Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
Researchers found a clear divide in how gay and mainstream dating apps shape behavior and body image among Australian men. Gay dating apps encourage users to focus heavily on their bodies, leading to overwhelming pressure and negative self-talk.
A nine-session weekly group program in rural Spain improved caregiver burden, quality of life, and self-efficacy. Key factors associated with greater burden include personal health problems and extended caregiving hours.
A new study by the University of Ottawa suggests that a tiny molecule, methylglyoxal, plays a major role in triggering neurological disorders after a heart attack. The molecule accumulates in the brain following a heart attack and is linked to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
A new study maps how 29 factors influence one another in young adults aged 18-40, revealing self-reinforcing loops that worsen depressive symptoms and disrupt sleep. The model highlights the complexity of these interactions and suggests a nuanced approach to breaking the cycles.
Researchers linked duration and severity of depression to differences in functional brain connections, paving the way for personalized treatments. Changes in brain networks, particularly the Central Executive Network and Default Mode Network, were associated with varying degrees of depressive symptoms.
A new review of 87 studies highlights the benefits of bicycling on psychological, social, affective, and cognitive outcomes, particularly in outdoor and multi-session programs. Cycling is shown to improve focus, thinking, and mental health, while also enhancing social connections and cognitive performance.
The study found that mental disorders disproportionately affect young people aged 15-19 and women, with anxiety and depression ranking among the top causes of disability globally. Mental disorders now account for 171 million DALYs, placing them as the fifth-leading cause of total disease burden worldwide.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has launched a new version of its Distress Thermometer and Problem List in over 70 languages to screen patients for mental, physical, social, or spiritual distress. The tool aims to enhance cancer care by identifying psychological distress and providing support.
The University of Texas at San Antonio's three nominated researchers, Lyle Hood, Amina Qutub, and David L. Roberts, have made significant contributions to various fields, including medical devices, AI in healthcare, and mental health services.
A digital tool developed by researchers at the University of Copenhagen can make a real difference in the lives of children and young people after their parents' divorce. The SES NXT platform helps children understand their emotions, put them into words, and make tangible changes to improve their everyday life.
Researchers argue that childhood behaviors are being pathologized, and instead propose addressing the root causes of psychological distress by reforming education and mental health systems. They advocate for a more collaborative approach, trusting children and families to define themselves and co-construct their support needs.
A new study found that nearly 8 in 10 college students with psychosis needed mental health support, but only 4 in 10 received the recommended combination of therapy and antipsychotic medication. This indicates potential barriers to accessing care, including stigma.
The BMJ argues that healthcare has lost its human, moral, and relational foundations. Experts say reconnecting with these values is crucial for improving patient outcomes and staff well-being. By prioritizing kindness, compassion, and leadership, healthcare can rebalance its focus from technical power to individualized care.
New research finds that low-dose buprenorphine given after a single ketamine infusion can sustain reductions in suicidal ideation in adults with major depressive disorder. The study showed a 76% reduction in suicidal ideation at week four, compared to a 43% reduction in the placebo group.
The total cost of emergency admissions for mental health among children and young people in England rose from £22.5 million to £87.3 million between 2012/13 and 2021/22, driven by increases in admission rates and lengths of stay. Eating disorders and self-harm were the two most costly conditions, with over 80% of total mental health co...
A new study suggests that an earlier first sexual intercourse may be associated with a less favorable multidimensional aging profile, including shorter longevity and higher frailty. The researchers found that genetic differences in early sexual debut were linked to poorer health outcomes later in life.
A new study found a steady rise in children's mental health concerns during routine primary care visits, with anxiety-related visits increasing by 300% over 10 years. The study highlights the growing role of pediatric primary care in addressing mental health needs and calls for more training and resources to support this shift.
A new study found that childhood maltreatment can increase the risk of intimate partner violence victimization in young adulthood. The researchers identified three main psychological characteristics: low subjective wellbeing, conduct problems, and aggression.
Polyendocrine Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) impacts 13% of women, causing hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, and chronic pain. Lifestyle interventions, particularly diet and exercise, show benefits for physical and mental health outcomes.
A new study from Reichman University found that an AI-based conversational support platform can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The platform, called Kai, was able to form a meaningful therapeutic alliance with users, providing round-the-clock emotional support.
