Articles tagged with Mental Health
Medical University of South Carolina researchers report that worsened anxiety and depression can predict the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study found that patients with more severe neuropsychiatric symptoms were more likely to progress from mild cognitive impairment to full-blown Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at Flinders University uncovered a major breakthrough in understanding the gut-brain axis, revealing that serotonin released from gut cells must communicate via diffusion to activate sensory nerve endings. This discovery has profound implications for drug development and treatments of mental health and digestive problems.
A large clinical trial found that an intervention for pregnant women in Pakistan significantly reduced the likelihood of developing moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression after birth. The intervention, led by Dr. Pamela J. Surkan, was administered by non-specialized providers and showed promising results.
A new study found that mass shooting lockdown drills help children who have been exposed to violence feel safer, contradicting previous research conclusions. Lockdown drills may be a way to help students who have been exposed to violence feel safer in schools.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement offers the latest knowledge on neurodevelopmental outcomes in people of all ages with congenital heart disease. The statement highlights that neurodevelopmental difficulties are common complications faced by individuals with congenital heart disease, affecting their ability to funct...
A new study from Texas A&M University suggests that city dwellers who have more exposure to urban green spaces require fewer mental health services. The researchers used the NatureScore database to assess mental health at the neighborhood level and found a correlation between urban nature exposure and better mental health.
Research finds that living in violent neighborhoods can alter a child's brain to detect threats more easily, leading to poorer mental health. Nurturing parents can help protect kids from these detrimental effects by reducing exposure to community violence and promoting resilience.
A new study by Johns Hopkins University reveals that vision impairment is linked to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as social isolation among older adults. The research emphasizes the need for enhanced support and care for individuals with vision impairment.
A study of 1,948 U.S. adults with lifetime suicide attempts found that nearly 20% had no prior psychiatric diagnosis, raising questions about suicide risk screening limits. This finding suggests a broader population is at risk and warrants further investigation into suicidal behavior.
A research team at Children's National Hospital found that maternal mental illness contributes significantly to the death of new mothers in the US. The study highlights the need for urgent action to address this public health crisis, which is driven by a lack of access to maternity care and inadequate screening for depression postpartum.
A UCLA-led study found that a combination of telehealth coaching, peer support, and automated text messages increased PrEP uptake among younger Americans by more than doubling it. The intervention's success suggests the importance of behavioral interventions and wraparound services in supporting HIV prevention.
A new study published in Molecular Autism found that Japanese autistic adults with balanced social camouflage exhibit improved mental well-being, whereas those with excessive camouflage face mental health issues. The research highlights the importance of cultural considerations when supporting individuals with autism.
Researchers found that individuals who received home health care before the last year of life had higher odds of using hospice care than those without home health care. This association highlights the potential benefits of receiving end-of-life care in a personalized, home-based setting.
A randomized clinical trial found acupuncture to be clinically efficacious and favorably affect PTSD symptoms in combat veterans. The study suggests that further research is needed to explore the efficacy and mechanisms of acupuncture for PTSD treatment.
Males with anorexia nervosa have a sixfold higher mortality rate than the general population. Early identification and prompt treatment are essential for effective management of the condition.
A new study found that the 2021 Child Tax Credit expansion significantly reduced food insufficiency among American families, particularly those with children who experienced economic shocks during the COVID-19 pandemic. The monthly advance payments included in the expansion enabled all families to afford enough food and had a greater i...
A new study published in LANCET eClinicalMedicine found that regular exercise can help individuals maintain weight loss after completing medical weight loss treatment. The study showed that exercising just two hours a week can lead to better quality of life, improved mental health, and reduced fatigue.
A study by Lehigh University researchers found an increase in psychological distress among Latinos in the US from 2011-2018, with the deportation threat impacting both citizens and noncitizens. The research highlights the need for policy change and cultural practices of inclusion to address this issue.
Recent research suggests that problems with sleep and internal body clock can trigger or worsen psychiatric disorders. The study highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between sleep, circadian rhythms, and mental health, which could lead to new preventative measures and therapies.
A new study found that adolescents and young adults with cognitive disabilities had a higher prevalence of nicotine vaping compared to those without disabilities. Major depressive episodes were also associated with an increased risk of vaping in this population.
