With therapy hard to get, people lean on AI for mental health. What are the risks?

As the days grow shorter this fall, experts recommend starting light therapy to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This effective treatment helps reset our circadian rhythms and can significantly reduce feelings of depression and fatigue. By beginning therapy now, individuals can proactively manage their mood and energy levels, making the transition into winter much smoother. It's a timely reminder that taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health.

As the days grow shorter this fall, experts recommend starting light therapy to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This effective treatment helps reset our circadian rhythms and can significantly reduce feelings of depression and fatigue. By beginning therapy now, individuals can proactively manage their mood and energy levels, making the transition into winter much smoother. It's a timely reminder that taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health.

In a recent segment on TODAY, Dr. John Torres from NBC News provided valuable insights on when to seek medical attention, whether it's a regular doctor's visit, urgent care, or the emergency room. This information is crucial as it helps people make informed decisions about their health, ensuring they receive the appropriate care in a timely manner. Understanding the right place to go for different health concerns can save lives and reduce unnecessary hospital visits.

As access to traditional therapy becomes increasingly challenging, many individuals are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT for support with their emotional well-being. While these applications can provide immediate assistance, experts caution that they should not replace professional therapy or human connection. This trend highlights the growing reliance on technology for mental health support, raising important questions about the effectiveness and limitations of AI in addressing complex emotional needs.

As autumn sets in, new Covid variants named Nimbus and Stratus are causing a rise in cases, leaving many feeling unwell with symptoms like a sore throat and fever. This surge is concerning as it highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, reminding us to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our communities.

New inquests have been opened by the coroner into the deaths of patients Pauline Brown and Jennifer Fox, who were under the care of a jailed surgeon. This development is significant as it seeks to uncover the circumstances surrounding their deaths, potentially holding accountable those responsible and providing closure to the families affected.

In Kentucky, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services has been revoking federal food benefits from hundreds of individuals based on transactional data that may not fully capture their situations. This approach raises concerns about fairness and accuracy, as many people could be unfairly affected by decisions made without a complete understanding of their circumstances. It's crucial to ensure that those in need are supported rather than penalized, highlighting the importance of a more nuanced approach to assessing eligibility for food assistance.

Nancy Hayes, an 81-year-old woman battling multiple serious health issues, including lung cancer and kidney failure, passed away recently. Her daughter reported a distressing incident where she noticed bedbugs in the palliative care bed, raising concerns about the quality of care in such facilities. This situation highlights the critical need for improved hygiene and patient care standards in healthcare settings, especially for vulnerable patients nearing the end of life.