Author: Albert S. Bailey

Ending the stigma around mental illness is a complex challenge that goes beyond simple slogans. Many people want to break down harmful stereotypes and create open conversations, but without a clear understanding of what stigma involves, efforts can fall short. Stigma includes negative attitudes, self-judgment, and systemic discrimination. To truly make progress, we need actionable steps that change how we think, behave, and build systems—creating a culture of empathy and genuine support for those living with mental health challenges. A Supportive Perspective The advocate in me appreciates the intention behind these messages. They show that people genuinely want to reduce…

Former President Donald Trump reignited tensions with Apple on Friday, threatening a 25% tariff on iPhones not manufactured in the United States. In a Truth Social post, Trump insisted that Apple must relocate its iPhone production from countries like India back to U.S. soil. This warning follows Foxconn’s recent $1.5 billion investment in India, aligning with Apple’s broader strategy to diversify manufacturing amid ongoing global trade instability. Trump’s remarks, made while visiting the Middle East, highlight his growing frustration with American companies shifting operations overseas to sidestep tariffs. He has also targeted other giants like Walmart, demanding they absorb tariff…

Closed-loop systems are a key sustainability goal across many fields, and gardening is no exception. When planning your garden, it’s essential to be mindful of consumption. Purchasing excessive materials and supplies can undermine the positive environmental impact your garden aims to achieve. What is Closed-Loop Gardening? Closed-loop gardening is about designing a garden system that functions continuously without relying on outside inputs—except natural resources like sunlight, rain, and your own time and effort. Instead of depending on purchased seeds, materials, or chemicals, a closed-loop garden works in harmony with nature, sustaining itself through internal processes. This self-sustaining approach minimizes waste…

High blood pressure is not just about salt; many hidden causes contribute to its rise. Added sugars, loneliness, sleep apnea, and low potassium intake can all elevate blood pressure, often silently. Acute pain and certain herbal supplements may also interfere with blood pressure regulation, while thyroid problems can alter heart function and vessel flexibility. Even simple factors like bladder fullness affect readings, emphasizing the importance of accurate monitoring. Recognizing and addressing these diverse influences, along with lifestyle changes and medical care, is essential for effective blood pressure management and reducing long-term cardiovascular risk. The Larger Perspective You’ve likely been advised…

Jupiter is renowned for its colossal size. Spanning more than 88,800 miles in diameter, it’s the largest planet in our solar system—11 times wider than Earth and twice as massive as all the other planets combined. However, new research suggests this gas giant was once even more immense. Based on studies of some of its tiniest moons, scientists now estimate that Jupiter may have been more than twice its current size, boasting a magnetic field 50 times stronger than it is today. These staggering proportions weren’t just for show—they played a critical role in sculpting the solar system as we…

The FTC just rested its case following weeks of testimony in a landmark antitrust case against Meta. But before Meta can begin its defense, the company’s lawyers have opted for another move: asking the judge to throw out the case entirely. Meta Pushes for Dismissal On Thursday, Meta’s legal team filed a motion urging U.S. District Judge James Boasberg to throw out the FTC’s lawsuit. The company argues that the FTC has failed to prove Meta engaged in anti-competitive behavior. “Meta has created two promising mobile apps with uncertain futures—apps that have since become global successes, used by nearly half…

Every so often, on an otherwise pleasant day with a gentle breeze, you might see a weather alert pop up on your phone or TV. Don’t dismiss it—it’s probably a fire weather warning. That means the current conditions are ripe for wildfires to ignite and spread. Fire weather can happen year-round, but it’s most common in late summer and fall when the air turns drier and natural fuels like fallen leaves and dormant vegetation become more abundant. While fire weather is a global phenomenon, it’s hazardous in wildfire-prone regions such as the western United States, Australia, Africa, and the Amazon.…

Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that shields your face from both UVA and UVB rays is essential for adequate protection. Applying sunscreen generously—especially to your face and neck—is key to minimizing the risk of sun damage. A simple trick: everyday items can help you measure the right amount of sunscreen to use for optimal coverage. Use a Teaspoon or Dime as Your Guide Measuring spoons aren’t just for the kitchen—they’re handy for sunscreen too.To protect your face and neck, aim for about 1/4 teaspoon of sunscreen, roughly the size of a dime. Add more if needed to ensure complete coverage. Use…

New research suggests that therapy aimed at managing emotional responses can significantly reduce chronic physical pain. By addressing the emotional triggers behind persistent discomfort, patients may find lasting relief without relying solely on medication or traditional pain management methods. Chronic Pain and Emotion Regulation Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for more than three months, affecting approximately 20% to 30% of the population. While pain is typically perceived as a physical experience, it is deeply intertwined with emotional responses. Emotional Regulation as a Path to Pain Relief Researchers set out to investigate a compelling question: Can learning to…

Highlights of the Hubble Space Telescope Celebrating 35 Years of the Hubble Space Telescope On April 24, 1990, the Space Shuttle Discovery lifted off from Kennedy Space Center, carrying with it one of the most groundbreaking scientific instruments ever created—the Hubble Space Telescope. Positioned in low-Earth orbit about 320 miles above the planet, Hubble was placed high above Earth’s turbulent atmosphere, where it could observe the universe with unprecedented clarity. Despite encountering early technical challenges, the telescope has gone on to transform our understanding of the cosmos over the past 35 years. From unveiling the earliest stages of galaxy formation…