A study of over 20,000 South Australian students found that wellbeing declined across every measured domain, including happiness and life satisfaction, after transitioning to secondary school. The decline was independent of developmental changes associated with adolescence.
The study reveals climate change is a growing social crisis, disrupting connections and community belonging, with impacts felt through heatwaves, air pollution, and economic strain. Vulnerable populations, such as those on low incomes or living with disability, are disproportionately affected by climate-related isolation.
A single dose of psilocybin provided rapid relief from depressive symptoms within a few days, with effects persisting for over three months. The treatment showed a significant advantage over SSRIs, with an average reduction of 9.7 points on the MADRS scale.
A new review article synthesizes research on the mental and psychological health impacts of greenspace on advantaged and disadvantaged children. Nearly 60% of studies found that people living with disadvantage benefitted more from natural environments, with reduced anxiety, behavioral difficulties, and improved cognitive functioning.
A large-scale international study found that spending time in nature is associated with greater life satisfaction due to increased self-compassion and positive body image. The study also identified a pathway through which nature contact helps people feel restored, leading to improved mental wellbeing.
A study from the University of Bath reveals widespread psychological distress among people who remain isolated due to Covid-19. The research found a vicious cycle of fear driving withdrawal from social contact, reducing confidence to re-engage with the world and reinforcing isolation.
A widely used depression screening questionnaire is accurate for both people with and without chronic pain, according to a new study. The study debunks the myth that screening inflates depression scores for those with chronic pain, which can be masked by fatigue and sleep disturbances.
A new study by the University of East Anglia reveals that refugees who entered the UK as unaccompanied minors experience relentless cycles of intrusive memories, loneliness, and physical pain. Social connection emerges as a powerful buffer against distress, with many participants finding comfort in activities like cricket or prayer.
Research at Nagoya University suggests that individuals with higher autistic traits use labeling as a way to cope with uncertainty, reducing emotional stress. The study found a link between autistic traits and lower anxiety levels when people are able to put their feelings into words.
A new study finds that individuals with higher resilience tend to place greater weight on positive aspects in cost-benefit decisions, a process mediated by brain activity. This regulated handling of negative information is linked to increased acceptance and improved psychological resilience.
A study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals that traumatic experiences during critical periods of life, particularly childhood to early adulthood, have lasting impacts on brain development and behavior. The research found that the timing of trauma, not its type, plays a key role in determining distinct behavioral outcomes.
Researchers propose that ibasho, community-led spaces of belonging and social purpose, support long-term recovery and resilience. By restoring routines, roles, and neighborhood connections, ibasho helps individuals regain stability, dignity, and a sense of purpose after disasters.
A global study published in Nature Human Behaviour analyzed data from over 8,000 participants to investigate the connection between physical activity and emotional well-being. The results showed that mood improves with everyday movement, and people are more physically active when they feel better.
Researchers investigate how positive emotions can be a source of dysfunction in particular contexts, particularly when not managed. The study aims to understand and develop treatments for positive mood disturbance in people with and without mood disorders.
This qualitative study explores the use of edible cannabis among older adults as a management strategy for pain, sleep, and mental health concerns. The study highlights the importance of physician awareness and informed counseling for these patients.
A study by UPF found that AI-generated images of depression reinforce stereotypes and stigmas, particularly in terms of marginalization and social exclusion. The research highlights the need for responsible mental health communication, emphasizing the importance of considering diverse experiences and promoting transparency around AI use.
A digital therapy app was found to be more effective in treating anxiety disorders, depression, and eating disorders among college students compared to traditional campus clinics. The study, which tested the app's effectiveness over six months, showed a significant increase in symptom-free students and services uptake.
Researchers at UCLA Health have discovered that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) selectively targets specific brain cells to restore communication channels in the brains of stressed mice. The study found that TMS repairs damaged dendritic spines, leading to enhanced activity and rapid improvements in stress-related behaviors.
A study protocol from Hasanuddin University aims to address gaps in mental health interventions for adolescent girls in Gorontalo, Indonesia. The qualitative study will explore experiences and perspectives of young women and stakeholders to develop a community-based intervention model.
A new study found that mental health clinicians prefer evolutionary explanations of anxiety over genetic approaches, believing they provide a more positive outlook and can improve patient willingness to seek help. This shift could lead to more hopeful and therapeutically empowering attitudes towards anxiety treatment.
