
Michelle Obama tells parents they must get tougher on kids' social media use despite the 'pain'
Obama spoke with social psychologist and author Jonathan Haidt about his 2024 book, "The Anxious Generation," in which Haidt argues that extensive social media and smartphone use have harmful effects on children's brains and well-being. Kids who grew up with a "phone-based childhood" are more likely to encounter anxiety, depression and other mental health issues, he says.
During the hour-long discussion, Haidt talked about how social media rewires the brain by stimulating the release of the "reward" brain chemical, dopamine, which fuels an addiction to social media.
Obama said that parents need to realize that making tough parenting decisions on things like social media will lead to long-term benefits for their child, even though giving in to their kids' wants, or their own social media fixation, may be tempting in the moment.
"Parents suffer from this dopamine thing too when it comes to parenting. Because we want instant reward response from our children. We don't want to wait. We don't want to do the longer-haul thing. You know, a lot of times we have to ask ourselves, 'Are we doing this for our kids, or are we doing this for us?' Because we have the screen too," she said.
"And we're being trained on that instant gratification. Maybe the 90-minute story is a problem for us, because we can't sit still. The bottom line is that we've got to get tougher. We've got to get more resilient for our kids. Because I know time and time again that a lot of parents do what's easy for them, you know, and not necessarily what's best for the kid," she continued.
Obama told parents there would be "parental pain" that comes with this tough-love approach.
"We have to become a little more resilient as parents. We have to become tougher for the sake of our kids… It's not fun. All of it is going to be really, really hard, physically, emotionally, one of the toughest things you do," she warned.
"You will be disappointing them, and scaring them and making them hurt and arguing with them and doing all the things that you don't want to do with your best friends. But in the end, as parents, we are responsible for securing the safety and the health of the children we bring into this world. And that means, once we know that something isn't good for them… we've got to do the hard thing, we've got to take the substance from the addict," she said.
"And it's not going to be fun," she added.
Obama also told parents they shouldn't try to be "friends" with their kids.
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Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Medicaid, food aid recipients worry about safety net cuts in bill sent to Trump
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Supporters of the sweeping tax and spending legislation that Congress has sent to President Donald Trump say the changes to Medicaid, food aid and other programs will encourage personal responsibility and halt those scamming the system. Critics of the bill, given final congressional approval Thursday, say the requirements will upend lives. Here's a look at what people are saying about the bill. Work requirements added for accessing more federal benefits To enroll and stay on Medicaid, many ages 19 through 64 would be required to work, go to school or perform at least 80 hours of community service a month. The Medicaid work requirement would apply to people in 40 states who are enrolled through expanded access that states agreed to put in place since 2014. Ten states, including Texas and Florida, did not expand the program. For the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which already requires adults ages 18 to 55 to work, working would become mandatory for many until they turn 65. For both benefits, there would be exceptions, including for parents who are caregivers to children under age 14. Most people covered by Medicaid already meet the work requirement or qualify for an exception. The requirements are sparking worry for some enrollees Theresa Gibbs, who lost her job as a school bus driver, is enrolled in both Medicaid and SNAP. She likely would be exempt from the work mandate because she has three children under age 14. But Gibbs said she is applying for jobs anyway. 'I don't think people should just live off the state if they're perfectly capable to work,' said Gibbs, 34, of Jefferson City, Missouri. But the changes worry others. Amanda Hinton, 39, of St. Martins, Missouri, receives Medicaid and SNAP benefits. She puts in enough hours at a part-time gas station job to likely meet the new requirements but is concerned should her fibromyalgia, which causes pain and fatigue, keep her from working for a time. 'I'm panicked. I mean I have some chronic health conditions that are not curable, and I rely on my medication to help me just get through the day,' she said. 