Trends in mental and physical health among youths
A large US youth sample shows increased rates of anxiety and depression from 2016 to 2022. In contrast, asthma and severe headaches or migraines decreased in this cohort.
Mental Health
Articles tagged with Mental Health
Can inpatient psychiatric care help teens amid a depressive crisis?
A study published in Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice found significant improvement in depressive symptoms and emotional well-being in adolescents after receiving inpatient psychiatric care. The study highlights the effectiveness of pediatric inpatient psychiatry units in improving mental health outcomes.
More Americans are using psilocybin—especially those with mental health conditions, study shows
A study found that psilocybin use increased nationwide since 2019, particularly among young adults and older adults with conditions like depression and anxiety. The researchers urge better education, tracking, and health system preparedness as poison center calls rise.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 21, 2025
Song lyrics help cope with national trauma new study finds
A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that song lyrics play a central role in helping individuals regulate their emotions. Analyzing over 2,800 'coping songs' chosen by people from 11 countries, researchers identified patterns between lyrical themes and emotional goals.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 21, 2025
Father’s mental health can impact children for years
Research from Rutgers Health finds that children exposed to paternal depression at kindergarten entry are more likely to have behavioral difficulties and poor social skills at age 9. Fathers' mental health is crucial in supporting their children's development, and early intervention can help improve well-being for both parents and kids.
SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 19, 2025
People with medical debt five times more likely to not receive mental health care treatment
A new study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that people with medical debt are significantly less likely to receive mental health care treatment. The research found that nearly 34% of respondents with medical debt forwent mental health care in the following year, compared to just 6.3% without medical debt.
Medical debt and forgone mental health care due to cost among adults
A survey study found that more than 1 in 7 adults carried medical debt in 2023, with 1 in 3 forgoing mental health care the following year. Medical debt may exacerbate treatment gaps by raising thresholds for seeking care and eroding patient trust.
Come with: WVU study shows few people mind when others invite themselves to group activities
Researchers found that most people are open to their friends asking to join plans, but hesitate to self-invite due to concerns about offending others. The study's findings suggest that people tend to underestimate the likelihood of getting invited and overestimate how much others consider them.
Viewing art can boost wellbeing by giving meaning to life
A new systematic review found that viewing art can improve eudemonic wellbeing and boost personal growth. The benefits were observed in various locations, including museums, galleries, clinics, and hospitals, as well as through virtual reality.
SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 16, 2025
Nurturing now, thriving later: The lasting power of affectionate mothering
Research published by the American Psychological Association finds that positive maternal parenting in childhood can foster key personality traits such as openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness. Twin study data suggests that modest changes in these traits could lead to significant population-wide benefits.
Mindfulness and step tracking boosts motivation to exercise – new study
A new study from the University of Bath found that combining step tracking with mindfulness training boosts people's desire to exercise. Participants who used a mobile app for daily mindfulness practices increased their activity by 373 minutes per week compared to those who only stepped tracked.
Nature-based activity is effective therapy for anxiety and depression, study shows
A study by the University of York showed that nature-based activities can improve mood and anxiety levels in patients with mild to moderate mental health conditions. Activities such as gardening, tending allotments, and care farming had the most impact on participants.
Simulating protein structures involved in memory formation
Researchers developed a computational model that reproduces intricate protein structures at postsynaptic densities, crucial sites for learning and memory. The model reveals details on how these proteins organize into unique structures through liquid-liquid phase separation, enabling sustained activation of downstream signaling pathways.
SourceFujita Health University·JournalCell Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 16, 2025
Northwestern study yields insights for improving outcomes for justice-involved youth
A Northwestern University study found that justice-involved youth with higher doses of incarceration had poorer outcomes, including lower education and employment rates. The study suggests that early interventions are crucial to reducing recidivism and promoting positive outcomes for these young individuals.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 2025
Do “harm reduction” interventions for substance use lower or raise trust in government?
Research finds that comprehensive drug policies, including harm reduction measures, are positively associated with perceptions of governmental support and trust in local government. In rural US communities, residents' trust in their local government increases when they perceive the government as supportive of these policies.
SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalHarm Reduction Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2025
Young people with mental disorders are less likely to become parents
A nationwide Finnish register-based cohort study found that young people with mental disorders are less likely to become parents compared to those without such diagnoses. The strongest associations were for schizophrenia and depression, with men being 38% less likely to become fathers due to depression diagnosis.
SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 2025
Stress, depression factor into link between insomnia, heavy drinking
A study suggests that perceived stress and depression are key factors in the relationship between insomnia and hazardous drinking. Insomnia can lead to heavy drinking through stress, while drinking can lead to insomnia through depression.
Having a 'therapist in your pocket' curbs depression among primary care patients
The Moodivate app improved depression symptoms clinically meaningfully among primary care patients, achieving reductions twice those of standard-of-care therapy. App users were also 3 times more likely to achieve a clinically meaningful improvement and 2.3 times more likely to attain depression remission.
SourceMedical University of South Carolina·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 14, 2025
Sleep matters: Duration, timing, quality and more may affect cardiovascular disease risk
A new American Heart Association scientific statement emphasizes the importance of multidimensional sleep health in reducing cardiometabolic risks. The statement reviews evidence on the relationship between sleep and various health factors, including body fat, blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·DateApr 14, 2025
UC Berkeley analysis finds steep increase of self-harm among California girls, multiracial youth
A new study by the University of California, Berkeley, found that self-harm rates among California teens have increased significantly, particularly among multiracial girls. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, analyzed data from 2005 to 2021 and revealed a nearly 75% increase in self-harm rates among multiracial adolescents since 2...
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 14, 2025
New guidance for managing obesity in children and adolescents
The new guideline prioritizes health and quality of life for children and adolescents with obesity, focusing on outcomes such as mental health and cardiovascular risk factors. It recommends a combination of interventions, including nutritional, physical activity, and psychological support, to help manage obesity.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 14, 2025
Neighborhood characteristics and mental health from childhood to adolescence
This cohort study examines associations between childhood neighborhood factors and adolescent mental health, highlighting air pollution's impact on young children. The findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive interventions in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Increase in alcohol deaths in England an ‘acute crisis’
A new study found that death rates from alcohol in England increased by a fifth in 2020, rising further between 2020 and 2022. The largest increases were among men, people from deprived areas, and those aged 50-69, mainly due to liver damage caused by alcohol.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateApr 10, 2025
Puberty triggers brain rewiring in genetic condition tied to autism
Researchers have found that puberty triggers significant changes in brain connectivity patterns in individuals with a rare genetic disorder tied to autism. The study suggests that synaptic dysfunction during development may contribute to the condition's behavioral challenges.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 10, 2025
Wildfire recovery: What victims say they need most
A new study by UC Davis School of Medicine identifies four major areas of need among wildfire victims, including mental health support and health information. The research reveals that mental health needs are the most predominant health-related need at all time points.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeSurvey·DateApr 9, 2025
What links cannabis use and psychosis? Researchers point to the brain’s dopamine system
Researchers have found that people with cannabis use disorder have elevated dopamine levels in a brain region associated with psychosis. This could explain why frequent cannabis use increases the risk of hallucinations and delusions. The study's findings may help doctors educate patients about the potential risks of frequent cannabis u...
PolyU scholar unveils research on long-term effects of obesity on brain and cognitive health
A comprehensive longitudinal analysis of obesity trajectories identified distinct patterns affecting brain morphology, function, and cognition in middle-aged and older adults. The study suggests sustained obesity accelerates brain aging, highlighting the clinical importance of long-term monitoring and management.
Incarcerated individuals and those with recent criminal-legal involvement report significantly higher rates of mental health diagnoses than other community members, calling for reforms in community mental health support
A national survey reveals significantly higher rates of five mental health conditions in incarcerated individuals and those with recent criminal-legal involvement compared to community members. The study emphasizes the critical need for informed care and treatment to address the high rates of incarceration and improve community support.
Recognizing the bridge builders between neuroscience and psychiatry
A new international prize is launching to reward researchers bridging neuroscience and psychiatry, aiming to improve mental health diagnosis and treatment. The Synapsy Center at Université de Genève is offering a 50,000 CHF award for mid- to advanced-career contributions at the intersection of neuroscience and psychiatry.
New study reviews decades of findings on effects of physical work environments on firms’ organizational processes and outcomes
Researchers analyzed decades of findings to understand how physical work environments influence organizational processes and outcomes, including employee health and motivation, as well as a firm's resource position and reputation. Effective design can enhance task accomplishment and shape intangible assets.
