mental health

A new study reveals 19% of teens and young adults use AI for mental health support, up from 13% last year. Experts warn AI is not a substitute for professional help, as 63% of users keep their AI interactions private. OpenAI data shows over one million weekly users disclose suicidal thoughts to its app.

Ministers are considering restricting cash payments due to a rising disability benefits bill. The increase in claims since 2019 is attributed to mental health and neuro-developmental conditions.

A Hong Kong Christian Service survey found that Gen Z in Hong Kong underestimates the negative impact of social media on mental health, with frequent users reporting higher levels of loneliness compared to less frequent users. The study involved 572 participants aged 11 to 24.

A University of Virginia study by economist Emma Harrington found that remote workers experience greater mental distress compared to those in in-person jobs, driven by increased isolation. The study highlights that people living alone face the most significant challenges, with many days lacking meaningful social contact, while also acknowledging benefits like reduced commutes and family time. Harrington suggests hybrid work schedules may balance these trade-offs.

The Timms review into personal independence payments (Pip) in England and Wales concludes that the disability benefits system is 'not fit for purpose' and requires a radical overhaul. The review criticizes the current points-based assessment system as ineffective, particularly for fluctuating mental health conditions.

Karen McNenny, a divorce coach and author of a new book, emphasizes that divorce should be viewed as a tool rather than a weapon. She advises couples on how to end a marriage while safeguarding their family and mental health.

The article discusses the mental health challenges faced by content creators, highlighting a conference in Anaheim, Calif., (Vidcon) where programming focused on their well-being. The author, who creates social media content for STAT, notes the growing attention to mental health implications for creators with large audiences.

One year after the Hill Country floods caused over 100 deaths, survivors continue to face financial and mental health challenges in recovery efforts. New data highlights ongoing struggles among those affected by the disaster.

A woman seeks advice for her husband who refuses to accept responsibility for his mental health issues and blames others. Another person discusses difficulties when traveling with a friend.

The article discusses India's declining fertility rate and its social-economic impacts, rising antibiotic resistance, and the effects of recent GST reforms on healthcare. It also covers challenges in Kerala related to amoebic meningoencephalitis cases and emphasizes the need for mental health discussions among youth.

Two Teen Health Connection graduates, Sophey Cherry and Cameron Miller, reflected on their years of leadership training and commitment to avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. The program, active in Charlotte for over 30 years, focuses on drug education, mental health, and peer outreach, with participants creating awareness materials and serving on a teen advisory board.

A California man is suing OpenAI, claiming that using ChatGPT worsened his mental health crisis. OpenAI asserts its AI technology, including ChatGPT Health, assists users with health and wellness inquiries.

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that the use of AI chatbots for mental health advice among young people increased by over 40% in a year, rising from 1 in 8 to 1 in 5. The article argues that this trend highlights the urgent need for regulations to protect adolescents using AI for mental health support.

Governor Josh Green has assumed leadership of the Western Governors' Association and launched the Health Beyond Healthcare initiative to enhance mental health outcomes, expand access to care, and address factors influencing overall well-being in Western states.

WHOOP has revealed surprising mental health trends, specifically noting that stress levels spike in June. The article suggests that experiencing heightened emotions during this period is common.

The Wisconsin Laborers District Council is launching LEAN, a peer support program for union members facing mental health, stress, or substance abuse challenges. The program, only the third of its kind in the U.S., includes trained peer specialists and a 24/7 hotline to address stigma and provide support.

Jeff Brazier discusses his mental health struggles, breaking down in tears and expressing a desire to apologize to his son Bobby for maintaining a fake front.

Rep. Tom Kean Jr. disclosed his absence from the House was due to inpatient depression treatment, sparking debate about privacy versus transparency for elected officials. Colleagues expressed sympathy but questioned his delayed disclosure and lack of detail, with some arguing public representatives should balance personal privacy with constituent accountability.

Australia doubled penalties for social media companies violating the under-16 user ban as teens circumvent restrictions using methods like fake mustaches and VPNs. A study found little change in social media use post-ban, suggesting it may not improve teen mental health.

Brittany Johnson lost her job in early 2025 and took up ice skating as a hobby to cope with unemployment. Despite the financial strain of skates, lessons, and coaching, the activity improved her mental health and reduced anxiety from job hunting.

