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Mental Health

Boston Sues Social Media Giants Over Youth Mental Health Crisis

by Chief Editor July 8, 2026

written by Chief Editor

The City of Boston and Boston Public Schools have joined a national legal effort against Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, alleging that the companies’ platforms utilize addictive design features that have triggered a youth mental health crisis. The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California, is being consolidated with complaints filed by more than 1,500 school districts across the U.S. seeking to hold social media corporations accountable for rising student mental health needs.

Why are school districts suing social media companies?

Boston Public Schools alleges that there has been a significant increase in student mental health needs over the past decade, directly tied to social media use. According to the lawsuit, platforms prioritize engagement through features like “endless scrolling” and targeted algorithms, which keep children hooked at the expense of their well-being. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu stated that these companies have evidence of the harm their designs cause but continue to monetize engagement. The legal complaint further argues that current age verification processes are inadequate, allowing youth easy access to platforms with few safeguards.

Did you know?
A Los Angeles jury reached a landmark result earlier this year, finding both Meta and YouTube negligent in the design and operation of their company platforms regarding whether social media is addictive and harms children who use it.

How do social media companies respond to these allegations?

Social media companies have pushed back on criticisms that they don't do enough to protect children. In May, Meta introduced new parental control features designed to provide guardians with more visibility into their children's activity. Tech guide Mike Proulx has noted that these tools are new ways parents will be able to see what their kids are up to on social media.

What is the future of social media regulation for minors?

The legal landscape is shifting as more municipalities seek to regulate digital platforms. In Massachusetts, state lawmakers are considering legislation that could ban social media use for children under a certain age. This trend mirrors the broader national push to redefine the responsibility of tech companies.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu facing Josh Kraft this fall

Comparison: Legislative vs. Judicial Action

Approach	Mechanism
Judicial (Lawsuits)	Focuses on proving negligence in design and seeking damages for mental health resources.
Legislative (State Laws)	Focuses on setting age restrictions and mandatory safety standards for platform access.

Pro Tip:
Parents can explore existing platform-specific parental control dashboards—such as those updated by Meta—to limit screen time and restrict content visibility while waiting for broader legislative changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all social media companies named in the Boston lawsuit?
The lawsuit specifically names Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube as the primary defendants.

Where is the lawsuit being heard?
The case was filed in the Northern District of California and is being consolidated with other similar school district complaints from across the country.

What specific platform features are being blamed?
The lawsuit cites “endless scrolling” and “targeted algorithms” as primary design features that contribute to youth addiction and mental health strain.

Are there laws being considered to ban social media for kids?
Yes, Massachusetts lawmakers are currently evaluating legislation that would implement age-based bans for social media use.

Have you noticed a change in your community’s approach to digital safety? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for updates on this developing legal battle.

July 8, 2026 0 comments

Health

Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder: Why Summer Makes You Sad

by Chief Editor July 8, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Summer seasonal affective disorder (RSAD) is a form of clinical depression that affects an estimated 0.57% of people, according to an analysis of multiple studies. Unlike winter SAD, which triggers low moods during cold months, RSAD manifests as anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue during the heat of summer.

What causes summer seasonal affective disorder?

Melatonin levels drive the sleep-wake cycle and are central to both winter and summer seasonal depression.

This deficiency often stems from shorter nights and longer daylight hours. High temperatures further disrupt sleep patterns, creating a cycle of exhaustion and irritability. For some, the cause is physiological; Lachrista Greco, a writer and librarian diagnosed by her psychiatrist, attributes her condition to a combination of heat, extra daylight, and seasonal allergies.

Did you know? While winter SAD affects roughly 5% of the population, summer SAD is significantly rarer, hitting only about 0.57% of people.

How do summer depression symptoms differ from winter SAD?

Both conditions share signs of clinical depression, but the physical manifestations often flip. People with winter SAD typically overeat and crave carbohydrates. In contrast, those with summer SAD often experience a loss of appetite, according to reports on the condition.

