e95bbaafbf70