Mental Health
Governor vetoes bill requiring insurance to provide a year of birth control
Supporters of the bill said it would increase access to birth control, especially for rural Alaskans, and reduce reliance on abortions.
Dispelling myths around electroconvulsive therapy | Line One
Electroconvulsive Therapy, or ECT, is often portrayed in pop culture as a cruel or abusive treatment. However modern day ECT is far from the stereotypes.
Alaska judge strikes down requirement that only licensed physicians provide abortions
A judge agreed with Planned Parenthood that barring clinicians from providing services violates the state's constitution.
Microplastics in the Arctic | Line One
Why are microplastics so prevalent in the Arctic, and what is known about how they affect human health and development?
Arctic residents face high risk from toxic effects of plastics, report finds
The report is based on over 250 peer-reviewed studies and shows the Arctic environment and people are disproportionately impacted by microplastics, plastic chemicals, and contaminated sea life.
Alleged victims of former volunteer at Juneau’s Echo Ranch Bible Camp are suing
The people who say they were victims of Bradley Earl Reger are trying to hold the institutions where the abuse took place accountable.
As climate change alters berry production in Alaska, communities find ways to adapt
Researchers at UAF have been collecting berry data over the past two decades and communities are using that to help guide interventions.
Psychedelic medicine in Alaska | Line One
A conference in Anchorage, seeks to explore many questions around psychedelics. We talk with keynote speakers for the conference on this Line One.
BYU scientists visit Alaska to study Alzheimer’s in Pacific Islander and Indigenous elders
Researchers said the populations they’re studying have been almost entirely left out of current Alzheimer’s research and will deepen knowledge of the disease.
Coast Guardsman’s death prompts mental health conversations at Base Kodiak
Coast Guard officials call the rescue swimmer's June 25 death "a tragedy," urging comrades to use stress management resources on base.
Alaska mental-health provider Akeela sued over delayed data breach warning
According to a former patient's class-action lawsuit, Akeela waited over a year before informing patients of the breach in July.
Survey of Alaska youth reveals more mental health problems, but also some positive trends
The latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey found more anxiety and suicidal thoughts than earlier surveys, but also less alcohol and tobacco use.
The federal report on boarding schools | Talk of Alaska
The U.S. Interior Department released a report in July 2024 to continue documenting the federal government’s role in the system that ripped children away from their homes.
Disabled Alaskans sue state and appointed guardian for alleged financial abuse, neglect
Thomas McDuffie had over 100 wards in his care as a guardian between 2021 and 2023. The lawsuit names him, the state and two state employees as defendants.
Advocates, Murkowski seek next steps after Native boarding school report
Alaska boarding-school survivors and Sen. Lisa Murkowski applaud the federal report, but say it tells only part of the story.
Dealing with adult bullies | Line One
In a hyper-polarized world, it’s important to be able to recognize bullies and the ways they can affect our long-term mental health.
Alaska officials echo federal push to promote healing after boarding schools report
Sen. Lisa Murkowski and state lawmakers have pushed for a Native-led documentation effort, saying the report underscores the need.
Sun Rise Camp: A new day for children with incarcerated parents
Organizers say the Sun Rise Camp could be the first summer program in Alaska for kids with parents who are serving time in prison.
Alaska adds millions to address domestic violence and sexual assault; advocates say more is needed
Service providers say the state’s programs need significant investment to make inroads on reduction.
Juneau residents hold vigil for homeless man killed by police
Both Steven Kissack, who was fatally shot Monday, and his dog Juno were familiar faces to those who live and work in downtown Juneau.
As Ketchikan’s main homeless shelter closed, participants voiced frustration
First City Homeless Services served its last meal on June 14, leaving a void for the hundreds who relied on it.
Mental Health Resource Fair – Sept. 21
Alaska Public Media is hosting its third annual Mental Health Resource Fair at the Spenard Community Recreation Center (2020 W 48th Ave. in Anchorage) on Saturday, September 21, from 12 to 4 p.m. The...
How to heal your soil on an island covered in volcanic ash | INDIE ALASKA
Marion Owen is learning how to repair Kodiak's dense, ashy soil through the power of compost to grow the garden of her dreams.
Celebrating World Refugee Day in Alaska | Talk of Alaska
How can communities best help those who have been displaced from their home countries? We discuss welcoming new neighbors on this Talk of Alaska.
‘An unfair fight’: The U.S. surgeon general declares war on social media
Vivek Murthy called this week for social media platforms to carry warning labels like those put on cigarettes and alcohol, due to their effects on teens.
Alaska Public Media’s mental health coverage is supported by a grant from the Alaska Mental Health Trust and our members.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Daily Digest
Catch up on the latest headlines and statewide stories from Alaska Public Media.
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Alaska Public Media. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact