There has been much talk recently about LGBTQ+ matters and some significant changes in access to literature and research funding that might help us to better understand human differences. Such knowledge would work to greatly reduce human suffering (see above article on mental health disparities in the LBGTQ+ community). PRIDE Month is a great time to reflect on how to improve awareness and find similarities instead of creating divisions.

-JEANNINE MONNIER, PH.D. 

The changing landscape of cannabis use is keeping psychologists on their toes. Read more about where we are with our understanding of how cannabis impacts the brain and directions in treatment related to cannabis use and dependency in this article from the American Psychological Association’s Monitor on Psychology.

-JEANNINE MONNIER, PH.D.

While diagnosing depression relies mostly on self-reported symptoms, McGill University researchers have identified nine molecules in the blood of depressed teens that have not previously been linked to adult depression.   Although follow-up studies are needed, a blood-based screening tool could pave the way to earlier detection and treatment for at-risk youth.  

-CINDY CARTER, PH.D.

A recent study reveals a significant drop in self-reported "excellent" mental health among U.S. mothers—from 38.4% in 2016 to just 25.8% in 2023. Single moms, those with lower education, and publicly insured children are most affected. It's a wake-up call for better support systems.

– Jeannine Monnier, Ph.D.

June is Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers comprehensive information on the disorder, including treatment options and advice for family and friends. Check it out and spread the word: Trauma happens, psychologists can help.

– Jeannine Monnier, Ph.D.

The central figure in most product design projects is the human.  What happens when technology designers do not test out products on humans to assess for ease of use, safety, etc. before going to production? This article discusses recents examples of projects that left out human factors psychologists, resulting in significantly negative outcomes.

Jeannine Monnier, Ph.D.

Stand your ground laws have traditionally offered little assistance for those who are the victims of exploitation, violence, and trafficking who defend themselves against their abuser. New laws are changing this. Both New York and Oklahoma have passed legislation offering the consideration of victimization history and subsequent mental health difficulties (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder) in sentencing.

Read more here:  

https://www.apa.org/monitor/2025/04-05/sentencing-women-abuse-survivors

Zara Abrams, in APA’s Monitor on Psychology, writes about what is and what is not known about how birth control pills impact the brain. It provides helpful information about what is known about the psychological impact of these medications. It also exposes gaps in our understanding of how these medications impact adult brains and the developing brains of adolescents. 

-Jeannine Monnier, Ph.D.

Feelings of loneliness and isolation are negatively impacting our youth, according to a recent article in APA’s Monitor on Psychology.  Unfortunately, many parents report believing their kids have more social support than is reported by youth themselves.  While teens with higher levels of screen time report being “connected” with others, digital formats of social contact also result in higher levels of reported loneliness and isolation despite online engagement.  Furthermore, teens perceptions of low social support is associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety.  Parents are encouraged to ask about potential feelings of loneliness and support opportunities for in-person social interaction with peers.

-JEANNINE MONNIER, PH.D.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay. How AI impacts psychology was a topic of discussion at the recent South Carolina Psychological Association conference in Columbia this month. In this article by Zara Abrams, similar topics are discussed. Definitely food for thought.

-Jeannine Monnier, Ph.D.

Human trafficking is a pervasive and alarming global problem. In this article, Efua Andoh discusses the scope of the problem and strategies being used to tackle it. 

The article provides a good overview of the mater. One thing is clear, awareness and education are key components to addressing this crime!

-Jeannine Monnier, Ph.D.

https://www.apa.org/monitor/

Check it out! Reducing social media use by one hour per day decreased depression and anxiety symptoms in distressed youth according to a recent study by Davis & Goldfield in the journal of Psychology and Popular Media. 

Canadian undergraduate students who reduced their social media use by one hour per day for three weeks demonstrated pre-post improvements in depression and anxiety compared to the non-intervention social media as usual group. 

The intervention group also showed improvements in sleep. The evidence regarding the importance of youth regulating social media exposure continues to mount. 

-Cindy Carter Ph.D.

Valentine’s Day is a perfect time for a relationship check-in. In this quick read, Drs. Haight and Abrahamson, both psychologist affiliated with the American Psychological Association, provide helpful information for avoiding pitfalls and enhancing communication that couples might find interesting. This information can also be helpful to those seeking a meaningful relationship! https://lnkd.in/gMabZ6Uk

Interested in learning more about the benefits of a dry January?

In this article by Stephanie Pappas, in the American Psychological Association’s *Monitor on Psychology*, trends in alcohol use and the benefits of reducing its consumption are discussed. Positives of note are the reduction of alcohol use in teenagers and middle-aged adults over the last decade and the improvement in sleep quality with reduced alcohol consumption.

-Jeannine Monnier, Ph.D.

Read the full article here: [Sober Curious: Alcohol Moderation](https://lnkd.in/e_cuTE9a)

Here’s a great podcast about learning as we age. I love how Dr. Wu puts things in perspective, emphasizing the allowance we give younger learners as they try to master new skills and the lack of allowance we give older adults when they are trying new things. The data suggests older adults are just as capable of learning as young people, and they bring added skills and knowledge to the table!-JEANNINE MONNIER, PH.D.https://lnkd.in/eYHGAiGk

This fall marks the 10th anniversary of the release of Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.’s book entitled The Body Keeps the Score (2014).  

This year at the LMHC, the Country music star Chase Bryant spoke about his mental health struggles and his experiences with the mental health community.  

Dr. Monnier reviews this important article by the American Psychological Association on reducing loneliness.