Common symptoms that emerge in late spring or early summer include:

Increased anxiety and irritability
Insomnia and restlessness
Chronic fatigue and lack of motivation
Social isolation

Why does the “summer vibe” trigger anxiety?

Psychological pressures often compound the biological triggers of RSAD. The “fear of missing out” (FOMO) is a primary driver. Sophia Marren, who suffers from summertime sadness, told The Post that the pressure to be active and “enjoy” the weather creates a feeling of falling behind in life.

Understanding Seasonal Depression (SAD) | Symptoms, Causes, & Coping Strategies

Other contributors include:

Body Image: Anxiety over wearing less clothing in warmer weather.
Financial Stress: The cost of planning vacations and summer travel.
Lifestyle Shifts: Changing schedules for seasonal workers, such as teachers.
Inflammation: Seasonal allergies that can correlate with mood drops.
Substance Use: Increased alcohol consumption during summer months, which can fuel depression.

Pro Tip: If you find yourself feeling “burned alive” by the sun rather than energized, track your sleep and appetite. These are the two biggest physiological markers that distinguish summer SAD from general stress.

How is summer SAD managed?

Because RSAD is not yet a formally recognized medical diagnosis, it is often treated as a subset of seasonal affective disorder. Management typically focuses on stabilizing the sleep-wake cycle and mitigating the effects of heat and light exposure.

Patients like Lachrista Greco work with psychiatrists to manage the condition, emphasizing the need for environments that feel safe and cool—such as preferring a “soft snowpile” over the summer sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is summer depression a real medical diagnosis?
It is not currently a formally recognized medical diagnosis, though it presents the same clinical signs and symptoms as winter seasonal affective disorder.

Who is most likely to get summer SAD?
While it affects a small percentage of the population (0.57%), it is common among those sensitive to light changes, people with severe seasonal allergies, and those prone to insomnia during heatwaves.

Does summer SAD cause weight gain?
Generally, no. Unlike winter SAD, which is associated with increased appetite, summer SAD is often linked to a loss of appetite.

Do you experience a drop in mood when the temperature rises? Share your experience in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more health insights.

July 8, 2026 0 comments

Health

Can Common Fitness Supplements Treat Depression?

by Chief Editor July 7, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Creatine monohydrate, a supplement widely used for muscle performance, may assist in treating major depressive disorder, according to a recent systematic review published in the journal Brain Medicine. Researchers found that while the supplement shows promise as an add-on therapy, the current evidence remains preliminary and requires further large-scale clinical trials before it can be considered a standard treatment.

How Does Creatine Affect Brain Health?

Creatine functions primarily by helping the body produce and utilize energy. Experts suggest that individuals with mood disorders may experience disruptions in brain energy metabolism, which could contribute to the symptoms of depression. According to Dr. Thea Gallagher, a psychologist and director of wellness programs at NYU Langone, these energy-producing pathways are a potential target for intervention.

Beyond energy metabolism, there is emerging research into how creatine might influence neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin—the same chemicals targeted by many traditional antidepressants. Dr. Gallagher noted that while these mechanisms are still being investigated, there is also evidence that the supplement could help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

Did you know?

Researchers have identified that people with mood disorders process creatine differently in the brain compared to those without such conditions, suggesting a biological link between the compound and mental health.

What Do the Clinical Trials Say?

The systematic review, conducted by researchers at the University of Ottawa, analyzed data from five randomized controlled trials. Four of these trials focused on major depressive disorder, while one examined bipolar disorder during a depressive episode.

The results were mixed, according to lead author Bassam Jeryous Fares, a student in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa. Fares stated that “two trials pointed one way and three pointed another,” emphasizing that the findings are not yet strong enough to change clinical practice. For example:

Positive outcomes: One trial involving women with depression observed greater improvement after eight weeks when 5 grams of creatine were added to the antidepressant escitalopram. Another study noted benefits when combined with cognitive behavioral therapy.
No significant benefit: Studies involving teen girls found no improvement after eight weeks of supplementation. Similarly, a study on bipolar depression showed no significant change after six weeks of adding 6 grams of creatine to existing medication.

