A national study found that pediatric mental health treatment patterns rebounded and exceeded pre-pandemic levels, driven by new patients seeking care. Antidepressant prescriptions rose significantly among girls, with a notable increase in the youngest children.
A team of researchers at the Champalimaud Foundation has identified four brain regions - including the orbitofrontal cortex and basal ganglia - that are 'core hubs' for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms. These regions show a positive connection to lesion sites, suggesting they become disconnected after lesions causing OCD.
A team of researchers used large language models to study the effects of stress, sadness, and anxiety, finding that the models can reproduce human-like emotional responses. The study's results suggest that these models could be a valuable tool for understanding and addressing mental health conditions.
The FUTURE-D project combines data science with clinical expertise to identify warning signs of depression earlier, enabling more targeted interventions. Researchers will integrate longitudinal cohort data from the MACS and NESDA studies to better understand depressive disorders.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) can remodel white matter pathways in the brain and alter communication across large-scale neural networks. The therapy helps patients recover from severe depression by increasing fractional anisotropy and myelination within specific pathways, suggesting a previously unrecognized mechanism.
A new book by a Cambridge child psychotherapist argues that treating parents alongside children is crucial for addressing the youth mental health crisis. The author highlights the importance of considering an 'ecological system', including families, communities, and environment, in understanding young people's wellbeing.
A new study suggests that cognitive-behavioral therapy intervention can produce meaningful short-term improvements in insomnia severity, hot flash interference, sleep self-efficacy, and depressive symptoms. The therapy demonstrated a feasible and promising approach to address menopause-related insomnia and nocturnal hot flashes.
A survey of 286 relatives and friends found that 45% experienced improvement, while 42% saw worsening symptoms. Many reported memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and relationship problems after ECT.
A study found divergent neural pathways for drinking patterns in young men and women, highlighting the importance of sex-specific prevention strategies. Amygdala reactivity was associated with depressive symptoms in males, while females showed a 'threat-avoidance' profile with lower alcohol risk scores.
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have made a significant breakthrough in treating combat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by adding navigated TMS to psychotherapy, showing an 85% reduction in symptoms. The study used a patented MRI-guided, robotic-controlled form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), known as navigated T...
A new study from Norwegian University of Science and Technology suggests that observing experienced therapists can enhance psychology students' ability to talk with patients. Psychology students who observed therapists over 10 weeks improved their ability to form bonds and repair relationships with patients, according to the research.
University of Utah researchers develop framework for assessing varying levels of automation in psychotherapy, highlighting the importance of weighing risks and benefits. They explore how automation can support therapists without replacing them, using large language models to capture core components of treatment and provide feedback.
The latest issues of APA journals publish new research on cannabis use disorder, stigma reduction interventions, and co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders. Highlights include studies on depression-related stigma among Black and Latinx youths and the impact of text engagement in a brief technology-enhanced intervention.
Researchers are testing whether SAINT, a non-invasive brain stimulation therapy, can quickly relieve symptoms of postpartum depression. The study aims to find faster and more effective treatments for women experiencing depression after childbirth.
A new study found that therapist flourishing is linked to lower client dropout rates, while burnout was not significantly associated. The researchers suggest investing in supporting therapist well-being to improve early retention and reduce inequities in therapy.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that brief interventions after a suicide attempt can significantly reduce re-attempts. Participants who received these interventions were 28% less likely to attempt suicide again than those receiving usual medical care.
Research in Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging reveals that lifetime physical activity can reshape neural connectivity, strengthening the brain's internal communication and optimizing its response to stress. The study challenges traditional deficit-focused views of adversity, offering a more dynamic and hope...
A UK study found that a 12-week ketogenic metabolic therapy program led to significant reductions in depression and anxiety scores. The program, delivered remotely, showed a 62% reduction in depression symptoms and a 46% reduction in anxiety, with 100% of participants completing the program.
A randomized controlled trial demonstrates a significant and clinically relevant reduction in ADHD symptoms in adults using attexis, a digital intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy. The results show improvements in work and social functioning, self-esteem, and quality of life, as well as a reduction in depressive symptoms.
Structured exercise improves depression, psychotic symptoms, cognitive performance and cardiometabolic health in people with mental illness. Integration into psychiatric care using the 5A model can help address lack of exercise as a symptom and risk factor, reducing mortality.
