In Ukraine, the mental health of children has suffered significantly since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Over 50,000 minors sought professional help with mental health issues in the first nine months of 2024, a threefold increase from the same period in 2023. The Ukrainian Ministry of Education and Science attributes this surge to psychological trauma caused by the war, including unstable situations, air raids, and loss of loved ones or homes. Teachers like Valentyna Maruniak, who teaches art in Kyiv, have noticed changes in their pupils' emotional states through their artwork since 2022, highlighting the need for urgent support to address anxiety and behavioral issues.
https://en.tempo.co/read/1977881/emotional-truma-piles-up-for-ukraines-children-three-years-after-invasionBdr Mason, a former Army soldier, testified at an inquest into the death of 19-year-old Jaysley McCready. He described her as "that energetic person that brought good spirits to the team" and had quit the Army around the same time Gnr Beck died. When questioned about his feelings for Jaysley, Mason declined to answer, citing concerns it might incriminate him. The coroner suggested he was putting pressure on Jaysley by referencing mental health issues and suicide in WhatsApp messages. Mason broke down in tears, revealing he had struggled with mental health issues since childhood and self-harmed in 2015.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14418043/Mother-teenage-soldier-suicide-demands-police-investigation-Army-covering-abuse.htmlA new initiative called Craic Health is using comedy as a prescription for mental health issues, with founder Lu Jackson citing its potential to reduce costs and provide immediate and long-lasting health benefits. The program has received funding from the One Westminster charity and has hosted events in libraries across London, including one for homeless communities and another for older people. Participants have reported feeling significantly improved after attending these events, with some leaving with a rating of five out of five. Conservative councillor Robert Rigby praised the initiative, saying it highlights the power of comedy to unite people and alleviate isolation.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14415617/laughter-medicine-Comedy-shows-NHS.htmlSam Thaiday, a former Brisbane Broncos star, has spoken out about his struggles with mental health after appearing on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!. The 39-year-old NRL legend revealed that he signed up for the show to raise money for a charity helping men and boys deal with trauma. During the competition, Thaiday shared a raw confession about suicide, stating it's a side of him that only his wife and daughters see. He expressed relief that Australia got to see the real him, and encouraged those struggling with mental health issues to reach out to Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 224 636).
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nrl/article-14415539/Sam-Thaidays-touching-family-admission-raw-confession-suicide.htmlA recent study by the National Institute of Health found that Black men in the US experience the highest rates of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among all racial groups. The study's findings are particularly concerning given the historical context of systemic racism and trauma faced by Black Americans. For instance, a 2020 report by the American Psychological Association highlighted the disproportionate impact of police brutality on Black mental health, with many Black men reporting feelings of fear, anxiety, and hypervigilance in response to law enforcement interactions. The study's results underscore the need for targeted interventions and support services to address these mental health disparities within the Black community.
https://www.cbs8.com/video/news/local/outreach/you-matter/you-matter-bridging-the-mental-health-gap-for-black-men/509-4213b86d-5846-45bb-b22a-5d3b5c0d9051Monique Ross, an Australian, shares her personal experience of not recognizing the signs of burnout and stress until it almost led to a mental health crisis. She attributes this to feeling overwhelmed by work demands, which she describes as "stress driving you towards burnout."
https://www.smh.com.au/national/queensland/stress-driving-you-towards-burnout-time-to-go-green-20250218-p5ld0x.htmlThe number of children in residential care in Queensland has increased significantly, rising from 951 in June 2019 to 1,763 in June 2023. A report made nine recommendations, focusing on the system's role as a parent and its response to children and families in need. The report highlighted concerns over mental health support for all children in care, citing instances where referrals to services were closed if children stopped engaging. Mr Twyford called for more prevention services to identify why children enter the child protection system, while Mr Chandler criticized government agencies for lacking empathy.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14410777/aussie-boy-dies-homeless-queensland.htmlCounty officials have announced several initiatives to address various needs in Montgomery County. A new 24/7 emergency behavioral health center will provide round-the-clock support, while a commission on LGBTQIA+ affairs aims to promote inclusivity and understanding. The county is also investing in affordable housing initiatives and hosting "on the road" meetings to engage with residents more effectively. Additionally, the recent election saw a record number of voters participate, demonstrating strong community engagement. Chair Neil Makhija outlined the board's priorities for this year, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
https://whyy.org/articles/state-of-the-county-montco-pennsylvania-2025/A new development in Santa Fe Springs is part of a five-acre "homeless to homeowner campus" featuring transitional housing by The Whole Child and affordable apartments by The Richman Group. Designed by SVA Architects, the project offers residents stability and dignity with amenities such as full kitchens, furnishings, and shared spaces for services like computer labs and mental health treatment rooms. Funding partners include Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, Congresswoman Linda Sánchez, and the Bezos Day One Fund. The Whole Child, a regional leader in supporting children and families experiencing homelessness, is also involved in the project.
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-whole-child-grand-opens-safe-families-interim-housing-and-support-services-center-designed-by-sva-architects-302380033.html