CA-T

Vaile Wright, PhD, discusses the promises, limitations, and risks of AI in mental health.

Confiding in someone is crucial to your recovery.

The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — 988 — launched on this day exactly three years ago. People who call the line seeking support are connected to a local network of crisis centers and a trained crisis counselor. And while millions of people have contacted the line since its launch, a new study shows portions of the country still don't know about it. Short Wave host Emily Kwong speaks to Jonathan Purtle, one of the lead researchers of on this study, about the findings, how the hotline differs from 911 and what its existence signals to Americans. Want us to cover more mental health news? Tell us by emailing shortwave@npr.org! We'd love to know what you want to hear from us!Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

10 Body Safety Books Every Protective Parent Should Own and why books are the perfect tool to help you teach body safety.

It's July and I'm another year older.

Be a light in the darkness.

Improving access to mental health care means dissolving barriers to the help you deserve. Learn what mental health stigmas are and how to combat them.

New research traces depressive symptoms, psychiatric diagnoses, and drug use across nearly two decades, linking them to socioeconomic status at age 15.

The healing power of complete strangers

The US prison system is failing to provide adequate mental health care to its incarcerated population, with over half of prisoners reporting mental health issues and only 26% receiving professional help, resulting in a system that criminalizes illness and fails at basic human decency.

What if the best medicine isn’t a pill, but people? Community, connection, and shared purpose are transforming health and well-being.

In today’s fast-paced world, where technological advancements and social media dominate our daily lives, people are increasingly feeling isolated and disconnected. Despite being constantly connected to devices, many struggle with loneliness and a sense of alienation. At the same time, modern Western culture emphasizes self-reliance and self-help solutions, often suggesting that personal growth should be […]

Recovery isn’t linear. Learn why trauma can distort time, why healing often feels delayed, and how to stop feeling “behind” for your mental health.

Every day, we are inundated by bad news. Use these tips to curate your online experience and protect your mental health.

Experts say that while conversations around mental health have progressed, men in marginalized groups still often struggle in silence.

The Surviving Ohio State documentary only proves how much we don't understand when it comes to male victims of sexual assault.

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Even as society becomes more open about mental health, many men are still silently struggling and not getting the help they need. “Men are less likely to seek out…

June is PTSD Awareness Month, and area health experts want people to know that there is hope and there is help.

Kevin Hines's story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of choosing hope again and again.

As a person who deals with social anxiety and anxiety related to public speaking, affirmations have been helpful. Whenever I have a a presentation in one of my classes, I always do a few affirmatio…

A new study finds that viewing art—even in hospitals or online—can improve mental well-being, life purpose, and emotional health.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth will no longer be in operation starting July 17, according to a statement from the US Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

A new report highlights how changes to Medicaid could impact states

3 concepts from trauma science (safety, recovery, traumatic adaptations) translated into practical tips for supporting survivors in personal and work settings.

I’m wrapping up the ninth month of my year long Foundations project. This month’s focus was connection—improving the closest relationships in your life. As part of my efforts this month, I read seven books, including one textbook, on the topic. For those interested, here are my previous reading lists about fitness, productivity, money, food, reading, […]

Learn why LGBTQ+ allyship matters in mental health—and how affirming, trauma-informed therapy can support healing. Discover actionable ways therapists and communities can create safer, more inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Peer support offers numerous benefits, including acting as a buffer against discrimination, feelings of isolation, and empower identity.

Choosing Care Over Chaos: Special Edition Substack Featuring Dr. Pooja Lakshmin