Researchers at University of California - San Francisco have developed a precise map of what is happening in the brain’s auditory cortex when someone hears a melody. The study found that some aspects of music are entwined with how we understand speech, while other important aspects stand alone. The brain uses two sets of neurons to ass...
A recent study of over 7,000 Australian adults found that reported marital harmony and conflict account for nearly 10% of mental health self-assessments. Financial difficulties and demographic factors also contribute to variation in mental health scores.
The AJPH special issue examines critical research findings to cultivate tangible solutions for healthcare workers' mental health. Key studies prioritize the mental health of healthcare workers, influencing patient care and staff retention.
Dr. Jean Chen receives grant to investigate cognitive behaviour therapy's effect on caregiver brain health, reducing dementia risk and improving overall wellbeing. The research aims to optimize CBT use for Canadians living with depression.
A new study found that young teenagers who develop a strong distrust of others as a result of childhood bullying are substantially more likely to have significant mental health problems as they enter adulthood. Researchers used data from 10,000 children in the UK and found that adolescents who were bullied at age 11 and developed great...
A new U of M Medical School study reveals that bias-based bullying amplifies emotional distress in youth with multiple marginalized social positions, such as race, ethnicity, and LGBTQ+ status. The research analyzed over 80,000 students and found a significant reduction in emotional distress among those who experienced no bias-based bu...
A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found a causal link between government policies and mental health decline in people with Black Caribbean heritage. The research team analyzed data from over 58,000 participants and found an increase in psychological distress after the 2014 Immigration Act and the Windrush scandal.
A recent Drexel University study found nearly a quarter of binge eating patients have used cannabis in the past three months. Cannabis use was related to drinking patterns and problems with drinking, but not to severe eating disorder symptoms or depression.
A therapist-guided digital cognitive behavioural therapy reduced distress in 89% of participants with long-term physical health conditions. The COMPASS programme showed significant improvements in anxiety, depression, daily activities, and quality of life.
A growing population of youth with autism and intellectual disabilities are involved in the US foster care system, facing increased risks for mental health diagnoses and trauma. Research found nearly 40,000 youth were in foster care in 2016, a 9% increase from previous years.
Researchers document various reasons for long-term clinical symptoms in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Key findings include immune system alterations, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and mitochondrial issues contributing to post-COVID syndrome.
A new study from the University of South Australia found a link between parents' sideline conduct and athletes' behaviours. When parents behaved well, their child was more likely to project positive behaviour. However, when parents behaved poorly, this was related to greater antisocial behaviours in their child.
A recent analysis found that Black women in the USA have significantly higher homicide rates compared to their White peers, with disparities increasing from 1999 to 2020. Gun deaths among Black and White women also increased, with Black women being more likely to be killed by firearms.
A recent study at the University of Eastern Finland gathered information on psychotherapy-associated adverse events, their content and scope. The researchers found no significant negative outcomes in included studies, but highlighted the need for standardised methods to assess adverse effects.
A new study published in Trends in Molecular Medicine found that resistance exercise training can improve anxiety and depressive symptoms. The research suggests that this type of exercise may be a viable alternative to established therapies, offering potential benefits for public health.
New findings from a study on ketamine's efficacy in treating severe depression reveal that 52% of participants achieved remission after just three infusions. The study also found that half of those who had thought often of suicide before receiving ketamine experienced a dramatic drop in suicidal impulses.
A study found that people from ethnic minorities show clearer signs of depression and lower adaptability on average. The researchers also discovered correlations between area poverty levels and the proportion of ethnic minorities exhibiting these traits.
A machine-learning tool trained on brain MRI scans of over 2,000 people worldwide can accurately predict psychosis before it occurs. The tool achieved an accuracy rate of 85% in training and 73% in testing, suggesting its potential as a valuable aid for early diagnosis.
A new study by North Carolina State University finds that daily activities called 'uplifts' can significantly improve emotional well-being after a traumatic loss. These uplifting activities, such as engaging in hobbies or spending time with loved ones, are found to be particularly beneficial on days when individuals report feeling older.
Researchers analyzed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing and found that public spending cuts during austerity (2012-2018) led to a steeper increase in frailty with age compared to pre-austerity period. This association was observed across all population groups, but particularly among the oldest people.
