Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
A new study finds that adverse and positive childhood experiences reported by parents of US teenagers have remained relatively stable over the past eight years. Positive childhood experiences were significantly more common than negative ones, affecting 40-90% of parents, whereas only 35% of adolescents experienced all negative experien...
This review of research on music- and nature-based strategies for mental health and wellbeing found that these interventions can offer adaptable low-cost, multi-sensory approaches for people of all ages. Studies showed that combined therapeutic use of music and nature facilitates self-expression, improving mood and emotional well-being.
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 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 recent study identifies molecular markers in children and adolescents that link childhood maltreatment to long-term brain alterations and mental health outcomes. The researchers found four DNA methylation sites associated with child maltreatment, including the 'master switch' gene FOXP1, which regulates brain development.
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.
A national study led by Athabasca University researchers found that 37% of Canadian youth reported climate change impacts their mental health. The study identified four main themes, including anxiety, stress, and concerns for the future, highlighting the need for tools and supports to help youth navigate feelings and develop resilience.
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.
Research synthesizes current evidence on psychedelic therapy's potential to fundamentally alter treatment paradigms for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Chronic stress contributes significantly to psychiatric illness worldwide, leaving traditional treatments with residual symptoms or side effects.
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.
A large-scale study of over 250,000 days of smartphone usage data from 10,000 US adults found no significant correlation between phone use and lower mood scores. Demographic factors such as age and gender were stronger predictors of mood.
A study by Rutgers University researchers found that female, younger, and more educated firearm owners are more likely to seek therapy and use psychiatric medications. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to reach underserved demographics and communities.
A study of 5,794 adults found that different types of depression are associated with varying levels of risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Those with atypical/energy-related symptoms were more likely to develop Type-2 diabetes, while those with melancholic symptoms were at higher risk for cardiovascular disease.
A longitudinal study of over 700 university students found that stress sensitivity increases the frequency, intensity, and variability of suicidal thoughts. Stress sensitivity was also found to intensify the frequency and variability of suicidal thoughts among students with intense, frequent, and persistent ideation.
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.
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that short exposure to inspiring media can reduce stress and increase hope. Participants who watched inspirational videos or followed guided meditations reported feeling more hopeful and experiencing lower stress levels than those with no media use instructions.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation hosts a free, public event featuring research presentations on various mental health topics. Attend in-person or virtually and register now to attend the symposium.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation recognizes five leading psychiatric researchers for their groundbreaking work on mental illness. The award winners will present their cutting-edge research at the BBRF International Mental Health Research Symposium in October 2025.
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.
Researchers have identified four distinct profiles of Nonverbal Learning Disability, each with different strengths and challenges. The study suggests that current diagnostic criteria may be too broad, highlighting the importance of individualized approaches to care for children with NVLD.
A groundbreaking study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that working with service dogs can slow cellular aging in female veterans. The study, which involved female veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, revealed promising biological benefits associated with service dog training.
Researchers identified five distinct sleep-biopsychosocial profiles, each associated with a unique pattern of brain connectivity. The study revealed that different aspects of sleep are related but can also be separable domains influencing biopsychosocial factors.
A study of 90 teenage girls found that those who avoided looking at potentially negative feedback during speeches reported the most anxiety three years later. The research challenges prevailing wisdom in the field and suggests that adolescent girls may be more sensitive to social feedback, contributing to the onset of anxiety disorders.
Researchers developed a smartphone diary app, WEDiary, to promote positive reflections on daily work and improve work engagement. The app significantly improved employees' vigor and dedication after just 2 weeks of intervention and persisted for 3 weeks post-intervention.
The project will develop prediction algorithms using AI and a novel cognitive assessment tool to identify individuals at high risk for crisis. The digital platform, available at no cost, will provide personalized models to predict clinical health outcomes, including symptom escalation, recovery time, and rehospitalization.
Researchers found microplastic exposure changes the human gut microbiome, with some shifts resembling patterns linked to diseases. Microplastic-induced changes in microbial composition may serve as a bacterial stress response, potentially affecting overall well-being.
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.
Researchers found that students from low-income households, specifically boys, were the most affected by class closures, highlighting growing educational inequality. Smaller class sizes and experienced teachers can reduce adverse effects on disadvantaged students.
The October issue of Journal of Counseling & Development features research on rural counseling competencies and high-quality studies on athlete career profiles. The journal publishes practice, theory, and research articles across various professional counseling specialty areas.
A recent study from Edith Cowan University reveals a lack of culturally specific and validated screening tools to address eating disorders among Aboriginal youth in Australia. The research found that 28.6% of Aboriginal youth were affected by eating disorders, with nighttime binge eating being the most common occurrence.
Researchers at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown used machine learning techniques to show that mice's facial movements reflect their hidden thoughts. This discovery could offer unprecedented insight into brain function and potential new research tools.
A King's College London study reveals how income inequality is associated with altered connections and reduced surface area in the brains of children, leading to poorer mental health outcomes. The research suggests that implementing policies to reduce societal inequality could promote healthy neurodevelopment.
A new research project, STREAMS, aims to improve mental health and antiretroviral treatment adherence among adolescents living with HIV in rural Uganda. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of a novel intervention combining mobile technology, economic empowerment, and medication support.
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.
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.