How the Health Insurance Crisis Impacts Mental Health Services

Hands holding an envelope that has the word "denied" stamped on it with red ink because of the health insurance crisis in the US

What’s driving providers out of insurance networks? What does this mean for people seeking mental health treatment? In the United States, getting therapy is more difficult than ever. Due to problems with insurance companies, a third of US psychologists no longer accept insurance. Reasons include low reimbursement rates, complex payment systems designed to delay or deny payment, and pressure to limit care. Continue reading for a deep dive into the current health insurance crisis in the US.

A Joint Vaccine (Flu and Covid-19): Your New Annual Shot?

A woman in a doctor's office with her sleeve rolled up, exposing her arm, illustrates a joint vaccine (flu and Covid-19)

What if you could protect yourself against both flu and Covid-19 with just one shot? How might a combined vaccine change the way Americans approach their yearly vaccinations? Scientists are making significant progress toward developing a joint vaccine (flu and Covid-19) that could simplify annual immunizations. Moderna’s recent research shows promising results, suggesting their combination shot could offer better protection than separate vaccines administered together. Keep reading to discover how this medical advancement could reshape the future of seasonal vaccinations and potentially boost immunization rates across the US.

Covid Vaccination Rates: 3 Reasons Why They’re So Low

A printed form that says "Vaccination: Yes/No" with the word "No" circled illustrates lower Covid vaccination rates

Why have so many Americans lost interest in Covid-19 vaccines? What role do politics and age play in vaccination decisions? Covid vaccination rates have dropped significantly since the early days of the pandemic, with only 28% of US adults receiving the shot in the spring of 2024. The reasons relate to the perception of risk, political party affiliation, and age. Keep reading to explore the fascinating intersection of public health, politics, and personal choice that continues to shape vaccination trends across the country.

Will There Be a Bird Flu Pandemic? What the Experts Say

A black and white image of chickens on a farm as worries of a bird flu pandemic arise

Why are US health officials growing concerned about bird flu? What mutations are scientists finding in recent human cases? Will there be a bird flu pandemic in 2025? Bird flu has spread rapidly through US dairy farms and poultry operations, infecting nearly 1,000 dairy herds and causing mostly mild illness in dozens of exposed workers. While bird flu hasn’t been transmitted between humans yet, health officials are concerned that it could be. Here’s a look at the situation and the studies.

The Right to Healthcare in the US: A Brief Timeline

An artistic rendering of a female doctor conversing with a male patient, signifying his right to healthcare

Should everyone have the right to healthcare, or is it a privilege? How has the idea of healthcare in the US evolved over the years? The top cause of bankruptcy in the US is healthcare-related debt. According to a KFF survey, most US adults worry about paying for health care, whether they’re financially comfortable or struggling. Here’s what the healthcare system looked like in the past and a glimpse of what might come in the future.

Why Is the US Healthcare System So Bad? Views From All Sides

A document on a table that has the word "denied" stamped on it in red, referencing the bad healthcare in the US

Why is the us healthcare system so bad? What are the different political views on universal healthcare? The murder of US health insurance CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024 sparked anger on social media over insurance claim denials, which are becoming increasingly common in the US, in contrast to countries where health care is a right. Here’s a look at the left, right, and center views on US healthcare.

By the Time You Read This: Cheslie Kryst’s Story (Overview)

A woman looking at a book in a book store

What lies beneath the polished exterior of a beauty queen’s success story? How can one person’s journey shed light on the critical conversation about mental health in today’s achievement-driven world? In By the Time You Read This, Cheslie Kryst and April Simpkins reveal the hidden struggles behind a Miss USA crown. The memoir chronicles Cheslie’s path from childhood bullying to pageant triumph while exposing her private battle with depression that ultimately led to her tragic death. Read more to discover a powerful story of success, struggle, and a mother’s mission to honor her daughter’s legacy through mental health advocacy.

How to Age Gracefully: Wit & Wisdom From Laurie Notaro

Three smiling middle-aged women illustrate how to age gracefully

What does it mean to embrace the changes that come with getting older? How can you maintain your sense of humor while facing the challenges of aging? In Excuse Me While I Disappear, Laurie Notaro shares her journey through middle age with wit and wisdom. Her personal stories and observations offer both comfort and laughs to anyone experiencing the physical and emotional shifts that come with time. Keep reading to discover how to age gracefully while maintaining your spirit and sense of humor.

Physical Changes in Midlife: Comfort, Commiseration, & Counsel

A woman with a shocked and annoyed expression looking in the mirror at her graying hair depicts physical changes in midlife

What happens to your body during your 40s and 50s? Why do simple activities suddenly become more challenging as you age? In Excuse Me While I Disappear, Laurie Notaro offers a candid and humorous look at the physical changes in midlife. Her personal experiences and observations provide both comfort and practical solutions for navigating this transformative phase of life. Keep reading to discover honest insights about aging that will make you laugh while helping you feel less alone in your journey.

Pros and Cons of Green Tea: Is It Really “Nature’s Ozempic”?

A young girl drinking a matcha latte out of a ceramic mug, considering the pros and cons of green tea

Do green tea and matcha make you lose weight? What are the health effects of drinking green tea daily? Are there any risks? Green tea and matcha are taking over the internet due to their apparent weight loss benefits. While green tea does boast many benefits, there are some health concerns that arise if you drink it in excess or take it as a supplement. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of green tea and matcha.