D.C.'s sole mental health crisis team for kids under threat in new budget
The Child and Adolescent Mobile Psychiatric Service, more commonly called ChAMPS, is an emergency service for children and teens having mental or behavioral health crises — from thoughts of suicide to signs that they intend to harm others. It was created around 15 years ago, when there were few services available in schools for children in distress.
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Forbes
39 minutes ago
- Forbes
Alcohol Use, Sober Curiosity, And Recovery In College Mental Health
Before the start of each academic year in higher education, there appears to be questions from incoming students and their families about how much do college students drink alcohol. According to the 2023 National College Health Assessment by the American College Health Association, 63.7% of college students in the survey reported using alcohol in their lifetime, and 57.7% reported using alcohol in the past 3 months. However, national surveys about alcohol use often have limitations, such relying on self-reports or not distinguishing between what type of alcohol is being used and in what context does the drinking occur. Caroline Albritton Sahba is an Associate Director for Counseling and Mental Health at Texas Christian University (where I serve as the Director), and leads the Substance Use and Recovery Services on campus. Sahba commented, 'No matter which survey results you read, the perception of use rarely matches the reality of self-reported substance use, especially alcohol.' Sahba warned against misperceptions in the mainstream media that all college students drink alcohol. She stated, 'This misperception can unfortunately mislead the student's behavior: influencing them to drink earlier, more frequently, or more amounts than they may have if they had a more realistic perception of alcohol use on college campuses.' Sahba's arguments are supported by research. According to a 2023 study in the journal of Alcohol, Clinical and Experimental Research, the drinking behavior of college students was related to the proportion of social network members who post alcohol-related social media content. This study also found that seeking advice from friends who post alcohol content on social media was linked to a greater number of alcohol-related consequences. Such consequences were also a concern for Sahba as she reported, 'Another mistake I see college students and parents make regarding the perception of alcohol, is not addressing the direct correlation, sometimes causation, that it has to undesired academic and social outcomes.' Misperceptions About Alcohol Use And Sober Curiosity Dr. Shelley Long is a licensed psychologist who is known for instilling hope and building authentic bonds with clients. She's also the founder of Sobriety Out Loud! Long argued that many college students have misperceptions about sober curiosity. She commented, 'Sober curious differs from sobriety in that it doesn't necessarily mean eliminating alcohol altogether; it's about being more mindful and intentional about when, why, and how much you drink.' Long discussed how the industry of sober coaching has risen in popularity, which is designed to help people develop a mindful approach to alcohol, or help eliminate alcohol use, with the help of an empathetic coach. Long further argued that it's a misperception to think that only students with a past history of alcohol concerns maintain sobriety. She said, 'The benefits of sobriety reach deeply into physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual improvements. Some of the obvious physical benefits include better sleep, more energy, improved health, and fewer accidents or injuries. Additionally, alcohol is linked to an increased risk of at least seven types of cancer!' The psychologist discussed how many students avoid alcohol to save money and time, focus on genuine connections, explore hobbies, set boundaries, and to increase confidence. Long described these students as a source of encouragement and said, 'It's important to remember that sobriety isn't about what you're giving up (booze), it's about everything you gain.' Misperceptions About Alcohol Use And Recovery Sarah Oliveira-McDonald is the Director of Strategic Partnerships for La Hacienda Treatment center. According to a 2025 report on this treatment center has set the standard for professional residential facilities for alcohol and drug rehabilitation for over 40 years. Oliveira-McDonald argued that a common myth is that people must hit rock bottom before seeking help. According to Oliveira-McDonald, early intervention leads to better outcomes, and college-age students who struggle with alcohol use disorders have the opportunity to get support during a formative stage of development, which can change the trajectory of their lives. Oliveira-McDonald discussed her own journey of recovery, 'For me, my personality and how much I was drinking, treatment was the only option. I tried AA, I tried counseling, I tried medication. I needed a spiritual solution and I could only attain that by going to a 30-day treatment center and learning how to stay sober. I needed to be a student and learn from others how to do this. The biggest misconception is the stigma around going to "rehab" I like the word treatment. It's softer and kinder.' Oliveira-McDonald elaborated on the concerns that many have about seeking treatment. 'Treatment for substance use disorder is effective because it addresses the whole person—biological, psychological, social, and spiritual. Addiction is a complex, chronic brain disease, not a moral failing, and effective treatment provides the tools and support needed for lasting recovery. It's not just about abstinence; it's about building a meaningful, balanced life.' In summary, it's true that many students will be tempted by the potential distractions of alcohol use while in college. However, not every student will give in to this temptation and some students won't even view alcohol as tempting for a variety of reasons. For those who struggle with alcohol use, there are reasons to be encouraged because the traditional college-aged years are often an opportune time to seek help.
