Psychiatric Disorders
Articles tagged with Psychiatric Disorders
Brain histamine map connects genes to brain function and mental health
A new study has mapped the histamine system in the brain, revealing its role in regulating emotions, stress, and decision-making. The findings provide a framework for understanding how histamine contributes to brain function and could point towards new treatment strategies for histamine-related conditions.
The timing of trauma leaves a lasting mark on the brain and behavior
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.
New research examines “remorse bias” in legal decision-making
Two studies by Rutgers University professor Colleen Berryessa explore how expressions of remorse are interpreted in the legal system, finding that it can lead to serious inequities in legal outcomes. The research highlights the need for greater awareness and education within the legal system to better understand how remorse is assessed.
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.
Bidirectional association between premenstrual disorders and psychiatric disorders
Psychedelic substances: Who can they help – and who might they harm?
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.
Genotype-guided antidepressant prescribing for patients with depression
A randomized clinical trial found that genotype-guided prescribing of SSRIs did not improve depression symptoms at 3 months but showed higher remission rates at 6 months. Future studies should focus on the long-term impact of this approach.
Lesions as a window into cause: a psychiatrist bets that circuits, not regions, explain psychiatric disorders
Gonçalo Cotovio uses lesion network mapping to identify the circuits responsible for psychiatric symptoms, aiming to develop personalized brain stimulation treatments. His work has produced striking findings in mania and obsessive-compulsive disorder, with ambitions to extend to disordered feeding behavior.
The boy on the balcony who never came outside
Dr. Dilek Colak's journey began with a childhood observation of a boy with mental illness, which inspired her to pursue a career in neuroscience. Her current work focuses on understanding autism and schizophrenia through the study of human brain organoids.
Brain Health emergency: Microplastic burden in the human brain now linked to stroke and dementia, with apheresis emerging as the first plausible removal pathway
A study finds microplastics in the human brain associated with increased risk of stroke and dementia. Apheresis, a medical treatment, is proposed as a potential removal method for microplastics from the body.
First psychiatric admission marks the beginning of a long-term illness for most patients
A 20-year follow-up study by the University of Copenhagen reveals that nearly all patients who initially admitted to hospital psychiatry returned, with significant consequences on their education, family life, and health. The researchers emphasize the importance of early and comprehensive assessments to provide better support and preve...
Treatment of anxiety for adults in primary care settings
The American Medical Association (AMA) has developed guidelines for treating anxiety disorders in adults in primary care settings. Behavioral therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are recommended treatments.
Research aims to identify underlying causes for linked mental-health issues
A study by Kelsie Forbush and colleagues used Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology to better understand how psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder are connected. The findings suggest that HiTOP's symptom dimensions may support more precise, personalized mental health care.
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.
May 2026 issues of APA journals feature new research on PTSD, substance use disorders, psychopharmacologic treatments, and more
The latest issues of APA journals feature new research on PTSD and substance use disorders. The American Journal of Psychiatry explores the understanding of these conditions, while Psychiatric Services discusses the future of the DSM. Focus journal delves into psychopharmacologic treatments with expert perspectives.
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.
Landmark study improves adolescent mental health in India’s urban slums
A scalable digital mental health care model and anti-stigma campaigns reduced depression, self-harm, and suicide risks among Indian adolescents. The ARTEMIS project reached over 70,000 adolescents and showed significant improvements in knowledge, attitude, and behavior toward mental health.
Sedatives in pregnancy not linked to psychiatric disorders in children
A large South Korean study found no increased risk of psychiatric or neurodevelopmental disorders in children whose mothers used sedative drugs during pregnancy. The study, published by the BMJ Group, tracked nearly 3.8 million children and analyzed data from the National Health Information Database.
The link between reduced inpatient care and suicide
A nationwide ecological study found a statistical correlation between fewer psychiatric beds and higher suicide rates in Sweden. The study suggests that investing in outpatient care may not be enough to prevent suicides, highlighting the need for further research into healthcare resource allocation.
AI tool may spot adhd years before children are diagnosed
Researchers developed an AI tool that analyzes routine electronic health records to predict ADHD risk in children years before a typical diagnosis. The model accurately identified risk in children age 5 and older, with consistent performance across patient characteristics.
