Affective Disorders

Short-term and late-term effects of psilocybin on symptoms in major depression

Better decision-making, better stress management: Study explains link between resilience and decision-making behavior

A new study finds that individuals with higher resilience tend to place greater weight on positive aspects in cost-benefit decisions, a process mediated by brain activity. This regulated handling of negative information is linked to increased acceptance and improved psychological resilience.

Study points to metabolic health as a key factor in mood disorders

A study links insulin resistance and leptin dysregulation to cognitive impairment in bipolar disorder, highlighting the potential of targeted clinical pathways. Metabolic alterations are associated with cognitive deficits and poorer performance in memory and attention.

Probing links between decision-making and mental resilience

Researchers found that individuals with stronger brain responses to negative information were more resilient in their thoughts and feelings. They accepted more offers with mixed consequences, indicating a lower value on negative outcomes. This study suggests that controlling negative thoughts may enable people to build mental resilience.

Better cognition tied to higher relapse risk after depression remission

A new study with over 3,700 UK participants found that better cognitive functioning may be associated with a higher risk of future depressive episodes in those with a history of depression. In contrast, worse cognitive performance was linked to a lower risk of relapse in both individuals with previous depression and control participants.

Adjunctive antipsychotics in major depressive disorder

This systematic review and meta-analysis found differences in efficacy and acceptability of adjunctive atypical antipsychotics for major depressive disorder. The study highlights the need for more well-controlled studies on maintenance efficacy of these medications.

Marker of biological aging linked to cognitive symptoms of depression

Researchers found that accelerated biological aging of a type of white blood cell called monocytes is linked to cognitive and mood-related symptoms of depression. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and personalized treatment for depression, particularly in high-risk populations such as women with HIV.

Language of helplessness: How we write about ourselves reveals symptoms of depression

A study by SWPS University found that people with depressive symptoms use less active language, such as 'I am incapable' instead of 'I achieve goals'. This analysis of social media posts shows promise for early detection and prevention of depression.

Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS): Mechanisms and clinical applications in neuropsychiatric disorders

tACS modulates brain oscillations, induces synaptic plasticity, and regulates neurotransmitter release to alleviate symptoms of various neuropsychiatric conditions. Personalized approaches are essential for treatment efficacy.

Linking loneliness to inflammation in wound care

Researchers from MUSC and elsewhere found a strong link between loneliness and increased expression of pro-inflammatory genes in patients with chronic leg and foot wounds. This can delay healing. The study suggests that addressing loneliness through cognitive behavioral therapy may improve health outcomes.

Mount Sinai enrolling patients in DoD-funded clinical trial of drug-free neuromodulation therapy for postpartum depression

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.

When the nervous system starves the brain: Autonomic dysfunction unmasked as a hidden driver of treatment-resistant depression

A study published in Brain Medicine suggests autonomic dysfunction, particularly parasympathetic and sympathetic imbalances, contributes to depressive symptoms in patients unresponsive to conventional antidepressants. Low-dose medications targeting these imbalances may offer a new approach to treatment.

Toward strategies for extending ketamine’s antidepressant effects

Researchers identified NOX-1 as a key molecular target to prolong ketamine's therapeutic benefits. Combining ketamine with NOX-1 inhibitors significantly extended its antidepressant-like effects. K-4, a novel AMPAR modulator, also showed rapid antidepressant effects that persisted for at least 2 weeks.

Emotions in motion: How movement may signal mental health issues

A recent study published in Gait & Posture found that analyzing a person's walk and getting up from a chair can identify elevated depression and anxiety symptoms. The researchers used machine-learning models trained on data from participants' movements combined with information about their mental state, achieving high accuracy rates.

Struggling to identify emotions may increase vulnerability to TikTok addiction

A study published in Frontiers found that young people with attachment anxiety and difficulties identifying emotions are more susceptible to short video addiction. Mental training, such as mindfulness and attention regulation, can help prevent this addiction by strengthening emotional awareness and cognitive regulation.

