Bryan Kohberger, 30, faces the possibility of being executed by firing squad if convicted in connection with the murders of Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle at Washington State University. His defense team has argued that his autism diagnosis should be considered as a mitigating factor to avoid the death penalty, citing behaviors such as sitting in a specific way and talking for long periods. However, prosecutors claim they will not use this as an excuse, instead presenting "hundreds of hours" of interviews with people who knew Kohberger at the university, which describe him as having made "unkind things" about him. The judge has ruled that Kohberger's autism diagnosis cannot be used as an aggravating factor in the case, but will consider other motions related to his behavior and demeanor in court.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14588181/idaho-murders-judge-bryan-kohberger-trial-banned-words.htmlCocaine and methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, are two highly addictive stimulant drugs with distinct differences in terms of their composition, effects, and consequences. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant derived from the coca plant, primarily produced in South America, often smuggled into the United States through Mexico. Meth, on the other hand, is synthesized from various chemicals, commonly produced in clandestine labs in the United States, particularly in rural areas. Cocaine's immediate effects include increased energy, alertness, and euphoria, while meth produces a more intense high with prolonged use, often leading to anxiety, paranoia, and aggressive behavior. Cocaine addiction can lead to cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes, whereas meth use is linked to severe dental issues, skin infections, and neurological damage. The long-term consequences of cocaine and meth abuse are equally concerning. Cocaine users are more likely to experience depression, anxiety disorders, and suicidal thoughts, while meth abusers often suffer from cognitive impairment, memory loss, and increased risk of HIV/AIDS through shared needle use. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that cocaine is responsible for over 14,000 deaths annually, with meth accounting for approximately 20,000 deaths. Law enforcement agencies, such as the DEA, have implemented various strategies to combat the production and distribution of these illicit substances, including Operation Pipe Dreams in Mexico, which targeted methamphetamine trafficking. Treatment centers and support groups, like Narcotics Anonymous, provide essential resources for individuals struggling with addiction, offering a path towards recovery and rehabilitation. In conclusion, understanding the differences between cocaine and meth is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies, treatment programs, and policies aimed at reducing their devastating impact on individuals and society.
https://nerdbot.com/2025/04/09/cocaine-vs-meth-a-comparison-of-two-powerful-stimulants/Former Newcastle Knights star Jarrod Mullen has spoken publicly about his battle with cocaine addiction that nearly took his life in 2018. The former halfback, who was once considered the heir apparent to rugby league Immortal Andrew Johns, had become a drug dealer and was snorting up to three grams of cocaine per day to cope with the end of his career. Mullen's life hit rock bottom when he overdosed, but his parents, Leeann and Steve, intervened just in time, calling an ambulance after finding him unresponsive at home.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nrl/article-14589989/Jarrod-MullenFooty-star-verge-bombshell-tells-monster-drug-addiction-left-20-minutes-death-taking-breaths.htmlProject Community Connect is returning to Missoula for its 16th annual event on April 11th, where up to 75 service providers will offer free resources such as housing, mental health, dental, and veteran services. The event, hosted by the Missoula Public Library, aims to provide a one-stop shop with no barriers to entry, allowing anyone in need of support to drop in. Selya Avila, Lead Coordinator for Project Community Connect, is seeking volunteers to provide free haircuts, while expecting around 400 people to attend the event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with road closures on Adams Street.
https://www.kpax.com/news/missoula-county/project-community-connect-returns-to-missoulaJennifer Sharren's daughter died after being failed by a medical and educational establishment that didn't consider her autism. Surrey County Council is developing an autism strategy with the help of Graham Wareham, chief executive of Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, who acknowledged shortcomings in care provided to Jennifer during her time at the trust. Mandatory training has been implemented for staff to provide better support to autistic individuals, including those with mental health needs.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-14589177/My-daughters-suicide-prevented-fight-save-children-like-Jen-Sharren-Bridges.htmlThe global prevalence of autism spectrum disorder diagnoses among children and adolescents is increasing, according to Dr. Lara Branco, a psychiatrist at the University of São Paulo in Brazil. This growing trend highlights the need for more effective treatment pathways, as many current approaches are not yielding satisfactory results.
https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2025/04/08/brazil-CBD-cannabidiol-children-autism-study/1461744127954/A psychologist, Dr. Adolph Brown, has revealed a "foolproof hack" to help individuals overcome overthinking at night, which can disrupt sleep and cause anxiety. He suggests using "cognitive shuffling," a technique that involves quickly changing the subject of thought to calm the mind. Additionally, thought-stopping and thought-replacement methods have also been found effective in reducing racing thoughts and promoting better sleep.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-14581253/psychologist-hack-stop-overthinking-night-sleep.htmlThe rising autism diagnosis rates in India are causing concern, with a significant increase in cases reported over the past few years. Dr. Shruti Mishra, a developmental and behavioural paediatrician at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, attributes this trend to increased awareness and better diagnostic tools. However, she also notes that early detection is crucial to provide effective support and interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/health-and-well-being/rising-autism-diagnosis-rates-in-india-causes-and-implications-1871894Meta has announced new features to provide parents with "peace of mind" about their children's social media use on Instagram. The company plans to introduce restrictions on Instagram Live for users under 16, requiring parental permission before they can go live. Additionally, images sent to a Teen Account via DM suspected of containing nudity will be blurred and can only be modified or turned off with parental consent.
https://www.9news.com.au/national/meta-teen-account-facebook-messenger-under-16/46c37dd7-0c94-4ea3-827b-f2883c895ae9