Mental Health / Public News Service

Michigan House Rep. Carrie Rheingans, D-Ann Arbor, represents Michigan's 47th District, covering parts of Jackson and Washtenaw counties. She was elected in Nov. 2022 and began her term in Jan. 2023. (Rep. Carrie Rheingans)

Friday, January 17, 2025

Lawmaker fights for better health, housing for Michiganders

More Michigan residents need access to affordable housing and health insurance, according to a lawmaker pushing for change. Rep. Carrie Rheingans…

Policy experts say rural residents tend to have lower incomes and less access to employer-sponsored health coverage, making programs such sa Medicaid a more prominent option for health insurance. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Report: Rural America would feel pain of deep Medicaid cuts

Congressional Republicans are taking a hard look at Medicaid as they pursue spending cuts and a new report shows how the public health program is prev…

Policy experts said rural residents tend to have lower incomes and less access to employer-sponsored health coverage, making programs such as Medicaid a more prominent option for health insurance. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Report: If Congress guts Medicaid, rural America would notice

Congressional Republicans are taking a hard look at Medicaid as they pursue spending cuts and a new report shows how the public health program is prev…

Women of color are often the sole providers of care for their families and communities and are far too often the last to receive nurturing care, rest and recreation for themselves. (Women's Wilderness)

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Mountain retreat to 'pamper' Colorado’s caregivers of color age 50+

If you are a woman age 50 and older, and you provide care for a parent, a child, a loved one or neighbor, you are invited to sign up for a weekend …

The report reveals nationwide, teen mental health worsened from 2013 to 2023, with young people reporting feelings of sadness and hopelessness rising from 30 to 40-percent. (New Africa/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

OR youth need more mental health support, new report has ideas

The Bipartisan Policy Center has released a new report on reforming the way youth mental health services are delivered, in Oregon and nationwide…

According to KFF Health News, roughly 77,000 Montanans were enrolled in Medicaid expansion last October, a topic expected to get a lot of attention this legislative session as the program is scheduled to expire in June. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Groups rally at MT Capitol to maintain Medicaid expansion

A coalition of Montana groups will rally at the Capitol Wednesday to advocate for the protection of Medicaid expansion, which legislators will debate …

The 2025 Idaho legislative session began Jan. 6. (Tracy King/Adobe Stock)

Monday, January 13, 2025

Medicaid expansion in play as ID Legislature gavels in

With state lawmakers back in Boise, changes could be coming to Medicaid. Voters approved Medicaid expansion in 2018, but Republican legislators have …

Over the past five years, the California Parent and Youth Helpline said it has taken calls from more than 110,000 individuals in need. (Bananahealth/Adobe Stock)

Mental health helpline seeks to expand to help fire victims recover

Mental health groups are stepping up to help victims of the Los Angeles area wildfires deal with the extreme stress brought on by the disaster…

Rural communities have been significantly impacted by opioid misuse, with higher rates of opioid-related overdose deaths compared with urban areas. (monticellllo/Adobe Stock)

Drug users in rural MO more likely to face homelessness

As urban homelessness and drug use grab the spotlight, rural areas such as Branson are left in the shadows, with critical needs going unmet. But …

A record 16.6 million individuals have signed up for federal Health Insurance Marketplace coverage which began Jan. 1, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Two million of them signed up for the first time. (Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Enrollment deadline for ME health insurance marketplace Jan. 15

Mainers who need coverage through the state's online health insurance marketplace have just one week left to apply. The deadline is Jan. 15 to sign …

In 2023, 40% of high school students nationwide reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and 20% said they seriously considered attempting suicide. (Murda/Adobe Stock)<br />

Report highlights need for mental health reforms for MI youth

The Bipartisan Policy Center has released a new report on reforming the way youth mental health services are delivered, in Michigan and nationwide…

The childhood mental health crisis has been on the rise for years. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the crisis among children in Arkansas and throughout the country. (Viacheslav Yakobchuk/Adobe Stock)

National task force addresses mental health issues for AR youth

A new report from the Bipartisan Policy Center addresses reforms to address mental health issues for youth in Arkansas and nationwide. The group's …

For the taxpayer, the current tax due on a $100,000 property is $17.47 for a full year. If the 0.7 mill replacement and 0.3 mill increase levy is passed by the voters, the same property tax would increase to $35 annually. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio funding gaps leave Adams County kids in crisis

The rising costs of children's placements and a failed tax levy in Adams County have heightened concerns about the future of children's services in Oh…

Job stress and poor pay are causing a high turnover rate for counselors at crisis centers handling calls for help from suicidal individuals, according to a report from the National Alliance on Mental Health. (Adobe Stock)

