Mental Health

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Domestic Violence’s Overlooked Damage: Concussion And Brain Injury

KFF Health News Original

Women are at high risk for getting concussions from domestic violence. A neurologist and a social worker have paired up to try to get women the specialized medical help and counseling they need.

What Explains The Rising Overdose Rate Among Latinos?

KFF Health News Original

Opioid addiction is often portrayed as a white problem, but overdose rates are now rising faster among Latinos and blacks. Cultural and linguistic barriers may put Latinos at greater risk.

Reversing An Overdose Isn’t Complicated, But Getting The Antidote Can Be

KFF Health News Original

Last month, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams urged more Americans to carry and learn to use naloxone, which can save someone from an opioid overdose. But the drug, brand-name Narcan, can be difficult to get and expensive.

Will We Still Be Relevant ‘When We’re 64’?

KFF Health News Original

Older adults often feel invisible as their interactions with younger people dwindle and hardly anyone seems to seek their advice. To make matters worse, studies link loneliness to weaker immune systems and poorer physical health.

For The Babies Of The Opioid Crisis, The Best Care May Be Mom’s Recovery

KFF Health News Original

Research is just beginning on infants born with neonatal abstinence syndrome, and doctors are optimistic that normal development is possible. Monitoring the families and making sure parents are treated for addiction is key.

Listless And Lonely In Puerto Rico, Some Older Storm Survivors Consider Suicide

KFF Health News Original

More than six months ago, Hurricane Maria upended routines and shuttered services on the island leading to a sense of despair and isolation, especially among older people.

Use Of Psychiatric Drugs Soars In California Jails

KFF Health News Original

A combination of factors has led to an “astronomical” increase in mentally ill inmates, followed by increased efforts to identify those who need prescriptions. Some say the meds are underprescribed; others, that they are given inappropriately, without the benefit of comprehensive treatment.

Alarming Suicide Rate Jolts Texas Community Into Action

KFF Health News Original

Tyler, Texas, and the surrounding county has the highest suicide rate among the state’s 25 most populous counties, and community leaders are determined to change that.