Daily Health News: October 29, 2026

By Ryan Purakal

Three stories worth knowing today, and what they mean for you.

1. Open enrollment for 2027 health plans starts November 1

If you or your family buy insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace, sign-ups for 2027 open this Saturday. In most states the window runs through January 15, 2027; New Jersey and Pennsylvania run their own marketplaces (Get Covered New Jersey and Pennie), so check their sites for exact dates.

Expect higher bills. The extra subsidies that lowered premiums expired at the end of 2025, and premiums are going up about 15% on average. Most people will still get some help, just less of it. The out-of-pocket maximum is also rising, to $12,000 for one person and $24,000 for a family.

What to do: don't let your plan renew on autopilot. Compare the total cost (premium plus deductible and copays), not just the monthly price, and have your ID and current contact info ready, since the federal marketplace is adding identity checks this year.

Sources: KFF Health News via CBS News, WHYY via WVIA

2. Many teens turn to AI when they're stressed, and a new report urges caution

A survey of middle and high school students by The Jed Foundation found that more than half have used AI when feeling sad, stressed, lonely, or overwhelmed, and 12% use it for friendship or companionship. Students who leaned on AI for emotional support or advice reported more anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

The researchers are careful to say this shows a link, not proof that AI causes the problems; teens who are already struggling may simply reach for it more. Their advice to families is to keep friendship and emotional support in human relationships and to talk openly about how AI gets used at home.

What to do: AI can help with a lot, but it isn't a counselor. If you're having a hard time, talk to someone you trust, or call or text 988 any time to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Source: The National News Desk via ABC6

3. School phone bans didn't improve teen mental health in a large new study

Researchers in Iceland compared about 24,000 survey responses from 13- to 15-year-olds at schools with and without phone bans. Published this week in JAMA Network Open, the study found no meaningful difference in depression, anxiety, well-being, or bullying, and students didn't cut back on social media time either.

Other countries have seen mixed results; a Norwegian study, for example, found less bullying after bans. The takeaway from the authors: a ban by itself probably isn't enough to move teen mental health, even if schools have other good reasons to keep phones out of class.

What to do: if you're trying to feel better, the bigger levers are still the basics: sleep, time with people in person, and getting help early when things feel off.

Source: Techlicious via Yahoo News

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Health Decoded's daily news roundup pulls from public reporting and puts it in plain language. It isn't medical, legal, or financial advice.