Malta becomes first E.U. nation to legalize cannabis
Equality Minister, Owen Bonnici, said the “historic” move would stop small-time cannabis users from facing the criminal justice system and would help curb drug trafficking.
Mental health & addiction
New York City opens the U.S.’s first safe injection site
The sites, intended to reduce overdose deaths, will serve as a safe place for drug users to inject heroin and other drugs under the supervision of medical professionals.
New ‘988’ suicide prevention hotline in the U.S. will now include texting option to make it easier
Last year, the FCC established 988 as a nationwide phone number for Americans to connect with mental health crisis counselors. Soon, people will be able to text 988 for emergency service.
American Psychological Association apologizes for role in promoting and perpetuating racism in U.S.
The APA passed two other resolutions: one on what the APA and the field of psychology must do to dismantle racism, and another committing to eradicating inequality in health and healthcare.
Largest-ever psilocybin trial finds the psychedelic is effective in treating serious depression
Overall, 29.1% of patients in the highest-dose group were in remission three weeks after treatment, compared to 7.6% of those in the control group.
Luxembourg first in Europe to legalize growing and using cannabis
Under the legislation, people aged 18 and over will be able to legally grow up to four cannabis plants per household for personal use.
Johns Hopkins Medicine receives first federal grant for psychedelic treatment research in 50 years
Combined with preparation and structured support, psilocybin has shown promise for treating a range of addictions and mental health disorders.
Norway hopes to boost body image with retouching law
In Norway, images that have been altered to change a person’s appearance must now be labelled as retouched under new amendments to the country’s marketing act.
Charlotte, NC launches peer-run alternative to psychiatric hospitalization
The facility is entirely run by those who have experienced mental illness, psychiatric hospitalizations, homelessness, incarceration, or substance use. It is designed to be an alternative for those who are without physical injury who would otherwise be admitted to a psychiatric facility by an emergency room.
City of Madison will begin sending specialists to non-violent mental health calls instead of police
Madison’s CARES (Community Alternative Response to Emergency Situations and Services) team will feature two paramedics from Madison Fire Department, as well as two representatives from the Journey Mental Health Facility in Madison.