Mental Health

Climate change costs lives by breaking down social connection

Single dose of psilocybin provided rapid relief from depression in new study

Nature may benefit psychological well-being of disadvantaged children more than others

Improved life satisfaction linked to being in nature

Forgotten and isolated: 1.8 million people still vulnerable to Covid 19 face a mental health crisis

Study validates accuracy of depression screening for people with chronic pain

Refugees reveal hidden trauma of life in the UK

People who score higher on autistic traits may be more likely to label their feelings as a way of coping with uncertainty

Research at Nagoya University suggests that individuals with higher autistic traits use labeling as a way to cope with uncertainty, reducing emotional stress. The study found a link between autistic traits and lower anxiety levels when people are able to put their feelings into words.

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.

The timing of trauma leaves a lasting mark on the brain and behavior

Beyond acute-phase support: how “ibasho” aids disaster mental health recovery

Researchers propose that ibasho, community-led spaces of belonging and social purpose, support long-term recovery and resilience. By restoring routines, roles, and neighborhood connections, ibasho helps individuals regain stability, dignity, and a sense of purpose after disasters.

Pennington Biomedical contributes to global study on physical activity and well-being

A global study published in Nature Human Behaviour analyzed data from over 8,000 participants to investigate the connection between physical activity and emotional well-being. The results showed that mood improves with everyday movement, and people are more physically active when they feel better.

Positive emotion and reward disturbance in mood disorders

Researchers investigate how positive emotions can be a source of dysfunction in particular contexts, particularly when not managed. The study aims to understand and develop treatments for positive mood disturbance in people with and without mood disorders.

Edible cannabis and pain, sleep, and mental health management in older adults

AI-generated images of depression depict more stereotypes and arouse greater stigmatization

Digital therapy outperforms referrals to campus clinics among college students

A digital therapy app was found to be more effective in treating anxiety disorders, depression, and eating disorders among college students compared to traditional campus clinics. The study, which tested the app's effectiveness over six months, showed a significant increase in symptom-free students and services uptake.

Scientists finally see inside the ‘black box’ of depression treatment

Hasanuddin University study outlines protocol for a community-driven approach to prevent adolescent female suicide

Doctors favor explaining anxiety to patients as a human evolution ‘success story’

A new study found that mental health clinicians prefer evolutionary explanations of anxiety over genetic approaches, believing they provide a more positive outlook and can improve patient willingness to seek help. This shift could lead to more hopeful and therapeutically empowering attitudes towards anxiety treatment.

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.

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.

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.

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.

One dose of psilocybin changes the human brain

Researchers found that psilocybin causes temporary shifts in brain entropy, leading to increased insight and emotional self-awareness. This correlates with improved well-being and cognitive flexibility, suggesting the psychedelic trip is key to its therapeutic effects.

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.

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...

Big Brothers Big Sisters linked to lower violence and substance use among youth

A randomized control study found that kids in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program reported lower rates of violent behavior, substance use, and depressive symptoms compared to non-participants. The program also improved their self-esteem and overall mental health.

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.

Cannabis microdosing more common than psychedelics among US adults, national survey finds

A national survey found that millions of US adults have microdosed substances like cannabis, psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA, with cannabis being the most commonly microdosed. The study also revealed patterns tied to mental health and policy environments, suggesting that changes in drug policy may influence access to these substances.

Mount Sinai launches the Marilyn Monroe Mental Health for the Arts Program

The program honors Marilyn Monroe's legacy and provides dedicated mental health services for artists at the Samuel J. Friedman Health Center in Manhattan's Theater District. It offers training, resources, and care to address the unique psychological demands of the entertainment industry.

Paul and Shelia Schlosberg Family Foundation champions military brain health with landmark $3 million contribution

The Paul and Shelia Schlosberg Family Foundation has donated $3 million to the Optimal BrainHealth for Warfighters initiative at Center for BrainHealth. This gift aims to boost cognitive resilience among U.S. Special Operations Command operators, veterans, and their families.

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.

Survey: Kids’ mental health, behavior top triggers of parent stress

A new national survey found nearly all parents (97%) felt stress related to parenting in the past month, with children's behavioral issues and emotional/mental health being top sources of that stress. The Kids Mental Health Foundation offers free resources to help parents build healthy homes and reduce stress.

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.

Brain-computer interface based on Rice research wins FDA approval for first clinical trial

Motif Neurotech has received FDA approval to begin the first clinical trial of its therapeutic BCI device, DOT, for treatment-resistant depression. The study will test the device's effectiveness in delivering electrical stimulation to brain circuits linked to depression.

Study reveals century-long cycles in U.S. suicide rates and a long-term crisis among youth

Researchers found striking, decades-long cycles in US suicide rates, influenced by broad social forces. Suicide risk has been rising steadily for over half a century among young people, affecting each new generation earlier in life.

TikTok’s muscle dream is a nightmare for young men

A new study found that young men who viewed idealized fitness or supplement videos on TikTok reported lower fitness satisfaction and stronger intentions to use creatine, a popular muscle-building supplement. The researchers highlight the need for targeted media literacy education and responsible social media practices.

TBI survivors turn to psychedelics for symptom relief

A new study found that nearly 1,200 TBI respondents used psychedelics to treat or manage physical health conditions, with 208 participants using them to manage brain injury-related symptoms. Researchers reported a 90% self-reported symptom improvement rate.

