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🗞 Meta, states agree to $17 billion settlement in child safety trial. Meta has agreed to a landmark settlement with U.S. states over allegations that Facebook and Instagram harmed young users through addictive features and inadequate safety protections. The agreement could require Meta to pay up to $17 billion and introduce measures such as daily time limits, nighttime restrictions, stronger age verification, and more parental controls. Critics say the changes are a step forward but may not address deeper concerns about algorithms and the way social media keeps young people engaged. Read more at NPR

🗞 Treatment involving patient's family cuts mental health hospital admissions. Researchers studying an approach called Open Dialogue, which brings patients, loved ones, and the same clinicians together for ongoing conversations, found that participants were about three times less likely to be hospitalized and reported better recovery and quality of life. However, the approach did not appear to prevent relapses, and researchers say more study is needed to determine whether Open Dialogue itself—or the additional resources involved—is responsible for the benefits. Read more at BBC

🗞 NFL and players association announce Behavioral Health Network for mental health assistance. The NFL and NFL Players Association are launching a new Behavioral Health Network to make mental-health care easier and more confidential for current and former players and their eligible family members. Starting September 1, the program will provide access to providers across every NFL market, with help finding clinicians and appointments—and no copays or limits on outpatient visits. Read more at The Associated Press

🗞 States take divergent approaches to regulating AI mental health chatbots. Illinois, Nevada, Tennessee, Vermont, and Rhode Island have passed laws restricting AI tools that provide or claim to provide mental health care, while Utah and Rhode Island instead require data-privacy protections and disclosure rather than outright bans — reflecting unresolved questions about how AI should be used in mental health treatment. Read more at KFF

🗞 Selena Gomez asks judge to dismiss ‘absurd’ fraud claims over mental health startup. Selena Gomez is pushing back against a federal lawsuit involving Wondermind, the mental-health startup she co-founded with her mother. Investors allege they were misled about the company’s leadership, partnerships, and business prospects after investing nearly $1.2 million; Gomez’s attorneys strongly deny the allegations and say she was not involved in the company’s day-to-day management. Read more at NBC News

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

The Best Smartwatches For Kids. Kids’ smartwatches can offer parents a middle ground between staying connected and giving children more independence without immediately handing them a smartphone. The NY Times Wirecutter’s guide looks at watches designed for younger users, with features such as calling and messaging, location sharing, and parental controls, while emphasizing that families should consider how much connectivity is actually appropriate for their child. Read More at NYTimes.com

Question: What mental health careers are in demand?

Answer: According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the most in-demand mental health careers, what they do, and their expected job outlook from 2025 to 2035.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselors help clients deal with addiction, depression, anxiety, and everyday stress. Projected job growth is 18% with median annual wages around $49,710.

Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of family and couple relationships. Projected job growth is 15% with median annual wages around $56,570.

Clinical and Counseling Psychologists evaluate, diagnose, and provide talk therapy for mental health conditions. Projected job growth is 11% with median annual wages around $90,130.

Social Workers (Mental Health and Substance Abuse) help vulnerable individuals and families navigate life challenges, addiction, and mental health services. Projected job growth is 7% to 10% with median annual wages around $55,350.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) bridge medical and mental health care by diagnosing conditions, providing counseling, and prescribing medications. They are also in high demand due to an overall shortage in prescribing mental health professionals with projected job growth at 41% with median annual wages around $152,000.

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