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 found that deaths from alcohol use disorder increased dramatically during the pandemic, with a 25% higher rate in 2020 and 22% higher in 2021 compared to projected rates. Young adults aged 25-44 experienced the steepest upward trend in alcohol use disorder mortality.
A recent study published in Journal of the American Pharmacists Association found that pharmacists are at a higher risk of suicide compared to the general population, with a rate of 20 per 100,000 pharmacists versus 12 per 100,000 in the general population.
The University of Rochester Recovery Center of Excellence brings together diverse experts to discuss strategies for overcoming stigma and health inequity barriers to substance use disorder care. The summit aims to address the 'fourth wave' of the opioid epidemic, driven by synthetic opioids and multiple substances in combination.
Researchers developed an algorithm to identify users' basic needs from their Instagram posts, images, and captions. The study analyzed 86 profiles in Spanish and Persian, achieving promising accuracy and complementary information between visual and textual cues.
A recent poll found that menopause symptoms significantly impact older women's sex lives, with 84% of women experiencing symptoms in the past year. Despite this, only 44% have discussed treatment with their healthcare provider, while 28% reported symptoms interfering with sexual activity.
Researchers suggest a novel neuroimaging technique can unveil Alzheimer's disease secrets and predict symptom risk. The 'neuromelanin-sensitive MRI' method provides insights into the brain's noradrenergic system, linked to aggressive behavior and cognitive decline.
A follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that half of people hospitalized with COVID-19 have at least one symptom two years after infection. Long COVID symptoms persist, affecting quality of life, mental health, and healthcare use.
A new study calls for greater support for family members of individuals detained under the UK's Mental Health Act, citing heavy burdens and distress. The research suggests that reforms, including a new nominated person role, must be accompanied by extra support to help those caught up in mental health detentions.
Researchers say expanded inquiries can save lives by identifying vulnerable individuals who may not be reporting suicidal ideation. Tailoring assessments to individual situations can help medical professionals uncover hidden risks and prevent tragedies.
Researchers found a genetic link between long repeated DNA sequences and schizophrenia. The study discovered rare tandem repeat expansions near genes associated with the disorder, contributing to dysfunction at synapses and disrupting gene function.
A survey study found that cost was the most common reason for young adults aged 18-25 to avoid seeking depression treatment from 2011 to 2019. Increasing inadequate insurance coverage for mental health treatment also contributed to this issue.
A multicentre study has proven personal construct therapy as effective as cognitive-behavioural therapy in improving quality of life and symptoms of depression in patients with fibromyalgia. The therapy focused on people's identity and how they see themselves, offering a personalized approach to treatment.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a healthy Mediterranean diet can significantly improve symptoms of depression in young men. The 12-week randomized control trial showed that nearly all participants stayed with the program and reported positive results.
A recent study by the American Psychological Association found a small but significant increase in loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 5% rise in loneliness prevalence across individual studies. However, not all groups experienced this increase, highlighting the need for further research on risk and protective factors.
A new study analyzing 174 peer-reviewed studies on the effects of nature on human well-being found that participants were overwhelmingly white and from high-income countries. The research highlights a diversity problem in the field, which threatens its ability to make universal scientific claims.
A new study published in Cyberpsychology, Behaviour and Social Networking found that taking a one-week break from social media can lead to significant improvements in wellbeing, depression and anxiety. Participants who took a break reported improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety compared to those who continued using social media.
A new quality improvement study from Cedars-Sinai found that comprehensive nurse training is key to successfully screening women for postpartum depression. The initiative identified framing the screening as part of family wellness and normalizing the transition to parenthood as helpful strategies.
A large-scale Canadian study found that shielding children from food insecurity only reduces the risk of mood disorders in youth, but has no significant impact on anxiety disorders or overall mental health. The study also suggests that adults' mental health is improved when they can shield their children from food insecurity.
A recent Dartmouth study using mobile technology compares emotional well-being of college students before and during the pandemic, finding significant differences in mental health and behavior. The research identifies two groups with differing experiences, with one group showing poorer mental health, anxiety, and stress.
