Mental Health

A collection of mental health news and resources.

The healing benefits of nature
Did you know that simply taking a walk in a park can lower your blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol? MPR News guest host Catharine Richert talks with her guests about the mental and physical health benefits of spending time in nature.
With social prescribing, hanging out, movement and arts are doctor’s order
Doctors are writing “social prescriptions” to get people engaged with nature, art, movement and volunteering. Research shows it can help with mental health, chronic disease and dementia.
Minnesota enacts first-in-nation law requiring mental health warnings on social media
Supporters say the pop-up messages could encourage Minnesotans, especially kids, to think twice about how much time they spend on sites. But social media companies argue that Minnesota’s law, the first in the nation to pass, is heavy handed.
Silent Battles: Mental Health & Military Service
On Minnesota Now this week, we’re airing Call to Mind, the MPR News initiative fostering new conversations about mental health. Mental illness is the leading cause of hospitalization for America’s military service members. 
Promise & Peril: Technology and Mental Health
On Minnesota Now this week, we’re airing Call to Mind, the MPR News initiative fostering new conversations about mental health. Technology is ever-present in modern life, from remote work to communities on social media, from dating apps to telemedicine.
Are you sober curious?
What happens when you explore your relationship with alcohol — not because you have to, but because you want to? MPR News host Angela Davis talks about what it means to be “sober curious” and the health and other benefits of cutting back on alcoholic drinks.
The Aging Mind
On Minnesota Now this week, we’re airing Call to Mind, the MPR News initiative fostering new conversations about mental health. Studies show that 1 in 4 older adults live with a mental illness such as depression, anxiety and substance use disorders.
Closing the gaps in mental health care
How do you respond when someone asks, “How are you doing?” MPR News host Angela Davis talk with the leaders of three agencies that address mental health needs. What’s holding people back from getting the help they need?
Collective grief: Mourning Rep. Hortman and her husband, Mark
Many people are experiencing a collective sense of grief in the wake of the targeted fatal shootings of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband. MPR News host Kelly Gordon talks with her guests about the shared sadness, anger and anxiety — and how people can heal, together.