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Inside New Mexico’s first diversion program for people who aren’t competent to stand trial

February 11, 2025
During a December hearing, Magistrate Judge Alexander Rossario in December 2024 dismissed the charges of several people who had engaged with the program, and kicked out several people who had not. Image: Ted Alcorn

‘An ecosystem of dysfunction:’ West Virginia still has a child welfare worker shortage, and it’s taking a toll on foster kids and families

February 2, 2025
Olivia Frausto, now 19, holds a photo of her younger self, taken before she entered West Virginia’s child welfare system. Photo by Jenny Lynn Photography

West Virginia’s foster care system depends on grandfamilies. It does little to support their mental health needs.

February 2, 2025
Judy Utley, right, with her granddaughter Alexis Nadell. Grandparents like Utley, who raised their grandchildren, say the state doesn't offer them enough support. Photo courtesy of Judy Utley.

Georgia students’ private battle: Anxiety disorders in the classroom

Latha Wright, a 16-year-old Atlanta student, says mental health is misunderstood. She posed for a portrait in her home on May 25, 2022. ©Arvin Temkar/AJC
Latha Wright, a 16-year-old Atlanta student, says mental health is misunderstood. She posed for a portrait in her home on May 25, 2022. ©Arvin Temkar/AJC

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, June 1, 2022, by Vanessa McCray and Eric Stirgus: Latha Wright studies Latin, draws her own comics and films videos with her little brother.

The 16-year-old Atlanta student also battles anxiety.

When her family sought help, they encountered obstacles that make it difficult for many Georgia teens and young adults to get therapy and proper medication.

Her mom, Sherry Neal, called numerous providers covered by their insurance in her search to find someone taking new clients.

Navigating health care in general is hard, she said, but: “Just wait until someone you love needs mental health care.”

During the pandemic, rates of anxiety disorders and depression among young people doubled to 1 in 5, according to JAMA Pediatrics data. The social isolation of virtual learning, social media pressures and academic expectations are primary contributors.

Read more here at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.