Inflammation linked to depression in women with diabetes, but biomarkers paint complex picture

A study found that inflammation markers may signal depression in women with type 2 diabetes, but vary based on depression symptoms and measures. The research suggests a path toward precision mental health by identifying specific inflammatory biomarkers linked to different dimensions of mental health.

Study details neuropsychiatric symptoms and biological mechanisms of long COVID

Long COVID affects quality of life with neuropsychiatric issues like cognitive dysfunction, depression, and memory loss, impacting daily tasks and work. The review highlights the need for standardized diagnosis and treatment to address this chronic condition.

TikTok’s mental health ‘minefield’

A systematic review of social media platforms reveals that TikTok contains a substantial proportion of misleading information about mental health and neurodivergence, with higher rates of misinformation than other platforms. The study emphasizes the importance of credible sources and evidence-based content to combat spreading false ide...

A sea slug taught her how the brain works, and she never looked back

Dr. Phillips's laboratory identifies abnormalities in prefrontal-striatal-limbic circuitry as biomarkers for bipolar disorder before symptoms appear. Her team tracks neural network development from infancy through young adulthood.

Adverse childhood experiences and treatment-resistant depression

A cohort study found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) were associated with an increased risk of treatment-resistant depression in adults. Preventing ACEs and incorporating ACE history into clinical assessment may help identify individuals at elevated risk for treatment resistance.

A comprehensive review charts how psychiatry could finally diagnose what it actually treats

Emerging research across conceptual frameworks, biomarker science, digital phenotyping, and artificial intelligence synthesizes a translational pathway toward a more biologically grounded and clinically useful approach to psychiatric diagnosis. The current system falls short due to standardized clinical language and lack of biological ...

Modeling brain aging and resilience over the lifespan reveals new individual factors

A new study models brain aging and resilience over the lifespan, uncovering individual factors that affect cognition and identifying potential biomarkers of healthy brain aging. Researchers are now incorporating diverse data, including social and lifestyle factors, to create a broader picture of the aging brain.

A decision-support system to personalize antidepressant treatment in major depressive disorder

A decision-support system improved depressive and anxiety symptoms, increased medication adherence, and reduced symptoms over time for patients with major depressive disorder. The system used clinical and demographic predictors to tailor treatment, resulting in better outcomes for patients compared to usual care.

A depression treatment that once took eight weeks may work just as well in one

Researchers found that a condensed brain stimulation therapy, known as '5x5' TMS, produced comparable results to the standard six-week course of treatment. Patients who showed little improvement immediately after finishing their five-day course still benefited significantly in the weeks that followed.

How AI tools like DeepSeek are transforming emotional and mental health care of Chinese youth

China's youth faces a growing mental health crisis, but AI platforms like DeepSeek offer promising solutions to bridge the gap. These platforms leverage natural language processing and generative AI to provide round-the-clock support tailored to Chinese society.

More than just ‘daydreaming’ – dissociation is the mind’s survival tactic

Dissociation is a complex survival mechanism in response to overwhelming trauma, affecting memory, identity, and perception. Research confirms its prevalence among individuals who have experienced trauma, and effective dissociation-specific treatment options are needed.

Identification of the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder as paraventricular thalamic nucleus

The study reveals that the paraventricular thalamic nucleus (PVT) is the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder, with notable alterations in cell number and gene expression. This discovery highlights the PVT as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for improving patient outcomes.

Updated "Treating and Preventing Adolescent Mental Health Disorders" published by Oxford

The updated edition provides a comprehensive overview of major mental health conditions that emerge during adolescence, discussing treatment strategies and prevention methods. The book emphasizes the importance of addressing stigma, promoting evidence-based treatments, and integrating positive youth development into policy agendas.

Study finds non-hallucinogenic psilocybin neural receptor

A Dartmouth study identifies a novel target for using psilocybin to treat depression and anxiety without hallucinations. The serotonin 1B receptor is found to promote the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, providing a potential new approach for developing safer and more cost-efficient medications.

Exercise to treat depression yields similar results to therapy

A Cochrane review found that exercise can reduce depressive symptoms similarly to psychological therapy, with moderate-certainty evidence from ten trials. Long-term effects are unclear due to few studies following participants after treatment.

