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Adobe Stock/Illinois News ConnectionAs Suicide Prevention Month wraps up, Illinois leaders working in the mental health space urge people to recognize warning signs not just this month, but all year long --- and reach out to people in crisis. They’re also calling on the state to strengthen access to behavioral health services, particularly in rural communities, spreading the message that saving a life starts with connection and conversation. -
Adobe Stock/Illinois News ConnectionIllinois farmers and soil experts say regenerative agriculture could help address concerns about declining nutrient density by rebuilding soil health and, in turn, strengthening local food systems.
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For many Missouri grandparents, raising grandchildren means stepping back into parenthood while managing fixed incomes, health concerns, and complicated benefit rules. Healthcare professionals explain why some narrowly miss out on much-needed assistance - and the resources that may offer relief. -
The Illinois Federation of Teachers is urging lawmakers to use the state’s $768-million Meta settlement to help close Illinois’ nearly $7-billion K-12 funding gap. They contend underfunded schools struggle with larger classes, special education shortages and fewer student opportunities. -
September is healthy aging month. Aging does not necessarily mean slowing down. In fact, the CDC’s "Still Going Strong" campaign empowers older adults to take simple steps that will help them age without injury while continuing activities they enjoy. -
Illinois organizations are using AI to expand Spanish-language access to legal and immigration information, but advocates warn the technology can also spread inaccurate information and divert people from trusted legal resources. -
Instead of warning young people about everything that can go wrong with substance use, a Missouri campaign is highlighting what most are already doing right. The positive approach aims to strengthen their confidence in remaining drug- and alcohol-free. -
A 2006 study in The Pediatric Journal of Orthopedics found 37% of children experience back pain due to carrying heavy backpacks. -
Essential hospital workers say HCA Healthcare's billions in profits are not translating into livable pay or enough hands at the bedside. As contract talks unfold, Kansas City-area employees are taking their demands for better wages, staffing and workplace respect to the public. -
Springfield, Missouri residents now have a new way to get life-saving naloxone without having to ask for it. The fire department has installed self-service, weatherproof boxes stocked with free opioid rescue kits, giving people around-the-clock access to medication that can reverse an overdose. -
Did you know that the term “dog days of summer” actually has nothing to do with canines? Jon Katz, author of Dog Days says it actually goes back to the Romans belief that Sirius, the brightest star in the “big dog” constellation rose with the sun to create great days of heat. -
Anxiety and stress can sometimes appear as disruptive physical symptoms like stomach aches, headaches and changes in sleep or appetite. To avoid classroom disruptions, Missouri experts encourage parents to have conversations about mental health with their child ahead of the new school year.
