Mental Health

The shooting at a Minnesota Catholic school has dominated headlines and renewed parents’ fears as Pennsylvania students head back to school. Mental health experts from the region offer insight on how to talk to children about gun violence.

Mental health professionals from the region provide guidance on gun violence, anxiety and how parents can best talk about the topic with children in the wake of Wednesday's shooting at a Minnesota Catholic school.

The Good Drop ketamine clinic in Avoca treats patients with treatment-resistant depression, chronic pain and anxiety. While they're happy to offer alternative care in Northeast Pennsylvania, the owners still see a lack of understanding around ketamine.

Restorative Roots Recovery owns the only licensed male recovery houses in Luzerne County. While the owners have plans to grow, the federal government looks to shrink funding for recovery services.

Schools throughout the region started Aevidum clubs after students returned to in-person learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Students in those clubs now increase mental health awareness and encourage classmates.

First Hospital's closure left Luzerne County without any adult psychiatric care facilities. Wyoming Valley Behavioral Health stepped up, opening in the old First Hospital building and providing critical care for the Wyoming Valley.

Twice a month, attendees of the Memory Cafe, including those with memory loss diseases and their loved ones, gather for laughs, crafts and support.

Keira Brogan, now a student at Lackawanna College, created the calm room last year. She received the Girl Scout Gold Award for the project.

Besides food and fun, educational programming is a large part of the Pennsylvania Farm Show’s scheduling. An event about suicide prevention in agricultural communities highlighted resources for the community, as well as the unique stressors farmers face that make them vulnerable to mental health struggles.

Healthcare, and access to it, vary throughout WVIA’s 22 county coverage area. Our top health stories covered healthcare deserts, uncertain futures, women's rights and more.