A machine-learning model developed by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital predicts which US Army soldiers are at greatest risk of homelessness upon transitioning to civilian life. The study identifies lifetime depression, trauma, and PTSD as key predictors, allowing for targeted interventions to mitigate homelessness.
Researchers at the University of South Florida conducted a comprehensive review of data on 25,000 Canadians and found that long-term well-being is a realistic goal for some patients with mental illnesses. The study revealed that symptoms only correlate modestly with well-being, and that earlier treatment may improve outcomes.
Researchers developed a new model to understand how delusions emerge and are shaped by different contexts, revealing common themes across patient accounts. Clinicians must go beyond 'correcting' dysfunction to devise treatment that is relevant to the individual's emotions, life experiences, and socio-cultural contexts.
A recent Rutgers University study has found that children in families struggling to provide diapers are more likely to have disrupted and shorter sleep periods. The researchers also discovered a strong association between diaper need and an increased risk of childhood obesity, emotional problems, and maternal mental health symptoms.
A Rutgers study found that nontraditional 9/11 emergency workers are more than five times as likely to have considered suicide, with 12.5% expressing suicidal ideation compared to 2.2% of traditional first responders. Factors contributing to this disparity include inadequate training and financial hardship.
A recent study from North Carolina State University found that mothers with limited financial resources experienced tremendous stress during the pandemic. However, they also valued the opportunity to spend more quality time with their children, showcasing their resilience.
The May issues of American Psychiatric Association journals explore the cognitive impacts of long-term cannabis use, the intersection of climate change and mental health, and tools to address children's mental health. The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services feature research reports on these topics.
A new study in mice suggests that forcing the turnover of specific immune cells called microglia can reverse cognitive and behavior problems associated with concussions. The findings provide a potential pathway for developing post-concussion therapies to ward off long-term mental health issues.
A survey of over 165,000 adolescents found a significant increase in school mental health service use in 2019 compared to prior years. The growth was particularly notable among Black adolescents and those from low-income families.
A study found a significant increase in school mental health service use among adolescents in 2019, particularly among non-Hispanic Black and low-income students. This rise was attributed to the creation or expansion of school mental health programs following the Parkland school shooting tragedy.
A large international study found that PHQ-9 accurately indicates the presence and severity of depression, regardless of sex, age, or language. The tool enables clinicians and patients to track and address depression by measuring both physical and emotional symptoms.
The expanded partnership aims to strengthen the District's response to an escalating national youth mental health crisis. The school-based Behavioral Health Team model provides comprehensive support, including early identification of students with behavioral health needs and connection to evidence-based interventions.
A recent study from Emory University found that people who self-report non-medical prescription drug use (NMPDU) express more negative emotions and less positive emotions on social media compared to those who do not, and that NMPDU tweets are highly polarized
Researchers found that seven hours of sleep per night is associated with improved cognitive performance, better mental health, and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Disrupted slow-wave sleep may contribute to cognitive decline and memory consolidation issues.
A Boston University study found that living in areas with more greenery may boost cognitive function, particularly in middle-aged women. The research suggests that exposure to greenspace could improve processing speed and attention, as well as reduce depression, a risk factor for dementia.
A recent study found a consistent decline in the mental health of college students across the US over eight years, with significant increases in depression and anxiety among racial and ethnic minority students. The study also revealed a gap between symptom onset and treatment access, particularly for students of color.
A study of over 3.5 million Welsh citizens found that those who self-harmed during the COVID-19 pandemic were less likely to seek help and faced difficulties accessing in-patient treatment. The research used linked electronic health records to investigate healthcare contacts with self-harm during this period.
A new study found that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) significantly reduced the risk of suicide among patients with depression in the year following hospitalization. The study, which analyzed data from over 67,000 patients, showed a 50% lower risk of suicide among those who received ECT compared to those who did not.
A randomized clinical trial found that micronutrient supplementation improved attention and mood in children with ADHD, with a 54% response rate compared to 18% in the placebo group. The study also showed significant growth benefits in children taking the supplement.
A new study published in Royal Society Open Science found that depressive symptoms among English secondary school children increased by 6% during the pandemic. Girls experienced greater symptoms and lower wellbeing compared to boys.