Road infrastructure and traffic affect community members’ mental health, study finds

A study by Brown University and Columbia University found that road infrastructure isolates communities, leading to increased schizophrenia-related hospital visits. The Community Severance Index measures physical and social disconnection using roads, traffic, and lack of pedestrian infrastructure.

How a mental health strategy helps young adults navigate cancer diagnosis

Researchers at Rutgers University tested the efficacy of Bright IDEAS, a problem-solving skills training intervention, in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms and improving health-related quality of life among young adults with cancer. The study found significant reductions in symptoms and improvements in quality of life compared t...

Children and young people from deprived areas less likely to gain access to mental health care

A new study found significant socio-economic inequalities in accessing mental health care, with children from deprived areas more likely to have their referrals rejected or experience worse clinical outcomes. Younger children under 11 are also less likely to receive help, hindering early intervention efforts.

Building everyday behavioral skills in early childhood could shield young brains from prenatal stress

Researchers found that building everyday behavioral skills in early childhood can shield young brains from the detrimental effects of prenatal stress. Children with stronger adaptive skills showed comparable brain activation patterns to their unexposed peers, suggesting these skills may protect brain function.

Do children in rural and urban areas experience different mental health struggles?

A study of 19,711 Chinese students aged 6–16 found that rural children are more likely to experience emotional and psychological problems, while urban children exhibit behavioral symptoms. The findings highlight the need for region-specific interventions to address unique challenges.

How do patients’ relatives and friends view the benefits and harms of electroconvulsive therapy?

A survey of 286 relatives and friends found that 45% experienced improvement, while 42% saw worsening symptoms. Many reported memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and relationship problems after ECT.

Does stress during pregnancy affect offspring’s metabolic health?

Prenatal stress alters signaling pathways involving corticosteroids in brown fat tissue, potentially blunting the metabolic benefits of exercise. The study highlights the importance of considering maternal stress context in developmental metabolic programming.

Under embargo: Families and friends speak out on electroconvulsive therapy’s silenced risks

A new study reveals that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can lead to significant negative impacts on standard of living, personal relationships, and even brain damage. Relatives and friends of ECT patients report long-term effects including memory loss, emotional blunting, and loss of independence.

Research alert: First large‑scale survey estimates that 2.8% of US population used psilocybin in the past year

A recent study estimates that 2.8% of US residents over 12 used psilocybin in the past year, highlighting the need for clinicians to be aware of its use among patients with depression. The findings also underscore the importance of longitudinal studies and increased public health surveillance as de-criminalization efforts progress.

Digital reminiscence app could reduce grief and improve relationships between dementia patients and caregivers

A web tool called Living Memory Home for Dementia Care Pairs facilitates collaborative reminiscence therapy, reducing feelings of pre-death grief and improving relationship quality. The app promotes well-being and connection between dementia patients and caregivers, leading to better care outcomes.

Should doctors comment on a president’s mental health?

Doctors should exercise caution when commenting on public figures' mental health, as diagnoses require direct assessment. The BMJ opinion article explores ethical tensions and the importance of professional standards in such cases.

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.

Toddlers’ pretend play ability linked to better mental health

A new study by the University of Sydney found that toddlers' pretend play ability is significantly associated with fewer emotional and behavioral difficulties at primary school. The researchers analyzed data from over 1400 Australian children and found that stronger pretend play ability among two- to three-year-olds was linked to bette...

Bullying, state policy, and mental health symptoms in gender-diverse youths

A cohort study found that bullying and restrictive legislation were associated with higher rates of psychotic-like experiences in gender-diverse youths. The study suggests that supportive environments and policies can help alleviate mental health concerns among this population.

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.

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.

Pediatric investigation study reveals urbanization shapes mental health of youth in China

A recent study found that children from rural China are more prone to emotional issues, while urban children show more behavioral problems. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and underscore the impact of environment on mental health outcomes.

Using a new online mental health tool just once boosts teenagers’ hope and emotional wellbeing

A digital single-session intervention (SSI) has been shown to meaningfully improve young people's sense of hope and control over their lives. The tool provides short, accessible and evidence-based psychological support and wellbeing activities, increasing feelings of hope and self-agency while reducing feelings of being out of control.

NCQA and West Health partner to advance integration of behavioral health into primary care

The partnership aims to align payers and providers around a core set of behavioral health quality measures, creating a shared foundation for how care is delivered, evaluated, and improved. NCQA and West Health will test and refine quality measures across diverse care settings and payer environments.

Feeling lonely? Try a walk in the great outdoors

A recent study found that strengthening one's sense of belonging to natural environments has a protective effect against loneliness. The study investigated the impact of outdoor activities on loneliness and discovered that noticing details in nature, such as sounds and patterns, can be beneficial for mental well-being.

Study redefines positive mental wellbeing

Researchers have identified six key elements - meaning and purpose, life satisfaction, self-acceptance, strong relationships, autonomy, and happiness - as crucial for positive mental wellbeing. Experts say these factors can help policymakers better understand where to intervene in promoting mental health.

Loneliness linked to increased risk of degenerative heart valve disease

A large-scale study linked loneliness to an increased risk of degenerative heart valve disease, including aortic valve stenosis and mitral valve regurgitation. Researchers say addressing loneliness could help delay disease progression and reduce the clinical and economic burden of valvular heart disease.