Today is International Overdose Awareness Day.

Today we should remember people who have died from a drug overdose and acknowledge the grief of their families and friends. We should also raise awareness about the risks of drug overdose, promote evidence-based prevention methods, and share lifesaving tools.

Common signs of an opioid overdose may include breathing issues, changes in physical appearance such as cold, clammy or pale skin, and unresponsiveness.

Standard response protocols include calling emergency services, administering Naloxone (Narcan) if available, and staying with the individual until emergency responders arrive.

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🗞 Governor Newsom Signs Bipartisan Measure to Strengthen Suicide Prevention Efforts For Boys, Young Men. California has taken a targeted step toward addressing suicide prevention among boys and young men, a group that faces disproportionately high suicide rates but is often less likely to seek help. Governor Gavin Newsom signed bipartisan AB 1956, directing the state’s Office of Suicide Prevention to specifically include boys and young men in its prevention strategy, alongside broader efforts focused on connection, mentorship, purpose, and access to mental-health support. Read more at EIN Presswire

🗞 The Happiest States in America, Ranked.  Happiness may feel personal, but WalletHub’s research suggests that where you live can influence your overall well-being. The ranking looks at 30 factors—including emotional and physical health, work-life balance, financial security, and community—and found that the happiest states tend to offer a combination of strong health, stable employment, manageable workloads, and social connection. Hawaii topped the list, while states such as Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Utah also performed strongly for different reasons. Read more at Yahoo!Life

🗞 Psychologists Defined the 6 Elements of Mental Health. How Many Do You Have? Psychologists describe mental health as more than simply “feeling happy”—it includes several areas that shape how we handle life, relationships, and challenges. The article highlights six elements of psychological well-being, encouraging readers to think about areas such as purpose, personal growth, relationships, self-acceptance, and having a sense of control over their lives. Rather than treating mental health like a pass-or-fail test, the idea is to recognize which areas are strong and which might need more attention. Read more at Inc.

🗞 Raygun Reveals How Her Mental Health Is Doing After Being ‘Reduced to a Meme’ at Paris Olympics. Rachael “Raygun” Gunn is reflecting on the intense online backlash she faced after her breakdancing performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics turned her into a viral meme. In a new interview, she says the experience took a toll on her mental health, but that ongoing care, perspective, and time have helped her move forward; she also says she now feels stronger and more resilient. Read more at People

Mental Health: In Crisis? Call or Text 988

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press ‘1’ or Text 838255

Youth Helpline: 2NDFLOOR - (888) 222-2228

National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-SAFE (7233)

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-TALK (8255)

Addiction: Start Your Recovery - (800) 662-4357

Back-To-School: 6 Ways Parents Can Support Teen Mental Health. Back-to-school season can bring a mix of excitement and stress for teens, and parents can play an important role in helping them manage the transition. Blue Shield of California recommends focusing on open communication, consistent routines, healthy sleep, physical activity, and creating space for teens to talk about what they’re experiencing. The bigger message is that parents don’t need to eliminate every source of stress—they can help teens build resilience by making sure they know they’re supported and don’t have to handle challenges alone. Read More at Blue Shield of California

Question: What are the most popular degree programs that someone would choose if they are interested in a mental health career?

Answer: While there is no single best degree for mental health, psychology is the most popular undergraduate degree program for entering the mental health field.

Most popular undergraduate options include Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Science (B.S. in Psychology and the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).

Most popular graduate options include Master of Social Work (MSW), Master’s in Counseling (M.A. or M.S.) and Psy.D. or Ph.D. in Psychology.

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