Mental Health / Public News Service

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, but there are other causes of dementia. Depending on the cause, some dementia symptoms might be reversible, according to the Mayo Clinic. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, September 29, 2023

Des Moines Alzheimer's walk seeks to raise $500K

The Iowa Alzheimer's Association expects about 2,000 people to gather on the Capitol steps in Des Moines on Saturday, as volunteers seek to create …

Climate change board games emphasize teamwork and group success. Either all players win together, or no one survives. (dvande/Adobe Stock)

Friday, September 29, 2023

Board games help players understand climate change

By Debra J. Rosenthal for The Conversation.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Ohio News Connection for the Public News Service-Conversation …

The 340B Drug Pricing Program, a part of the 1992 Public Health Service Act, provides outpatient drugs at deep discounts to safety net providers. (Gorodenkoff/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Missouri community healthcare centers face 340B uncertainty

While large hospitals and pharmaceutical manufacturers battle over drug costs, Missouri community health centers see themselves as collateral damage…

Some of the warning signs of suicide include increased use of drugs or alcohol, talking about wanting to die or talking about being a burden to others. Concerned family and friends are advised to seek help by calling the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or the New Hampshire Rapid Response hotline at 1-833-710-6477.(Adobe Stock)

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Annual walk builds support, awareness of suicide prevention

New Hampshire's largest mental health awareness event takes place this weekend and organizers said it is a chance to remind lawmakers mental health ca…

Groups trying to prevent bullying say simple things such as sparking conversations in the classroom about each student's favorite TV show can help establish inclusiveness. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Sense of community at heart of anti-bullying messaging

This weekend marks the kickoff of National Bullying Prevention Month. Those raising awareness hope schools in South Dakota and elsewhere work toward …

Both CPR and QPR, a suicide prevention intervention, are designed to increase the chance of survival in the event of a crisis. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Community Mental Health Centers offer free QPR suicide prevention trainings

Colorado has the sixth-highest suicide rate in the nation, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When someone …

Missouri law allows Medigap enrollees to change Medicare insurance plans at the same coverage level during their anniversary window. (Andrey/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Open enrollment means researching your healthcare options

Missourians have plenty of choices when it comes to health insurance coverage - and it's time to gear up for making those decisions. For people on …

Suicide rates in rural communities increased by 48% between 2000 and 2018, compared with 34% in urban areas, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. (StockMediaProduction/Adobe Stock)

TX AgriStress Helpline highlighted for Suicide Prevention Month

Texas farmers face the obvious stressors of weather, costs and market fluctuations, but their responsibility of providing for family and workers also …

There were eight major insurance companies offering health policies to individuals and families in Arizona during plan year 2023. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, September 25, 2023

Make smart health coverage choices during open enrollment

The open enrollment period for health insurance can seem daunting to many Arizonans, so experts recommend starting sooner rather than later to do …

The Student Assistance Program in some Ohio schools connects students with tools in order to remove obstacles to learning, and is now incorporating mental-health resources. (Rosalie Murphy/Kent State NewsLab).<br />

Ohio schools experiment with 'sensory rooms,' post-pandemic

By Nathalia Teixeira for Kent State News Lab.Broadcast version by Nadia Ramlagan reporting for the Kent State-Ohio News Connection Collaboration…

Peter Sussman is among three patients with disabilities who have asked to intervene in a lawsuit challenging California's End of Life Option Act. (Nancy Rubin)

Monday, September 25, 2023

Advocates ask to intervene in CA medical aid-in-dying case, request dismissal

California's medical aid-in-dying law is back in court. Three patients with disabilities and two doctors are asking to intervene in a lawsuit …

Most insurance companies and Medicare allow open enrollment during specified times of the year, usually between October and December. (Adobe Stock)

Open enrollment for public, private health insurance begins soon

Open enrollment begins soon for most employer-sponsored health care coverage and benefits plans for the calendar year 2024. In Illinois, there will …

USAFacts.org reports in 2020, $12,268 was the average amount spent on health care per Indiana resident. (Adobe Stock)

Time to check out health insurance options for 2024

Open enrollment begins soon for employer-sponsored health insurance for coverage starting Jan 1. Most people will have multiple options to choose …

Mississippians with diabetes have medical expenses about 2.3 times higher than those who are not diabetic, according to the American Diabetes Association. (Seventyfour/Adobe Stock)

Healthier lifestyle tips for preventing diabetes in communities of color

The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes is on the rise in Mississippi. About one in seven Mississippians lives with diabetes. Jernard A. Wells, cookbook …

Texas lawmakers passed legislation in 2021, allowing many residents to purchase health-care plans in 2023 with lower deductibles and little to no premiums. (AdobeStock/Rawpixel.com)