'And without my Medicaid, I couldn't afford these.' Brittany Phillips, 32, of Greensboro, North Carolina, said being on Medicaid has helped her stay afloat both financially and health-wise while she works a temporary, remote medical services job paying about $600 weekly. 'I do believe that Medicaid should be available for everyone regardless of who they are -- regardless of capacity, faculty -- everyone should have Medicaid,' she said. It's not just the work requirement; it's also the paperwork The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that 11.8 million fewer people could have health insurance by 2034 because of the changes, which also include booting off non-citizens who are not in the U.S. permanently and legally. And that doesn't include those who could lose coverage for other reasons. Advocates say that even people who are covered by exceptions to the work requirement could lose their Medicaid coverage. One major reason is a requirement that people's eligibility would be assessed at least every six months. 'Every additional paper someone has to submit separately from their application,' said Deborah Steinberg, a senior health policy analyst at the Legal Action Center, 'you lose people.' Julia Bennker, who runs an in-home daycare in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, relies on SNAP and Medicaid and has had paperwork issues under existing Medicaid requirements. She said that earlier this year, she didn't have health coverage for a month after she was told her forms were late — though she believes she submitted them on time. That meant going a month without therapy and needing to reschedule another appointment with a prescriber. Some of the conditions that would trigger exceptions — mental illness or substance use disorder — are not currently tallied in Medicaid computer systems. 'It's not like you wave a magic wand and everyone who should be exempt is exempt,' said Hannah Wesolowski, chief advocacy officer for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. States will face pressure - and deadlines - to revamp their programs State health care and social services agencies will have to rework their computer systems to account for the various changes while also dealing with federal funding reductions. That's cause for concern for some health care advocates. The legislation requires all states to shoulder more of the administrative costs of SNAP starting in 2027 and, for the first time, could force some states to pay for a portion of food assistance benefits starting in 2028. States also must implement the Medicaid work requirement by 2027. 'It will be a very tight and difficult timeline for many of these states,' said Sophia Tripoli, senior health policy director at Families USA, a health care advocacy organization. 'There's a huge cost burden on states from the administrative side just to stand up these systems.' Julieanne Taylor, a lawyer at the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy in North Carolina, said her organization's clients already face delays in verifications for the food program. 'To add more to them, it's going to be a disaster,' she said. 'It's going to cause people to drop off because they're like, 'I don't want to have to do this every year or every six months.'' Rural hospitals could face financial struggles The bill could also put rural hospitals at financial risk, experts say, because it seeks to cap the taxes that states impose on hospitals and other health care providers in a way that boosts Medicaid funding. The nonprofit KFF, which studies health care issues, estimates that Medicaid spending in rural areas would decrease by $155 billion over the next decade under the bill. 'While there are already a number of small and rural hospitals that are vulnerable,' said R. Kyle Kramer, CEO of Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam, Connecticut, 'it's going to lead to a lot of closures.' The bill includes a $50 billion fund to partially offset those reductions. Planned Parenthood would lose federal money Federal taxpayer money is already barred from paying for abortions in most cases. The bill would also ban federal funds going to Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion provider, for other purposes like family planning programs and cancer screenings. The group says that one-third of its roughly 600 clinics across the U.S. could face closure as a result of the legislation, and that states where abortion is legal would be hardest hit. At least one other group says it also stands to lose funding because of the provision. Maine Family Planning has 19 sites and subcontracts with other health care organizations, including Planned Parenthood, to provide services at other locations across the rural state. ___ Mulvihill reported from Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut, and Gary D. Robertson in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report.


Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
The Best Pregnancy Compression Socks To Relieve Swollen Legs And Feet
Pregnancy can mean the swelling of, well, just about everything—feet and legs included. The thought of a tight-fitting sock may not spark joy, but the best pregnancy compression socks are easy to get on and off, breathable and feel great all day long. They can increase blood flow and alleviate such conditions as leg edema or cramps, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and blood clots. Our top pick, the Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks, are breathable and comfortable and available in a wide range of sizes. If you want more than one pair to use for the duration of your pregnancy, our budget pick, the Charmking Compression Socks, comes in a convenient eight-pack. The best pregnancy compression socks are as comfortable as they are effective. Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers 'Compression socks are specialized stockings that help improve blood flow and support the lower legs and feet. It is often one of the recommendations for pregnant women who are experiencing uncomplicated bilateral swelling of the legs and feet,' says OB-GYN Dr. Donna G. Baick, an associate clinical professor at UC Irvine School of Medicine. 'For some, this edema can be painful and bothersome, leading to varicose veins.' After speaking with two OB-GYNs and other moms, we've curated the best pregnancy compression socks—read on to see why they stand out. Material: 91% nylon, 9% spandex | Sizes: Small, medium, large, x-large; regular and wide calf options | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg These comfortable compression socks are effective and comfortable. Made with a thin and breathable moisture-wicking nylon-blend fabric that's great for hot days, exercise, working from home or travel, it's a versatile pair you can use all pregnancy long. With 15 to 20 mmHG of graduated compression (meaning they're more compressive at the ankle, then less so as it goes up the leg), they're appropriate for most occasions. According to double board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Kecia Gaither of New York, 'Knee-high graduated compression socks are the most common and effective for pregnancy-related swelling and vein issues.' Padded heels and toes help prevent blisters and provide extra comfort for tired pregnancy feet. Forbes Vetted deputy editor and mom of two Jane Sung took several long-haul flights throughout her pregnancy and found these compression socks really helped prevent leg swelling. 'I like that the Comrad socks come in plenty of neutrals, cute stripes and some brighter colors if you want that,' she says, indicating the over 25 different patterns and colors it's available in. She does note that they're 'not the most fun to put on,' but that once they're on, 'you forget you're wearing them.' She also used them postpartum when she noticed ankle swelling. For added convenience, the Comrad socks are machine-washable and available in both regular and wide calf sizes. Amazon Sockwell Moderate Graduated Compression Sock Material: 32% merino wool, 31% bamboo rayon, 32% stretch nylon, 5% spandex | Sizes: Small/medium, medium/large | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg Legs and feet tend to swell while flying or sitting for a long time in a car or train, and pregnancy makes it that much worse. The moderate graduated compression (15 to 20 mmHG) of these Sockwell compression socks relieves uncomfortable legs and keeps blood circulating even when sitting for a long tim—without being too tight on top. A seamless toe means there's nothing to potentially irritate you on the inside. These breathable socks are made in the U.S. with a blend of merino wool, bamboo rayon, nylon and spandex. The brand offers a wide variety of compression socks in different firmness levels if you require more pressure and lots of fun patterns—which makes the decidedly unexciting idea of wearing compression socks a little more appealing. I've personally found the Sockwell compression socks to be durable and comfortable once on, helping with the typical leg swelling many people experience when they fly. They also have a great return policy: If for some reason you don't love them, you can return them for a full refund within 60 days. Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex | Sizes: Small/medium, large/x-large| Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg If you know you're at high risk for conditions like DVT or leg edema that require you to wear compression socks around the clock, you might not want to be shelling out $30+ for each pair. Charmking compression socks come in a pack of eight pairs for just $20, so there's always a clean pair waiting for you. With over 35 different styles to choose from, there's a pack to suit every aesthetic. The socks are available in small/medium or large/x-large sizes and offer a moderate amount of 15 to 20 mmHg pressure. It's a popular choice with over 13,000 5-star Amazon reviews for those seeking a budget-friendly option. Amazon Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks Material: 82% polyamide, 18% elastane | Sizes: Small, medium, large, x-large | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg The problem with many compression socks is that after a few hours, your legs or feet can start feeling a little sweaty due to the tight fit—less than ideal when you're working out (or just being pregnant in general). The Zensah Tech+ compression socks are designed to be used during exercise and made of a lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric. They're also comfortable and super soft to the touch. A seamless toe means no possibility of chafing or blistering and, unlike many other socks in general, these are designed with a specific sock for your left foot and one for your right to ensure a truly secure fit. They are definitely on the pricier side, but if you're someone who plans to exercise frequently throughout your pregnancy and at risk for clots or DVT, they're worth the splurge. Material: 66% Supima cotton, 17% polyester, 10% elastane, 7% nylon | Sizes: Small, medium, large | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg Bombas are known for their durable, aesthetically pleasing and comfortable premium socks, and their compression socks are no exception. They have the same modern yet slightly retro vibes as their regular socks, with a moderate 15 to 20 mmHg compression. If you need more pressure, the brand also has a Performance Compression Sock with a compression level of 20 to 30 mmHg. All of their compression socks feature their proprietary honeycomb arch support and seamless toes, both of which I, as a daily user of their regular socks, find super cushy and supportive. A band at the top keeps the socks from slipping down, even as your legs may swell more throughout the day. Note that their socks tend to be thicker than other socks, which is great in terms of durability and comfort—and they are very breathable—but it's something to consider during the summer months when even the thought of one more layer is simply unbearable. Amazon Kindred Bravely Compression Socks (2-Pack) Material: 60% viscose derived from bamboo, 15% spandex, 23% elastane, 2% nylon | Sizes: Small (regular calf), large (wide calf) | Compression level: 20 to 30 mmHg Kindred Bravely is known for its beloved maternity wear that's as functional as it is stylish, and their compression socks don't disappoint. Made of a super soft bamboo fabric, they're stretchy, comfortable and easy to get on and off. The bamboo is also a naturally moisture-wicking material for added comfort. The two-pack of socks is an affordable $30 and cuter than your average compression socks. A generously cushioned sole adds to the coziness. For some pregnant people, pulling on compression socks over swollen calves can be a challenge. Luckily, the Kindred Bravely pairs come in both small calf and large calf sizes to make the process easier. They don't come in any other sizes, however, so if you're in between, finding the perfect fit may be a bit harder. At Forbes Vetted, the kids and baby gear team is committed to hands-on testing, thoroughly researching and applying expert feedback in order to find the best products. The author of this article, Esther Carlstone , is a longtime parenting editor and mom of three who has extensively covered maternity and baby products including the best bottle sterilizers and the best infant life jackets . , is a longtime parenting editor and mom of three who has extensively covered maternity and baby products including the and the . The story was edited by Forbes Vetted commerce editor Christine Colby, who has several years of experience with consumer product testing and recommendations. She recently spearheaded a test of the best patio umbrellas, reviewed the Titan Plus Luxe Mattress and covered the best cooling blankets for hot sleepers. We interviewed two OB-GYNs: Donna G. Baick , associate clinical professor at UC Irvine School of Medicine, and Kecia Gaither , double board-certified in OB-GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine and director of perinatal services/maternal fetal medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in Bronx, New York. They shared their thoughts on what features pregnant women should consider when shopping for compression socks and what conditions these socks may help address or alleviate. , associate clinical professor at UC Irvine School of Medicine, and , double board-certified in OB-GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine and director of perinatal services/maternal fetal medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in Bronx, New York. They shared their thoughts on what features pregnant women should consider when shopping for compression socks and what conditions these socks may help address or alleviate. We regularly review and update our content to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This article was first published in June 2025. In order to find the best