Articles tagged with Mental Health
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has awarded 165 Young Investigator Grants worth $11.4 million to support early-career scientists in mental health research. The grants will focus on depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, and other brain and behavior disorders.
A decade-long study found that children with early-developed empathy were more likely to experience anxiety and depression during the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting the dual role of empathy in mental health. The research suggests that empathy can be both a strength and a vulnerability in the face of mass trauma.
Researchers found that feeling in control over everyday stressors can lead to a 62% increase in resolving the issue. The relationship strengthens with age, suggesting that controlling one's sense of control can be a resource for managing daily life and impact health outcomes.
A study from Texas A&M University's School of Public Health reveals that regular physical activity can lower the risk of depression and sleep disorders in older smokers. Smokers aged 40-59 who meet physical activity guidelines were more likely to report moderate depressive symptoms, while those aged 60+ were more prone to sleep disorders.
The NFL PLAY 60 Ambassador program brings mascot energy to encourage active, healthy kids. With the American Heart Association's guidance, the initiative aims to help kids achieve a minimum of 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily.
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.
Researchers assessed the effectiveness of a single session with 'Amanda,' a ChatGPT-4o-based chatbot, versus a brief journaling task in addressing non-abusive relationship conflict. The study found that both interventions improved participants' specific relationship problems, overall relationships, and well-being.
A new national study found nearly one in four older adults who started off in poor health and lower well-being can fully recover within three years. Strong psychological and emotional wellness, maintaining a healthy body weight, regular physical activity, and social engagement were key factors associated with recovery.
A nationwide app called CHAMPS aims to support safer cannabis consumption among young adults who've experienced a psychotic episode. The pilot study found the app to be well-regarded and can be integrated into real clinical environments.
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.
Researchers found that recalling positive autobiographical memories before a performance enhances valence and arousal, leading to improved performance. This is attributed to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, which regulates involuntary bodily functions.
A Swansea University study found ambulance staff faced intense emotional and operational strain during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite challenges, staff showed strong resilience and adaptability in handling high-stakes environments.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the importance of recognizing and treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder among heart attack survivors. Psychological distress after a heart attack is common and can affect physical recovery and long-term heart health.
A study found that women receiving mental health services had faster reductions in depression over time, emphasizing the potential impact of scalable interventions during this critical period. The research underscores the importance of routine and consistent screening, monitoring, and treatment of perinatal depression and anxiety.
The Leopoldina discussion paper advocates for age limits and restrictions on addictive functions in social media to protect children and adolescents from negative effects. Researchers recommend setting a minimum age for access, restricting certain functions, and implementing policies to promote healthy social media use.
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.
New research suggests that integrating behavioral health services in pediatric primary care can lead to improved mental health outcomes for children and adolescents. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that children who received integrated behavioral health care reported fewer behavioral health symptoms over time.
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...
Researchers used artificial intelligence to analyze facial expressions of Japanese undergraduates and found subtle eye and mouth movements linked to depressive symptoms. The study suggests that AI-based facial analysis can detect mental health issues efficiently, enabling early interventions.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation is hosting a free public event featuring leading researchers presenting their latest findings on ADHD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. The symposium will take place on October 24 at the Kaufman Music Center in Manhattan, offering attendees the opportunity to learn about the latest advanceme...
A national study reveals gaps in healthcare screenings, lack of family networks, and insufficient paid leave for caregivers with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. The study calls for a coordinated effort to strengthen community resources and advance workplace and healthcare policy to support perinatal mental health care.
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 cross-sectional study found that prenatal depression diagnosis and moderate to severe depression symptoms differ by maternal nativity and racial/ethnic background. Non-U.S.-born mothers tend to have better neonatal outcomes, but this association may not hold true for prenatal mental health conditions.
A new study reveals how hotels can mirror the psychological pains of imprisonment during wartime, raising questions about displaced communities. Evacuees experienced emotional and psychological distress, feeling trapped in comfortable yet confining settings.
A University of East Anglia study found that trauma-focused CBT significantly improved PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation in children with multiple traumas. The therapy was effective and safe, even for those with complex and severe symptoms.