Health-care coverage: Getting best bang for the buck in Texas

It is open-enrollment season for health insurance plans, and experts say a little research can go a long way toward obtaining better coverage for …

Creation of the Rural Emergency Hospital designation comes in response to a high rate of rural hospital closures. Between January 2010, and August 2022, 139 rural hospitals closed, according to the National Academy for State Health Policy. (Adobe Stock)

Rural Iowa declared 'ambulance desert'

People in rural America are five times as likely to live in so-called "ambulance deserts," areas far from an ambulance service or station, than those …

Health coverage aid groups and providers warn if you wait until the last minute and rush your enrollment for an insurance plan, you could end up in the wrong program or with benefits that do not suit your needs. (Adobe Stock)

Health Coverage 101: Early research, expert guidance keep pitfalls at bay

When it comes to open enrollment and navigating health insurance options, experts say starting your research sooner rather than later is the best …

Among 12- to 17-year-olds nationwide, 2.08 million or 8.33% report using drugs in the last month. (Adobe Stock)

North Carolina fights back against youth overdose epidemic

In the wake of the devastating overdose epidemic in North Carolina, the state's Department of Health and Human Services is stepping up to aid …

According to KFF, Community Health Centers served a record number of patients in 2021, representing a 1% increase from just before the pandemic. (Adobe Stock)

Community Health Centers: Red lights flashing for staying funded

Congress is bracing for a possible government shutdown as progress stalls in approving new federal spending plans before a Sept. 30 deadline…

Almost half of Alabama residents in the coverage gap are people of color, which advocates said stems from institutional racism and oppression, and 60% live below the poverty line. (Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Experts: Medicaid expansion vital for Alabama's health, economy

In recent years, Alabama has faced a critical need for Medicaid expansion due to ongoing struggles with the state's health care system. …

The last open enrollment period saw a record high number of Tennessee residents signing up for health insurance. More than 340,000 people enrolled in private health plans. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Open enrollment for health insurance begins Nov. 1

The open enrollment period to purchase health insurance through the federal marketplace begins Nov. 1, and experts urge consumers to do some research …

Nov. 1 is the first day you can enroll, re-enroll or change health plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace. The dates for changes are mid-Sept through early December for employer-sponsored coverage, and from Oct. 15-Dec. 7 for Medicare. (Edar/Pixabay)

Avoid last-minute crush of choosing a health plan

When it comes to open enrollment and navigating the many health care options, experts say starting your research sooner rather than later is the best …

In 2023, nearly two-thirds of Medicare enrollees are in individual plans that are open for general enrollment, according to KFF. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Tips for Comparing Healthcare Plans This Enrollment Season

Ohio experts say understanding a health care plan's benefits and comparing plans are critical for ensuring people have the coverage they need and keep…

The Indiana Girl Report says from 2015 to 2021, the rate of physical and sexual dating violence among high school girls in Indiana increased to 17%. (Adobe Stock).<br /><br /><br />

Coalition Highlights How Trauma Impacts IN Girls' Growth, Development

A new report focuses on "girl power" in Indiana - with an analysis of how young girls are faring in the state, and recommendations for improving …

Screen time before bed can be especially detrimental for teenagers and their developing brains. (Brian/Adobe Stock)

Screen Time Driver of Sleep Loss Among Young People

School is back and one way parents can set their kids up for success is ensuring screen time is not getting in the way of sleep. Dr. Maida Chen…

The Massachusetts community action agency Citizens for Citizens prepares to distribute the first shipment of diapers and other necessary supplies to low-income families through the federal government's first diaper distribution pilot program. (MASSCAP)

Diaper Pilot Program Aims to Keep Families Healthy, Working

Massachusetts groups will be part of a new federal pilot program to help low-income families ensure they have the diapers they need to keep both babie…

While you may feel too busy to de-stress, you can decide to take back your

Simplify Family Schedule to Decrease Stress, Boost Heart Health

As fall classes and after-school activities are in full swing, Missouri families can feel pressure to do it all, but the American Heart Association …

In 2021, suicide was the leading cause of death for Americans aged 10-14 and 20-34. (Carl/Adobestock)

National Suicide Prevention Month: CA Group Works to Raise Awareness

This is National Suicide Prevention Week, part of National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness of the problem, and ways to prevent it…

According to the Anti-Defamation League, there were 356 reported anti-LGBTQ hate incidents between June 2022 and April 2023. They

Survey: LGBTQ Youth Affected by Drumbeat of 'Anti-' Policy Coverage

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer youths in Nebraska and across the country are exposed to a steady stream of news about anti-LGBTQ …

In 2021, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than four in 10 students felt persistently sad or hopeless. Education observers said it has prompted more demand for mental health services in schools. (Adobe Stock)