Is Creatine a Safe Treatment Option?

Creatine is generally considered a safe intervention with a strong safety profile for most healthy adults, according to Nicholas Fabiano, a psychiatry resident at the University of Ottawa and the study’s corresponding author. Reported side effects in the trials were limited to mild stomach pain.

Can Creatine Reduce Depression?

However, medical professionals urge caution. Dr. Gallagher emphasized that creatine should not be viewed as a substitute for established treatments like psychotherapy, medication, or lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and healthy sleep habits. “Right now, I’d describe creatine as promising but not definitive,” she said. Anyone considering supplementation should consult their healthcare provider, especially if they have kidney disease, are pregnant, or have other pre-existing medical conditions.

Pro Tip:

Because depression is a highly heterogeneous condition, doctors currently do not know which specific patients are most likely to benefit from creatine. Always prioritize evidence-based mental healthcare and discuss any new supplement regimen with your primary physician first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my antidepressant with creatine?

No. Experts emphasize that the research suggests creatine may be a “promising addition” to established treatments rather than a replacement for them.

Is the evidence for creatine and depression conclusive?

It is not. The researchers behind the study explicitly stated that the link between brain creatine and mood remains correlational and that larger, well-controlled trials are necessary.

What are the common side effects of creatine?

In the studies reviewed, side effects were limited to mild stomach pain. However, it is essential to discuss usage with a doctor to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health profile.

Have you or someone you know explored alternative supplements for mental health? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our health newsletter for the latest updates on medical research.

July 7, 2026 0 comments

Health

The Hidden Risks of Nutrition Apps

by Chief Editor July 5, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Nutrition-tracking apps increasingly utilize gamification—such as streaks, trophies, and notifications—to boost user engagement, but researchers warn these features may trigger disordered eating and body dysmorphia. While some users find these tools helpful for managing chronic conditions, experts caution that the reliance on rigid, automated goals can override intuitive health habits.

Why do nutrition apps use gaming features?

Developers implement gamification to keep users returning to their platforms, according to reports from the Associated Press. Tactics like green lights, confetti animations, and streak counters mimic designs found in mobile games and sports betting. These features are designed to build habits, yet researchers are raising alarms about the psychological impact of these systems on dietary behavior.

Did you know?
Apps like MyFitnessPal and Noom have faced scrutiny for how their engagement tactics interact with user mental health, though both companies didn’t respond to several requests for comment.

How does gamification impact user health?

The primary concern among researchers is that apps often set caloric goals that are mathematically unsustainable for many users. Behavioral psychologist Courtney Simpson notes that these targets can be far too low, effectively setting users up for failure. When a user fails to meet an unrealistic goal, the app’s feedback loop can foster feelings of shame, which may contribute to binge eating or other disordered behaviors.

Isabella Anderberg, of Australia’s Flinders University, suggests that users who already prioritize thinness as a health metric are at a higher risk of misusing these platforms. Calorie tracking can quickly transition into an obsessional behavior, where the failure to meet a digital target results in genuine psychological distress.

Can nutrition tracking ever be beneficial?

Not every digital health tool is inherently harmful. According to research conducted by Anderberg, health professionals often find that these apps serve as effective meal-planning tools for patients managing specific chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. Physical-activity trackers also provide helpful reminders for users to move their bodies throughout the day.

Courtney Simpson

The distinction lies in the intent and the user’s relationship with the data. Experts suggest that if an app promotes sustainable, feasible behavior rather than rigid, shame-inducing metrics, it can be a useful component of a health routine.

How can users maintain a healthy relationship with tracking?

Anderberg recommends that users approach app data with skepticism and prioritize their own body cues over digital notifications. If a user needs to rest, is nursing an injury, or simply wants to enjoy a treat, they should feel empowered to do so regardless of what the app suggests. Relying on intuition is a critical step in preventing the loss of the body’s natural ability to regulate hunger and rest.

