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Big change for California small businesses: No more SBA loans for non-citizens
Non-U.S. citizens lose access to SBA funding for small businesses, which provide the bulk of new jobs in California.
Ruby Ridge Book Explores Roots of American Conspiracy Politics at Vroman’s Tonight
Author Chris Jennings will discuss his critically acclaimed book “End of Days: Ruby Ridge, the Apocalypse, and the Unmaking of America” at Vroman’s Bookstore on Monday, March 30, in a 7 p.m. conversation with journalist and author Jim Newton, a Pasadena resident. The book, published in February by Little, Brown and Company, examines the 1992 Ruby Ridge standoff — in which federal agents surveilled a cabin in Boundary County, Idaho, as part of an operation to arrest white separatist Randy Weaver — and traces a line from that 11-day siege to the conspiratorial politics that now mark American public life. By the time Weaver surrendered, his wife, his son, and a U.S. Marshal were dead. Jennings, a former editorial staffer at The New Yorker and the author of “Paradise Now: The Story of American Utopianism,” argues that the strain of apocalyptic Christianity that gripped the Weaver family can be traced to biblical prophecy readings dating to the 1870s and through the rise of 20th-century fundamentalism, according to the publisher’s description. The events at Ruby Ridge, Jennings contends, acted as an accelerant for this worldview. The New York Times Book Review called the book a thoroughly researched chronicle written with precision, according to a review published in February. Kirkus Reviews described it as a vivid reconstruction of a pivotal moment in the history of right-wing extremism. Newton, who will lead the conversation, spent 25 years at the Los Angeles Times as a reporter, editor, bureau chief, and columnist, including a stint as editor of the editorial pages from 2007 through 2010. He is the author of four books, including biographies of Chief Justice Earl Warren and Gov. Jerry Brown. Newton teaches at UCLA, where he founded Blueprint magazine, and is a columnist for CalMatters. He received the American Political Science Association’s
Would the Browns benefit from trading Myles Garrett? It’s complicated
While sources have tried to calm Myles Garrett trade rumors, Cleveland Browns should at least think about the benefits
Young voters shake Italy’s political calm as referendum exposes tensions for Giorgia Meloni
Prime minister is scrambling to clean up her government after youth vote powered a damaging referendum defeat
Tech giants are spending more than ever to shape California politics. See how much
Tech giants involved in AI and cryptocurrency spent $39 million last year to influence lawmakers and policy. It's the start of what could be a spending blitz in the upcoming election.
Judge rejects Green Party candidate’s bid to appear on California governor ballots
California Green Party candidate Butch Ware failed to submit correct tax returns in time to appear on the June ballot for governor, a judge ruled Thursday.
Patients are often left ‘out of network’ as hospitals, insurers clash over cost
Insurance companies want hospitals to agree to reimbursements that don’t keep pace with rising costs. Hospitals often can’t afford that.
Stop Powering Through Travel — Use These Protocols High Performers Rely On
Travel is engineered to throw you off. These are the non-negotiables and founder-tested protocols that help you land calmer, stay clear and show up sharp.
Linux 7.0-rc5 Released: Linux 7.0 "Starting To Calm Down"
Linus Torvalds just issued Linux 7.0-rc5 as we inch toward the stable Linux 7.0 kernel release in April.
Microsoft says it'll make Windows 11 a calmer OS with fewer upsells or ads, as it tries to win back users
Microsoft has now confirmed it’s scaling back “upsells” (or ads/recommendations) in Windows 11, as it tries to win back users.
Labor unions' influence in LA mayor's race is harder to predict this year
As Mayor Karen Bass vies to keep her seat, she has a liberal opponent and a more complicated relationship with some labor leaders.
California leaders lionized César Chávez. Now, they face a reckoning with his past
Leaders up and down California, many of whom were personally inspired by his life’s work, are grappling with multiple allegations of sexual assault by Cesar Chávez.
