International Yoga Day 2026 will be celebrated across the globe on Sunday, June 21, bringing together millions of people in a collective effort to promote health, wellness, and mindfulness through the practice of yoga. Observed annually on June 21, the International Day of Yoga highlights the importance of integrating physical, mental, and spiritual well-being into daily life. Originating in ancient India, yoga has evolved into a globally recognized practice that helps i

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a sweeping policy shift on Saturday, April 18, aimed at accelerating access to medical research and treatments involving psychedelic drugs. The executive order, signed in the Oval Office, directs the US Food and Drug Administration to expedite the review process for substances such as ibogaine, which some veteran advocacy groups say may help treat post-traumatic stress disorder. The signing event included federal health officials, advocates, and podcaster Joe Rogan, highlighting growing public and institutional interest in alternative mental health therapies. Focus on veterans and severe mental illness treatment Trump said the initiative is designed to “dramatically accelerate access” to experimental therapies that have shown potential in addressing severe mental health conditions. He emphasized that these treatments could be particularly impactful for U.S. military veterans suffering from PTSD and depression. The order instructs federal agencies to reduce administrative barriers, enhance data sharing between the FDA and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and streamline the process for rescheduling psychedelic substances once they receive regulatory approval. Funding and expanded access under Right to Try law As part of the initiative, the federal government will allocate $50 million to support state-level research on ibogaine. The administration is also expanding pathways for patients with critical conditions to access experimental treatments under the Right to Try law enacted during Trump’s first term. Officials said this approach could allow certain patients to receive psychedelic-based therapies before full FDA approval, provided safety protocols are followed. Health officials cite urgency of mental health crisis Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. described the executive order as a decisive step in addressing what he called one of the nation’s most pressing public health challenges. He said the policy would remove legal and regulatory barriers that have historically limited research into psychedelic treatments. Kennedy added that the changes aim to enable scientists, clinicians, and researchers to better study these substances and, where appropriate, develop safe therapeutic protocols for their use in treating mental health conditions.  

India’s Economic Survey 2025–26 has raised a serious warning over the rapid rise of digital addiction among children and adolescents, calling it a growing public health and economic risk. Tabled in Parliament on Thursday, the report highlights how excessive use of smartphones, social media, gaming platforms, and online entertainment is increasingly affecting mental wellbeing, academic performance, and long-term productivity among the country’s youth. The survey defines digital addiction

Nail biting, or onychophagia, is a habit many dismiss as harmless, especially when seen in children or teens. While occasional nail biting may seem mild, experts warn that chronic and compulsive nail biting can severely impact physical health, oral hygiene and emotional well-being. Over time, the behaviour becomes automatic, arising during stress, boredom or even without awareness. Studies show that if left unmanaged, the habit can damage nails, introduce infections, cause dental complication

Back pain and neck stiffness have become universal problems in the digital era, cutting across age groups and professions. While screens, bad posture, and sedentary habits are easy targets for blame, experts say the real culprit could be the mind itself. New findings show a strong connection between emotional stress and spinal health when your brain stays tense, your back follows suit. According to the World Health Organization, more than 619 million people currently suffer from low

Santa Clara County has opened a new facility aimed at addressing the growing challenges of substance use disorders at a time when federal health care cuts threaten to strain local resources. The Compassionate Addiction Services and Support (COMPASS) Clinic officially launched on September 2 and is already being recognized as a major step forward in providing immediate, accessible care to those struggling with addiction. The clinic is funded through a combination of federal grants and opioid s

Imagine visiting a dentist not only for your teeth but also for your overall well-being, including mental health support, all in one appointment. This vision has become a reality at Asian Health Services, a community health center in Alameda County that is pioneering a first-of-its-kind integration of dental and wellness care. For thousands of patients in the area who cannot afford private care and who face language barriers, this innovative approach has become

Many people reach for a cigarette to relieve stress, believing it will help calm their nerves and provide immediate relief. A stressful day at work, family tension, or even mounting pressures in life often leads to this habitual response. However, smoking is far from the stress relief people think it is. In reality, it is a dangerous trap that perpetuates anxiety and worsens mental health in the long run. Nicotine, t

Mobile mental health responders in Illinois have taken an innovative step to safeguard their teams by incorporating wearable panic button devices during field visits. This initiative, led by the Association for Individual Development (AID), is aimed at improving safety for both crisis workers and the individuals they serve in Kane and Kendall counties. These professionals often find themselves in unpredictable and potentially hazardous situations while supporting those in mental or emotional cri

In Houston, a growing concern around youth mental health is being met with action by the Ibn Sina Foundation, a community-driven organization that has provided affordable healthcare to underserved populations for over two decades. Founded to support low-income and uninsured residents, the foundation now runs multiple clinics across the city, offering both medical and behavioral health services. Anchor Rashi Vats rece

While cutting calories is a common method for weight loss, doing it excessively may come with unexpected mental health consequences. Many people don’t realize that extreme calorie deficits can significantly impact emotional well-being. From nutrient shortages to hormonal shifts, severe dietary restrictions can make you feel anxious, irritable, and even depressed. Your brain needs steady fuel and nutrients to re

In a strong show of community solidarity and mental health advocacy, over 100 residents, civic leaders, first responders, and youth representatives gathered at San Ramon's Central Park last week to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The event marked a countywide dedication initiative aimed at spreading awareness of the vital mental health resource across Contra Costa County during Mental Health Awareness Month. Hosted by the Leadership San Ramon Valley Class of 2025,

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects around 1 in 100 adults globally. It is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that can significantly disrupt daily life. While many people with OCD respond well to standard treatments like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a significant number estimated at around 40% do not achieve sufficient symptom reli

It’s completely normal to forget things occasionally like where you left your keys or the name of a new acquaintance. However, when memory lapses begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, and decision-making, they could be signs of something more serious. Conditions like mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, or other neurological disorders often begin subtly, and early detection is critical for timely intervention. Here are eight warning signs that you

While the necessity of adequate sleep is well understood and widely promoted, the lesser-discussed issue of oversleeping is increasingly drawing attention from health professionals and researchers. Defined as routinely sleeping more than nine hours a night, oversleeping may seem like a harmless indulgence or even a positive health choice. However, growing scientific evidence suggests that excessive sleep can carry significant health risks and may even signal deeper medical problems.

In today’s fast-paced world, balancing professional, personal, and social responsibilities has become increasingly challenging. Many individuals find themselves struggling to stay mentally sharp, and over time, this can lead to noticeable cognitive decline. Our brain’s ability to focus, remember, and process information is greatly influenced by daily habits and lifestyle choices. Unfortunately, poor nutrition, inactivity, sleep deprivation, and chronic stress are common culprits t

IIT Guwahati has recently implemented a series of initiatives aimed at improving student mental health and addressing concerns following recent student deaths. The measures focus on easing the transition for new students, strengthening peer support networks, and ensuring access to mental health services. These efforts aim to create a healthier, more supportive academic environment for students. The decision to introduce these initiatives comes in response to student protests last semester fol

Here are 10 strategies to boost mental well-being in men Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins supports brain function, enhances mood, and maintains overall health, helping to manage weight and reduce chronic disease risk. Adequate Sleep: Ensuring sufficient and quality sleep is crucial for cognitive fu