Spencer Hospital is one of the smallest hospitals in Iowa still offering inpatient mental health care. [Tony Leys/KFF Health News/TNS]

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, County Judge Lina Hidalgo spearheaded a panel discussion titled "Beyond the Stigma" to educate County employees about available mental health resources and support systems. The event featured healthcare experts and former Houston Texans players who shared personal experiences related to mental health. Key strategies discussed included building robust support networks, ongoing mental health management, and breaking stigmas associated with mental health, particularly among men and athletes. Harris County offers its employees extensive mental health support services, including onsite clinicians, peer support programs, and specialized training. Judge Hidalgo's own transparency regarding her mental health journey underscores the strength found in seeking care and aligns with national movements to normalize workplace mental health discussions.

New research highlights a possible link between microplastics in ultra-processed foods and rising rates of depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. Experts call for urgent investigation as microplastic accumulation in the human brain increases alongside ultra-processed food intake.

A mother in Iberia Parish took action after learning her nine-year-old son was being bullied at school and planning to harm himself due to his race, leading to him being hospitalized for severe dep…

SENT Topeka was awarded a Kansas Fights Addiction grant this year to further the assistance programs for their southeast Topeka community.

The summit gathered business, health care, and community leaders to highlight mental health's impact on the state's workforce.