Tech-assisted peer therapy effective for perinatal depression in lower income countries
A University of Liverpool study shows that a novel tech-assisted intervention combining peer-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy with a digital app is as effective as standard therapy in treating perinatal depression. The programme, led by Professor Atif Rahman, reduces depressive symptoms significantly and offers a scalable soluti...
Equitable access to digital technologies may help improve cardiovascular health
A new scientific statement highlights the potential of technology-based health solutions to promote heart-healthy behaviors and increase equitable access to resources. The statement emphasizes the need to address barriers faced by populations most impacted by adverse social drivers of health, particularly those with lower socioeconomic...
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in children may be underestimated
A pilot study in western Sweden found that 5.5% of fourth-grade students had fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), including severe cases like fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). The study's lead author suggests that the results may indicate a higher prevalence in Sweden compared to other European countries.
Fine particulate matter from 2020 California wildfires and mental health–related emergency department visits
A cross-sectional study found wildfire smoke exposure associated with increased odds of mental health-related emergency department visits. The study suggests a possible increase in demand for mental health services during wildfire events.
Exposure to wildfire smoke linked with worsening mental health conditions
A new study found that exposure to fine particulate air pollution from wildfire smoke was associated with increased visits to emergency departments for mental health conditions. The study suggests that wildfire smoke may play a direct role in worsening mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2025
Frequent exposure to gun violence is associated with depression, suicide and mental health
A national survey of 8,009 adults found that frequent exposure to gun violence is associated with increased depression, suicidal ideation, and need for mental health support. The study also highlights the importance of addressing interpersonal violence in suicide prevention efforts.
Medicinal cannabis is linked to long-term benefits in health-related quality of life
Patients prescribed medicinal cannabis in Australia showed long-term improvements in overall health-related quality of life, fatigue, and sleep disturbance. The study, which recruited over 2,300 participants, also found improvements in anxiety, depression, insomnia, and pain for those with corresponding conditions.
NCCN 2025 Annual Conference illustrates the critical impact of cancer research on improving lives
The NCCN 2025 Annual Conference showcased the critical impact of cancer research on improving lives. The conference featured new research, discussions on AI in oncology care, and strategies for ensuring high-quality, person-centered cancer care.
Break the sedentary cycle: National Walking Day can kickstart healthier routines
The American Heart Association invites communities nationwide to walk together on National Walking Day to break the cycle of sedentary behavior. Regular walking can improve both physical and mental well-being, even in small steps.
April issues of APA journals feature research on schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, medical mistrust, bias, and more
The latest APA journal issues explore treatment and risk factors for schizophrenia, as well as medical mistrust and bias. Research also examines the management of borderline personality disorder, including good psychiatric practice and its effectiveness.
The use of TikTok and Instagram has a greater impact on girls’ psychological well-being during adolescence, according to a study by UPF and the UOC
A study by UPF and UOC found that girls who use Instagram and TikTok have a more negative perception of the impact on their psychological well-being than boys. Girls tend to feel more observed and pressured by their outward image and require more external positive feedback.
SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalRevista de Comunicación·TypeSurvey·DateMar 31, 2025
My robot therapist: The ethics of AI mental health chatbots for kids
Experts argue that AI mental health chatbots for kids may impair social development and worsen existing health inequities. Pediatric therapists rely on family relationships to ensure child safety, but AI chatbots lack this contextual information. The authors advocate for careful consideration of data representation and potential misuse.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2025
Psychedelics and sex: New research explores perceived impacts on sexuality and intimacy
A recent study published in the Journal of Sex Research found that psychedelic experiences can enhance participants' perceptions of their relationship quality, attraction to their current partner, and sexual activities. Additionally, approximately 10% of participants reported influences on their gender identity and expression.
Researchers develop virtual reality-based system to improve psychiatric diagnosis
A new virtual reality-based system shows promise in improving psychiatric diagnosis by differentiating between common mental health conditions. The system uses immersive scenarios and physiological measurements to elicit emotional responses, suggesting enhanced diagnostic accuracy.
SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalEuropean Neuropsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2025
Mental health providers may have trouble detecting bulimia in patients, study finds
A study found that only a quarter of mental health providers correctly diagnosed bulimia nervosa, with common misdiagnoses including binge eating disorder. Excessive exercise is often overlooked as a compensatory strategy used by people with bulimia.
