New fact sheet highlights connections between youth vaping and mental health (UNDATED)
A new fact sheet from the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health highlights the link between youth vaping and mental health concerns. Director Linda Hall says about one-third of high school students report vaping, often because of curiosity or stress. But Hall says the nicotine-packed devices can actually create a cycle of dependence and anxiety. She notes a single vape can contain nicotine equivalent to hundreds of cigarettes. The fact sheet and resources for parents are available on the OCMH website.
Disability advocate travels from Fox Valley to State Capitol via wheelchair to warn about proposed Medicaid cuts (MADISON)
A Wisconsin disability advocate is warning proposed Medicaid cuts could have far-reaching consequences. Carl Schulze, who traveled 125 miles by wheelchair from the Fox Valley to the State Capitol, says disability can affect anyone through injury, illness, or aging. He argues Medicaid-funded home and community-based services help people remain independent and avoid institutional care. Schulze joined other advocates in Madison urging state leaders to protect programs that support people with disabilities in their homes and communities.
New federal law reveals hazing on UW campuses (UNDATED)
A new federal law reveals hazing incidents on UW campuses. UW-Madison recently posted detailed descriptions of nine hazing incidents involving Greek organizations between 2021 and 2025. Reported hazing included forced pushups, eating raw onions and performing to children’s music. The Stop Campus Hazing Act requires universities to publicly disclose hazing violations and update reports twice a year. UW-Green Bay and UW-Whitewater also reported incidents. UW-Madison has reported no cases of hazing so far this year.
Watch out for fad diets being sold by influencers, says UW scientist (UNDATED)
If a TikTok account or social media influencer is trying to get you to change your diet, be careful. UW Extension Food Health scientist Dr. Beth Olsen says many influencers are just trying to sell you a meal plan or supplement. Before you make any major changes to your diet or take a supplement, consult your doctor to make sure you aren’t going to be doing damage to yourself. Olsen says going it alone carries the risk of cutting out something you may need in your diet or doing serious harm without realizing it.