Advocates push to bring TX mental health crisis care on par with 911 services

Thousands of calls to Texas suicide hotlines are going unanswered as funding for call centers is millions of dollars short of what advocates said they…

In 2024, over 771,000 people in the U.S. faced homelessness, meaning about 23 out of every 10,000 residents lived in shelters, transitional housing, or unsheltered spaces, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (Adobe Stock)

AL expands housing support for people with mental illness

Housing help is on the way for people in Alabama with mental health issues. A legislative committee has approved a new contract to help secure …

In Indiana, Marion, Vanderburgh, Madison and Lake counties had the highest number of residents who listed alcohol as their primary substance upon admission to a facility for treatment. (Adobe Stock)

IN substance recovery center supports sober existence

One popular New Year's resolution is to quit alcohol consumption. Although easier said than done, one recovery center said there are modifications …

An Illinois Hospital Association report shows more than 1 million Illinoisans, or nearly 13% of the state's residents, live in rural areas. (Adobe Stock)

Closure of IL rural hospitals removes services, job growth

The federal government is launching a new program to help hospitals struggling to stay afloat in rural Illinois. Severe financial problems have put 3…

Companies are increasingly providing apps and other tools for people to track their screen time with the hope of cutting back. But a Minnesota exert says those solutions are still reliant on technology, making the temptation too hard for many people. (Adobe Stock)

Not now, social media 'likes': Phasing out heavy screen time

If reducing screen time is your New Year's resolution, a Minnesota expert says it can be tough. But with increasing concerns about the effects of …

A study by the Veterans Administration of Iraq or Afghanistan veterans found that those who experienced sexual trauma during their military service were twice as likely to become homeless. (Adobe Stock)

Lack of transportation leaves Maine women veterans stranded

A lack of reliable transportation for some women veterans in Maine is preventing them from getting the services they need. The Sisters in Arms …

According to the National Council of Urban Indian Health, the average age of Indian Health Service facilities is over 37 years and the maintenance backlog was about $515 million in 2021. (Adobe Stock)

SD’s Native population sees 'double whammy' of health barriers

Funding for the Indian Health Service has increased over the past decade but the agency remains underfunded, which affects both the health and …

Extreme political polarization in the U.S. has led to a significant increase in threats of violence against election officials and members of Congress, according to the Brennan Center.

NM political expert says 'polarization' is the logical 'word of the year'

Between endless doomscrolling and nonstop negative headlines, a New Mexico political science professor said it's no surprise the Merriam-Webster …

The Virginia Child Protection Accountability System, accessible on the Virginia Department of Social Services website, provides public information on the agency's response to reports of child abuse and neglect. (Adobe Stock)

Concerns over CPS overreporting spark calls for change

CORRECTION: The number of reports to Virginia Child Protective Services that are found to include abuse or neglect is just under 3,000. An earlier …

The Hispanic Leadership Network works to equip faith leaders with skills so they can build healthy and strong churches to impact and serve effectively in their communities. (Andrey Popov/Adobe Stock)

Hispanic pastors across TX, U.S. wanted for leadership network

The deadline to apply is approaching for pastors who want to participate in the 2025 Hispanic Leadership Network. The 10-month program teaches …

Immigration law experts say applying for asylum status can be very lengthy, and that programs such as Temporary Protected Status can fill the void for people fleeing violence elsewhere in the world. (Adobe Stock)

MN Latino advocates rally around temporary protections, health care access

With 2025 almost here, organizations assisting Minnesota's Latino populations say they're laser focused on a couple of areas - mental health-care …

Surveys by the National Alliance on Mental Illness have found 64% of people living with some form of mental illness say the holidays tend to make their conditions worse. (Adobe Stock)

Not in a festive mood this holiday season? You’re not alone

If you find yourself in a less than festive mood this holiday season, you are not alone. In Wisconsin, the recent school shooting tragedy in Madison …

As of October, SNAP benefit levels and income limits have increased. A household of up to 10 people is now eligible to receive up to $2,196, with a maximum gross monthly income of $10,584. (fizkes/Adobe Stock)

Impact of Trump's proposed budget cuts cited for Pennsylvanians

As President-elect Donald Trump takes office, federal safety net programs such as Medicaid, CHIP and SNAP, which support 85 million low-income …

Mental health professionals suggest managing depression with healthy strategies, such as staying active. Consider planning family walks to enjoy fresh air and foster social connection. Choose nutritious foods and drink alcohol responsibly, if at all. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Managing holiday blues: Expert tips for self-care

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration but for many Virginians, it can also be a deep emotional struggle. Grieving …

Among adults over the age of 65, 20% do not drive, according to one study on the transportation needs of seniors. (Adobe Stock)

Helping seniors through loneliness during the holidays

With Christmas less than a week away, experts are giving advice on how seniors and the community can fight against social isolation. A United Health …

