Articles tagged with Clinical Psychology
A study from the University of Seville found that patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders show significant reductions in structural similarity between different brain regions, particularly in the temporal, cingulate, and insular lobes. These alterations are associated with cognitive deficits and severe symptoms.
Researchers found a significant link between longer screen time and increased ADHD symptoms, as well as developmental abnormalities in brain structure. The study suggests that excessive screen exposure may contribute to delayed brain maturation patterns in children with ADHD.
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 ...
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...
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.
A new study found that people with generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder have lower levels of choline in their brains. Choline is vital for cell membranes and brain functions like memory, mood regulation, and muscle control.
A new study published in BJPsych Open found that individuals with a gambling disorder are significantly more likely to die by suicide. The research, which analyzed anonymous healthcare records from Wales over 30 years, identified factors that may predict suicide among people with gambling problems.
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.
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 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.
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.
A new University of Georgia study found that ongoing encouragement from families and schools may help reduce premature deaths among children with adverse childhood experiences. Social support was crucial in preventing destructive behaviors and increasing long-term survival rates.
Psychedelic substances profoundly alter our perception of time, inducing temporal distortions that offer unprecedented insights into consciousness. By suppressing the default mode network and modulating multiple brain regions, psychedelics provide unique windows into brain function and mental health treatment.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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 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 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 American Counseling Association has launched the Counseling Compact, enabling thousands of professional counselors to practice across state lines. This mutual recognition model allows counselors to work in person or via telehealth, providing access to mental health services for millions of Americans.
A recent study from the University of Georgia found that living in neighborhoods with lower incomes and high crime rates is associated with a 79% higher rate of psychotic disorders. This suggests that environmental factors can play a significant role in shaping an individual's risk for developing these conditions.
The study aims to identify better ways to predict which children with ADHD will benefit from medication treatment. Researchers will examine how the brain processes reward and frustration to understand why some children show improvements with ADHD medication while others do not.
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 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...
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.
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.
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.
New research published in CMAJ found that Black adolescents with mental distress are less likely to access mental health care, with Black girls being the least likely. The study highlights the need for culturally responsive and sex-specific adaptations to care, as well as policy changes to equalize mental health service use.
A new study has identified the deeply personal reasons that suicidal adolescents give for wanting to live, with family connections being the most common reason. Young people also spoke about personal dreams, simple joys, and meaningful activities, such as getting a tattoo, as reasons to keep living.
A new study reveals that autistic individuals identify loneliness, hopelessness, and feelings of worthlessness as key factors contributing to their suicidal thoughts. The research highlights the need for improved access to support services and reduced stigma within society.
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.
A new study found that nearly three out of four adults suffer from dental fear, with 45.8% experiencing moderate fear and 26.8% severe fear. Most individuals interested in overcoming their fear are open to free, brief treatment options, such as virtual dental fear treatments using apps and telehealth.
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.
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.
A new study from the University of Georgia suggests that binge-watching TV shows can improve memory and engagement with stories. Researchers found that people who marathon episodes are more likely to remember plots and characters, leading to a stronger connection to the narrative.
A new report from Emory University reveals that certain mental health conditions can raise the risk of developing heart disease by 50-100% and adverse outcomes from existing heart conditions by 60-170%. The study emphasizes a bidirectional relationship between cardiovascular disease and mental health, highlighting the need for an integ...
A new study suggests that the 'unhappiness hump' has disappeared globally, with declining mental health among younger people being a key factor. This shift is in contrast to past trends, where mental ill-being typically peaked in midlife and declined with age.
High ventilation breathwork with music is linked to altered states of consciousness, reduced negative emotions, and increased blood flow to the right amygdala and anterior hippocampus. The study found that breathwork practices can induce profound psychedelic states similar to those evoked by psychedelic substances.
A recent study has found that 43.9% of Black women with disabilities are pursuing self-employment as a viable career option. This group is more likely to have a graduate degree and earn higher incomes compared to their non-disabled counterparts.