Alisson Becker Shines as Liverpool Held by Tottenham at Anfield
Liverpool 1 – 1 Tottenham – Premier League Man of the MatchAlisson Becker – Liverpool FCSteven Smith’s Pre-match Prediction;Liverpool 4 – 1 TottenhamWhen Liverpool required calm, authority a...
10 projects from Newsom’s mental health bond were supposed to open in 2025. That didn’t happen
CalMatters reports that California’s $6.4 billion mental health bond has not opened any of its first projects, even as Gov. Gavin Newsom says it is beating its goals. The state has missed its target...
10 projects from Newsom's mental health bond were supposed to open in 2025. That didn't happen
Projects supposed to offer mental health and substance use care to foster youth, new mothers, unhoused people and others have been delayed or cancelled.
Nine tips to help you cope during turbulent times
Nine science-backed techniques to help you cope and find some calm in turbulent times.
San Diego County sues ICE after it blocked health inspection at detention center
San Diego County is suing the Trump administration, alleging it illegally blocked officials from inspecting ICE detention centers.There have been ‘alarming reports’ about unsafe conditions inside the centers.
Trump Seeks to Calm Oil and Gas Markets but Says Iran War Will Go On
The president said the U.S. could accompany tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary to keep oil flowing. “We’ve already won in many ways, but we haven’t won enough,” he said.
California cut health care for undocumented immigrants. One lawmaker wants it back
Democrats and Republicans criticize Gov. Gavin Newsom’s handling of health care for undocumented immigrants for different reasons. One lawmaker is trying to restore health care services he cut.
It was John Wayne’s political club. Now it’s spending millions on online influence
A foundation linked to the Lincoln Club started local news sites critics find dubious. How John Wayne's old group became major influencers.
From manager’s graveyard to Europe: Bundesliga coach’s epic comeback
When Manuel Baum stepped in as coach at FC Augsburg on December 1, he was really only supposed to bring one thing to the club: calm. Nothing more. No major tactical revolutions, no wild experiments. J...
Trump’s Medicaid work mandate could kick thousands of homeless Californians off coverage
A majority of California’s roughly 180,000 people experiencing homelessness have health insurance through Medi-Cal. Providers predict that many will lose insurance under President Donald Trump’s upcoming work mandates even if they qualify for exemptions.
How These Three AI Healthcare Companies Are Restoring The Human Touch
Healthcare is chaotic for patients, families, and clinicians. AI steps in to restore what really matters: human connection, clarity, and calm.
Republicans blame Carl DeMaio for party division as his group rakes in millions
Assemblymember Carl DeMaio riles fellow GOP members while his Reform California political group works to become the key power broker for California’s Republican Party.
For California Democrats, single-payer health care is back. Voters have heard it before
Candidates for governor are promising universal public health care, which might sound familiar to California voters who've heard it before.
California businesses and left-leaning groups clash on the ballot and in court
This year's contests of businesses versus liberal groups include corporate and wealth tax proposals and requirements for greenhouse gas emission reports.
CalMatters named a finalist in Toner Prize for Excellence in Local Political Reporting
The Toner Prizes, awarded by the Newhouse School, recognize the best political reporting and are named after Robin Toner ’76, the first woman to hold the position of national political correspondent for The New York Times.
Common Arthritis Drug Found To Lower Blood Pressure and Boost Heart Health
A widely used treatment for rheumatoid arthritis may offer an unexpected cardiovascular benefit. Methotrexate has been a staple treatment for rheumatoid arthritis for decades, valued for its ability to calm an overactive immune system and reduce painful joint inflammation. Now, researchers say it m
Calmatters: Californians Are Staying Insured But Settling For Health Coverage They May Not Use
CalMatters
Newsom threatens California counties for failing to use his new mental health court
Gov. Gavin Newsom threatened to pull funding from counties that aren’t taking advantage of a new program intended to help people with severe mental illness.
Measles is back in California. Health departments are fighting it with less.
California is battling measles outbreaks across seven counties as federal funding cuts gut local health departments and vaccine skepticism fuels spread among unvaccinated children.