Furthermore, Simpson notes that focusing on weight as a measure of overall health, besides being inaccurate, makes it more likely to lose and regain weight, with such cycling linked to worse health outcomes. Long-term health, she argues, depends on behaviors that a person can actually sustain over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all nutrition apps dangerous? No. Researchers state that many users find them helpful for meal planning and managing chronic health conditions.
What is the risk of calorie tracking? Psychologists note that it can reinforce body dysmorphia and lead to obsessional behaviors if the user focuses on rigid metrics rather than internal body cues.
Why do apps use streaks? Streaks and trophies are gamification tactics used to ensure users keep returning to the app, but they can inadvertently promote shame when a user misses a target.

Pro Tip: Before relying on an app’s calorie recommendation, consult with a registered dietitian or medical professional to determine what caloric intake is actually appropriate for your specific health needs and activity level.

Have you found nutrition apps helpful or stressful? Share your experiences in the comments below, or subscribe to our health newsletter for more evidence-based wellness tips.

July 5, 2026 0 comments

Business

Smartwatch Surveillance: 7 Reasons Why Self-Tracking Feels Like Big Brother

by Chief Editor July 5, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Wearable technology, including smartwatches and fitness trackers, has shifted from simple activity monitoring to constant, algorithmic surveillance of human physiology. According to psychological research, this reliance on data-driven health metrics often leads users to prioritize digital notifications over their own lived physical experiences, potentially transforming self-care into a rigid, performance-based pursuit of metrics like heart rate, sleep quality, and daily step counts.

How Does Constant Tracking Alter Human Behavior?

The transition from occasional health check-ins to continuous monitoring creates a state of perpetual vigilance. Psychologists observe that when individuals treat their bodies as a series of data points, they often shift from intuitive awareness to a detective-like focus on evidence. Instead of resting when tired, a user might interrogate their smartwatch for a “recovery score” to validate that fatigue. This reliance on binary feedback can cause individuals to doubt their own physical sensations, deferring to the device’s authority even when the data contradicts their internal state.

Did you know?

Research indicates that while tracking can help connect lifestyle choices—like caffeine intake—to sleep patterns, it can also induce a “performance review” mindset, where daily life is treated as a dashboard of key performance indicators.

Why Do Users Feel Compelled to Monitor Themselves?

The psychological appeal of self-tracking stems from a desire for certainty in an unpredictable world. When a person feels “off,” having a tangible, quantified reason—such as a poor sleep duration or high stress reading—provides a sense of control. This behavior, however, risks turning the body into a “suspect” under constant investigation. Experts note that when the roles of detective and suspect are performed by the same person, it builds an internal environment of scrutiny rather than genuine health-building awareness.

What Are the Long-Term Risks of Data-Driven Living?

The primary concern regarding the future of wearable health tech is the commodification of user behavior. Many smartwatch applications are designed to maximize engagement, utilizing nudges, targets, and notifications to ensure the user remains tethered to the ecosystem. This model prioritizes advertising revenue and subscription retention over the user’s well-being. Over time, individuals may lose the ability to self-regulate, relying entirely on app-based prompts to drink water, move, or rest, effectively outsourcing personal autonomy to an algorithm.

Pro Tips for Healthy Tech Usage

Practice Digital Detachment: Schedule “unplugged” time daily where the watch is removed to allow for a break from performance metrics.
Prioritize Intuition: If you feel exhausted, honor that feeling regardless of what your device’s recovery score suggests.
Limit Notifications: Turn off non-essential pings to reduce the “KGB-style” surveillance feeling of constant monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does self-tracking actually improve health outcomes?
Research is mixed. While tracking can help identify correlations between habits and health markers, it can also foster anxiety and self-judgment when targets are missed.

Why do apps push so many notifications?
Apps are often designed to drive user retention, keeping you engaged with the device to maintain subscription value or advertising exposure.

