Days clogged with numerous after-school activities are detrimental to the mental health of over-scheduled high school students, a new study finds. Researchers also found that these “enrichment’ activities — tutoring, sports, school clubs and even homework — are unlikely to benefit students academically. Many folks think extra study time or tutoring will lead to better…  read on >  read on >

During the past half-century, the United States’ annual number of school shootings has increased more than twelvefold, a new study finds. What’s more, children are now four times more likely to be a school shooting victim, and the death rate from school shootings has risen more than sixfold. “Firearm violence is a public health crisis,…  read on >  read on >

Menopause is thought to trigger mood changes among women, with changes in female hormone levels contributing to anxiety, depression and stress. However, a new study says some women are at more risk than others for menopause-linked mental health issues, and many escape them altogether. There’s no evidence that menopause causes a universal rise in risk…  read on >  read on >

Certain drugs used to treat multiple sclerosis appear to be safe for babies if taken by breastfeeding moms, a new study finds. Breastfed babies whose moms received monoclonal antibody treatments for MS did not develop any more developmental delays than babies not exposed to the drugs through breast milk. The findings will be presented at…  read on >  read on >

Using TVs and tablets as “e-babysitters” really cuts down on the time toddlers spend interacting with parents or other caregivers, new research shows. The Australian team of investigators are calling the phenomenon “technoference” — a scenario where “young children’s exposure to screen time is interfering with opportunities to talk and interact in their home environment.”…  read on >  read on >