California GOP lawmakers are incensed over a gas tax study bill. Rural groups say they need it
As more electric vehicles hit the road, California could collect billions less from gas tax revenue to repair them. But even a bill to study options could be a huge political lift for Democrats.
What happens at Dollywood when Dolly Parton’s park closes for winter?
Dollywood is anything but quiet and calm during its “off-season.” Here’s how crews reset and rebuild the park to welcome guests for another year.
Californians are staying insured — but settling for health coverage they may not use
Covered California enrollment fell 2.7% following the end of enhanced federal premium assistance. That’s better than expected, but many people are making concessions to afford staying insured.
California Democrats back establishment candidates despite progressive pushback
California Democrats endorsed aging incumbents and party insiders over grassroots challengers, disappointing progressives.
Markets are churning furiously beneath a calm surface
AI is prompting investors to reassess every business model under the sun
A former political ally tests LA liberals’ allegiance to Mayor Karen Bass
Mayor Karen Bass isn't vulnerable on her right, but she may be on her left, as City Councilmember Nithya Raman, a Democratic Socialist and ex-supporter, runs against her.
How an aging California is turning to senior centers for romance, community and health
No two senior centers are alike. We visited three very different venues in L.A. to learn how they're changing to meet the needs of California's aging population.
Mental health A&E unit 'helps patients be seen within 15 minutes'
Karalyn, a patient, says she prefers the Ladbroke Grove centre as there's more certainty and calm.
Al Roker Offers Words of Encouragement After a Tough Week in Calming Instagram Videos
“It’s going to be another week, and we just have to get in there and get it done,” Al said.
Macron urges calm after activist's death sparks political clash
French President Emmanuel Macron urged calm and restraint at the weekend after an activist died from injuries sustained during a beating, an incident that has become a political flashpoint.
CA sues Trump over public health funds
The Trump administration has ordered the CDC to rescind public health funds from California. Now the state is suing to block the clawback.
What is Pokopia? Inside the calming Pokémon game that ditches battles for gardening
We explore the cosy world-building spin-off with Game Freak’s Shigeru Ohmori and his fellow developers – and learn how it began with a Pokémon-hunting dream
California sues as Trump cuts $600M in public health grants to four states
California, Colorado, Illinois and Minnesota argue the cuts are politically motivated and would harm HIV programs, emergency preparedness and more.
Mental health advocate for California tribes dies in murder-suicide
Celinda Gonzales of the Yurok Tribe worked to prevent suicides among Native Americans after experiencing loss in her family. She "was a friend to many”.
Hospitals’ opaque pricing is crushing California’s small businesses
Hospitals often charge California’s small businesses more than Medicare for the same treatments and tack on hidden “facilities fees.”
Los Angeles voters are moving ever leftward, shifting election politics in America’s second-largest city
By Jim Newton, CalMatters This commentary was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters. How liberal is Los Angeles? That question is very much on the minds of political insiders and observers these days as the city turns to its municipal elections and makes important decisions about its
Experts Warn: The Dangerous Blur Between Science and Wellness in Mental Health Bestsellers
A marketplace where labels blur In many bookstores, titles rooted in clinical science sit inches from glossy self-help guides promising instant serenity. That proximity can make rigorous research look interchangeable with lifestyle advice, especially when everything shares the same bright displays. Readers encounter a single aisle labeled “psychology,” even when the content ranges from peer-reviewed evidence to spiritual rituals. The result is a subtle but pervasive blur, turning a complex health landscape into a grab-bag of mixed claims. Why the shelves can mislead Retail categories are built for convenience, not for methodological clarity or clinical accuracy. When “development personal” or “wellness” becomes the default bin, evidence-based psychology competes with coaching manifestos and mystical manuals. The visual language of covers—calming color palettes, confident subtitles, glowing endorsements—flattens the distinction between randomized trials and anecdotal wisdom. In that aesthetic harmony, a guide on cognitive behavioral therapy may appear