July 2025
Mental Health Insights & Opportunities
AI Regulation - What you should know and why it matters
On July 1, 2025 the U.S. Senate voted to remove language in the “One Big Beautiful Bill” that would have stopped states from regulating AI
Some tech companies - like Open AI - wanted to prevent regulation because they were concerned it would slow innovation
Advocacy organizations like Common Sense Media wrote an open letter arguing that regulation of tech companies and AI is needed to protect young people and creators
Why it matters: As new technologies are developed, we have to balance innovation with safety. AI can make tasks easier and quicker. I use it all the time to help brainstorm, like coming up with titles for YouTube videos. But what if AI was used for something harmful, like fake videos of doctors sharing inaccurate health information? True innovation doesn’t mean creating as fast as possible. Sometimes it’s best to slow down to make sure what we do create actually helps people.
Community Conversation: What do you think - Are laws needed to make sure AI is safe? How does AI affect young people and their wellbeing?
Read more:
California Invests $500M in Mental Health Tech - is it worth it?
In 2024, the state of California invested over $500 million in digital mental health resources for youth: BrightLife Kids for ages 0-12 the Soluna app for ages 12-25. The idea is if the state pays for these services, families in California can access them for free. Here are some stats from California’s 2025 impact report:
Both companies report high satisfaction rates: 99% of BrightLife Kids users are satisfied with their experience & 97% of Soluna users would recommend the app to a friend
There is limited quantitative data in the report. Are users experiencing improved mental health? Is there any safety data about what happens when someone needs more support than the program offers?
Why it Matters: California was one of the first states to invest so much in digital health - especially preventative services. It’s important to have access to care, whether it’s a self-guided app, coaching, or a therapist, BEFORE there’s a mental health crisis. However, there have been concerns about the cost. In 2024, California policymakers considered eliminating the entire program due to limited engagement from youth.
Community Conversation: What do you think - should states offer free digital mental health services? If so, what data would you want to see about program safety and effectiveness before signing up?
Read More
California Department of Health Care Services - BrightLife Kids and Soluna Impact Update (2025)
California is Investing $500M in Therapy Apps for Youth. Advocates Fear it Won’t Pay Off
Career & Collab Opportunities ❣️
Youth Advisor - YouTube Series with Dr. Grill
US-based youth ages 14+
Participate in virtual focus groups about potential video topics
60-90 minute virtual meetings July - October
Stipends available - limited advisory spots
To apply: send a note that you’re interested to hello@drkatherinegrill.com
Jed Foundation Summer Internship
6-week paid internship in mental health advocacy
US-based college students
Must be available to attend Jed’s Policy Summit in October 2025 (travel and hotel costs covered by JED)
Active Minds Fall Internship
4-month paid internship in mental health advocacy
US-based college students and recent grads
Multiple internship positions for Fall 2025
Short of the Month - All the Feels 💡
A sneak peek from our YouTube series on Resilience, coming Fall 2025! In the meantime, check out our Healthy Relationship series. These YouTube videos have stories and strategies for improving relationships with yourself, family, friends and romantic partners.