A new study with over 3,700 UK participants found that better cognitive functioning may be associated with a higher risk of future depressive episodes in those with a history of depression. In contrast, worse cognitive performance was linked to a lower risk of relapse in both individuals with previous depression and control participants.
Dr. Dilek Colak's journey began with a childhood observation of a boy with mental illness, which inspired her to pursue a career in neuroscience. Her current work focuses on understanding autism and schizophrenia through the study of human brain organoids.
Gonçalo Cotovio uses lesion network mapping to identify the circuits responsible for psychiatric symptoms, aiming to develop personalized brain stimulation treatments. His work has produced striking findings in mania and obsessive-compulsive disorder, with ambitions to extend to disordered feeding behavior.
A study finds microplastics in the human brain associated with increased risk of stroke and dementia. Apheresis, a medical treatment, is proposed as a potential removal method for microplastics from the body.
Researchers found that psilocybin causes temporary shifts in brain entropy, leading to increased insight and emotional self-awareness. This correlates with improved well-being and cognitive flexibility, suggesting the psychedelic trip is key to its therapeutic effects.
Researchers found that accelerated biological aging of a type of white blood cell called monocytes is linked to cognitive and mood-related symptoms of depression. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and personalized treatment for depression, particularly in high-risk populations such as women with HIV.
A 20-year follow-up study by the University of Copenhagen reveals that nearly all patients who initially admitted to hospital psychiatry returned, with significant consequences on their education, family life, and health. The researchers emphasize the importance of early and comprehensive assessments to provide better support and preve...
A randomized control study found that kids in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program reported lower rates of violent behavior, substance use, and depressive symptoms compared to non-participants. The program also improved their self-esteem and overall mental health.
A study by Kelsie Forbush and colleagues used Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology to better understand how psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder are connected. The findings suggest that HiTOP's symptom dimensions may support more precise, personalized mental health care.
A national survey found that millions of US adults have microdosed substances like cannabis, psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA, with cannabis being the most commonly microdosed. The study also revealed patterns tied to mental health and policy environments, suggesting that changes in drug policy may influence access to these substances.
The program honors Marilyn Monroe's legacy and provides dedicated mental health services for artists at the Samuel J. Friedman Health Center in Manhattan's Theater District. It offers training, resources, and care to address the unique psychological demands of the entertainment industry.
The Paul and Shelia Schlosberg Family Foundation has donated $3 million to the Optimal BrainHealth for Warfighters initiative at Center for BrainHealth. This gift aims to boost cognitive resilience among U.S. Special Operations Command operators, veterans, and their families.
A study by SWPS University found that people with depressive symptoms use less active language, such as 'I am incapable' instead of 'I achieve goals'. This analysis of social media posts shows promise for early detection and prevention of depression.
A new national survey found nearly all parents (97%) felt stress related to parenting in the past month, with children's behavioral issues and emotional/mental health being top sources of that stress. The Kids Mental Health Foundation offers free resources to help parents build healthy homes and reduce stress.
A nationwide ecological study found a statistical correlation between fewer psychiatric beds and higher suicide rates in Sweden. The study suggests that investing in outpatient care may not be enough to prevent suicides, highlighting the need for further research into healthcare resource allocation.
Motif Neurotech has received FDA approval to begin the first clinical trial of its therapeutic BCI device, DOT, for treatment-resistant depression. The study will test the device's effectiveness in delivering electrical stimulation to brain circuits linked to depression.
Researchers found striking, decades-long cycles in US suicide rates, influenced by broad social forces. Suicide risk has been rising steadily for over half a century among young people, affecting each new generation earlier in life.
A new study found that young men who viewed idealized fitness or supplement videos on TikTok reported lower fitness satisfaction and stronger intentions to use creatine, a popular muscle-building supplement. The researchers highlight the need for targeted media literacy education and responsible social media practices.
A new study found that nearly 1,200 TBI respondents used psychedelics to treat or manage physical health conditions, with 208 participants using them to manage brain injury-related symptoms. Researchers reported a 90% self-reported symptom improvement rate.
A study by Brown University and Columbia University found that road infrastructure isolates communities, leading to increased schizophrenia-related hospital visits. The Community Severance Index measures physical and social disconnection using roads, traffic, and lack of pedestrian infrastructure.