The brain–gut health initiative: A pioneering effort in psychiatric research
Researchers analyze brain imaging data, microbiome profiles, and clinical assessments to identify biomarkers for precision mental healthcare. Early findings suggest certain electroencephalography features serve as non-invasive biomarkers indicating disease severity and treatment response.
Family environment shapes life outcomes across generations
A Swedish study of siblings found that adopted children who grew up in more favourable family environments had lower risks of mental health issues, criminality, and social problems. These benefits extended to the next generation, with adopted children's offspring displaying higher functioning and lower risks.
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.
Study of Ukrainian war amputees finds most recover from pain and trauma
A longitudinal study of 156 Ukrainian amputees found that most experience steady improvements in pain, anxiety, and depression over time. The study revealed distinct patterns of post-amputation pain, with phantom limb pain linked to psychological distress and residual limb pain linked to depression.
Bullying and adverse social climate take measurable toll on mental health of gender-diverse youth
Research found that gender-diverse teens reported higher rates of psychological stress and psychotic-like experiences, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and other serious mental health disorders. Bullying and unsupportive legislation drove these findings.
Firearm storage and carrying practices and suicidal behaviors in US Army service members
A retrospective cross-sectional study found significant associations between unsecured firearm storage and heightened suicide risk in US Army service members. Carrying a weapon other than a firearm also linked to elevated suicide risk, suggesting that any type of weapon carrying behavior may indicate increased vulnerability.
Large confirmatory clinical trial shows efficacy and safety of new brain stimulation therapy for depression
A large clinical trial found that magnetic seizure therapy is as effective as electroconvulsive therapy in improving depressive symptoms, with fewer cognitive side effects. The therapy could become a new standard option for people with severe depression.
Scientists engineer a tool to “edit” brain circuits and enhance memory
Researchers develop molecular tool called SynTrogo, which enables selective dismantling of synaptic connections in brain circuits. By harnessing astrocytes, the system reduces synapse number while strengthening remaining connections, leading to enhanced long-term potentiation and improved memory.
Brain scan can reveal the risk of psychiatric hospitalisation
A new study found that brain activity and emotional reactivity may predict risk of readmission for patients with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder. Participants who reacted strongly to negative emotions were at higher risk of hospitalization, suggesting a potential biomarker for identifying vulnerable individuals.
Calorie labels helpful for people with binge eating disorders
A study of 1,001 people in England found that calorie labels on restaurant menus can be helpful for those with binge eating disorders, particularly those who feel a sense of control over their eating. In contrast, individuals with restrictive eating disorders viewed them negatively.
Hippocampal pathways once thought separate converge to integrate “where” and “why” in reward processing
Researchers from UMBC discover that inputs from the dorsal and ventral hippocampus interact closely on the same neurons in the nucleus accumbens, integrating memories of places and contexts with drive to pursue rewards. This convergence may help animals form associations between rewarding outcomes and environments, essential for survival.
Mental and physical illnesses go hand in hand. A new genetic study helps explain why
A recent genetic study analyzing DNA from 2 million people found that similar chunks of DNA are associated with both psychiatric disorders like depression and PTSD, as well as various physical ailments. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments that address both mental and physical health.
Depression can reduce income for years
A new study from the University of Southern Denmark finds that people with depression experience significant income loss, with losses averaging 17% lower than those without depression. Income loss persists and grows over time, even after diagnosis.
Legacy Investment boosts mental health education at University of Houston
The University of Houston is strengthening its behavioral health programs with a $1.6 million gift from IntraCare North Hospital, supporting social work and nursing scholarships. This investment addresses Texas' critical shortage of mental health professionals, enabling the next generation of experts to serve communities in need.
April 2026 issues of APA journals feature new research on cannabis use disorder, stigma reduction interventions, co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders, and more
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.
Targeting a deep brain region without surgery or medication
Researchers have demonstrated that noninvasive brain stimulation can alter the activity of the hippocampus, a critical deep brain region involved in emotion and memory. Personalizing the stimulation site using a patient's unique brain connectivity pathway increases the neuromodulation effect.
Stress in adolescence causes lasting brain changes, study with mice suggests
A study on mice suggests that adolescence stress causes permanent changes in the prefrontal cortex, increasing vulnerability to schizophrenia and depression. The researchers found that traumatic experiences during this stage of life disrupts communication between brain cells, compromising neural control.
