Mental Health 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

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

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

March 28, 2025

ADHD Cases Soar Amid Pandemic's Lingering Effects

Adult ADHD diagnoses surged during the pandemic, with a significant increase in reported cases, according to a study. James Vivian, an Australian man, experienced a resurgence of symptoms after feeling they had subsided, highlighting the potential for long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health.

https://www.smh.com.au/national/how-the-pandemic-prompted-a-surge-in-adult-adhd-diagnoses-20250328-p5ln9e.html

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 27, 2025

Acetaminophen Tied to ADHD in US Children

A new report reveals that ADHD affects approximately 1 in 9 children in the US. Researchers found a link between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and an increased likelihood of developing ADHD. The study also identified DNA changes related to immune system pathways in placentas exposed to acetaminophen, which may be a mechanism linking this exposure to child neurodevelopment. Dr. Ryan Sultan, an expert at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, described the findings as "important and concerning".

https://www.foxnews.com/health/childrens-adhd-risk-linked-mothers-use-common-otc-pain-reliever

March 27, 2025

Balance Harmony Amidst Life's Turbulent Tides

Today's forecast suggests a harmonious day, emphasizing the importance of nurturing relationships, striking a balance in life, and prioritizing self-care. In contrast, some individuals may need to exercise caution, avoiding confrontations, excessive spending, and emotional frustration.

https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-03-27/opinion/cartoons/Thursdays-fortune-Balance-and-caution-for-most-frustration-for-some/2268291

March 27, 2025

Bondi Stabbing Survivors Reunite After 23 Years

Child survivors of their mothers' killings have finally found each other after years of searching. Kathryn Joy, Rebecca Burdon and Beverley Attard were among the victims whose mothers were killed in the Bondi Junction stabbings in 1998. The attack also claimed the life of Chinese university student Yixuan Cheng's mother, who was comforted by Helen Toumazis after her son Kris was shot dead outside a nightclub.

https://www.smh.com.au/national/years-after-their-mothers-were-killed-these-child-survivors-finally-found-each-other-20250304-p5lgpn.html

March 27, 2025

Breaking Free from Peer Comparison Traps

A Sydney Morning Herald article by Paridhi Jain advises individuals who earn a lot but struggle with comparing themselves to others, suggesting they focus on their own financial goals and values rather than keeping up with peers, and consider seeking professional help if the issue persists.

https://www.smh.com.au/money/planning-and-budgeting/i-earn-lots-but-can-t-stop-comparing-myself-to-others-what-do-i-do-20250326-p5lmm3.html