pregnancy compression socks, we combined feedback from our network of parents (including ourselves), market research and information from the experts we interviewed. Here's a more in-depth look into our selection process. We spoke with other parents to see which compression socks they used during their pregnancies and noted any brands that came up repeatedly—and why. We considered input from the two OB-GYNs we consulted, Baick and Gaither, and factored in their insights. We combed through online reviews of various compression socks and only considered ones that were rated at least a 4 out of 5 stars by hundreds of reviewers on Amazon and other retail sites. We particularly honed in on reviews from people who used them during pregnancy. We compared specs of the various pregnancy compression socks out on the market right now. Compression levels are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and come in two versions: 15 to 20 mmHg (moderate) or 20 to 30 mmHg (firm). They also come in graduated compression, where it is tightest at the ankle then less compressive as the sock goes up the leg, which can help with edema or varicose veins, and uniform compression. All of our picks are graduated compression socks, as they tend to alleviate issues common to pregnancy. 'Compressions are graduated which are tighter at the ankle and gradually decreases upward. The 15 to 20 mmHg compression socks offer milder support and may be more comfortable and best for mild swelling,' says Baick. 'The 20 to 30 mmHg provides more support and may be better for pregnant women with varicose veins and more swelling. Whatever you choose, you should consult with your provider to determine if compression socks are appropriate for you and to review proper type and fitting,' she says. Breathability Only you know how easily you get sweaty and how much breathability you need to be comfortable. Look for socks made with more naturally breathable fabrics like cotton or blends utilizing bamboo, wool or polyester that may also be moisture-wicking to help you feel dry. Easy On/Off If a compression sock is too difficult to simply get on and off, the chances of you wearing them regularly goes down. Both experts warn that you also don't want to get compression socks that are too tight, as that can increase the chances of blood clots. You might try ordering multiple sizes at first and returning the ones that don't fit. What Kind Of Compression Socks Are Best For Pregnancy? 'The compression sock should not be restrictive or too tight, especially around the knee. They're usually available in knee-high, thigh-high and full length. Women should choose what is most comfortable for them or consult their provider to assure proper fitting and use,' says Baick. 'Too much restriction on the lower leg may increase risk for blood clots.' Which Is Better: 15 To 20 mmHg Or 20 To 30 mmHg Compression Socks? 'Socks 15 to 20 mmHg are a good starting point—safe for daily use and the type most often recommended. Socks with a higher level of compression may be needed for more severe symptoms, but as with anything, speak with your health-care provider first,' says Gaither. According to Baick, 'The 20 to 30 mmHg pairs provide more support and may be better for pregnant women with varicose veins and more swelling,' but also reiterates to check with your doctor first before selecting. Is It A Good Idea To Wear Compression Socks While Pregnant? 'Not all pregnant women need compression socks, but [they] can benefit from them, particularly if they are at risk for DVTs and varicosities,' says Gaither. She says they're particularly recommended for those who sit or stand for extended periods of time, have significant edema, have a history of DVT or venous insufficiency or those who experience leg pain or leg cramps during pregnancy.

Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Joe Giordano, surgeon who helped save President Reagan's life after assassination attempt, has died
WASHINGTON (AP) — Dr. Joseph Giordano, a surgeon who played a central role in saving President Ronald Reagan's life after an assassination attempt in 1981, has died. He was 84. He died on June 24 at a hospital in Washington, D.C. from an infection related to a lengthy illness, his family said. Giordano was in charge of The George Washington University Hospital's trauma teams that treated Reagan after the president had been shot and badly wounded on March 30, 1981. Over the course of several dramatic hours, doctors stabilized Reagan, retrieved a bullet an inch from his heart and stanched massive internal bleeding. 'Dr. Giordano and the doctors at GW, without them, Ronald Reagan would have died,' said Jerry Parr, the president's lead Secret Service agent at the time, in a 2010 interview for the book " Rawhide Down.' Revamps GW emergency room Giordano, the grandson of Italian immigrants, was born and raised in New Jersey. He graduated from Georgetown University in 1961 and six years later obtained a medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia. After a stint in the U.S. Army, he joined GW as a vascular surgeon. A few weeks before he started in 1976, GW's chief of surgery told Giordano that he would have another job — fixing and managing the emergency room. 