Discrimination-related depression, anxiety pronounced among multiracial, White, Asian populations
A study by Boston University School of Public Health found that over half of US adults experience some form of discrimination, which can lead to higher chances of depression and/or anxiety. Discrimination-related mental health issues were particularly pronounced among multiracial, White, and Asian populations.
SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2025
First therapy chatbot trial shows AI can provide 'gold-standard' care
The study found significant improvements in symptoms for participants with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and eating disorders. Participants reported trusting and communicating with Therabot comparable to working with a therapist.
Smartwatches may help control diabetes through exercise
A new study found that smartwatches paired with a health app can encourage people with newly diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes to maintain a home-delivered, personalised exercise programme. This programme showed improvements in blood sugar levels, systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, and quality of life.
New study challenges the ‘monogamy-superiority myth’, as non-monogamous people report just as happy relationships and sex lives
A comprehensive meta-analysis of 35 studies involving 24,489 people across the U.S. and Europe found no significant differences in relationship or sexual satisfaction levels between individuals in monogamous and non-monogamous relationships. Non-monogamy is often viewed as inferior to monogamy due to stereotypes and media narratives.
Sensor technology uses nature’s blueprint and machinery to monitor metabolism in body
Researchers developed a sensor platform that tracks multiple metabolites continuously, offering a window into disease onset and health status. The technology harnesses natural biochemical processes, enabling reliable detection of over 800 metabolites, with potential applications in diagnosing metabolic disorders and optimizing fitness.
SourceCalifornia NanoSystems Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2025
Research: Young adults in pain start using cannabis earlier and are more likely to mix it with alcohol
Recent studies published in Behavioral Medicine and Alcohol explore the link between pain and substance use among emerging adults. Individuals with moderate to severe pain are more likely to start using cannabis over a four-year period, often taking it up earlier, and are also at higher risk of mixing it with alcohol.
Study finds knowledge of genetics and genomic medicine crucial for mental health providers to deliver informed, personalized care
A new study emphasizes the importance of understanding genetic underpinnings of psychiatric disorders for mental health providers. Key findings highlight the application of genetic information in risk assessment, diagnosis, treatment selection, and patient education, while also considering ethical considerations.
SourceRady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 26, 2025
Smartwatches may help control diabetes through exercise
A new study found that smartwatches paired with a health app can encourage people with newly diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes to start and maintain purposeful exercise, leading to improvements in blood sugar levels and systolic blood pressure. The programme also helped participants lower cholesterol and improve their quality of life.
Neuroscientists unveil digital 'translator' for brain studies
A new digital 'translator' for brain studies enables researchers to map the brain in a standardized way, facilitating discoveries and treatments for various disorders. The open-source software allows for the comparison of brain imaging data with widely used brain atlases, promoting commonalities across findings.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2025
Study confirms link between maternal diet, risk to infant behavioral health
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found a significant link between maternal diet's glycemic index and risk for mental health disorders in offspring. The study suggests that nutrition during the third trimester may impact infant temperament and behavioral trajectories.
Why does one person develop schizophrenia while another does not? A leading psychiatric geneticist investigates the answer
Dr. Consuelo Walss-Bass shares her groundbreaking research on schizophrenia, emphasizing the importance of considering both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. She also discusses her work with induced pluripotent stem cells to develop personalized psychiatry and reduce stigma around mental health.
New study reveals high levels of anxiety and emotional distress following the April 2024 Iranian missile attack
A new study reveals high levels of peritraumatic distress (41%) and anxiety (19%) among adults in Israel five days after the Iranian drone and missile attack. The study highlights the need for early identification and timely therapeutic intervention to mitigate long-term psychological harm.
SourceReichman University·JournalEuropean Journal of Psychotraumatology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2025
School during wartime: learning from teachers in Ukraine
A study by LMU graduate Iryna Nadyukova reveals that Ukrainian teachers are experiencing much more stress during the war than they did during the pandemic. The study highlights the importance of finding comfort in giving comfort and practicing mindfulness to avoid burnout.
Five minutes a day eccentric exercise can improve your life, ECU study finds
Researchers found significant improvements in muscle strength, flexibility, and mental health with just five minutes of daily eccentric exercise. The study suggests that even small amounts of exercise can provide sustainable benefits for sedentary individuals.
SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 25, 2025
Healthy eating in midlife linked to overall healthy aging
A study of over 105,000 individuals found that following a healthy diet rich in plant-based foods and moderate animal-based foods can promote overall healthy aging. The Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) was the leading dietary pattern, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2025