Law: AI Can't replace a Therapist

IN THE NEWS:
Law Regulating AI use in Therapy Awaits Approval

In Illinois, lawmakers have passed the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act (HB1806), to regulate the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in therapy and psychotherapy services. It outlines the permitted and prohibited uses of AI by therapists.

AI will not be allowed to stand in for a licensed human therapist. The Illinois law mandates that only licensed professionals, such as clinical psychologists, social workers, and counselors, can use AI to assist in providing therapy or psychotherapy services. In this new legislation, AI also is prohibited from making independent therapeutic decisions, directly interacting with clients in therapeutic communication, generating therapeutic recommendations or treatment plans without professional review and detecting emotions or mental states.

WELL-BEING:
The Healing Power of a Hug

The calming effect of a hug lasts much longer than scientists first realized, with benefits to your mind, heart and nervous system. As an added bonus, hugs help couples bond deeply and make up from fights faster. 

Science also shows hugs lower cortisol, boost serotonin and enhance the effects of oxytocin. In other words, it’s not just your fuzzy emotions that like a hug - your body does too. 

Your Tango lists 11 ways hugs can help couples bond better here.

BRAIN HEALTH:
1970s Vintage Puzzle Helps Exercise Memory for 65+

If you’re looking for a hobby that does more than just pass the time, especially if you’re over 65, the Rubik’s Cube might just be the ultimate brain booster. Forget crosswords or sudoku: this classic puzzle is making a comeback as a top choice for seniors who want to sharpen their memory and keep their minds agile. Unlike many games that only focus on one skill, the Rubik’s Cube challenges your brain in multiple ways at once; memory, spatial awareness and problem-solving all get a workout with every twist and turn.

What makes the Rubik’s Cube so special for older adults? It’s not just about solving a tricky puzzle; it’s about keeping your mind flexible and adaptable. As you learn new moves and patterns, your brain creates fresh neural pathways, which is great for staving off cognitive decline. Plus, the act of memorizing algorithms and tracking where each colored square goes gives your short-term memory a real boost. Over time, regular practice can even help improve concentration and hand-eye coordination, making everyday tasks feel a little easier.

Whether you’re aiming to solve it in record time or just want to unwind with a satisfying puzzle, it’s a hobby that rewards persistence and creativity. For seniors, it’s a playful way to support brain health, reduce stress and maybe even impress the grandkids with renewed cubing skills (it’s likely that grandmas and grandpas had one of the originals in the 1970s!).

IMMUNOLOGY:
Study: Pet’s can Alter Your Immune System

Living with pets, especially dogs and cats, helps shape the immune system in ways that may lower risks for allergies and certain immune-related conditions. Exposure to a broader range of microbes through pet ownership teaches the immune system to be more tolerant and less likely to overreact to harmless substances like dust or pollen.

A study published in January 2025 finds that having a dog at home helps protect genetically predisposed children from developing eczema. Broader research, such as comparisons between Amish and Hutterite communities, also shows that people who live closely with animals tend to have fewer immune-related health issues.

In summary, having pets around does more than bring joy, it may also help “train” the immune system for the better (study published January 2025, as referenced in BBC Future, June 2025).

Read the full BBC article here.