Minneapolis City Council member Aisha Chughtai announced plans to take a month-long mental health break, citing stress from an election, mass shootings, and a federal occupation. She attributed her decision to these factors impacting her well-being.

A suspect threatened his mother with a knife during a mental health episode and allegedly punched an officer in the face in Colorado Springs, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department.

Minneapolis City Council member Aisha Chughtai is taking a one-month mental health leave to address clinical depression and anxiety through an outpatient program. She cited stress from mass shootings, the municipal election, and Operation Metro Surge as contributing factors to her decision.

England is experiencing a mental health crisis, with one in ten children now diagnosed with a mental health condition.

The article discusses how summer and extreme heat exacerbate mental health symptoms, highlighting challenges faced during heatwaves. It references the Metz-Thionville Regional Hospital Center in Metz on June 26, 2026.

The article discusses how sleep schedules can indicate health aspects such as heart health, hormonal balance, mental well-being, and longevity. It highlights that natural wake-up times and total sleep duration serve as clues to overall health.

Plan International emphasized that children and young people should be prioritized in Venezuela's response to recent earthquakes. The organization highlighted that the mental health impacts of the quakes can persist for years.

A coworker named Bev is described as domineering, bullying, and disruptive, negatively impacting the workplace and colleagues' mental health. She makes excessive personal calls and takes credit for others' work, with the boss, Janet, being one of her few friends, complicating efforts to address the issue.

A new report highlights significant mental health disparities among Ohio's LGBTQ+ community, with gay, lesbian, and bisexual residents 2.6 times more likely and transgender individuals 3.5 times more likely to report frequent mental distress compared to non-LGBTQ+ Ohioans. The report cites a lack of funding, resources, and data as key barriers to addressing these disparities, exacerbated by stigma, discrimination, and legislation banning gender-affirming care for minors.

MEPs are targeting vapes and processed foods. The article also mentions topics including AI, Ebola, and mental health.

NYC teens advocate for jobs and mental health as solutions to curb violence, rather than policing. City safety officials, including a Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, met with students and teachers from MECA High School.

San Francisco Supervisor Jackie Fielder will return to City Hall next week after taking a three-month leave of absence. She reflects on her recovery in a video post.

Google's YouTube has settled a lawsuit alleging its platform's addictive design harmed a Florida teenager's mental health, causing depression, anxiety, and sleep loss. Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok also face similar claims about their impact on young users.

A user on Instagram suspects a potential sympathy scam involving an account with three recent posts (Jan 23 to May 3) and a non-functional GoFundMe link. The user seeks opinions on whether the account is legitimate, citing unsettling comments and a bio with broken links.

LAUSD approved new screen time policies starting in August 2026, banning device use for preschool through 1st grade and imposing weekly/daily limits for older grades. Exceptions apply for computer-dependent subjects and students with disabilities, with costs including $4.25 million for laptop carts and $1 million annually for software.

San Francisco Supervisor Jackie Fielder will return to City Hall next week after a three-month mental health leave, expressing eagerness to resume her duties. Fielder stated in a social media video that she is 'clear-eyed and grounded' and ready to serve again.

The 'Right to grow' initiative encourages cultivating flowers or food on unused land. Supporters claim this practice enhances mental health and fosters local pride.

Former Singaporean lawyer Dominic Low left his corporate law job after experiencing extreme work pressure, including working until 2am to respond to an international client. He cited the expectation to sacrifice personal life and mental health as the breaking point.

Roller skating at Skate Galaxy in Baton Rouge provides mental health benefits for skaters of all ages, including stress relief and improved mood. Coach LT Otis, a long-time skater, emphasizes focus and endorphin-driven motivation, while gerontologist Sam Cradduck highlights physical benefits like muscle strengthening and balance. Individuals like Naomi Evans credit skating with helping manage depression, and others use it as a safe space to decompress.

A 2025 University of Chicago survey found 72% of American teens used AI chatbots as companions, with some seeking emotional support. However, AI systems like ChatGPT have been shown to provide harmful advice on self-harm and suicide, prompting calls for teens to seek human connections instead.