How do brains stay stable, and when might a dose of flexibility be helpful?

Scientists at Salk Institute find protein CCN1, secreted by astrocytes, maintains stable neural circuits in adult brains. The discovery could lead to new therapeutics for brain injury and stroke.

Specific depressive symptoms in midlife linked to increased dementia risk

A new study suggests that midlife depression is driven by a small cluster of specific symptoms, rather than depression overall. The six symptoms are loss of self-confidence, difficulty coping with problems, and poor concentration, which can lead to reduced social engagement and decreased cognitive reserve.

Research spotlight: A subset of patients with depression could benefit from anti-inflammatory treatment

A subset of depressed individuals with chronic, low-grade inflammation may benefit from anti-inflammatory treatment, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis. The study found that anti-inflammatory medications significantly reduced depressive symptom severity and anhedonia in these patients.

Body image issues in adolescence linked to depression in adulthood

Teenagers who struggle with their bodies are at risk of developing eating disorders and depression in early adulthood, according to a new study. The research, which followed over 2,000 twins, found that body dissatisfaction at age 16 predicted greater symptoms of mental health issues well into the twenties.

Sport in middle childhood can breed respect for authority in adolescence

A new study by researchers in Canada and Italy suggests that young adolescents who participated in organized sports between ages 6 and 10 are less likely to defy authority figures. The study found that structured extracurricular activities can promote behavioral resilience and reduce the burden of disruptive behavior disorders.

Does the "use it or lose it" principle determine brain plasticity and shape how we age?

Dr. Paul Lucassen's research on adult neurogenesis reveals the link between early life experiences, lifestyle factors, and depression/dementia risk. His work has implications for therapeutic approaches to brain health and disease.

Clinical use of nitrous oxide could help treat depression, major study shows

A major meta-analysis found that nitrous oxide can offer fast-acting depressive symptom relief for adults with major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression. The study showed significant improvements in mood within 24 hours, but repeated dosing over several weeks was needed to sustain clinical benefit.

Non-invasive technology can shape the brain’s reward-seeking mechanisms

Researchers at the University of Plymouth have successfully used transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) to change the function of a deep region of the human brain, specifically the nucleus accumbens. This tiny element is triggered by enjoyable experiences and helps us learn behaviours that lead to rewards.

US burden of disorders affecting the nervous system

A cross-sectional study found that US population faces significant challenges with nervous system disorders, impacting 180.3 million people, mainly due to stroke, Alzheimer's disease, diabetic neuropathy, and migraine conditions.

Probing new mechanisms of depression and anxiety

Researchers found that a protein involved in ATP release, connexin 43, plays a key role in depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors. Restoring connexin 43 in the hippocampus improved behavioral outcomes and boosted ATP levels in stressed mice.

Behind the 2025 “shroom boom” hides a bad trip

The article highlights the mismatch between psychedelics and economic drug development principles. Pharmaceutical companies are developing short-acting compounds and neuroplastogens to engineer trips out of the experience altogether. Dr. Sandy Hager's research suggests investors should remain cautious due to weak intellectual property ...

Chronic pain may increase the risk of high blood pressure in adults

A new study published in the Hypertension Journal found that chronic pain in adults may increase their risk of developing high blood pressure, with depression playing a significant role. The study analyzed data from over 200,000 adults and found that widespread pain was associated with a higher risk of high blood pressure.

Closed-loop brain-body interface: brain and body team up to personalize mental health treatment

Researchers propose a closed-loop system combining peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) with brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to personalize neuromodulation. This approach aims to address treatment-resistant depression and schizophrenia by dynamically tailoring interventions to individual neural signatures.

Adenosine is the metabolic common pathway of rapid antidepressant action: The coffee paradox

A recent landmark study identifies adenosine as the critical mediator of rapid antidepressant action, connecting ketamine, ECT, and hypoxia. The discovery raises questions about the potential interference of caffeine with these treatments, highlighting the need for further research on adenosinergic modulation in depression.

