Articles tagged with Psychiatric Disorders
Researchers have discovered that stress hormones can silence crucial neuronal genes by interacting with long noncoding RNAs and the polycomb repressive complex 2. This mechanism may provide a new understanding of how stress affects gene expression, particularly in relation to synaptic function and calcium signaling.
The study identified dozens of genetic regions that influence the size and thickness of the corpus callosum and its subregions. The research team created an AI-powered tool that finds and measures the corpus callosum in brain MRI scans automatically, allowing for unprecedented analysis of brain structure at scale and precision.
A new study uses fruit flies to explore the relationship between sleep and diet, finding that energy deprivation leads to increased feeding and sleeping behavior. The researchers propose that correcting sleep habits may help alleviate eating and metabolic disorders.
International experts call for reclassification of postpartum psychosis as a separate mental illness category to speed diagnosis and treatment. The condition, which affects up to 2.6 women per 1,000 after childbirth, requires specific treatment approach if left untreated.
A new UCLA Health study found that a child's early gut microbiome may influence their risk of developing depression, anxiety or other internalizing symptoms in middle childhood. The effect appears to be related to the way bacteria are linked to communication across emotion-related brain networks.
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have identified a previously unknown hub in the brain's lymphatic drainage system, which helps remove waste from the brain. The study provides evidence of a slow-moving fluid flow through true lymphatic vessels, rather than blood vessels.
Researchers warn that advances in AI and neurotechnology are outpacing our understanding of consciousness, with potential serious ethical consequences. A better understanding of consciousness could have major implications for AI, prenatal policy, animal welfare, medicine, mental health, law, and emerging neurotechnologies.
Researchers Prof Axel Cleeremans, Prof Anil Seth, and Prof Liad Mudrik warn that advances in AI and neurotechnology are outpacing our understanding of consciousness. They emphasize the need for theory-driven research and innovative methods to advance consciousness science.
A comprehensive review of emerging neuromodulation techniques reveals their potential to treat treatment-resistant OCD. Targeting abnormal brain activity, these methods aim to normalize circuits underlying decision-making and emotion regulation.
A systematic review synthesizes clinical and preclinical evidence on psilocybin's effects on obsessive-compulsive behaviours, revealing consistent anti-compulsive effects in human patients and validated animal models. Single doses of psilocybin led to rapid symptom reductions in clinical populations.
Scientists found that activating specific neurons in the claustrum region of male rats under psychedelic exposure strengthens connections to areas implicated in psychiatric diseases, potentially explaining how psychedelics improve memory and symptoms. The study suggests a new pathway for understanding psychedelics' therapeutic effects.
A randomized clinical trial found that repeated ketamine infusions provided no additional benefit to standard care for inpatients with serious depression. The study, led by Declan McLoughlin and Ana Jelovac, highlights the need for recalibrated expectations in clinical practice and underscores the importance of blinding in trials.
International Consortium of Women's Mental Health Experts recommend classifying postpartum psychosis as a distinct category within standardized medical coding systems. This classification is crucial for improving patient outcomes and saving lives, particularly due to the risks associated with the condition to both patients and infants.
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.
A recent study has found that auditory verbal hallucinations in schizophrenia may stem from a disruption in the brain's ability to recognize its own inner voice. Researchers used EEG to measure brainwaves as participants listened to audio and imagined speaking, revealing a stronger reaction in people with schizophrenia who heard voices.
Researchers found that voluntary running exercise mitigates cafeteria diet-induced behavioral changes via hormonal and microbial pathways. The study revealed specific metabolites, such as anserine and indole-3-carboxylate, were decreased by the cafeteria diet but partially restored by exercise.
The new guideline recommends clinicians ask about mental health as part of usual care and for patients to discuss it with their providers. The task force did not find evidence that routine screening leads to better mental health.
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.
A new study has identified a leptin-sensitive brain circuit in the lateral hypothalamus that helps animals overcome anxiety to perform essential behaviors such as eating, exploring, and limiting maladaptive hyperactivity. Boosting the activity of these neurons can restore adaptive choices even under conditions that cause anxiety.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet and UCL found that living in a safe neighborhood with high personal trust reduces psychosis risk among Swedish or European origin residents, but increases it for North African or Middle Eastern origin individuals. The researchers emphasize the need for inclusive environments to promote mental heal...
A new computer model called CogLinks simulates brain circuit decisions and adaptability, helping researchers understand how the brain misfires in psychiatric disorders. The model's results suggest that a specific pathway is essential for adaptability, and its predictions are confirmed by an fMRI study
A study of 200 Chilean women released from prison found that those with substance use disorders had higher rates of recidivism, reincarceration, and victimization. The researchers also found that pre-release screening missed many women with severe symptoms, highlighting the need for improved mental health care services.
A new study from Washington University School of Medicine found that social conflicts, particularly family fighting and peer bullying, were the strongest predictors of near- and long-term mental health issues in teens. The research also revealed sex differences in how boys and girls experience stress from peer conflict.
A University of Colorado Boulder research team has identified a novel brain circuit responsible for orchestrating the innate threat response. The interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) plays a critical role in helping animals process potential threats and adapt accordingly when they learn there's no real danger.
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.
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.
Groundbreaking research by Dr. Bruce M. Cohen has uncovered critical abnormalities in energy metabolism and cellular connectivity that contribute to psychiatric disorders. The study's findings suggest therapeutic avenues that may be better targeted and more effective than current treatments.
A study of 40 women with PTSD following recent sexual assault trauma found a marked reduction in brain synchronization between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. This disruption may be a biological signature of the disorder rather than a state-dependent marker, potentially leading to personalized treatment response.