no more “serious” than a book on moon manifestation. The stakes for readers and patients Confusion carries real risks, including delayed care when people self-treat serious symptoms with untested routines. Vulnerable readers—facing depression, trauma, or anxiety—may be swayed by charismatic voices over careful data. Some messages frame recovery as pure willpower, which can amplify shame when symptoms persist despite effort. Others overpromise universal solutions, ignoring cultural context, diagnostic nuance, and comorbidity. “Shelving is not neutral; it shapes beliefs, expectations, and choices.” What professionals and retailers are asking Clinicians and public-health experts argue for clear, readable signage that separates science-based mental health from broader wellness. Books by licensed psychiatrists or psychologists that cite peer-reviewed studies could be grouped under “Evidence-Based Mental Health.” Adjacent space might host reflective memoirs, coaching workbooks, or contemplative philosophy—valuable in their way, but clearly labeled as non-clinical guidance. Booksellers emphasize their dual role as cultural curators and commercial actors, noting they respond to demand while striving for quality standards. How clarity could look and feel The goal is not to police ideas, but to help readers navigate with confidence. Transparent categorization respects reader autonomy while lifting the signal of credible practice. Clear tags—such as “scientific references,” “clinical overview,” or “personal narrative”—can work like map legends, turning a maze into a route. And when a book blends modes, hybrid labels can acknowledge both insight and limitation. A practical checklist for choosing wisely Check the author’s credentials: clinical license, academic affiliation, or relevant training. Scan the references: citations to peer-reviewed journals or reputable guidelines. Look for scope limits: clear statements about who the book is and isn’t for, and when to seek care. Seek methods, not miracles: approaches tested across diverse groups, with measurable outcomes. Watch the language: be wary of absolute claims, stigmatizing tones, or one-size-fits-all promises. Cross-verify with trusted bodies: national psychology associations or public-health agencies. The publisher’s responsibility Publishers can raise the bar by standardizing disclosure on methods, sample sizes, and limitations. Editorial policies could require conflict-of-interest statements, transparent citations, and plain-language summaries of evidence. Marketing should avoid medicalized framing for books that lack clinical validation, even when sales incentives press for bold claims. When a manuscript mixes reflection with research, honest jacket copy can prevent false equivalence. Coexisting without confusion Wellness writing can offer genuine comfort, perspective, and daily habits that support well-being. Scientific texts can provide structured tools, validated therapies, and realistic expectations for progress. The aim is to let these strands coexist, while giving readers the navigational cues to tell them apart. With clearer shelves, informed labels, and modest design tweaks, we can protect reader trust—and keep the aisle both inviting and intelligent.
Work Matters: What to do if ICE arrives at your business
Whether an audit or raid, it is important to try to respond professionally and calmly. Employers do have certain rights and the general requirement to protect their employees.
Honor, Nothing, and Google Pixel were some of 2025’s fastest-growing phone brands
The 2025 smartphone market ended on a high note, acting as the calm before the storm with brands including Google...
Los Angeles voters are moving ever leftward, shifting election politics in America’s second-largest city
Among the signs: LA’s Democratic Socialists are flexing new muscle, police limits and mansion taxes are popular, and ICE raids are galvanizing voters.
Listen: What happens when mentally ill Californians refuse to be treated?
One of Gov. Newsom's signature mental health programs was meant to bring treatment to people who refused it. So far, it's helping fewer Californians than many hoped.
Parents of trans kids ask: Does California really protect our rights?
AG Bonta's lawsuit against Rady Children's relies on a merger contract, not civil rights law—leaving trans families wondering what protections work
CalMatters’ “visionary” co-founder, Dave Lesher, retires
Co-founder Dave Lesher turned CalMatters into one of California’s most influential newsrooms — and launched new tools to make your government transparent
'We have weaknesses': How covering sports is like raising kid athletes
Top athletes, like our kids, are more human being than prodigy. Sometimes parents, and their kids who play sports, just need to calm down.
