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Genetic predisposition to schizophrenia may increase risk of psychosis from cannabis use

A new study published in Translational Psychiatry reveals that individuals with high genetic predisposition to schizophrenia are disproportionately affected by cannabis use, experiencing a 60% higher risk of psychotic experiences. Cannabis users, compared to non-users, have higher rates of psychotic experiences across the board.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateApr 13, 2021

Unravelling the origins of autoimmune psychosis

A new study by University of Barcelona reveals that alterations in dopaminergic receptors D1R and D2R in the hippocampal area of the brain cause memory deficits and psychotic behaviour in mice with anti-NMDAR encephalitis. The findings hold promise for developing more efficient antipsychotic drugs.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateOct 29, 2020

Faulty brain processing of new information underlies psychotic delusions, finds new research

Researchers from the University of Cambridge and King's College London discovered that problems in how the brain recognizes and processes novel information lie at the root of psychosis. The study found that defective brain signals in patients with psychosis could be altered with medication, leading to new treatment development pathways.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 23, 2020

A new window into psychosis

A recent study in mice found that psychosis may be caused by problems with specialized nerve cells and learning behavior. The researchers hope this could provide insight into the emergence of delusions in patients with psychosis or schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

Study finds 'cluster of disadvantage' behind BAME psychosis rates

A study by Queen Mary University of London researchers found that excess psychosis diagnoses amongst Black and South Asian men in deprived urban areas may reflect a cluster of disadvantage rather than individual factors. The team identified four markers of vulnerability: drug and alcohol dependence, criminality and violence, risky or c...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 29, 2019

Acute psychotic illness triggered by Brexit Referendum

A middle-aged man experienced a brief episode of acute psychosis after the 2016 Brexit Referendum, highlighting the potential impact of political events on mental health. The case highlights the importance of identifying early warning signs and providing prompt treatment to ensure quick recovery.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Case Reports·DateOct 1, 2019

Study examines cannabis' effects on brain neurochemistry

A new study found a blunted response to stress-induced dopamine signaling in the brains of individuals at high risk for psychosis who regularly use cannabis. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the impact of cannabis on brain neurochemistry, particularly among populations at risk for psychosis.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction Biology·DateAug 7, 2019

World experts target guidance on managing dementia symptoms

New research suggests that non-drug approaches should be prioritised in treating agitation in people with Alzheimer's disease, ranking assessment and management of underlying causes as the top treatment. Non-pharmacological treatments such as person-centred care and tailored activity programmes are also recommended for managing symptom...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Psychogeriatrics·DateAug 2, 2018

Smoking heightens risk of psychoses

A recent study by the Academy of Finland found that daily and heavy smoking are independently linked to a higher risk of psychoses. Smoking begun at an early age was a particularly significant risk factor, with prevention of adolescent smoking likely to have positive effects on mental health in later life.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalActa Psychiatrica Scandinavica·DateMar 12, 2018

Study in six countries identifies groups that are vulnerable to severe mental illness

A study of six countries found that young men, ethnic minorities, and people living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas are more likely to experience first-episode psychosis. The study also showed that environmental factors play a crucial role in the variation of incidence rates across urban and rural areas.

Speech analysis software predicted psychosis in at-risk patients with up to 83 percent accuracy

A computer-based language classifier predicted psychosis in at-risk youths with up to 83% accuracy, identifying disturbances in speech flow and tangential thinking as indicative of psychosis. The technology has the potential to improve prediction and prevention of psychosis by targeting cognitive deficits.

Autism traits increase thoughts of suicide in people with psychosis

Research led by Professor Stephen Wood at Orygen found that individuals with autism traits and psychosis are at a greater risk of depression and suicidal thoughts. The study suggests that identifying autism traits can help identify those most at risk of suicide, highlighting the need for better training and assessments.

SourceOrygen·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateDec 14, 2017

'The mountains can drive us to madness'

Researchers at Eurac Research and Medical University of Innsbruck have identified a new medical entity: isolated high-altitude psychosis. The condition is characterized by psychotic episodes in extreme altitudes, often accompanied by hallucinations and disorientation.

SourceEurac Research·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateDec 13, 2017