Assessing Need for School Counselors Amid SRO Debate in MN

Minnesota lawmakers could soon be called into special session in response to a controversy over school resource officers. The situation has prompted …

New Jersey's Medical Aid in Dying for the Terminally Ill Act requires a physician to determine whether the patient is a New Jersey resident before writing a prescription for the medication. (Jon Anders Wiken/Adobe Stock)

Some Terminally Ill PA Patients Seek Medical Aid Across State Lines

Some Pennsylvania patients with long-term chronic illnesses are hoping to make legal headway, allowing them to seek medical aid in dying across state …

Charles R. Drew University in South Los Angeles recently welcomed its inaugural class of medical students. (CDU Communications Department)

Classes Begin at Only Historically Black Medical School on West Coast

Some 60 new medical students at Charles R. Drew University in South Los Angeles are making history just by starting classes at the first and only …

Most signage throughout Eagle Valley, on roadways and at trailheads, is English-only. (Iniciativa EVOM)

Eagle Valley Works to Make Outdoor Recreation More Accessible

Eagle County is one of Colorado's most prized outdoor recreation destinations, drawing visitors from across the globe. But 20% of the county's …

Intimate-partner violence includes violence, abuse and controlling behavior committed by a partner or former partner. It can result in long-lasting adverse mental-health outcomes, and is a leading cause of homelessness and housing instability. (Adobe Stock)

Housing First Model Helps Domestic-Violence Survivors

Victims of domestic violence who are able to access housing -- at their own pace, and with support for as long as the survivor needs help -- …

In 2023, 566 anti-trans bills have been introduced in 49 states including 65 in Texas, according to Trans Legislation Tracker. (inkdrop/AdobeStock)

TX High Court Not Persuaded to Protect Transgender Health Care

Texas has adopted some of the strictest gender-affirming transgender restrictions in the nation. And the leader of a trans advocacy group says it has …

Crisis clinicians say some behaviors that indicate a serious risk of suicide include talking about feeling trapped or being a burden to others, increasing the use of drugs or alcohol and withdrawing from loved ones. (Adobe Photo Stock) <br />

Suicide Prevention Focus of New ME Bridge Barriers

Recently approved legislation provides funding for barriers on the Penobscot Narrows Bridge - a scenic but unfortunate hot spot for suicide attempts…

The Right Time initiative conducted an online survey of 1,000 Missouri residents between April 27 and May 3. (Pixel-Shot/Adobe Stock)

Is Birth Control Legal? Many Missourians Unsure

One in four Missourians either doesn't believe or doesn't know that using birth control pills is legal in the state. The Right Time, an initiative …

A University of Illinois report says such factors as climate change, fluctuating markets and the cost of operations are major stressors that farmers can't always control. (Adobe Stock)

Illinois Expands Farmers' Access to Mental-Health Services

Research shows that farmers die from suicide at a rate twice as high as the rest of the population, and Illinois officials are taking steps to help …

According to the Center for Children and Families at Georgetown University, more than half a million children have been disenrolled from Medicaid in just 21 states that post child enrollment data on a more-timely basis. (Adobe Stock)

WI Kids Losing Health Coverage in Medicaid Unwinding

As Wisconsin kids head back to school, families who rely on Medicaid are reminded to ensure their children still have health insurance. States are …

About one in three adults age 85 or older may have some form of dementia, according to the National Institute on Aging. (pololia/Adobe Stock

Often Hidden, Research Casts Light on Kinless Adults with Dementia

Washington state researchers are spotlighting an often overlooked population: kinless adults with dementia. The population is often difficult to …

A national coalition of more than 130 organizations recently released a roadmap for lawmakers and public health officials for distribution of more than $50 billion in opioid settlement funds.(Adobe Stock)<br />

WV Communities Map Path for Opioid Settlement Funds

This week, Gov. Jim Justice announced five new appointments to the West Virginia First Foundation, the private foundation responsible for the …

About one in five North Carolina residents has unpaid medical bills in the collections process. (Adobe Stock) About one in five North Carolina residents has unpaid medical bills that are in the collections process. (Adobe Stock) About one in five North Carolina residents has unpaid medical bills that are in the collections process. (Adobe Stock)

NC Foundation Helps Erase $2.2 Million in Medical Debt

The burden of medical debt is not so heavy anymore for some lucky North Carolina residents. The Coastal Credit Union Foundation partnered with the …

Maternal mortality rates in the United States showed an alarming increase from 2018 to 2021, which highlights the preventable nature of over 80% of pregnancy-related deaths, according to the CDC. (Pixabay)

CDC Reports Mistreatment of Patients by Maternity Care Providers

People from some racial and ethnic minority groups are more likely to have negative experiences during pregnancy and delivery affecting the quality of…