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.
Psychotherapists aren’t prepared to treat eating disorders in boys and men
A binational study found most psychotherapists lack adequate knowledge and confidence treating eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia in boys and men. Clinicians identified a need for specialized training on assessing unique risk factors, tailoring treatment to male-specific experiences, and addressing stigma.
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.
Stress and addiction: New research reveals what connects them
Researchers found a direct line of communication between the brain's stress centers and decision-making regions, which is disrupted by alcohol. This disruption can lead to unhealthy habits and relapse during recovery from alcohol use disorder.
Lasting income costs of mental and physical illness
A study estimated income losses from individual perspectives in Denmark from 2000 to 2023 after hospital diagnoses of depression, alcohol use disorder, stroke, and breast cancer. The researchers found that income losses were largest for mental disorders, with average losses growing over time, particularly among younger individuals.
Severe infections may raise dementia risk, study finds
A Finnish registry study found that severe infections, such as cystitis and bacterial disease, are associated with an increased risk of dementia. The study examined nationwide health registry data and identified 29 diseases linked to dementia risk, including mental disorders, Parkinson's disease, and alcohol-related mental disorders.
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.
Fathers’ mental health deteriorates long after the birth of their child
A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that fathers' mental health declines over time after the birth of their child, with increased risk of anxiety and substance abuse diagnoses returning to pre-pregnancy levels. However, depression and stress-related disorders continue to rise by over 30% one year after childbirth.
Volunteer US and UK fighters in Ukraine face hidden health crises – new study
A new study reveals US and UK volunteer fighters in Ukraine experience high levels of mental and physical health difficulties, including PTSD, moral injury, and poor quality of life. Many struggle to access healthcare after deployment, instead relying on fellow volunteers for support.
For the first time, Robert A. Winn Career Development Award opens to neuropsychiatry investigator-physicians
The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program is expanding its career development award to include neuropsychiatry researcher-physicians. This expansion aims to improve clinical trial enrollment and represent diverse patient populations affected by complex disorders.
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.
New study discovers how serotonin can be hijacked in the brain
Researchers discovered that acetylcholine can directly trigger the release of serotonin in the brain, promoting coordinated chemical signaling. This finding suggests that brain disorders may involve the internal coordination system being pushed into overdrive, leading to pathological increases in serotonin levels.
Excessive smartphone use associated with symptoms of eating disorder and body dissatisfaction in young people
A systematic review found a significant association between excessive smartphone use and eating disorder symptom severity in young people, including disordered eating and food addiction. The study highlights the need for early intervention strategies to address excessive phone use in young people displaying eating disorder symptoms.
Stanley Family Foundation renews commitment to accelerate psychiatric research at Broad Institute
The Stanley Family Foundation has renewed its $1 billion commitment to psychiatric research at Broad Institute, transforming the field of psychiatric genetics and schizophrenia/bipolar disorder research. Human genetics data from the Stanley Center has provided unprecedented clues to the brain biology underlying these conditions.
Cellular changes linked to depression related fatigue
Researchers at the University of Queensland have made a breakthrough in understanding the cellular changes that occur in depression. They found that cells in people with depression produce more energy molecules when resting, but have a reduced ability to increase energy production under stress. This study offers a new potential approac...
Study traces genetic links between 14 psychiatric conditions and may facilitate future treatments
A study of over 1 million diagnosed individuals reveals genetic links between 14 psychiatric conditions, grouping them into five major factors. The findings may facilitate future treatments and drug repurposing, with potential applications in schizophrenia and substance abuse
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.
Less trippy, more therapeutic ‘magic mushrooms’
Researchers have synthesized modified versions of psilocin that retain therapeutic activity while producing fewer hallucinogenic-like effects. The compounds, including 4e, demonstrate favorable stability for absorption and enable a gradual release of psilocin, potentially mitigating hallucinogenic effects.
FAU awarded $2.4M NIH grant to study immune signaling and social behavior
Researchers will investigate the role of interleukin-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) in brain function, behavior, and psychiatric health. The study aims to define the physiological role of IL-1R1 in the brain and explore its influence on social behaviors.