A study by SWPS University researchers found that imagery-based techniques can significantly reduce fear of failure and negative emotions associated with childhood criticism. The techniques, including Imagery Exposure and Rescripting, helped participants reframe their memories and experience a lasting reduction in stress and anxiety.
Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that stellate ganglion block enhances the effectiveness of cognitive processing therapy for treating PTSD, leading to faster symptom reduction and improved outcomes.
A new study from King's College London and the University of Exeter found that ketamine's therapeutic benefits for people with alcohol use disorder may not be linked to its psychoactive effects. Instead, other factors such as brain network alterations and neural connections may play a role in the treatment's success.
Exercise has a medium-sized effect on depression symptoms and a small to medium-sized effect on anxiety symptoms, with aerobic formats being the most effective for relieving depression. All forms of exercise are as good as or better than medication or talking therapies for easing symptoms, regardless of age or sex.
Psychotherapist Lynn Somerfield emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries in relationships, work, and personal beliefs to promote emotional well-being. She advises that healthy boundaries strengthen connections with others while preserving individual identity and energy.
A randomized controlled trial demonstrates the effectiveness of mylovia, a digital therapy for female sexual dysfunction, showing significant improvements in sexual function and related symptoms. The study suggests that mylovia can provide women with a self-guided intervention to overcome sexual dysfunction and experience deeper pleasure.
The latest APA Journal issues explore the intersection of neuroplasticity and substance use, as well as emerging trends in outpatient psychotherapy. The American Psychiatric Association's flagship journals offer insightful research on mental health topics.
A recent study published in JAMA highlights the importance of effective communication of medical numbers, particularly in preventing nocebo effects. Researchers recommend using positive framing and clear strategies to present numbers in an understandable way, as vague verbal descriptors can amplify fear and unintended expectation effects.
A study published in NeuroImage found that even a short afternoon nap can reorganize connections between nerve cells, improving the brain's capacity to encode new information. This 'synaptic reset' helps relieve mental fatigue and prepare the brain for learning.
The American College of Lifestyle Medicine has published a new expert consensus statement affirming the importance of lifestyle interventions in treating and preventing major depressive disorder. The statement highlights the benefits of physical activity, optimal nutrition, and stress management as integral components of MDD care.
A study of over 500 survivors found severe psychological trauma with somatic symptoms persisting decades after the attack. The results highlight the need for culturally sensitive mental health services, compensation, and ongoing care for chemical attack survivors.
A study found that a small, implanted vagus nerve stimulation device produced substantial and sustained improvements in depressive symptoms, quality of life, and daily function in patients with treatment-resistant depression. The device showed lasting benefits even after two years, with nearly one-third of participants who didn't respo...
The January 2026 issues of four American Psychiatric Association journals feature groundbreaking research on externalizing disorders, pediatric anxiety, autism, and inflammation-related depression. The studies also explore the potential benefits of psychedelic therapy in suicide prevention.
A systematic review and network meta-analysis of 76 randomised controlled trials found that slow tapering of antidepressants combined with psychological support prevented relapse over the following year to a similar extent as remaining on an antidepressant. This approach could change how coming off antidepressants is managed globally.
Researchers discovered that a person's conscious perception of their energy levels plays a crucial role in regulating their mood. The study found that when glucose levels drop, people who feel hungrier experience a worse mood, highlighting the importance of interoception in emotional stability.
A new scholarship has been established at NUS Medicine to support students in the Master of Clinical Mental Health and Psychotherapy programme, enabling them to train as mental health professionals. The S$3 million gift from the Elaine and Eduardo Saverin Foundation will cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend for 18 months.
A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that about a quarter of U.S. service members and veterans who start psychotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) quit before finishing treatment. The study analyzed 181 studies covering over 124,000 military participants and discovered significant diffe...
Researchers suggest that becoming aware of unrecognized psychological and behavioral challenges can be a crucial mechanism in conversation-based psychotherapy. By framing introspection as a process of expanding one's cognitive map, therapists may help patients reframe their thoughts and change pathological ways of thinking.
A new study suggests that message-based psychotherapy is as effective as live video therapy for treating depression. The research found that patients improved at similar rates regardless of the format used.