Can constant monitoring lead to health anxiety?
Yes. Excessive focus on health metrics, often called orthosomnia or cyberchondria, can lead to increased stress, where the act of tracking becomes more detrimental than the underlying habit.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your data? Share your experiences with wearable technology in the comments below, or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more insights on maintaining balance in the digital age.

July 5, 2026 0 comments

Health

Becoming My Brother’s Legal Guardian: Am I Ready for the Responsibility?

by Chief Editor July 3, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Legal guardianship for family members with schizophrenia presents a significant ethical and logistical burden, as seen in a recent case where a 30-year-old woman faces the choice of becoming her 34-year-old brother’s legal guardian or allowing him to become a ward of the state. According to reports from the sibling, their dad passed away in February, and their grandmother is no longer able to provide care, leaving the woman as the relative tasked with this decision.

The Legal Implications of Declining Guardianship

When a family member declines to serve as a legal guardian for an adult with schizophrenia, the state typically assumes responsibility. According to the sibling’s account, her brother currently resides in a behavioral home, a setting that provides professional oversight and social interaction he previously lacked. If she refuses guardianship, the state will take over.

Why Caregiver Burnout is a Primary Factor

Caregiving for a relative with schizophrenia often results in emotional and physical exhaustion. The sibling reports that her brother’s history includes aggressive behavior, interactions with the FBI regarding posts he’s made online, and being banned from the school by the house. These challenges have created a strained relationship, leading the woman to state that she does not feel “fit” to manage his life decisions.

Balancing Personal Wellbeing and Familial Duty

The conflict between personal autonomy and family obligation is a common theme in caregiver discourse. According to various online community commenters who have addressed this specific scenario, recognizing one’s own limitations is not an act of abandonment, but a pragmatic assessment of what is best for both parties involved. When a family member cannot provide the necessary structure, professional state-managed care may offer a more stable environment.

Pro Tip:
If you are considering guardianship, consult with a local elder law or disability rights attorney. They can explain the specific legal obligations in your jurisdiction and help you understand what happens if you decline the role.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I refuse to be my sibling’s guardian?

If you decline to serve as a legal guardian, the state takes over.

Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Legal Guardian: What Every Parent and Caregiver Needs to Know!

Is it common to feel guilty about not taking guardianship?

Yes. Many caregivers experience significant emotional weight when deciding whether to take on the responsibility of a relative with mental health conditions. It is frequently discussed as a struggle between personal peace and familial duty.

Where can I find resources for caregivers of adults with schizophrenia?

Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer support groups and educational resources for families navigating the complexities of mental health care and guardianship.

Have you or a loved one faced the difficult choice of legal guardianship? Share your experiences in the comments below, or explore our archives for more stories on family dynamics and navigating complex care decisions.

July 3, 2026 0 comments

Health

Fix Your Nervous System for Better Gut Health (Not Just Probiotics)

by Chief Editor July 3, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Chronic stress and a dysregulated nervous system are identified as drivers of poor gut health. According to nutritionist Deepsikha Jain, a regulated nervous system is essential for proper digestion, as it enables the body to activate the parasympathetic “rest and digest” state necessary for optimal enzyme production and bowel coordination.

Why Does Your Nervous System Control Digestion?

The connection between your mental state and your stomach is managed by the gut-brain axis and the vagus nerve. Nutritionist Deepsikha Jain notes that these two systems are in constant communication. When the body remains in a “fight or flight” sympathetic state due to chronic stress, blood flow is diverted away from the digestive tract.

This physiological shift disrupts the body’s ability to process food efficiently. Data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirms that the easiest way to regulate your nervous system for better gut health is to switch your body from “fight or flight” or sympathetic mode to rest and digest or parasympathetic mode. Without this regulation, even a fiber-rich diet or high-quality probiotics may fail to resolve symptoms like persistent bloating and inflammation.

Did you know? The vagus nerve acts as a two-way information highway between your brain and your gut, meaning that emotional distress can manifest physically as digestive discomfort.