Researchers found that playing virtual reality sports games can promote psychological well-being by helping players feel connected to others and engage in real-time communication. The positive effects of feeling socially present were even stronger for those experiencing loneliness.
A global review of firearm violence and mental health found three key mechanisms: cultural reliance, psychosocial pathways, and ecological levels. The study highlights the need for multilevel interventions to address these complex issues.
A systematic review of 53 studies found that machine learning algorithms for predicting suicidal behavior have low accuracy. The algorithms were poor at identifying individuals who would later self-harm or die by suicide, while exceling in detecting those who would not.
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.
A 12-week high-intensity interval training intervention did not improve hippocampal integrity or cognitive/mental health impairments, but reduced cannabis craving. Regular physical exercise may be a potential strategy for managing cannabis use disorder.
A study from India found that mothers who received primary support from their own mothers experienced improved postpartum wellbeing. In contrast, women whose mothers-in-law provided primary care reported significantly lower overall wellness levels.
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.
A new longitudinal study by York University found that young adults using both substances in times of high stress and emotional distress reported more negative life consequences. The study suggests that understanding combined use can help young adults mitigate the risk and seek healthier coping mechanisms.
A comprehensive review of anxiety and depression reveals abnormal neural circuits as a crucial biological mechanism. The study highlights key brain regions and networks involved in these disorders, providing new targets for neuromodulation and circuit-based therapies.
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.
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.
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.
Problem gambling in minors is linked to a higher risk of suicide, substance use disorder, theft, and assault. The Canadian Medical Association Journal urges the federal government to expedite legislation to regulate sports betting advertising and protect young people from its harms.
Researchers at ETH Zurich found that exergame training improved cognitive performance, memory, and structural brain changes in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The study suggests a potential causal effect of the training on disease-modifying effects and plans for longer-term studies are underway.
The study highlights the importance of support networks during adolescence, including family connectedness and school and peer relationships. Stronger connections are associated with better mental health outcomes, lower rates of depression and suicidal ideation, and increased resilience.
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.
Food insecurity is associated with increased caregiver stress and household instability in rural families. The study highlights the negative impact of food insecurity on child mental health, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to support vulnerable populations.
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 recent study published in Journal of Adolescent Health found that young people from diverse cultures worldwide perceive digital environments as affecting their mental health. They highlight the need for more support and involvement from adults in their digital lives, including reflection on one's own digital habits.
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.
A study of over 4,400 Australian children found that those experiencing tooth loss were more than four times as likely to be bullied. Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and rural areas were disproportionately affected. The researchers highlight the need for improved access to dental care and prevention programs.
A new meta-analysis of six prospective controlled studies found that access to the GeneSight Psychotropic test significantly improved response and remission rates for adults with major depressive disorder. The study included 3,532 unique adults who had at least one prior treatment failure.
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.
Researchers found that chronic stress triggers the release of immune cells in the brain's protective layer, contributing to depression symptoms. Blocking these cells' signaling pathway shows promise for improving behavior and alleviating depressive symptoms.
Researchers found neglected children had abnormalities in critical brain regions, including right corticospinal tract and superior longitudinal fasciculus, linked to behavioral difficulties. These findings provide objective markers for identifying children affected by neglect.
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 UCLA study reveals how a region of the medial prefrontal cortex integrates information across the brain to coordinate physiological and behavioral responses. The findings could help develop targeted therapies for stress-related and social dysfunction disorders.
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.
Researchers found that people with emotional insecurities react strongly to their partner's phone use, reporting lower self-esteem and greater resentment. Simple steps like creating phone-free zones can help protect relationships.
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.
A new UCLA-led study finds that government housing assistance reduces the risk of medical bill stress by nearly seven percentage points among US renters with cancer, leading to improved quality of life and reduced poor physical and mental health outcomes.
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.
Research reveals neuroglia play active role in brain function, driving disease progression through atrophy and functional decline. Therapeutic strategies targeting neuroglial signaling may prevent damage following brain injury or protect against neurodegenerative processes.
A cross-sectional study found that greater lean mass and fitness are associated with fewer anxiety and depression symptoms in preadolescent children. Higher visceral adipose tissue, on the other hand, is linked to increased symptoms of both anxiety and depression.