Rocky Casillas Aguirre adds a pop of color to 'Twitch the Flame,' a main character in his comic series which focuses on mental health for kids. (Photo courtesy of Casillas Aguirre)

Need a mental health boost? Talking hot dog is here

By Amy Felegy for Arts Midwest.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the Arts Midwest-Public News Service Collabo…

According to the Alzheimer's Association Greater Indiana Chapter, 11% of people aged 45 and older have subjective cognitive decline. (Adobe Stock)

IN Alzheimer's caregivers can comfort, support patients during holidays

The excitement of the holiday season is celebrated with family get-togethers. For Alzheimer's patients, large groups can produce fear and confusion…

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 40% of full-time undergraduate students and 74% of part-time undergraduates were employed while enrolled, with many working over 20 hours per week to cover living expenses. (jaz_online/Adobe Stock)

OH students fight for fair, livable on-campus wages

By Hevin Wilkey / Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi reporting for the Kent State NewsLab-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. Ohio students are …

Data show rural hospitals cost more to operate because of the smaller number of patients served relative to the fixed costs of the services. (Gorodenkoff/Adobe Stock)

Help available for some rural hospitals on brink of closing

A new federal program launching next year is designed to help rural hospitals struggling to stay afloat. Eight hospitals in Oregon are among about 36…

The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter 2024 report shows 12% of adults over age 65 have the disease. (Adobe Stock)

IL Alzheimer's patients can enjoy holiday fun

The excitement of the holiday season is celebrated with family get-togethers. But for Alzheimer's patients, large groups can produce fear and …

Misty Coburn formerly worked as a nurse at Options Behavioral Health Hospital in Indianapolis. (J Watson/Mirror Indy)

Whistleblower exposes dangers at Indiana facility

By Mary Claire Molloy for Mirror Indy.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Mirror Indy-Free Press Indiana-Public …

The Doula Alliance of Arkansas (DAR) was formed with help from a $250,000 grant from Ingeborg Initiatives, a group seeking to improve maternal health. (Andrey Popov/Adobe Stock)

Doula Alliance of AR works to improve maternal health

Birth doulas across Arkansas have formed a new organization to improve maternal health care across the state and help pass legislation they hope will …

Graduation rates in behavioral health fields at Maryland's colleges and universities have experienced declines from pre-pandemic levels, according to a report from the Maryland Health Care Commission. (Adobe Stock)

Report: MD must address behavioral health specialist shortages

Maryland is facing a significant shortage of behavioral health professionals and a new report from the Maryland Health Care Commission offered some su…

A report from the Child Health and Development Institute found 74% of kids were discharged after completing treatment through Connecticut's Mobile Crisis Intervention Services. (Adobe Stock)

Report: CT mobile crisis services aids child mental health system

A new report found Connecticut's Mobile Crisis Intervention Services are improving. The Child Health and Development Institute report showed more …

In 2013, New Mexico became the 16th U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage. (RobertPeak/Adobe Stock)

NM's LGBTQ+ advocates say 'now is not the time to panic'

Inauguration Day is still five weeks away and gay married couples are already watching for signs conservative lawmakers and the courts may attempt to …

In 2021, there were 72% fewer detention admissions of youths on delinquency charges across the country than in 2005. Still, Wyoming incarcerates youth at a much higher rate than any other state in the nation. (Adobe Stock)

WY has highest rate of juvenile incarceration, rejects federal funding to help

Wyoming has the nation's highest rate of juvenile incarceration, and is one of only two states refusing federal funds to help. In 2021, nearly 270 …

Almost half of LGBTQ+ youths aged 13-17 faced bullying in the past year and those who did were significantly more likely to attempt suicide compared with those who were not bullied, according to a Trevor Project survey. (Andrii Zastrozhnov/Adobe Stock)

TN awaits decision in case on gender-affirming care for trans youth

A Supreme Court decision in U.S. v. Skrmetti, challenging Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care for minors, is expected by mid-2025. Since 2021…

More Texans than ever have signed up for health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act, with more than one in nine residents covered under government-subsidized health plans.<br />(C Davids/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Cuts to ACA, Medicaid, CHIP could affect millions of Texans

More than 3 million Texans could be affected if changes are made to the Affordable Care Act. During the 2024 campaign, President-elect Donald Trump …

In an October report from the Minnesota Department of Health covering 2017-2021, it was noted health care spending growth in the state had exceeded 5% in four of the past five years. (Adobe Stock)

In challenging health coverage times, MN union victory seen as hopeful sign

The tragedy surrounding UnitedHealthcare has brought renewed focus on cost barriers within the health care system. A group of Minnesota unions said …

