News Above the Noise—Week of August 10, 2025
1. Texas Redistricting Sparks Nationwide Political Battle
Texas Republicans' push to redraw the state’s congressional map and add five GOP seats has sparked a national redistricting battle, with Democrats in blue states vowing to retaliate. President Trump and Vice President Vance are backing the Texas effort, with Trump declaring this week that Republicans are “entitled” to redraw the maps in Texas. Click here to learn more.
2. Can Your Phone Help You Lower Your Blood Pressure?
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that a mobile health app can help lower blood pressure, with particularly strong results for women in perimenopause and menopause. Researchers saw sustained improvements over 12 months, with menopausal women achieving reductions equal to or greater than men, even when starting with higher readings. The findings suggest digital health tools could play a key role in empowering people to manage heart health. Learn more in our originally reported piece.
3. Lithium May Protect Aging Brains From Alzheimer’s
A new Harvard Medical School study found that low lithium levels in mice led to Alzheimer’s-like brain damage and memory loss, while normal levels helped protect against these effects. Research showed that tiny amounts of lithium, historically used in mental health treatments, play a vital role not only in preventing Alzheimer’s disease, but also in maintaining brain health. Read more about the findings here.
4. Can Embracing Spirituality Help Today’s Mental Health Crisis?
A growing body of research shows that embracing a spiritual practice may play a powerful role in improving mental health. Experts say practices like prayer, meditation, and connecting to something greater than oneself can reduce stress, build resilience, and even protect the brain. As mental health struggles rise, scientists and psychiatrists are urging a deeper look at the mind-spirit connection. Learn more here.
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