How to Regulate Your Nervous System for Better Gut Health

Regulating the nervous system requires consistent, intentional lifestyle habits. According to a Harvard study, specific techniques that target the gut-brain axis can reduce inflammation and improve overall digestion.

Diaphragmatic Breathing: Deep, controlled breathing helps trigger the parasympathetic nervous system.
Mindful Eating: Consuming meals in a calm environment without digital distractions allows the body to focus on digestion.
Sleep Hygiene: Prioritizing 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night is essential for nervous system recovery.
Regular Exercise: Consistent physical activity serves as a tool for managing daily stress levels.

Pro Tip: Try practicing diaphragmatic breathing before your meal to signal to your body that it is time to transition into a “rest and digest” state.

When Should You Consult a Healthcare Professional?

While lifestyle adjustments are foundational, they are not a substitute for medical intervention. If digestive issues persist or worsen, it is vital to consult a qualified healthcare professional to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

How to Fix Gut Health | 9 Healthy Tips to Follow for Healthy Gut

Frequently Asked Questions

Can stress cause bloating?
Yes. According to Deepsikha Jain, a dysregulated nervous system caused by chronic stress can worsen bloating and constipation by disrupting digestive enzyme coordination.

What is the “rest and digest” state?
The “rest and digest” state, or parasympathetic mode, is when your body directs energy and blood flow toward digestive processes rather than stress responses.

Do probiotics help if I am stressed?
Probiotics, fibre, and supplements can support gut health, but they may not be enough if the body remains in a constant state of stress.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Are you struggling with digestive issues despite changing your diet? Share your experience in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more evidence-based wellness insights.

July 3, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Collin Gosselin Reveals Real Reason Kate Sent Him to Behavioral Facility

by Chief Editor July 2, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Collin Gosselin claims his mother, Kate Gosselin, sent him to a behavioral facility in 2016 to prevent him from discussing alleged abuse and because he refused to participate in her reality television series. Kate Gosselin disputes these claims, stating the placement was a medical necessity for the safety of the family due to her son’s “unpredictable behavior and violent tendencies.”

Why does Collin Gosselin believe he was institutionalized?

According to a September 2025 interview with the US Sun, Collin Gosselin believes his mother’s decision to send him to a behavioral facility was motivated by his refusal to appear on camera. He stated that his “rebellion” involved questioning his mother and declining to be a part of her “circus,” referring to the reality show Kate Plus 8.

Collin suggested that his mother may have been attempting to protect her reputation or simplify the process of obtaining work permits for her other children. “I don’t know what reason it was, whether it was her reputation she was saving… or whether it was the fact that maybe it’s easier to sign a work permit for seven children that are voluntary, instead of seven children that are voluntary and one that’s involuntary,” he told the US Sun.

He also alleged that the institutionalization was a tactic to silence him. Speaking to Dark Side of the 2000s in 2023, Collin claimed he was starting to tell people about what was happening in his home when his mother “caught wind of that” and placed him in a facility to prevent him from sharing secrets.

Did you know?
Collin is one of eight children. The family includes sextuplets Collin, Alexis, Aaden, Leah, Joel, and Hannah, as well as twins Cara and Madelyn.

What is Kate Gosselin’s defense against these claims?

Kate Gosselin has consistently denied Collin’s allegations, attributing his actions to mental health struggles. In a 2023 statement, she noted that her son has “received multiple psychiatric diagnoses over the years.”

She maintained that the decision to place him in a facility followed years of outpatient treatment that proved insufficient. According to her statement, the move was made “for the safety of myself, his brothers and sisters, and for his own well-being.”

Kate has also addressed the claims on social media. In a recent TikTok comment, she stated that “only parents who have a mentally ill child understand,” responding to a follower’s comments regarding the ongoing dispute. She has also declined to participate in a challenge by her son to take a lie detector test regarding allegations that she once locked him in a basement.

How do the two accounts compare?

The conflict between mother and son presents two fundamentally different narratives regarding the events of 2016. While Collin views the period as a targeted effort to control his behavior and silence his testimony, Kate views it as a necessary medical intervention.