The total number of children in foster care has decreased annually since 2017. (ibreakstock/Adobe Stock)

Support available for AR kids aging out of foster care

Nonprofits working with foster care children want them to know services are available to help them navigate life once they are out of the system…

As of October, Florida's Medicaid enrollment stands at 4,307,965, according to the state's Agency for Health Care Administration. (Adobe Stock)

Proposed federal cuts to health programs could impact millions of Floridians

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for office, federal health programs affecting 85 million low-income Americans, including millions in Florida…

Through the Clinician-Led Community Response program, Stepping Stones Therapy Center helps residents access mental health resources. (Stepping Stones Therapy Center)

Hoosier care team expands mental health help in Indy

Indianapolis is expanding its innovative Clinician-Led Community Response program, offering Hoosiers a new approach to handling mental health crises…

Out-of-pocket costs increased by $1700 on average for older Coloradans with Medicare Advantage coverage, plans claiming to limit health costs for people living on fixed incomes. (Adobe Stock)

Colorado health care costs rose 139% between 2013-2022

Between 2013 and 2022, health care spending in Colorado surged by 139% to nearly $30 billion, according to a new analysis by the Center for Improving …

The Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program helps 40 million people put food on the table every month. (Adobe Stock)

NY, U.S. could see big effects from Trump’s proposed budget cuts

New York could see major effects from President-elect Donald Trump's proposed budget cuts. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy's Department of Government …

A record 93% of marketplace enrollees, or 19.3 million people, receive premium tax credits, according to Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. (Digiman Studio)

Nevadans encouraged to look at health care options during open enrollment

Nevadans have until Dec. 31 to shop for health coverage through the Affordable Care Act open enrollment period. Katie Charleson, communications …

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Public News Service (podcast)"
	"Hey Google, play the Public News Service podcast"
	"Alexa, play Public News Service podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the 2025 Talks podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the 2025 Talks podcast"
	"Alexa, play 2000 25 Talks podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Alexa, play the Yonder Report podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - January 17, 2025

2025Talks - January 17, 2025

The Yonder Report - January 16, 2025

Mental Health

Lawmaker fights for better health, housing for Michiganders

Report: Rural America would feel pain of deep Medicaid cuts

Report: If Congress guts Medicaid, rural America would notice

Mountain retreat to 'pamper' Colorado’s caregivers of color age 50+

OR youth need more mental health support, new report has ideas

Groups rally at MT Capitol to maintain Medicaid expansion

Medicaid expansion in play as ID Legislature gavels in

Mental health helpline seeks to expand to help fire victims recover

Drug users in rural MO more likely to face homelessness

Enrollment deadline for ME health insurance marketplace Jan. 15

Report highlights need for mental health reforms for MI youth

National task force addresses mental health issues for AR youth

Ohio funding gaps leave Adams County kids in crisis

Advocates push to bring TX mental health crisis care on par with 911 services

AL expands housing support for people with mental illness

IN substance recovery center supports sober existence

Closure of IL rural hospitals removes services, job growth

Not now, social media 'likes': Phasing out heavy screen time

Lack of transportation leaves Maine women veterans stranded

SD’s Native population sees 'double whammy' of health barriers

NM political expert says 'polarization' is the logical 'word of the year'

Concerns over CPS overreporting spark calls for change

Hispanic pastors across TX, U.S. wanted for leadership network

MN Latino advocates rally around temporary protections, health care access

Not in a festive mood this holiday season? You’re not alone

Impact of Trump's proposed budget cuts cited for Pennsylvanians

Managing holiday blues: Expert tips for self-care

Helping seniors through loneliness during the holidays

Need a mental health boost? Talking hot dog is here

IN Alzheimer's caregivers can comfort, support patients during holidays

OH students fight for fair, livable on-campus wages

Help available for some rural hospitals on brink of closing

IL Alzheimer's patients can enjoy holiday fun

Whistleblower exposes dangers at Indiana facility

Doula Alliance of AR works to improve maternal health

Report: MD must address behavioral health specialist shortages

Report: CT mobile crisis services aids child mental health system

NM's LGBTQ+ advocates say 'now is not the time to panic'

WY has highest rate of juvenile incarceration, rejects federal funding to help

TN awaits decision in case on gender-affirming care for trans youth

Cuts to ACA, Medicaid, CHIP could affect millions of Texans

In challenging health coverage times, MN union victory seen as hopeful sign

Support available for AR kids aging out of foster care

Proposed federal cuts to health programs could impact millions of Floridians

Hoosier care team expands mental health help in Indy

Colorado health care costs rose 139% between 2013-2022

NY, U.S. could see big effects from Trump’s proposed budget cuts

Nevadans encouraged to look at health care options during open enrollment