As the mental health crisis in children and teens worsens, the dire shortage of mental health providers is preventing young people from getting the help they need

Millions of young people in the US are suffering, whether from abuse at home, pressure from social media or exposure to violence. But navigating the mental health care system can be disheartening.

Steven Berkowitz, Professor of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus • conversation
Aug. 16, 2023 • ~9 min

Montana kids win historic climate lawsuit – here's why it could set a powerful precedent

The case hinged on Montana’s ‘green amendment,’ which guarantees a constitutional right to ‘a clean and healthful environment.’ Other states have similar amendments, and more are considering them.

Amber Polk, Assistant Professor of Law, Florida International University • conversation
Aug. 15, 2023 • ~9 min

Trans youth are significantly more likely to attempt suicide when gender dysphoria is met with conversion therapy than with hormone treatment

Because of ethical considerations, there are no clinical trials comparing the effects of hormone therapy to conversion therapy on trans youths. But a set of recent studies tease out cause and effect.

Samuel Mann, Associate Economist, RAND • conversation
July 31, 2023 • ~10 min

As suicides rise in the US, the 988 hotline offers hope – but most Americans aren't aware of it

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, substance abuse issues or mental health problems.

Emmy Betz, Professor of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus • conversation
July 28, 2023 • ~7 min

Anti-trans bills and political climates are taking a significant mental health toll on trans and nonbinary people – even during Pride

The rainbow Pride flags flying this month obscure the ongoing legislative attacks threatening the health and well-being of transgender and nonbinary people and their families.

Jae A. Puckett, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Michigan State University • conversation
June 12, 2023 • ~7 min

Mounting research documents the harmful effects of social media use on mental health, including body image and development of eating disorders

Research shows that social media, with it endless promotion of unrealistic standards of beauty, has had a negative impact on millions of young people.

Emily Hemendinger, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus • conversation
June 7, 2023 • ~10 min

Trans joy and family bonds are big parts of the transgender experience lost in media coverage and anti-trans legislation

Trans motherhood showcases the unique joys of being transgender, be it through developing a deeper connection with one’s own child or caring for others in one’s community.

Derek P. Siegel, Ph.D. Candidate, Sociology, UMass Amherst • conversation
May 22, 2023 • ~11 min

Hopelessness about the future is a key reason some Black young adults consider suicide, new study finds

New research points to feelings of failure, hopelessness, loneliness and sadness as some of the potential reasons Black young people are considering or carrying out suicide at unprecedented rates.

Janelle R. Goodwill, Assistant Professor of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, University of Chicago • conversation
April 20, 2023 • ~5 min

Worried about child’s mental health? You’re not alone.

Anxiety and depression top parental concerns about their children, a Pew survey finds. Harvard experts offer advice.

Samantha Laine Perfas • harvard
March 6, 2023 • ~8 min

Horror and anguish are playing out on repeat following the latest mass shooting – and the mental health scars extend far beyond those directly affected

Even people who are only indirectly exposed to these repeat tragedies, such as first responders and those affected by media coverage, can experience profound and long-lasting grief.

Arash Javanbakht, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Wayne State University • conversation
Jan. 23, 2023 • ~9 min

/

7