Yahoo
42 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Derila Ergo Unveils Upgraded Memory Foam Pillow, the Ultimate Ergonomic Pillow Designed to Transform Sleep Quality
The improved Memory Foam Pillow introduces a new ergonomic design with cooling technology to enhance comfort, provide supportive relaxation, and improve sleep experience. This launch signifies a significant step forward in the brand's mission to provide sleep solutions that work harmoniously with the body. Franklin, Tennessee--(Newsfile Corp. - July 31, 2025) - Derila Ergo, the wellness division of Derila Pillow, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest product, the Upgraded Derila Ergo Memory Foam Pillow, aimed at helping millions sleep better and experience enhanced comfort and better rest. With targeted ergonomic support and built-in cooling technology, the new pillow marks a bold step forward for the company in its efforts to redefine what it means to enjoy optimal airflow and comfort and move less for more restful sleep. Derila Ergo Unveils Upgraded Memory Foam Pillow, the Ultimate Ergonomic Pillow Designed to Transform Sleep Quality To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: According to Derila Ergo, through a spokesperson, quality sleep has become a hard-to-reach dream for millions due to the fast-paced nature of the world. Stress, screens, and poor posture continue to leave many people struggling with fatigue, tension, and disrupted nights. The new Derila Ergo upgrade offers a practical, low-effort solution that fits right into people's routines. Building on the success of the original Derila Ergo pillow, the upgraded Memory Foam Pillow offers better comfort, posture support, and temperature regulation. This model features a more refined butterfly-shaped contour, upgraded materials, and a more innovative design that is tailored for all types of sleepers. From side sleepers to back and stomach sleepers, the Derila Ergo Memory Foam Pillow adapts to the body, keeps the spine aligned, and reduces pressure points. This version also provides comfortable support for various sleep positions and preferences by encouraging a healthy head and neck position throughout the night. Recognizing that overheating is another major cause of poor-quality sleep for many people, the new upgraded model features built-in cooling technology. The upgraded Memory Foam Pillow includes breathable mesh panels, moisture-wicking layers, and a soft-touch outer material that keeps things cool and comfortable overnight. The pillow is also hypoallergenic, making it ideal for people with allergies or other sensitivities. Derila Ergo Unveils Upgraded Memory Foam Pillow, the Ultimate Ergonomic Pillow Designed to Transform Sleep Quality To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: This launch is a big moment for Derila Ergo as it signals the brand's push beyond ergonomic pillows and into the broader wellness space. The company's spokesperson explained that the design of this new pillow was engineered with advanced ergonomic concepts. Its unique curvature naturally provides enhanced support for the head, neck, and arms of those who cradle their head in their sleep. With its ergonomically engineered support zones, the memory foam pillow maintains head and neck positioning for enhanced comfort which supports proper alignment. The new upgraded Derila Ergo Memory Foam Pillow is designed with every type of sleeper in mind, offering tailored support and unmatched comfort. Its unique butterfly-shaped contour, cooling technology, and targeted support make it a standout solution powered by one simple idea: to help people experience more comfortable sleep and enhanced rest. The new upgraded Derila Ergo Memory Foam Pillow is now available on the brand's website. Prices start at $39.95 for the standard Derila Ergo Memory Foam pillow. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Individual results may vary. To learn more about the new ergonomic pillow or Derila Ergo's commitment to holistic, practical solutions for better sleep and posture, visit Contact Info:Name: Samantha JennEmail: samantharojenn@ Derila ErgoWebsite: To view the source version of this press release, please visit Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
CBS News
43 minutes ago
- CBS News
North Texas children experience an increase in emergency heat-related illnesses
Krystal Jackson ensures her daughter Mia gets a balance of time in the great outdoors and out of the blazing heat. Walking the line, she said, is challenging. "It's very hard to balance that, especially when it doesn't get dark until 8:30 at night," Jackson said. "Her bedtime's right around the corner." Jackson and her husband plan their 7-year-old's outdoor activities in the morning or late in the evening. Additionally, they offer aquatic or water-based recreation so Mia can cool off. Over the past couple of days, she needed it, as temperatures reached 100 degrees or more. "It's been brutal," Jackson said. The parents have been keeping a close eye on their daughter since she fell ill before school ended. Jackson said her daughter's school called her because Mia had overheated. "She kept crying," Jackson said. "I think the sun just messed with her because it's never happened (before). And that's what she kept saying, I'm so hot, I'm so hot." Mia cooled off; however, some children require emergency care. UT Southwestern Medical Center's Dr. Taylor Merritt knows that very well. As a third-year pediatric resident, Merritt said a football player with a heat-related ailment sparked her curiosity about children and heat-related illnesses. "It really made me wonder if this is something we see every summer, if it's getting worse, what those trends look like, and that's kind of where the study started," Merritt said. UT Southwestern is a pediatric partner of Children's Health. Merritt examined emergency data already recorded from the hospital system's Dallas and Plano campuses over the past decade, from May through September. The results are published in Academic Pediatrics. "So from 2012 to 2023, we saw a 170% increase in the number of heat-related illnesses coming to our emergency department in the Dallas area," she said. The illnesses varied. Patients faced heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat syncope—when the body overheats, causing blood pressure to drop—heat stroke, and rhabdomyolysis, a condition in which toxic particles from the muscle break down and enter the circulatory system. Children of all ages, she said, are at risk. Study leader Dr. Andrew Yu, an assistant professor of pediatrics and director of the Pediatric Residency Program at UT Southwestern, as well as a pediatrician at Children's Health, said the information should be taken seriously by parents, coaches and athletes. "We do sort of recommend that they take a period to get acclimated to the heat. That they stay hydrated," Yu said. "And to pay attention to signs and warning signs from your body as well too." The impact of heat-related emergency care affected all ages. Those who are too young to fend for themselves in hot vehicles may not survive, Merritt said. Mia's mother, Krystal Jackson, said every parent has to do what works for them. She believes children need to experience the outside without the consequences. "It's hot. It's very hot," Jackson said. "And it's not fair to them."