Collin Gosselin exposes the truth about mom Kate FULL INTERVIEW | The US Sun

Point of Contention	Collin’s Allegation	Kate’s Position
Primary Reason	To avoid camera issues and silence abuse claims.	To manage unpredictable and violent behavior.
Nature of Placement	A way to hide “secrets” from the public.	A necessary step after outpatient treatment failed.
Family Impact	Kate blamed him for “breaking” the family during a visit.	Placement was required to protect siblings.

Legal representative Richard Puleo told the US Sun that he did not believe Kate engaged in any actions intended to “intentionally harm” Collin. Puleo stated that she acted to protect herself and her family from what he described as “troubled behavior.”

How has the institutionalization affected Collin’s life?

Collin spent nearly two years in the facility before his father, Jon Gosselin, obtained sole custody of him in 2018. Collin has claimed that his time in the institution had long-term professional consequences.

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Collin alleged that he was discharged from the Marines specifically because of his history with the behavioral facility. “Being in an institution, that’s good enough… to discharge me,” he said.

He is currently preparing to release a memoir titled In the Shadow of Eight through Grand Central Publishing. The book is expected to provide further details regarding his childhood and his allegations against his mother.

Pro Tip: When researching celebrity legal disputes, always distinguish between “allegations” made in interviews and “confirmed” court rulings or official statements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the name of Collin Gosselin’s memoir?
His upcoming memoir is titled In the Shadow of Eight.

When was Collin Gosselin sent to a behavioral facility?
He was sent to the facility in 2016.

Who has custody of Collin Gosselin?
His father, Jon Gosselin, obtained sole custody in 2018.

What was Kate Gosselin’s reason for the placement?
She stated it was necessary for the safety of the family due to his “unpredictable behavior and violent tendencies.”

If you or someone you know is affected by the issues raised in this story, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

What do you think about these conflicting accounts? Let us know in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on this developing story.

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July 2, 2026 0 comments

Health

How Extreme Heat Impacts Mental Health: A Psychiatrist’s Perspective

by Chief Editor July 1, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Extreme heat events, often characterized by persistent “heat domes,” significantly increase risks to mental health by disrupting cortisol regulation and restricting access to coping mechanisms. According to Dr. Laurie Ballew, a doctor of psychiatric medicine at Four Rivers Behavioral Health, rising temperatures correlate with spikes in irritability, domestic violence, and psychiatric emergency room visits as the body struggles to maintain homeostasis.

How Does Extreme Heat Affect Mental Health?

Heat stress impacts the body’s endocrine system, specifically affecting cortisol—the hormone responsible for managing stress. Dr. Ballew explains that when individuals cannot perform their usual stress-relieving activities due to excessive temperatures, cortisol levels rise. This physiological shift can manifest as increased anger, irritability, and the exacerbation of pre-existing mood disorders like depression.

Did you know?

Ballew said that when we have heat domes like this, we often see more suicides, more domestic violence, and sometimes more crime, noting there is data to show that.

The Intersection of Medication and Temperature Regulation

Individuals managing chronic health conditions face heightened risks during heatwaves. Dr. Ballew notes that many common medications—including those for blood pressure, diabetes, and various psychiatric conditions—can impair the body’s natural ability to regulate internal temperature.

Psychotropic medications: Can alter how the body responds to heat stress.
Blood pressure and diabetes drugs: Can affect temperature regulation.
Dementia and cognitive impairment: Older adults on multiple medications are at a risk of developing delirium if they become dehydrated.

Why Do Heatwaves Lead to Increased ER Visits?

Emergency rooms often see a surge in patients with psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, during extreme heat. Dr. Ballew, who previously worked with emergency psychiatric services at the University of Louisville, reports that the combination of physical stress and the inability to cool down often leads to crises. When the body is physically taxed by heat, it becomes harder for patients to maintain the emotional stability required to manage chronic mental health conditions.

