Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
A UC Riverside-led study found that moderately anxious children from minoritized groups are hypervigilant to threats, exacerbating their general state of anxiety. The study used MRI scanners and involved preadolescent Latina girls from low-income families.
Only half of European countries have national guidelines for treating child victims of sexual abuse, leading to unequal and potentially severe consequences. The existing guidelines are often outdated and fail to incorporate the latest scientific insights.
A recent study from Amsterdam UMC and the University of Glasgow found that loneliness increases physical frailty, leading to a higher risk of depression, falls, and cognitive decline in older adults. The research analysis more than 130 studies and revealed that reduced social functioning is associated with physical decline in older adu...
Researchers found a causal link between air pollution and suicide rates in China, estimating that reducing air pollution has prevented 46,000 deaths. The study isolated the effect of pollution on mental health by using weather conditions to tease apart confounding factors.
The American Gastroenterological Association has proposed a 12-point plan to enhance IBD care in the US, focusing on insurer-mandated barriers such as prior authorization and step therapy. The plan aims to improve treatment access and quality for over three million Americans living with IBD.
A new study found that frequent cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, even after controlling for tobacco use and other cardiovascular risk factors. The study analyzed data from over 430,000 adults in the US and found that smoking cannabis was significantly linked to cardiovascular risks.
A University of Waterloo study found that urban spaces with nature elements can significantly reduce anxiety and boost positive outcomes in adolescents. After just two minutes in a natural setting, youth scores decreased by up to 13%.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine consensus study report highlights different effects of social media on adolescent mental health. Research is recommended to address specific harms such as cyber-stalking and harassment, as well as promote healthy social media use through digital literacy curricula.
Researchers found that specific auricular acupuncture improved the recovery rate for depression to 58%, compared to 43% for non-specific treatment. The study also showed no severe adverse effects, with most participants reporting mild pain at the needle application site.
A new study from the University of Toronto found an association between poor sleep and symptoms of muscle dysmorphia among Canadian young adults. Participants who reported greater muscle dysmorphia symptoms had shorter sleep duration and difficulty falling or staying asleep more than half the time.
A meta-analysis of 30 studies involving 3,501 women found that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based interventions significantly improved anxiety, depression, memory, and concentration difficulties. CBT was also the most cost-effective option for menopause management.
A new smartphone application using AI and facial-image processing software detects the onset of depression before symptoms appear. MoodCapture captures facial expressions and surroundings, then evaluates them for clinical cues associated with depression.
New research reveals women's cardiovascular disease risks differ by age, lifestyle factors, and mental health conditions. Studies show sedentary behavior increases risk of death from all causes, while preeclampsia is linked to diet, highlighting need for targeted prevention strategies.
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.