A dump truck crashed into a Target in New Jersey Friday, opening up a large hole in the side of the building and leaving several people injured.

Experts say that downsizing and decluttering can help reduce stress by allowing ourselves to let go of things that weigh us down. The author of the book "Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff" and America's top cleaning expert, Matt Paxton, joins Gayle Guyardo , the host of the nationally syndicated health and wellness show Bloom , to discuss how to let go while keeping the memories that matter.

The FIFA World cup and Epic Universe at Universal Studios

Another season of high school purgatory is here with fresh episodes of "School Spirits."

A new play at American Stage tells a story of sisterhood and growth.

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Weeknight dinner ideas, Peyton List stars in 'School Spirits' | Daytime

As concerns over the impact of technology on mental health continue to rise, a growing number of states and schools are implementing restrictions or outright bans on cell phone use during school hours. Behavioral Scientist Dr. Gino Collura joined Gayle Guyardo, host of the globally syndicated health and wellness show Bloom, to discuss why limiting cell phone use could be a positive step for children's cognitive and emotional well-being.

The Link Between Social Media and Mental Health A study published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction examined how social media use correlates with depression in young people. The study found that:

Social media use has been positively associated with depression, particularly in youth. There are gender differences in how social media impacts mental health. While social media use was linked to depression, its direct impact over time remains unclear, requiring further research. Although the precise mechanisms are still being studied, many experts agree that excessive screen time—especially on social media—can negatively affect self-esteem, anxiety levels, and emotional resilience, particularly in adolescents.

How Cell Phones Affect Brain Development Beyond social media, cell phone use itself can have cognitive and neurological effects on children. Research suggests that:

Increased screen time can impact a child’s psychology, thinking patterns, and behavior. Excessive phone use disrupts sleep cycles, which are essential for brain development and emotional regulation. Overuse of mobile devices may even lead to chemical changes in the brain, altering cognitive function and attention spans. The Case for Banning Cell Phones in Schools Given these potential risks, some schools and states are taking proactive measures to limit distractions and protect students' mental health. Banning or restricting cell phones during school hours may:

✅ Improve focus and learning – Reducing phone distractions helps students stay engaged in lessons. ✅ Enhance social interactions – Without screens, students are more likely to develop strong face-to-face communication skills. ✅ Support better mental health – Less exposure to social media can reduce comparison culture, cyberbullying, and anxiety. ✅ Encourage healthier habits – Students may be more likely to participate in physical activities and outdoor play when phone use is restricted.

Final Thoughts While technology is an integral part of modern life, setting boundaries around cell phone use—especially in schools—could have long-term benefits for children's brain health. As research continues to uncover the full impact of screen time on cognitive development, policymakers and educators are taking steps to create healthier learning environments for the next generation.

For more expert discussions on mental health and wellness, tune into Bloom with Gayle Guyardo.

Addiction is more than just a habit—it’s a powerful force that rewires the brain, making it increasingly difficult to break free. Behavioral scientist Dr. Gino Collura joined Gayle Guyardo, host of the globally syndicated health and wellness show Bloom, to explain how addiction impacts brain function and why it can be so difficult to overcome.

1. Addiction Hijacks the Brain’s Reward System The brain’s reward system is designed to reinforce behaviors that are essential for survival, such as eating and social interaction. However, addictive substances and behaviors artificially activate this system, flooding the brain with dopamine. This repeated artificial stimulation disrupts natural reward pathways, making it harder to experience pleasure from everyday activities.

2. Reduced Neuroplasticity: The Brain Craves the "Easy" Reward Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire—is essential for learning and personal growth. Addiction reduces neuroplasticity because the brain becomes wired to seek instant gratification instead of embracing challenges that require effort. Over time, this limits cognitive flexibility and decision-making skills, making it even harder to break free from addiction.

3. Everyday Pleasures Become Less Enjoyable As addiction takes hold, normal daily experiences lose their appeal. Activities that once brought joy—such as hobbies, social interactions, and exercise—feel dull in comparison to the intense dopamine rush provided by addictive substances or behaviors. This can lead to isolation, lack of motivation, and emotional numbness.

4. Long-Term Brain Impairment: Increased Risk of Mental Health Issues Addiction doesn’t just affect emotions—it physically changes the brain. Over time, prolonged substance use or addictive behaviors can lead to structural damage, impairing cognitive function and increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. The brain becomes dependent on external stimuli for dopamine release, making it even harder to experience happiness naturally.

Breaking Free: Rewiring the Brain for Recovery The good news is that the brain has an incredible ability to heal through neuroplasticity. With the right strategies—such as therapy, mindfulness, physical activity, and healthy social connections—it is possible to rewire the brain, restore balance, and regain control over addictive behaviors.

For more expert insights on mental and physical wellness, tune into Bloom with Gayle Guyardo.

"Just out for a walk near the park. The croc eventually went back into the lake at Highland Oaks Park."

Credit: Rick Schermer /TMX

Southbound Howard Frankland Bridge closes for construction, Wednesday night

There are all sorts of addictions people wrestle with in life. Top experts join Gayle Guyardo, the host of the nationally syndicated health and wellness show, Bloom, with more on what indulging in vices does to the brain, including steps to overcome addiction.

BLOOM is Tampa Bay’s only daily 1-hour TV show focusing on health & lifestyle. BLOOM covers the topics of health & medicine, nutrition, fitness, beauty, wellness, kids’ health, sports medicine, holistic healing, mental health, relationships, women’s health, financial health and pet health. From THE DOCTOR IS IN segment featuring a doctor of the day to our RED CARPET TREATMENT showcasing the latest cosmetic procedures BLOOM offers viewers the latest news and information on health and medicine. Join host Gayle Guyardo weekdays at 2:00pm only on WFLA News Channel 8 -- with an encore broadcast late night 3:00am. Tune into BLOOM and watch your life grow!

Meet the host of the daily health & lifestyle TV show BLOOM airing only on WFLA News Channel 8 — Gayle Guyardo, a Tampa native and longtime news anchor and journalist for 26 years. Gayle has dedicated much of her 28 years at WFLA to highlighting breakthrough medical treatments, holistic healing trends, scientific weight loss and fitness trends. Gayle is the proud mom of four daughters, and her loving husband Mark is also a Tampa native who grew up just blocks away from Gayle. As a 3rd generation “Tampanian” Gayle’s passion throughout her tenure at WFLA has been shining the spotlight on Tampa business and seeing firsthand Tampa Bay Bloom!

January 30, 2025

Gov. DeSantis has called the bill "weak" even with new changes that have been made. It passed in the Senate on Tuesday and in the House Tuesday night.