'The handling of trauma patients down there is a real mess,' his boss said. Giordano quickly discovered that assessment was correct. Inexperienced doctors were leading inefficient medical teams. Care was haphazard. Giordano watched as at least one patient died because treatment was rendered too slowly. Seeking out experts, he spent a month working at what would become the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland. The teams at Shock Trauma operated with speed and precision. They were methodical. He brought the approach to GW. Soon, the hospital's trauma center was regarded as among the best in the country. 'We had everything going like clockwork,' said Dr. David Gens, who helped treat Reagan and went on to a long career in trauma surgery. 'Joe had us properly trained. We had the right protocols. Everyone had a job. Organization and time are essential. So that when something happened, when the president came in, we were well organized. Thanks in part to Joe's foresight, we saved the president's life.' 'STAT to the ER' It was a typical March Monday for Giordano when a would-be assassin, John Hinckley, Jr., opened fire on Reagan as the president left a speech at the Washington Hilton Hotel. Parr, the Secret Service agent, shoved Reagan into a limousine, and it hurtled from the scene. On the ride back to the White House, Parr realized Reagan had been hurt, perhaps from being flung into the armored Lincoln. Not knowing the extent of the injuries — doctors would soon discover he had been shot — Parr directed the limousine to the hospital. At GW Giordano was treating a patient when the intercom began blaring: 'Dr. Giordano, STAT to the ER. Dr. Giordano, STAT to the ER.' Though he had turned over responsibility for running the emergency room to another doctor, Giordano was still in charge of the trauma teams. He knew something must be terribly wrong for him to be summoned that way. In the ER, he found a man he recognized as the president on gurney. Nurses had already cut off Reagan's clothes and inserted IV lines. Strangely, the first thing that Giordano noticed about the president was his dark hair. It seemed so natural. 'I wondered,' Giordano recalled in a 2010 interview, 'if he dyed it.' 'How are you doing, Mr. President?' he asked. 'I'm having trouble breathing,' Reagan replied. Bleeding won't stop Gens, a chief surgical resident, provided Giordano a quick summary of the situation: The president had been shot in the left side, his chest was filling with blood and they were about to insert a chest tube to drain the chest cavity. Giordano did not hesitate. 'You better let me do this one.' He typically would have let a resident handle such a procedure, but he felt it would be irresponsible to put such pressure on young doctors. He made an incision eight inches below Reagan's left armpit and inserted the tube. It relieved pressure on Reagan's lung and allowed him to breathe more easily. But the bleeding did not stop. Doctors decided they had to operate. Giordano and Gens performed a peritoneal lavage — known as a 'belly tap' — and ensured that Reagan's abdomen was clear of blood. They then turned over the patient to a chest surgeon, Dr. Benjamin Aaron, who halted the bleeding and retrieved the bullet. Reagan spent 11 days at GW and fully recovered from his wounds. Three others were injured in the shooting: White House Press Secretary Jim Brady; Secret Service agent Timothy McCarthy; and Thomas Delahanty, a police officer. Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity. He was confined at a psychiatric hospital until a federal judge in 2022 ordered his unconditional release. 'Today, Mr. President, we are all Republicans' Giordano would go on to become GW's chairman of surgery, a post he held for 18 years before retiring in 2010. That same year, he joined the board at Partner for Surgery, a nonprofit group that arranges surgery for people living in rural Guatemala. Tapping his contacts in the medical community, Giordano recruited doctors and nurses to travel to the Central American country to provide the badly needed medical services, said Frank Peterson, the group's founder. Giordano also led several medical teams on such missions. 'The one word I would use to describe him is humanitarian,' Peterson said. 'He had the skills and capabilities that made a world of difference to people who were in need.' Though Giordano played a decisive role in saving Reagan's life, the physician may best be remembered for a line he delivered in the operating room. Just before he was administered anesthesia, Reagan dramatically got up on an elbow, took off his oxygen mask and said, 'I hope you are all Republicans.' Giordano, a staunch liberal, didn't miss a beat: 'Today, Mr. President, we are all Republicans.' Years later, the surgeon jokingly reflected that 'it was okay to be a Republican for a day, especially that day.'