A new study reveals that AI chatbots, even when prompted to use evidence-based psychotherapy techniques, systematically violate ethical standards of practice. The research highlights the need for thoughtful implementation of AI technologies and appropriate regulation and oversight in mental health settings.
Researchers developed a machine learning model that uses MRI scans to predict which patients with mental illnesses will gain weight after diagnosis, and which ones won't. The BMIgap tool has the potential to prevent future weight gain and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases.
The review synthesizes clinical evidence on MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, and existential distress. It identifies consistent patterns across diverse clinical applications and highlights the therapeutic potential of MDMA, including its oxytocin-mediated ...
The latest October issues of APA journals feature new research on adolescent suicidality and depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and safety issues related to ketamine and esketamine treatment. The American Journal of Psychotherapy also publishes a special issue on intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP).
A study explores how Buddhist philosophy can enhance psychotherapy in the context of digital mental health. The findings focus on three key lenses: networked dynamics, reciprocity, and cognitive flexibility. These lenses frame experience as relational and evolving, highlighting the importance of overlooked connections and incidental en...
Brief medication visits can incorporate psychotherapy to improve patient outcomes and psychiatrist job satisfaction. Practical approaches involve building elements of supportive, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapies into abbreviated visits.
A University of East Anglia study found that trauma-focused CBT significantly improved PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation in children with multiple traumas. The therapy was effective and safe, even for those with complex and severe symptoms.
A recent study found that two-thirds of clinical trial participants experienced complete remission from major depressive disorder five years after psilocybin-assisted therapy. The treatment also showed significant and large reduction in depression symptoms, with many participants reporting improved well-being measures.
Dr. Gerhard Andersson's pioneering work in internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy has produced over 200 controlled trials and transformed mental healthcare accessibility across continents.
The trial will evaluate the effectiveness of EAET on nearly 700 war veterans across seven US Department of Veterans Affairs centers. Previous research by Dr. Brandon Yarns found that EAET provided significant pain relief compared to traditional cognitive behavioral therapy among older adults.
Preliminary findings suggest that neuroimaging and mobile sensing can identify neural and behavioral markers of bipolar disorder and mood recurrence. Dr. Danella Hafeman's research uses fMRI and mobile sensing to detect early indicators of depressive and manic symptoms.
Researchers at MLU and University of Münster show that CBT leads to measurable changes in brain structure, particularly in areas responsible for emotion processing, and increases grey matter volume in the amygdala and hippocampus.
A new tool called the ReaderBank Imagination Quiz identifies four forces of imagination linked to mental imagery and immersion in stories. This diversity of imagination skills may help refine treatments for similar traits in mental ill health.
A randomized controlled trial found that cognitive functional therapy (CFT) can effectively reduce disability due to chronic low back pain for more than a year. The current trial is the first to show that these effects are sustained up to three years. CFT was shown to improve physical activity participation in patients with low back pain.
Recent scientific advances aim to enhance the efficacy of psychosocial treatments for mood and psychotic disorders, according to Dr. Marc J. Weintraub's upcoming webinar. Innovative approaches discussed include a mobile app adjunct therapy for adolescents at risk and psilocybin integration for adults with major depression.
Digital apps based on cognitive behavioural therapy may provide positive short-term effects for people with GAD, including reduced symptoms and improved quality of life. However, the long-term benefits and potential risks of app use are still unknown.
The latest APA journal issues feature research on high-potency cannabis use, adolescent suicidal behavior, and problematic internet usage. Highlights include a systematic review of cannabis health effects in adolescents and trends in prescription stimulant and opioid use among US teens.
A McGill-led study found that combining ketamine with psychotherapy and a supportive environment can lead to longer-lasting depression relief. Patients experienced significant improvements in depression scores, suicidal thoughts, and anxiety after at least eight weeks.
A new international study identified two distinct genetic signatures for complex forms of Alzheimer's disease, with one primarily driven by apolipoprotein E and the other involving a combination of 75 additional genetic variants. This shared biological mechanism is largely consistent across global populations.
Dr. Stephen Ross's groundbreaking studies using psilocybin therapy have demonstrated rapid, substantial, and sustained improvements in psychological symptoms for patients with advanced cancer, substance use disorders, and major depressive disorder. His research has the potential to challenge conventional psychiatric medication approaches.