Mental Health

A collection of mental health news and resources.

My parents struggled in pandemic lockdown. Here's how they learned to live again
Dr. Shahdabul Faraz writes that his parents’ physical and emotional health had withered in the pandemic year. But their re-entry into post-vaccination life made for tricky choices, too.
Would dispatching social workers instead of cops save lives?
Since 2015, more than 1,400 people with mental illness have been killed by police — nearly a quarter of all fatal police shootings. That’s led some cities to dispatch mental health professionals to respond to some 911 calls instead of police. Does this new approach reduce the violence? 
'We need to feel the sun on our face': Twin Cities events promote community healing
Coordinated events held Saturday in the Twin Cities aimed to support people traumatized by the recent killing of Daunte Wright, and the police response to subsequent protests.
Life in the Roaring 2020s: Young people get vaccinated, prepare to reclaim lost pandemic year
With vaccinations raising hopes that the end of the pandemic is approaching, some young adults in the U.S. are getting ready to make up for lost time, much like their great-grandparents did a century ago.
Loneliness is rampant. A simple call, or hug, may be a cure
The pandemic has made loneliness inescapable around the globe and the health care community says it's time to seek solutions. Evidence suggests loneliness can damage health as much as obesity and smoking. 
School counselors on how to support students through a trial and COVID-19
As most Minnesota students now have the option to be back in school for in-person learning, there are still many distractions, like the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. Host Angela Davis talked with two school counselors on strategies they’re using with kids who are stressed out or struggling in school.
Westminster Town Hall Forum: Barbara Coombs Lee on choices at the end of life
Barbara Coombs Lee speaks about compassion and choices at the end of life. She’s the author of “Finish Strong: Putting Your Priorities First at Life’s End.”
Too much focusing can be draining. Here's a better strategy
Dr. Srini Pillay believes "unfocusing" your mind, or purposefully letting it wander, is key to improving focus overall. The brain, he says, does its best work when it's allowed to toggle between focus and unfocus.