CA groups seek local taxes to offset federal health care cuts
An L.A. health care coalition is trying to qualify a measure for the June ballot in order to head off impending health care funding problems.
Coalition seeks LA County sales tax vote to offset federal healthcare funding cuts
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors will consider whether to place a half-cent sales tax measure in front of voters. Revenues would be used to create a coverage program for people who lose their Medi-Cal.
Trump's response to Pretti killing upends Second Amendment politics : Here & Now Anytime
Alex Pretti was legally carrying a gun when a federal agent shot and killed him in Minneapolis last weekend. President Trump and other federal officials blamed his death on the fact that he had a gun, but Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus chair Bryan Strawser explains why he disagrees.And, after leading immigration operations in Minneapolis, Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino has returned to his previous job in California. CalMatters investigative reporter Sergio Olmos talks about Bovino’s record in California.
California mental health hospitals warn over cuts after state hands down staffing rules
Psychiatric hospitals could close beds under proposed state rules if regulators don’t allow implementation time, facilities warn.
Feds drop effort to get trans patients' records from LA children's hospital
After families sued, the Justice Department agreed to withdraw its subpoena for personal and medical information of transgender patients at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Advocates called it a "fishing expedition" without evidence of wrongdoing.
How a fiery Scott Bessent calmed market nerves over Greenland
Scott Bessent was everywhere in Davos.
Barcelona complete signing of highly-rated African talent talent
Barcelona can finally relax after securing the signing of Hamza Abdelkarim, a move that had required patience, calm negotiation and, above all, the player’s desire to wear the Blaugrana shirt. Acco...
Lobbyists and lawmakers mingle over luxury tequila, shrimp and cigars at capital party
Cigars, bourbon, free food and drinks. Welcome to the glitzy annual “back to session bash,” where special interests wine and dine lawmakers.
Ed Miliband defends Starmer’s ‘calm’ response to Trump as world leaders amp up rhetoric
‘Keir Starmer’s leadership is absolutely right on this and I think at this stage, it’s about de-escalation and finding a way through this tricky situation,’ the energy secretary said
Starmer’s calm diplomacy makes mistake of assuming Trump is a sentient being
PM’s effort to take heat out of Greenland situation is yet another humiliation in his relationship with The Donald
California families face life-or-death health care cuts. Billionaires can afford to pitch in
Medi-Cal faces a $30 million gutting, so unions and advocates want to put a wealth tax targeting billionaires on the ballot.
U.S. Lawmakers Meet With Danish Prime Minister on Greenland
Seeking to calm tensions, Republicans and Democrats affirmed that they supported Denmark’s control of Greenland as President Trump vowed to buy it or take it over.
How Altadena businesses are trying to recover from the Eaton Fire
A year after the deadly Eaton Fire, Altadena business owners aim to return while also dealing with rebuilding their homes.
New research challenges the cold dark matter assumption
Dark matter, one of the Universe’s greatest mysteries, may have been born blazing hot instead of cold and sluggish as scientists long believed. New research shows that dark matter particles could have been moving near the speed of light shortly after the Big Bang, only to cool down later and still help form galaxies. By focusing on a chaotic early era known as post-inflationary reheating, researchers reveal that “red-hot” dark matter could survive long enough to become the calm, structure-building force we see today.
RIP Frank Traylor — a model for political life
It is with great sadness I read of the death of Frank Traylor. From the moment we met at the beginning of the 1975 legislative session, I knew he was special. As a doctor, he knew medical issues better than any of us but what made him so effective was his calm personality and his […]
The Golden Globes were calm, scripted and largely apolitical amid a world on fire
Perhaps the 83rd Annual Golden Globes decided to lean into dry January.
Kevin Rennie: A CT town with fractious politics like no other
Some years the battle moves to choosing members of the party’s town committee, though recently all was calm at the local Democratic caucus.
The under-the-radar labor market chart scaring economists right now
Is the US labor market in the calm before the storm? Economists say the Beveridge curve is the signal to watch.