A 12-week online program has been shown to be effective in treating bulimia nervosa, with a significant reduction in binge eating and compensatory behaviors. The study found that guided internet-based CBT can help people who struggle to access specialist care.
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.
Researchers envision AI-powered systems that identify patients at risk of mental health struggles, provide continuous psychological monitoring and tailor interventions. AI can also overcome barriers to mental health care by delivering support exactly where and when it's needed, including rural areas.
Researchers from the University of Bath and University of Hong Kong found that additive advice bias is common in conversations, social media, and AI chatbots. This bias can leave people feeling more overwhelmed than helped, with well-intentioned tips piling on extra tasks.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Missouri has made a groundbreaking discovery using patient's own cartilage cells to aid in healing after hip surgery. The research team successfully cultured and expanded cartilage cells, or chondrocytes, in the lab, paving the way for future clinical applications.
A study by Florida Atlantic University found that avoidant coping plays a key role in lowering the quality of life for mental health providers. Long-term training in adaptive coping strategies and fostering an internal sense of control can improve provider well-being and client outcomes.
A recent study has found a significant positive relationship between sensitivity and common mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Highly sensitive individuals are more likely to benefit from treatment plans involving applied relaxation and mindfulness.
A new study found that over 1 in 10 Medicaid-enrolled youths experiencing a mental health crisis are kept in hospital emergency rooms for three to seven days. The research highlights the shortage of appropriate care in Oregon and nationwide, with experts warning that boarding kids can worsen their conditions and demoralize families.
A University of Houston study found that positive childhood experiences, such as supportive relationships and regular household routines, can protect against disordered eating behaviors in college students. Adverse childhood experiences, including abuse and neglect, were also linked to increased risk factors for disordered eating.
The study found that commonly used mental health screening tools may not be reliable for everyone, particularly African American youth. Research highlights the need for improved assessments that are both psychometrically sound and culturally responsive to protect vulnerable youth in the juvenile justice system.
Research by sports scientists reveals that high-performance athletes face unique mental health challenges despite the well-established benefits of physical activity for depression prevention and treatment. The study highlights specific pressures faced by elite athletes, including performance nerves, injury concerns, and identity crises.
A mobile phone app designed to deliver suicide-specific therapy reduced suicidal behavior among psychiatric inpatients by 58.3%. Users experienced sustained reductions in suicidal thoughts for up to 24 weeks after hospitalization.
A Delphi exercise with 41 therapists identified 27 statements about therapy that can improve sessions, including the importance of teamwork, outside work, and discussing concerns with loved ones. An app called EveryStep is being trialed to prepare patients for therapy, offering daily activities to aid engagement.
A new study by University College London found that stimulating the vagus nerve through small electric pulses can amplify the benefits of self-compassion meditation training. This technique shows promise in boosting self-kindness and mindfulness, particularly when combined with regular practice.
Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science have discovered that excessive GABA produced by astrocytes impairs fear extinction in PTSD. A new brain-permeable drug called KDS2010 has reversed PTSD-like symptoms in mice, providing a promising therapeutic approach.
A recent study found that Ukrainian educators who participated in a virtual mental health intervention significantly reduced their own symptoms of anxiety and depression. The PSE treatment group reported greater improvements in mental health, knowledge, and readiness to provide psychological support.
A large-scale study published in Frontiers in Public Health found that individuals experiencing persistent and intense grief are nearly twice as likely to die within 10 years after losing a loved one. The study followed a cohort of 1,735 bereaved individuals and found that those with high grief symptom levels had significantly higher r...
A new study from the University of Notre Dame found that how healthcare providers describe babies during ultrasounds impacts parent perceptions and can influence a child's future behavior. Positive descriptions are associated with fewer behavioral difficulties in toddlers, while negative descriptions lead to greater challenges.
A global study of over 100,000 young people found that owning a smartphone before age 13 is associated with poor mind health and wellbeing in early adulthood. The study found correlations between early smartphone ownership and symptoms such as suicidal thoughts, aggression, detachment from reality, and low self-worth.