Pro Tip: Staying Safe in High Heat

Dr. Ballew recommends shifting outdoor activities to the early morning or late evening. If you are on prescribed psychotropic medication, continue taking it as directed, not take extra in an attempt to feel better, but focus heavily on hydration and avoiding direct sunlight.

Recognizing the Warning Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are medical emergencies. Dr. Ballew advises the public to monitor for these specific symptoms:

Research connects I Heat domes and atmospheric rivers, building climate resilience

Confusion.
Feeling cold and clammy in high heat.
Extreme irritation.

If these symptoms appear, immediate medical intervention at an emergency department is necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can heat cause depression?

While heat does not cause depression directly, it can exacerbate existing mood disorders. When extreme weather prevents people from engaging in activities that help manage their mental health, such as walking, it can affect our mood.

Does alcohol help me stay cool?

No. Dr. Ballew warns against consuming alcohol because it’s going to dehydrate us.

Should I stop taking my psychiatric medication during a heatwave?

No. Dr. Ballew stresses that patients should continue taking psychotropic medicines as directed, not take extra in an attempt to feel better.

Are you or someone you know struggling with the mental health impacts of the current heatwave? Stay connected with local health resources and prioritize hydration. For more health-related updates, subscribe to our weekly newsletter or check our community wellness archive.

July 1, 2026 0 comments

Health

Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Reveals Treatment for Depression During Congressional Absence

by Chief Editor June 30, 2026

written by Chief Editor

New Jersey Republican Representative Tom Kean Jr. disclosed that he was receiving treatment for depression during an unexplained four-month absence from the U.S. House of Representatives. Kean, who missed over 100 votes since March 5, stated that his medical team advised him to remain hospitalized, according to his remarks on the House floor.

Why the delay in disclosing the diagnosis?

Kean characterized his silence as a result of his nature as a “private person.” He noted that while he initially believed his absence would last only a few weeks, the nature of his illness required a longer recovery period. “There is no timeline for healing,” Kean said, adding that he is now “healthier, stronger and excited to return to the work that I love.” He acknowledged that depression is both a physical and emotional condition that is difficult to understand without personal experience.

Did you know?

According to Kean’s statement, he is among more than 48 million Americans being treated for this illness.

How does this compare to other congressional absences?

The transparency surrounding Kean’s health stands in contrast to how other lawmakers have handled medical leave. For example, Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman disclosed his treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in 2023 just one day after being admitted. Fetterman has since become an advocate for mental health awareness, stating, “There are people who are suffering with depression in red counties and blue counties.” Conversely, Mitch McConnell has provided few details regarding his health following hospitalizations, according to reports from the Associated Press.

What are the political implications of the vacancy?

Kean’s absence posed challenges for House Republican leadership, who maintain a narrow majority in the chamber. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told reporters he had encouraged Kean to be transparent about his condition. Johnson stated he was “glad he finally has” and expressed confidence that Kean would be “easily” reelected in November. Kean, a second-term lawmaker, is running for reelection in a competitive New Jersey district against Democratic nominee Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot.

Public expectations for transparency

The lack of information during Kean’s four-month hiatus drew criticism regarding the duties of public office. New York Democratic Representative Ritchie Torres, who has previously spoken about his own experience with depression, addressed the situation on social media. “At the same time, public office carries a duty of transparency,” Torres wrote. “When a public official is absent for an extended period, the public has a right to an honest explanation.”

Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. returns to Congress and explains mysterious months-long absence

Pro Tip:

For those struggling with mental health, resources are available. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek help through local medical providers or national support hotlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long was Representative Tom Kean Jr. absent?

Kean was absent from the House for four months, missing more than 100 votes since his last recorded vote on March 5.

View this post on Instagram about Tom Kean

From Instagram — related to Tom Kean

What reason did Kean provide for his absence?

Kean stated he was being treated for depression and that his doctors recommended he remain in the hospital during his recovery.

Is Kean still running for reelection?

Yes, Kean’s office confirmed he remains a candidate in the upcoming November election for his New Jersey district.

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June 30, 2026 0 comments

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