‘Business as usual’: NH officials urge child care providers to remain calm amid funding threats
New Hampshire child care providers are being urged not to panic by state officials and lawmakers as news spreads that the Trump administration froze federal child care subsidies in five Democrat-run states earlier this week.
The Doug LaMalfa I covered: Authentic, cranky and deeply caring
A longtime North State reporter reflects on the life of Doug LaMalfa, a politician unlike any other.
Metro sports bar sees calm crowd for last Chiefs game
As the Chiefs took on the Raiders in Las Vegas Sunday afternoon, fans tuned in to watch the last game of the season. Some who opted to go out to enjoy the game made their way to The Peanut in Mission, where employees say they always gear up for game day.
A "herculean" genetic study just found a new way to treat ADHD
Attention depends on the brain’s ability to filter out distractions, but new research suggests this works best when background brain activity is quieter. Scientists found that lowering certain versions of the Homer1 gene improved focus in mice by calming neural noise. The effect was strongest during a critical developmental window. This approach could inspire new treatments for ADHD that work by reducing mental clutter instead of increasing stimulation.
Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (CALM): A Deep Value Commodity Business
As part of our ongoing series at The Acquirer’s Multiple, each week we spotlight a stock from our Stock Screeners that may represent a deeply undervalued opportunity hiding in plain sight. This week’s spotlight is Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (CALM) — the largest producer and distributor of shell eggs in the … Read More
Business as usual: Inside Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski’s calm amid swirling job rumors
Despite reports linking the Browns to Miami's offensive guru Mike McDaniel, Cleveland's head coach remains unwavering in his approach, earning respect from players during uncertain times.
Newsom's 2025: Wildfire crisis, budget cuts and bombastic opposition to Trump
Gavin Newsom's year included the aftermath of the LA fires, budget cuts, Trump battles and a Prop 50 win. What's next for California's governor in his final year?
What’s next for Medi-Cal? A former state health leader weighs in • The Mendocino Voice
‘What does the future look like?’: As California braces for Medicaid cuts, former health secretary to lead new commission in creating plan to protect care
New California law expands Newsom’s mental health court
A new law taking effect on Jan. 1, 2026 expands CARE Court, a mental health program launched by Gov. Gavin Newsom, to include people diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Federal cuts and reversals upend California health care in 2025
California health care faced major cuts in 2025 as federal Medicaid funding dropped and ACA subsidies stalled, threatening millions.
She goes to police calls in a Prius. It’s part of a new approach to mental health emergencies
Briana Fair, a mental health clinician with the San Mateo Police Department, received a dozen voicemails from the same distressed caller over a single weekend this month.
This tiny peptide could help stop brain damage after injury
A four–amino acid peptide called CAQK has shown powerful brain-protective effects in animal models of traumatic brain injury. Delivered through a standard IV, it zeroes in on injured brain tissue, calming inflammation and reducing cell death while improving recovery. The peptide worked in both mice and pigs, whose brains are closer to humans in structure. Researchers are now preparing to move toward early human clinical trials.
Protecting California’s public lands from oil and gas drilling is defending public health
Federal plans for oil drilling along a million acres in California would change healthful, wild spaces into sources of pollution and illness.