New University of Virginia research explores the most common and effective types of counseling and support for people who have had a near-death experience. The study found that acceptance and validation, as well as support from groups or online sources knowledgeable about NDEs, are key to successful support.
Researchers discovered that serotonin levels in the brain are related to the ability to have an erection or orgasm, but only in patients taking SSRI antidepressants. The test, LDAEP, measures brain activity and can predict sexual side effects with 87% accuracy.
Researchers found that 14.5% of patients with a first episode of psychosis had dermatological symptoms, which were linked to higher levels of depression and risk of suicide. The study suggests that skin conditions may serve as an advance marker for mental health risk, similar to blood tests for cancer or heart disease.
Researchers have found that a ketogenic diet fed to young rats after weaning can prevent lasting effects of prenatal stress. This diet regimen was shown to reduce social and motivational problems in offspring, with males benefiting through reducing inflammation and females boosting antioxidant defenses.
A study confirms that people with ADHD can be more creative due to their tendency to let their minds wander. The research found that individuals with ADHD symptoms showed higher scores on creative achievements and were associated with greater mind wandering, particularly deliberate mind wandering.
Researchers found that females with ADHD are underdiagnosed and often receive a diagnosis five years later than males. They also exhibit greater emotional and functional difficulties.
Researchers from the University of South Australia explore the connection between the gut and brain to decipher their role in mental health and wellbeing. The study found that changes in the gut microbiome can directly affect brain chemistry, suggesting a potential link between gut health and mental illness.
Researchers found high rates of depression and anxiety among juvenile prisoners, regardless of the charge. The study suggests that addressing mental health concerns before detention can reduce recidivism, and screening and intervention should be standard practice in all detention settings.
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.
Researchers found that Reelin-based therapeutics could help restore the integrity of the gut barrier, reducing inflammation and symptoms of depression. The study suggests a promising new treatment targeting both brain and gut processes.
A recent study found that a person's genetic background, rather than a single gene, plays a key role in the development of complex disorders. The research revealed patterns of secondary variants that can modify the impact of primary genetic variants on clinical outcomes.
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.
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).
The AfriCAT project, led by Dr. Bianca Moffett, is a first-of-its-kind adaptive testing tool for depression and anxiety among adolescents in Africa. It uses Computerised Adaptive Testing to provide an efficient way to assess mental health conditions simultaneously.
Researchers found distinct genetic profiles for early- and late-diagnosed autism, with earlier diagnosed groups showing more social interaction difficulties in infancy and behavioral problems in adolescence. Later diagnosed individuals experienced increased social and behavioral difficulties during adolescence and higher rates of menta...
A new study led by Mass General Brigham investigators compared the effects of repeated intravenous (IV) ketamine and intranasal (IN) esketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression, revealing both treatments reduced symptoms but IV ketamine showed greater improvements.
A major review of international evidence found that racial discrimination contributes to the development of psychosis, with people experiencing discrimination being 77% more likely to develop psychotic symptoms. The study highlights the need for public health action to tackle systemic racism and its impact on mental health disparities.
A systematic review of 23 primary studies found a positive association between racial/ethnic discrimination and psychosis risk. The largest effect sizes were observed in non-clinical settings, suggesting that experiences of racism may play a role in the development of psychosis.
Johns Hopkins researchers used machine learning to analyze electric activity of mini-brains grown in a lab, revealing unique firing patterns associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The study improves accuracy in distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy brain organoids, paving the way for potential diagnostic tests and p...
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland reveals that patients in specialised psychiatric care face a variety of interconnected social risks. The most vulnerable segments of the population experience cumulative risks including financial difficulties, housing challenges, and violence.
A new review from the University of Victoria suggests that psilocybin and 5-MeO-DMT may help treat concussions and traumatic brain injuries by increasing neuroplasticity and reducing inflammation. The compounds have shown promise in treating depression, anxiety, and other conditions in clinical research.
A study published in Science Advances reveals that an autism-linked mutation disrupts brain circuits responsible for erasing fear memories, leading to PTSD-like symptoms. By reactivating specific neurons, researchers were able to reverse the behavioral and physiological abnormalities.
A study from the University of Waterloo found that high hair cortisol levels may signal mental health risks in children with chronic physical illnesses. The research suggests that identifying these risk factors early could help doctors and families intervene before emotional difficulties take hold.
A new form of electric brain stimulation, HD-tDCS, has been shown to be effective and faster than traditional treatments for depression. Participants who received the therapy reported significant improvements in mood scores, which were sustained during follow-up assessments.
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.
Research published in BMJ Mental Health found a strong association between the co-occurrence of psychiatric disorders and an increased risk of dementia. The study analyzed data from 3688 patients with one or more psychiatric disorders, finding that those with four or more disorders were 11 times as likely to develop dementia.
The RenewU program provides evidence-based interventions to prevent burnout and promote resilience in healthcare providers. The toolkit offers mental health support, stress management, and physical wellness resources, including yoga and exercise guides.
A nationwide study of secondary school pupils in England found that bright children from poorer backgrounds are twice as likely to be admitted to hospital with mental health problems. They are also more likely to be treated for alcohol and drug use, self-harm, and pregnancy-related issues.
The latest issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services feature research on psychiatric genetics, telehealth prescribing of controlled substances, and trends in ADHD medication. Highlights include a new APA Practice Guideline for the Prevention and Treatment of Delirium.
Semaglutide significantly reduces cocaine-seeking behavior in rats by 26%, with a 62% drop in seeking after abstinence. This finding suggests semaglutide's potential as a treatment for human cocaine dependency, currently lacking effective pharmacological options.
The study found sex differences in age at diagnosis, treatment onset, illness duration, illicit drug use, and smoking among individuals with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Females showed better functioning and neurocognitive performance than males, while males had higher rates of substance use.
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.