Mental Health

Arctic residents face high risk from toxic effects of plastics, report finds

The report is based on over 250 peer-reviewed studies and shows the Arctic environment and people are disproportionately impacted by microplastics, plastic chemicals, and contaminated sea life.
a coastline

Alleged victims of former volunteer at Juneau’s Echo Ranch Bible Camp are suing

The people who say they were victims of Bradley Earl Reger are trying to hold the institutions where the abuse took place accountable.

As climate change alters berry production in Alaska, communities find ways to adapt

Researchers at UAF have been collecting berry data over the past two decades and communities are using that to help guide interventions.

Psychedelic medicine in Alaska | Line One

A conference in Anchorage, seeks to explore many questions around psychedelics. We talk with keynote speakers for the conference on this Line One.
People sit at picnic tables in a high-ceilinged wooden building.

BYU scientists visit Alaska to study Alzheimer’s in Pacific Islander and Indigenous elders

Researchers said the populations they’re studying have been almost entirely left out of current Alzheimer’s research and will deepen knowledge of the disease.
a helicopter

Coast Guardsman’s death prompts mental health conversations at Base Kodiak

Coast Guard officials call the rescue swimmer's June 25 death "a tragedy," urging comrades to use stress management resources on base.
a building

Alaska mental-health provider Akeela sued over delayed data breach warning

According to a former patient's class-action lawsuit, Akeela waited over a year before informing patients of the breach in July.
a sign

Survey of Alaska youth reveals more mental health problems, but also some positive trends

The latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey found more anxiety and suicidal thoughts than earlier surveys, but also less alcohol and tobacco use.
Deb Haaland

The federal report on boarding schools | Talk of Alaska

The U.S. Interior Department released a report in July 2024 to continue documenting the federal government’s role in the system that ripped children away from their homes.
Stone building entrance with gold letters that say "Fifth Avenue Building."

Disabled Alaskans sue state and appointed guardian for alleged financial abuse, neglect

Thomas McDuffie had over 100 wards in his care as a guardian between 2021 and 2023. The lawsuit names him, the state and two state employees as defendants.
Lisa Murkowski

Advocates, Murkowski seek next steps after Native boarding school report

Alaska boarding-school survivors and Sen. Lisa Murkowski applaud the federal report, but say it tells only part of the story.
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Dealing with adult bullies | Line One

In a hyper-polarized world, it’s important to be able to recognize bullies and the ways they can affect our long-term mental health.
children

Alaska officials echo federal push to promote healing after boarding schools report

Sen. Lisa Murkowski and state lawmakers have pushed for a Native-led documentation effort, saying the report underscores the need.
a child

Sun Rise Camp: A new day for children with incarcerated parents

Organizers say the Sun Rise Camp could be the first summer program in Alaska for kids with parents who are serving time in prison.
beds

Alaska adds millions to address domestic violence and sexual assault; advocates say more is needed

Service providers say the state’s programs need significant investment to make inroads on reduction.
a vigil

Juneau residents hold vigil for homeless man killed by police

Both Steven Kissack, who was fatally shot Monday, and his dog Juno were familiar faces to those who live and work in downtown Juneau.
a homeless shelter

As Ketchikan’s main homeless shelter closed, participants voiced frustration

First City Homeless Services served its last meal on June 14, leaving a void for the hundreds who relied on it.

Mental Health Resource Fair – Sept. 21

Alaska Public Media is hosting its third annual Mental Health Resource Fair at the Spenard Community Recreation Center (2020 W 48th Ave. in Anchorage) on Saturday, September 21, from 12 to 4 p.m. The...
A woman smiles at the camera next to an image of a butchered salmon.

How to heal your soil on an island covered in volcanic ash | INDIE ALASKA

Marion Owen is learning how to repair Kodiak's dense, ashy soil through the power of compost to grow the garden of her dreams.

Celebrating World Refugee Day in Alaska | Talk of Alaska

How can communities best help those who have been displaced from their home countries? We discuss welcoming new neighbors on this Talk of Alaska.
a phone

‘An unfair fight’: The U.S. surgeon general declares war on social media

Vivek Murthy called this week for social media platforms to carry warning labels like those put on cigarettes and alcohol, due to their effects on teens.
a hospital

Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly considers $38.5M Homer hospital bond

The bond would go towards acquiring land and much needed maintenance for South Peninsula Hospital.
mifepristone

Supreme Court rejects challenge to FDA’s approval of mifepristone

The court said that the challengers had no right to be in court at all since they could not show they had suffered any actual injury from the FDA rules.
A lawn with an elevated pedestrian walkway over it.

Self-advocacy and accommodations for college students with disabilities | Line One

On this Line One, host Prentiss Pemberton is joined by a college disabilities expert to discuss how students can advocate for themselves in college.
Two people hike up a ridge with two lakes visible below.

Keeping safe during Summer adventures | Talk of Alaska

We gathered your best advice and talked with outdoor safety experts to hear their tips on this Talk of Alaska.

Alaska Public Media’s mental health coverage is supported by a grant from the Alaska Mental Health Trust and our members.

there is hope

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