Nine mental-health tips for a happier 2026
Regardless of any resolutions you may have for 2026, one thing is for sure: Everyone wants to have a happy new year.While losing weight or saving money may be great goals, the most straightforward path to happiness is caring for your mental and emotional health. A robust body of research shows that simple cognitive and behavioral strategies can reliably boost happiness and reduce stress – and they’re generally free and accessible to all.These strategies don’t have to be super time-consuming, but they do require intention: They only work if you do them.Here, psychologist Valentina Ogaryan, PhD, clinical director of the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, shares her top tips for cultivating more calm, centeredness and happiness in the new year (or anytime):Make time for playPlay isn’t just for kids, and it’s far from frivolous. The National Institute for Play says engaging in silliness, fun and just-for-pleasure activities reduces stress and increases optimism and resilience. A recent review also found that play improves mental health.“Adults can benefit from play as much as children,” Dr. Ogaryan says, “not just as a reward, but something that helps regulate.”So go ahead and dance with your dog, build something with Legos, tell a joke, sing karaoke or do anything else that feels like fun. Don’t worry about being productive, just enjoy yourself. And, if you can, opt for more analog play, Dr. Ogaryan suggests, as a respite from our ever-more-digital world. Move your bodyWhether you dance, ski, do yoga, play pickleball, ride a bike, roller-skate, hike or lift weights, physical movement benefits overall happiness and well-being. A 2018 review study of more than 1.2 million adults in the U.S. found that doing any kind of exercise was “significantly and meaningfully associated” with better self-reported mental health.The sweet spot was 45 minutes of movement three to five times a week, but even short bursts of physical activity can boost brain health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.“Movement helps support mood and regulate the nervous system,” Dr. Ogaryan says.Plus: exercise can improve sleep quality, and sleep is essential for mental health.Prioritize sleep“Sleep plays a major role in managing stress,” Dr. Ogaryan says. Research shows that lack of sufficient sleep increases the risk of various diseases, including depression.While stress can interfere with sleep, practicing good sleep hygiene can make logging ZZ’s easier. That means maintaining a consistent bedtime; keeping the bedroom cool, dark and quiet; and avoiding social media, news and stimulating shows before bed.Consume lessWe live in a consumer culture, inundated by endless streams of content and advertising everywhere we go, which makes it easy to get overstimulated.“Something really helpful for stress reduction is to simply consume less,” Dr. Ogaryan says – less news, less social media, less information, less noise, less screen time. “It’s about reducing the input,” she says.Consider setting a maximum number of news articles per day, for example, or a time limit on scrolling. Maybe even go device free for an afternoon or a whole day.Practice present-moment awarenessWith so much coming at us all the time, focusing on the here and now can make life feel more manageable, Dr. Ogaryan says: “When everything feels super overwhelming, when everything feels larger than life, let’s make our world a little bit smaller for that moment in time.”She suggests taking things one day, or even one hour, at a time. Ask yourself: What’s my next right action? Release the need to know how everything turns out and liberate yourself from having to handle everything right now. Let the future take care of itself and just focus on the current moment. Then the next one. Have a daily anchorFrom work to the daily commute to family and life responsibilities, our days can feel jam-packed. Dr. Ogaryan recommends creating a centering daily anchor that can fit into even the busiest day.Maybe it’s a 10-minute walk during your lunch break or mindfully enjoying your coffee in the morning. Let your anchor adapt to your needs each day, she says, but be intentional about using that time to ground yourself and calm your nervous system. You might even say to yourself, “I choose this walk to help me become centered,” or “My day already feels stressful, so I’m going to take the next 10 minutes to enjoy this cup of coffee, feel the warm mug in my hand and just be present.” Having an anchor won’t erase the busy-ness from your day, but it will allow you to approach it more calmly.Be kind to yourselfMost of us have a harsh inner critic in our heads who works overtime. But that critical voice only increases our stress, triggering the same fight-or-flight response as caustic words from another person.To feel happier, we need to replace that inner critic with a kinder, more compassionate voice, Dr. Ogaryan says. Studies show that self-compassion is a source of eudaimonic happiness – the kind of happiness associated with purpose and meaning in life.While our knee-jerk reaction may be to self-criticize – “How could you let it get to this point? You didn’t manage your time well and now the project is going to be late. You’re so inept.” – we fare better mentally by treating ourselves with kindness, like we would a friend. That might sound like, “You’ve got a lot on your plate, but you are capable and you’ll get it done. I believe in you.”We may think that speaking kindly to ourselves means letting ourselves off the hook, so we end up becoming lazy do-nothings. But research shows the opposite: People who are self-compassionate are more likely to try harder in the face of failure and ultimately reach their goals.You can thank your inner critic for its good intentions, but resolve to talk to yourself in a kind, compassionate voice.Connect with othersHumans are social animals built for connection. Stress can be isolating and cause us to withdraw, but connecting with others is a salve for the psyche, Dr. Ogaryan says.“We know that not all relationships are always easy, but if we can think about intentional, nourishing connection – even in really small doses – it could really help center us,” she says.Take a moment to laugh with your colleagues, hug your pet, have a conversation with a friend or smile at the barista making your coffee. A study found that even tiny interactions with casual acquaintances and strangers decreases loneliness and improves happiness and well-being.Seek supportIf you try these practices and happiness remains elusive, or if you can’t access the wherewithal to follow these tips, seek support from your physician or a therapist. Mental health conditions are among the most common health issues in the U.S. and around the world – more prevalent than diabetes or heart disease. One in five people in the U.S. experiences a mental illness each year, with depression and anxiety the most common, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.“We can all think about these tips,” Dr. Ogaryan says. “But it’s important to recognize if you’ve done everything you can and you’re still really struggling, it’s really important to seek help.”
