How petting dogs could improve your attention span and motivation

Researchers concluded that the brain stimulation felt by regularly petting a dog could translate to improved cognitive function down the road.

After Hurricane Ian changes track, some in Bay Area feel mix of relief, guilt

Tampa Bay area residents stocked up on essentials and prepared their homes for the worst. Then, we watched as Hurricane Ian shifted southeast, and while that pared the Tampa Bay area, Southwest Florida was ravaged. 

New foundation aims to bring mental health resources to Pinellas County first responders

A new foundation called 'Mental Health for Heroes' was founded and spearheaded by Pinellas County law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency personnel and their immediate families.

USF launches new app to increase access to mental health services

The University of South Florida launched a new app this semester that allows students to have immediate access to counselors and other mental health resources.

Hillsborough County students kickoff Mental Health Advisory Committee

This month, students from Hillsborough County high schools gathered for a day of networking to kick off the Mental Health Student Advisory Committee meetings for the 2022-23 school year.

Counselors work to increase awareness during National Suicide Prevention Month

Advocates are hopeful the launch this summer of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline will help people in crisis get help. They believe the shorter number is easier to remember and increases access for help.

New Lakeland Regional facility aimed at better serving behavioral health patients

Lakeland Regional Health has expanded to introduce a new $46 million facility to help better serve behavioral health patients. This comes on the heels of a new facility that was just built in North Lakeland and a new emergency room on the south side. 

Palm Harbor parents call for empathy, kindness after daughter dies by suicide days before start of senior year

McKenna Brown, 16, was a star athlete with a bright future, but just days before the start of her senior year at East Lake High School she took her own life. Her parents are now sounding the alarm on the needs surrounding teenage mental health.

Election seasons are stressful; here are ways to cope

With midterms well underway and the next presidential election right around the corner, here are some tips on how to stay sane through election season.

It's normal for kids to have back-to-school anxiety, here's how to help

With the first day of school set for Wednesday in most districts, child health experts say heading back to the classroom can trigger an upswing in anxiety in a lot of kids.

New National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number launches over the weekend

A new, easy-to-remember National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number launches Saturday. Simply calling or texting 988 will connect those in crisis with trained counselors who listen and provide support for mental health-related distress.