Antidepressants improve core depressive symptoms early on

A new analysis of the PANDA trial found that sertraline contributes to improvements in low mood and suicidal thinking within two weeks of taking the drug. The study also revealed an improvement in emotional symptoms of depression within two weeks, with continued benefits from six weeks to 12 weeks.

BD² awards $18 million in grants to advance research on the biology of bipolar disorder

The BD² Discovery Research program awards $18 million to researchers exploring the neural circuitry of bipolar disorder. This funding enables the development of innovative treatment approaches and accelerates better care for those living with the condition.

Scientists can now explore mechanisms behind attachment issues

Researchers found that impaired maternal care and increased stress hormone signaling led to health, behavioral, and attachment issues in mouse pups. Long-term stunted growth trajectories and anxiety-like behavior were observed after just 1 week of limited bedding.

Genetic inflammation markers reveal distinct depression subtypes affecting treatment response

Researchers identified a genetic inflammatory signature that defines specific depression subtypes and influences antidepressant outcomes. Higher CRP polygenic scores were associated with reduced weight and appetite loss, earlier age of onset, and lower employment status after treatment.

Genetics pioneer transforms global depression research through multi-omics discoveries

Dr. Amin's transformative insights reshape international understanding of depression genetics, identifying novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. Her systemic disease model challenges traditional views of depression as a brain disorder.

Heart rate changes predict depression treatment success with magnetic brain stimulation

Researchers have identified a rapid physiological marker that predicts which patients with major depression will respond to magnetic brain stimulation therapy. Patients whose heart rates slowed within 45 seconds of starting treatment showed significantly greater improvement in depressive symptoms six weeks later.

Different types of depression linked to different cardiometabolic diseases

A study of 5,794 adults found that different types of depression are associated with varying levels of risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Those with atypical/energy-related symptoms were more likely to develop Type-2 diabetes, while those with melancholic symptoms were at higher risk for cardiovascular disease.

Bipolar disorder heterogeneity decoded: transforming global psychiatric treatment approaches

A renowned geneticist, Dr. Martin Alda, has made a groundbreaking discovery that bipolar disorder is composed of multiple genetically distinct disorders, transforming treatment approaches worldwide. His research also highlights the importance of combining basic research with clinical observations to advance psychiatric care.

Tiny sugars in the brain disrupt emotional circuits, fueling depression

Researchers identify abnormal sugar modifications linked to depressive behaviors, offering potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Chronic stress disrupts sugar chains in the prefrontal cortex, triggering depression.

Uncovering links between depression and hypertension in African populations

Research in African populations aims to understand the link between depression and hypertension, two conditions affecting millions worldwide. The study will focus on identifying shared genetic mechanisms, which could lead to more effective treatment strategies for complex diseases.

October issues of APA journals feature new research on ketamine and esketamine treatment, involuntary commitment, short-term psychotherapy and more

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).

Swedish psychologist transforms mental health access through digital therapy revolution

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.

Psychedelic research transforms global mental health treatment paradigms

Professor Gregor Hasler's pioneering research reveals how psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA enhance neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to rewire itself and break free from depression, PTSD, and addiction. His discoveries have the potential to fundamentally alter international approaches to mental health treatment.

Revolutionary psychiatrist transforms global understanding of treatment-resistant depression

Professor Siegfried Kasper reveals biological bases of psychiatric disorders alongside psychosocial determinants, influencing treatment protocols globally. His pioneering research transformed approaches to treatment-resistant depression, improving millions of lives.

Depression may make learning to avoid unpleasant events harder

Researchers found that individuals with more severe depressive symptoms had difficulty learning to actively avoid aversive sounds, but their ability improved once they mastered the task. The study suggests that depressive symptoms may specifically interfere with learning to avoid unpleasant events rather than avoidance in general.

A Mount Sinai-Led team creates model for understanding how the brain’s decision-making is impacted in psychiatric disorders

A computational framework has been created to understand how the brain's striatum region influences everyday decisions and impaired decision-making in individuals with psychiatric disorders. The study suggests that modulating striosomal activity could be a new approach to addressing psychiatric abnormalities.