Numbering fewer than one in 50 U.S. adults, individuals with untreated severe mental illness may be involved in as many as half of all fatal police shootings, according to the Treatment Advocacy Center. (Adobe Stock)

Indy's Clinician-Led Community Response Team Steps Up

What began as a conversation between Indianapolis community leaders about public health and criminal-justice reform in 2021 has led to formation of a …

Mainers offered family insurance plans through their workplace that cost more than 9.12% of the total family income may qualify for more affordable healthcare coverage through the health insurance marketplace. (Adobe Stock)

MaineCare Recipients Urged to Update Forms to Ensure Coverage

Public health advocates are working to ensure Medicaid recipients in Maine continue to have health care coverage as pandemic-era policies have ended…

The process of recertifying enrollment in Medicaid, which generally had been done on an annual basis before the COVID pandemic, was paused during the Public Health Emergency by federal law in early 2020. (zimmytws/Adobe Stock)

Half Those Losing Medicaid in MO are Children

With the pandemic era ending, Medicaid annual renewals are unwinding in Missouri. Eligibility for Medicaid is being verified and more than 54,000 …

N-A-M-I recently developed a mental health college guide for Gen Zer's that covers topics from self-care to getting mental health care support, to legal rights and self-advocacy. (Alessandro Biascioli/AdobeStock)

Groups Address Mental Health Challenges Facing 'Gen Z'

Mental health has emerged as a pressing issue for young Pennsylvanians in "Generation Z," born after 1996. Research shows they are also more willing …

In 2021, in the wake of the COVID outbreak, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a national state of emergency in children's mental health. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio's Foster Care Crisis Forcing Hundreds of Kids to Sleep in Offices

By Cathy Candisky for the Public Children Services Association of Ohio.Broadcast version by Nadia Ramlagan reporting for the Public Children Services …

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Mental Health

Des Moines Alzheimer's walk seeks to raise $500K

Board games help players understand climate change

Missouri community healthcare centers face 340B uncertainty

Annual walk builds support, awareness of suicide prevention

Sense of community at heart of anti-bullying messaging

Community Mental Health Centers offer free QPR suicide prevention trainings

Open enrollment means researching your healthcare options

TX AgriStress Helpline highlighted for Suicide Prevention Month

Make smart health coverage choices during open enrollment

Ohio schools experiment with 'sensory rooms,' post-pandemic

Advocates ask to intervene in CA medical aid-in-dying case, request dismissal

Open enrollment for public, private health insurance begins soon

Time to check out health insurance options for 2024

Healthier lifestyle tips for preventing diabetes in communities of color

Health-care coverage: Getting best bang for the buck in Texas

Rural Iowa declared 'ambulance desert'

Health Coverage 101: Early research, expert guidance keep pitfalls at bay

North Carolina fights back against youth overdose epidemic

Community Health Centers: Red lights flashing for staying funded

Experts: Medicaid expansion vital for Alabama's health, economy

Open enrollment for health insurance begins Nov. 1

Avoid last-minute crush of choosing a health plan

Tips for Comparing Healthcare Plans This Enrollment Season

Coalition Highlights How Trauma Impacts IN Girls' Growth, Development

Screen Time Driver of Sleep Loss Among Young People

Diaper Pilot Program Aims to Keep Families Healthy, Working

Simplify Family Schedule to Decrease Stress, Boost Heart Health

National Suicide Prevention Month: CA Group Works to Raise Awareness

Survey: LGBTQ Youth Affected by Drumbeat of 'Anti-' Policy Coverage

Assessing Need for School Counselors Amid SRO Debate in MN

Some Terminally Ill PA Patients Seek Medical Aid Across State Lines

Classes Begin at Only Historically Black Medical School on West Coast

Eagle Valley Works to Make Outdoor Recreation More Accessible

Housing First Model Helps Domestic-Violence Survivors

TX High Court Not Persuaded to Protect Transgender Health Care

Suicide Prevention Focus of New ME Bridge Barriers

Is Birth Control Legal? Many Missourians Unsure

Illinois Expands Farmers' Access to Mental-Health Services

WI Kids Losing Health Coverage in Medicaid Unwinding

Often Hidden, Research Casts Light on Kinless Adults with Dementia

WV Communities Map Path for Opioid Settlement Funds

NC Foundation Helps Erase $2.2 Million in Medical Debt

CDC Reports Mistreatment of Patients by Maternity Care Providers

Indy's Clinician-Led Community Response Team Steps Up

MaineCare Recipients Urged to Update Forms to Ensure Coverage

Half Those Losing Medicaid in MO are Children

Groups Address Mental Health Challenges Facing 'Gen Z'

Ohio's Foster Care Crisis Forcing Hundreds of Kids to Sleep in Offices