APA: 27% of adults say they’re so stressed they can’t function

A survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) looked at the range of stressors people have experienced over the past few years and found a majority of Americans say they have "a great deal of stress."

Three high school hockey players suspended after 16-year-old takes her own life, parents say

A 16-year-old took her own life just days before the start of her senior year at East Lake High School. McKenna Brown's parents say their daughter was severely bullied and harassed online. Now, three of the teen's hockey teammates who were allegedly behind the harassment have now been suspended by the Lightning High School Hockey League, her mom says.

For the first time, task force recommends anxiety screenings for children as young as 8

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force found that screening in primary care can help identify anxiety and depression in older children and teens who are not showing symptoms.

Families who eat meals together are often less stressed, survey finds

Overall, the respondents of the American Heart Association survey reported eating alone about half of the time due to difficulties aligning schedules.

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.