'The ambition around the club feels different now'
Ethan Ampadu was immense, setting the tempo from the back and leading like a proper captain, calm in possession but aggressive when it mattered. The atmosphere lifted every time he stepped in to break up play. The free transfer signing of Dominic Calvert-Lewin already looks inspired.
She goes to police calls in a Prius. It's part of new approach to mental health emergencies
San Mateo adopted a new approach to mental health 911 calls by pairing police with mental health clinicians. Researchers found that it reduced the number of future mental health emergency calls and involuntary psychiatric holds by roughly 17%.
Some Republicans defied Mike Johnson on Obamacare subsidies. How will he respond?
WASHINGTON — House Speaker Mike Johnson’s usual calm expression hardened last week after learning that a handful of Republicans had joined a Democratic effort to force a vote on extending
Daily Business Report: Friday, December 19, 2025, San Diego Metro Magazine
How CARE Court lost its teeth in the California Legislature By Yue Stella Yu and Erica Yee | CalMatters Three years ago, Gov. Gavin Newsom called for a
California's solution for senior health care hides in plain sight
PACE lets seniors stay out of nursing homes and still receive a variety of health and home services. Too few people know about it.
'False hope': Why families who celebrated California's new mental health court feel let down by it
Ronda Deplazes thought Gov. Newsom's CARE Court could save her son as he struggled with mental illness. Almost three years later, she and other families say little has changed for them.
CA hires former CDC officials to lead new public health org
Two high-profile former CDC officials have been hired to helm the Public Health Network Innovation Exchange, a new organization about which little is known.
KRCB 2-WAY: CalMatters politics reporter on Mike McGuire's congressional run
Northern California Public Media
Rob Reiner was more than a Hollywood legend. He helped shape California politics
The slain actor and director’s impact on California is felt far beyond Hollywood. Here’s how he helped shaped politics
Netflix executives seek to calm fears over multibillion-dollar Warner Bros. deal
Netflix co-chief executives Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters say the streamer will only see a slight increase in share of TV viewing with their proposal.
Prison health workers are among the best-paid public employees. Why are so many jobs vacant?
California spent hundreds of millions on high-paying prison and hospital healthcare jobs, auditors found -- but vacancy rates rose since 2019, exceeding 30% at three facilities despite bonuses and pay raises.
Why Biya's victory damages Cameroon's electoral integrity
Cameroon looks calm — but the disputed election has shaken citizen's faith in the electoral system. Tomaino Ndam Njoya, the only female presidential candidate, joins us Under the Baobab, explains why there were no winners in Cameroon's election, and reveals surprising ways Cameroon's political elite can try to rebuild trust with the electorate.
AI doctors will be good at science but bad at business, and big talk with little action means even higher drugs prices: 10 healthcare predictions for 2026 from top investors
We hope 2026 is calmer after tariffs, public health chaos, and the cancellation of billions of research funding and health coverage support for millions.