NewsFeed

April 3, 2025

Karolinska Study Links Screen Time to Adolescent Depression

Researchers led by Sebastian Hokby from Karolinska Institutet found that increased screen time in adolescents can lead to higher levels of depression, especially among girls. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends less than 2 hours of screen time per day for children over five years old. Sleep and depression often occur together, affecting cognitive abilities and emotion regulation.

https://www.lokmattimes.com/technology/study-links-excessive-screen-time-to-sleep-disruptions-depression-in-girls-1/

April 3, 2025

MHS Homes Manager Guilty of Disability Harassment

A tribunal hearing in Croydon found Ms Gilbert, a manager at Kent-based MHS Homes, guilty of disability discrimination and harassment against former employee Miss Friend. Miss Friend had struggled to cope with her new role after a 2019 restructure, leading to stress that triggered a diagnosis of dissociative seizures. Her boss repeatedly referred to her as "Regan" and sent disturbing images, claiming she was possessed by an evil spirit, which the tribunal deemed "offensive" and "inappropriate". Miss Friend was signed off work multiple times due to her health issues and eventually dismissed in February 2024 on health grounds.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14564171/Woman-sent-mocking-foaming-mouth-Exorcist-picture-boss-suffered-seizures-following-violent-attack-wins-harassment-claim.html

April 3, 2025

Social Media Moms at Risk for Depression

A 2016 study by BYU researcher Sarah Coyne found that mothers who compare themselves on social media are more likely to experience relationship issues, including lower levels of parental competence, and maternal depression, as well as an increased risk of parental role overload.

https://www.deseret.com/magazine/2025/04/02/why-parents-compare-their-children-to-others/

April 3, 2025

St. Andrew's Autism Centre CEO Advocates Inclusive Public Spaces

Bernard Chew, CEO of St. Andrew's Autism Centre, advocates for a more empathetic response to individuals with autism, encouraging public spaces to be welcoming for those with the condition and their caregivers. He believes that understanding and compassion can help alleviate judgment, allowing people with autism to feel included in public areas. This sentiment is echoed by Ms Keenbie Kok, mother of autistic twins who have a unique way of communicating with each other, highlighting the importance of acceptance and companionship for individuals on the spectrum.

https://channelnewsasia.com/singapore/parents-children-autism-seek-more-understanding-and-empathy-public-5038621

April 2, 2025

Grant's ADAPT Network Serves Thousands Locally

ADAPT Community Network provides comprehensive programs for over 20,000 children and adults with disabilities and their families. Founded by James Grant, the organization offers various services through its website (adaptcommunitynetwork.org) and social media platforms, including Facebook (@adaptwechange), Instagram (@adaptwechange), YouTube (@adaptwechange), and LinkedIn (ADAPT Community Network).

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/linda-b-laul-to-lead-adapt-community-network-as-chief-executive-officer-302418929.html

April 2, 2025

Montana's 988 Crisis Hotline Saves Lives Locally

Montana has launched a new crisis hotline, 988, which allows individuals to speak with trained crisis evaluators instead of police dispatchers in situations related to behavioral health concerns. The state saw 329 suicides in 2022, and the hotline received over 15,000 in-state calls last year, with 80% of callers resolving their issues with a representative. To promote awareness, the health department is hosting a poster design contest for adults and children, with submissions due by April 18. The winning posters will be displayed around town to encourage those in need to use the hotline.

https://www.kpax.com/news/montana-news/montana-health-officials-raising-awareness-of-988-hotline-for-people-experiencing-mental-health-crises

April 2, 2025

New Jersey's Mental Health Funding Slips Through Fingers

New Jersey's state Department of Health has received ELC grant funding to support local health departments, but the state is also set to lose SAMHSA grants that fund mental health programs. This sudden loss will leave the New Jersey Department of Human Services unable to ensure a smooth transition for individuals in need, potentially putting their lives at risk due to the disruption of care.

https://whyy.org/articles/lawsuit-federal-cuts-hhs-pennsylvania-new-jersey-delaware/

April 2, 2025

School Board Insults Dad of Autistic Son in Meeting

Gaurav Jashnani, a parent of an autistic son with ADHD, faced backlash from his school board after he spoke out about his child's needs. The meeting transcript allegedly showed the board insulting him and comparing him to a family member known for being difficult. The board also referenced Jashnani's social media presence, labeling him as one of those who advocate for "Save Our Schools." A speaker admitted that the school doesn't always provide students with all the necessary resources on their Individualized Education Program (IEP).

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14560419/outrage-school-board-rude-dad-disabled-student-massachusetts.html

April 2, 2025

SDPD Overhauls Mental Health Response After Tragedy

The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) is implementing significant changes to its mental health response policies after a 2018 incident where three people died due to a delayed response. The incident occurred in Chula Vista, California, and led to the department's decision to retrain officers on crisis intervention techniques and establish a new protocol for handling mental health calls.

https://www.cbs8.com/video/news/investigations/a-refusal-to-act-on-a-2018-mental-health-call-resulted-in-three-dead-and-now-sweeping-changes-to-sdpd-policy/509-f54585a2-0e55-4aea-a938-7e34a13a8c87