Researchers developed a novel approach to measuring community personality and found that people in like-minded communities tend to be happier, healthier, and more highly achieving. Communities differ significantly in terms of personality traits, with some counties having high proportions of open-minded or conscientious individuals.
A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland found associations between high age, low education, and poor lifestyle habits with increased allostatic load. The study suggests that effective depression prevention strategies at a population level could help reduce allostatic load.
The anxiety of headteachers across England increased substantially throughout the pandemic, with senior leaders suffering more than junior colleagues. The research found that digital technology can become a routine part of instructional practice to support teacher wellbeing.
A new study finds that non-white victims of violence and suicide in the US lose more potential years of life due to lethal violence, with socioeconomic factors and access to firearms playing a role. The study suggests addressing these disparities through community resources and improving access to healthcare.
Eleven prominent researchers recognized for groundbreaking work in stroke and brain health, with a focus on improving treatments and addressing disparities. The honorees include experts in magnetic resonance imaging, inherited risk factors, and clinical stroke research.
Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 47 parents experiencing homelessness to understand accessibility challenges of social-emotional health services for their children. Key findings include the importance of acknowledging parental strengths and positive interactions with support people in promoting child development.
A large long-term study found that women's antidepressant use increases after later life divorce or break-up, with a significant increase in the 4 years leading up to the event. Women's use tends to tail off only slightly and briefly after re-partnering, while men's use returns to pre-break-up levels within a year.
A study of 1,950 NYC residents found that 30% experience energy insecurity, leading to respiratory, mental health, and cardiovascular conditions. The population was disproportionately affected by low-income, Black, and Latino residents, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address health inequities.
A study of 18,000 women found those diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were 8 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to control group. This increased risk is attributed to higher likelihood of psychiatric conditions such as depressive disorders and anxiety disorders associated with PCOS. Researchers emphasize the ne...
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted learning and development among school-aged children, with disadvantaged families feeling the effects most severely. Researchers found that only 30% of students were assessed as kindergarten-ready in 2021, compared to 40% in 2018.
A recent study found that mental health care access remained inaccessible to many distressed US adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rate of serious psychological distress among adults increased from 3.5% to 4.2%, while outpatient mental health care use decreased among older and unemployed adults.
A UCLA-led evaluation found that 81% of homeless residents in the pilot program were no longer unsheltered after one year. The initiative improved housing placement rates and reduced time spent in locked psychiatric settings.
A study of over 580 children found that childhood trauma disrupts neural networks involved in self-focus and problem-solving. The research suggests that trauma therapies should address not only thoughts but also the impact on the body, sense of self, emotional processing, and relationships.
A new study published in The Lancet's eClinical Medicine found that 27% of individuals who visited emergency departments for cannabis use developed a new anxiety disorder within three years. Heavy cannabis use may worsen existing symptoms and delay evidence-based treatments.
Participation in a primary care-based housing program was associated with reduced outpatient visits, improved physical and mental health, and increased feelings of connection to healthcare clinics. The study found that integrated support from the program's care team led to better health outcomes and more stable housing solutions.
Researchers found that bullied adolescents have lower levels of glutamate in the brain's anterior cingulate cortex region, which regulates emotions and decision-making. This imbalance is linked to higher levels of subclinical psychotic experiences in early adolescence.
A Rutgers Health study found that Black adults exposed to gun violence are at increased risk for lifetime suicidal ideation and attempts. Nearly 49,000 people died from gun violence in 2021, with the overall suicide rate increasing by 44% among the Black population.
Researchers found a correlation between body temperature and depression symptom severity in a large international study. Participants with higher depression scores had higher body temperatures, suggesting that cooling the body may be a novel treatment approach for depression.
A new RAND study reveals significant geographic differences in telehealth availability and services offered by mental health clinics across the US. The study found that rural and metropolitan areas had different types of services available, with some clinics not offering virtual medication management or diagnostic services.
A recent study of 1,404 mental health facilities found that mental telehealth services are not equally accessible across the US, with disparities observed at local levels. The findings suggest widespread inequalities in who has access to these services, highlighting the need for targeted solutions.