A comprehensive survey in Wales reveals concerning levels of anxiety, loneliness, and emotional difficulties among primary school children aged 7-11, with one in seven experiencing significant emotional issues. The survey highlights the impact of social media, online dangers, and pandemic-related isolation on young children's mental health, prompting calls for improved support and interventions in schools.
Families are calling for greater recognition of gambling as a factor in suicides, highlighting the difficulties in having gambling considered in inquests, despite evidence linking gambling disorders to increased suicide risk. The case of Lee Adams, who placed over 600 bets before taking his life, underscores the need for systemic reform and better support for affected families.
Nick Reiner, accused of murdering his parents, believes he is the victim of a conspiracy, despite evidence and diagnoses of mental health issues, with his defense potentially arguing insanity due to medication changes. The case has garnered media attention through a new documentary.
Matt Kenny, a former gay hockey player from Quebec, experienced a panic attack after watching the TV series Heated Rivalry, which portrays gay love in hockey, sparking hope for change in hockey culture and greater acceptance of LGBTQ players. The show has resonated with many, including Kenny, who hopes it will normalize LGBTQ identities in sports and inspire more open conversations and acceptance.
On her 44th birthday, the Princess of Wales released a video reflecting on how nature has helped her heal from cancer, emphasizing the importance of being at one with nature for collective and personal healing, as part of her ongoing Mother Nature series.
Exercise can be nearly as effective as therapy for depression, especially when incorporated into a routine, but its effectiveness varies among individuals. Building consistent habits and managing motivation are key, and combining exercise with other treatments like therapy or medication can provide a comprehensive approach to managing depression.
On her 44th birthday, Princess Catherine shared a personal video emphasizing the healing power of nature and its role in mental and physical well-being, especially following her recovery from cancer, while also highlighting the importance of kindness and compassion in healthcare.
Researchers subjected major AI language models to four weeks of psychoanalysis, revealing responses that mimic signs of anxiety, trauma, and internalized narratives, raising concerns about the potential psychological impact and ethical implications of AI chatbots in mental health support.
The article discusses the concept of 'wintering,' a term coined by Katherine May, which encourages embracing the winter season through practices like slowing down, outdoor activity, seasonal eating, social connection, and mindset shifts to improve mental health and well-being during the colder months.
Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation requiring New Jersey schools to implement policies restricting cell phone and internet-enabled device use during school hours, effective in the 2026-2027 school year, aiming to improve student focus, mental health, and classroom engagement.
A Cochrane review found that regular exercise can be as effective as psychological therapy and medication in reducing depression symptoms, with light to moderate activity and varied exercise types showing the most benefit, though more high-quality research is needed to confirm long-term effects.
A UK review of clinical trials finds that exercise can effectively reduce depression symptoms, comparable to therapy or medication, especially in the short term, and should be considered a valuable treatment option alongside traditional methods.
New research indicates that gut microbes influence brain function and evolution, with experiments showing that transferring microbes from primates with different brain sizes to mice alters brain activity and gene expression, potentially impacting cognitive traits and mental health conditions.
Engaging in the arts—such as music, dance, visual arts, and cultural activities—has significant mental and physical health benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, strengthening brain connectivity, and building resilience against cognitive decline. The article encourages incorporating creative activities into daily life to enhance overall wellbeing in 2026.
David Harbour has exited the upcoming film 'Behemoth!' directed by Tony Gilroy, citing the need for rest after the intense filming and promotion of 'Stranger Things.' His role has been recast, and the film's plot involves a musician returning to Los Angeles. Harbour is known for his openness about mental health struggles, including bipolar disorder.