Health & Balance News & Features

A trend away from institutionalization means more emotionally disturbed people are on the streets. Police are seeking new ways to cope with the consequences.

Some see VAX-D as a good alternative to surgery. Others aren't so sure.

As more states pass right-to-view laws for witnessing executions, more professionals are wondering if this is really the way to find closure.

More consumers are trying alternative medicines. Some appear to be pushing the limits.

Traditional therapy has a high failure rate. 'Acceptance therapy' offers a different approach.

In the continuing search for cold relief, mom appears to be right -- as usual.

Did you hear the one about the scientists who said laughter is good for your heart?

Programs to combat dating and domestic abuse are aiming for younger, middle school audiences.

Even if you have two left feet, proponents say this form of therapy can be good for what ails you.

Even as adults, children of divorce can feel caught in the middle of their parents' conflicts. Here's a survival guide.

The ingredients have been used for decades in Europe, but not in well-controlled tests. Researchers are beginning the first U.S. study.

Chronic procrastinators can suffer stress, self-doubt, and poor health. Are you at risk?

Impressed by evidence that it can help heal the brain, doctors are making new use of music's soothing power

We all have them -- moments that are so embarrassing we feel we'll never get over them. But you can -- if you keep your head and maybe try a little humor.

Many doctors aren't sticking to one medical philosophy anymore. They're combining approaches from East and West so they can better diagnose illness.

Standard antibiotics are losing their power. Could tiny 'bacteriophages' be harnessed for healing?

Not all are born with the gift of charisma. But if you lack it, you can learn it.

Disorganized or forgetful? Try these techniques.

Can diet be as effective in dealing with some cancers as it is for heart disease? Dean Ornish, MD, wants to find out.

Violent television programming is harming kids, experts say. The solution? Use the tube as a teaching tool.

Optimists often are more successful and live longer, researchers say. Here's how to cultivate a brighter outlook.

Why? Candidates with positive outlooks almost always win U.S. presidential elections, says a team of researchers. So, who's going to win this time?

Some scientists are saying that people are so powerfully drawn to gossip because it's in our very genes. Is it all just hearsay?

Don't count on just your children for social support. People of all ages need to build other strong relationships.

In the war on aging, yoga may be your best -- and safest -- defense.

Even major surgeries have become commonplace. Do you know the risks?

If Vincent van Gogh lived today, would he likely be taking antidepressants, straightening out his life, getting a day job?

A growing number of mental health professionals are offering Internet counseling.

Alternative Cancer Therapies Go Mainstream

Attracted by the convenience, more and more people are seeking psychotherapy online. But are they really getting the treatment they need?

Are you confusing a coffee buzz with a panic attack? A surprising look at some anxiety disorders.

Absolutely. And the secret may be as simple as learning to give thanks.

Can imagining a big, red balloon help kids deal with stomach pain? Some pediatricians think it just might. Second in a two-part series on kids and alternative medicine.

A good teacher can help a child be resilient.

What does it take to bounce back from adversity?

Caring teachers play an important role.

How to Be a Comeback Kid

Herbs: what's safe and what's not for kids.

It's easy: Just remember your fruits and vegetables

Studies Show Acupuncture, Massage Help Heart Patients After Surgery

New research has uncovered physical traits that may cause violent behavior. But good parenting can still make a difference.

Turn your distorted thinking around with these tips.

Cognitive therapists say yes. Are they on to something?

These days, more and more insurance companies are paying for alternative care. Here's how you can boost your chances of getting unconventional therapies covered.

Many people have reported traveling to a spirit world during a close brush with death. Now researchers say they have an explanation.

More and more people are trying alternative medicine. But do they tell their doctors? Most don't, but they'd better start. The medical clash could be a prescription for disaster. (Part two of a three-part series on using herbs safely.)

Today about one-third of the adult population in the United States uses herbal products.

For all our fantasies of winning the lottery, sudden fortune can cause remarkable stress.

WebMD shows you how to cope with and manage 'asset anxiety'

They have money, power, and glory. So why are they miserable?