A global study compared COVID-19 transmission strategies in 15 countries and found that eliminator countries had lower levels of psychological distress and better life evaluations. Mitigator countries, such as Canada, experienced greater negative impacts on mental health due to restrictions on social connections.
A new study estimates the national economic burden of PTSD at $232.2 billion for 2018, with civilians accounting for 82% of the total costs. The study calls for increased awareness, effective therapies, and expanded evidence-based strategies to reduce the clinical and economic burden of PTSD.
A new Cochrane Review paper reveals that talk therapy can alleviate depression and improve quality of life for people with dementia. The study found that psychological interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), are effective in reducing symptoms of depression and improving wellbeing.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science identify brain regions and signaling pathways involved in fear extinction via delta receptor activation. The study suggests a potential therapeutic agent for post-traumatic stress disorders by suppressing fearful memories.
Resilience and emotional well-being were higher among immigrant youth who lived with family members or had no family members, whereas those without family support expressed lower resilience and more stress. The study highlights the impact of household composition on the mental health of adolescent migrants.
A Drexel University study found that individuals with a stronger connection to nature had more varied diets and higher fruit and vegetable consumption. This link could inform health promotion practices and urban planning initiatives.
A study examines adolescent perspectives on TikTok's mental health benefits and risks, including how the algorithm enables unique connections with peers around interests and mental health struggles. Participants also discussed excessive use, peer comparison, and challenges in regulating their TikTok use.
A recent study found that children living in areas with tree cover had better early childhood development than those in areas with grass or paved surfaces. The research also showed that tree-filled spaces mitigate air pollution, noise, and heat better than more open green spaces.
A Swedish study found that children with migration backgrounds are less likely to receive recommended psychiatric diagnoses and treatments for conditions like ADHD and depression. They were 40% less likely to receive certain diagnoses and 30% less likely to receive psychotherapy or ADHD drugs.
New research suggests that stricter pandemic policy measures are associated with poorer mental health outcomes and lower life evaluations. Eliminator countries experienced fewer deaths and better mental health trends compared to mitigator countries.
A new study found that antidepressant use over two years does not significantly impact physical or mental health-related quality of life in individuals with depression. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the effects of non-pharmacological interventions.
A University of Gothenburg study found that a single visit to a health coach can deteriorate perceived health in 50-year-olds. After one hour-long session, participants reported worse changes in overall wellbeing, physical and mental health compared to those who received no treatment.
Adults exposed to chronic parental domestic violence have higher rates of depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse, but many thrive despite their early adversity. Social support plays a crucial role in maintaining good mental health.
A survey study found increased risk factors and worse outcomes among transgender and gender-questioning high school students compared to their cisgender peers. The study highlights the need for targeted support and interventions to address these health disparities.
A new evidence-based matching program aims to improve treatment outcomes by pairing patients with therapists based on their previously established effectiveness strengths. The program, funded by PCORI, has shown promising results in reducing symptoms and improving patient care.
The 29th annual CNS meeting will feature scientific talks, posters, and receptions, with a focus on the latest advances in cognitive neuroscience. Registered press members will have access to these sessions, as well as a quiet Press Room, while COVID safety protocols are in place.
Researchers found a clear link between elevated amyloid beta levels and the development of anxiety and apathy in Alzheimer's patients. These symptoms occur mainly due to underlying brain changes, not psychological reactions. The study suggests that psychiatric symptoms could be used as alternative outcome measures in treatment trials.
A new study by Cornell University found that variable work schedules lead to higher turnover rates due to economic security concerns, health issues, and work-life balance problems. This increased turnover negatively impacts business performance during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Researchers found that neuronal ensembles in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex existed before memory acquisition, but developed through experience in the hippocampus. The study also revealed that ensemble synchrony across brain regions was particularly strong during transient bursts of activity, suggesting a role in memory consolidation.
A new study found that people with psychiatric conditions, especially those over 65, have a higher risk of breakthrough COVID. The researchers tracked data from over 250,000 VA patients and found increased risks for breakthrough infections among those with substance abuse, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and...
A new UC San Francisco study found that nearly half of young adults had mental health symptoms during the pandemic, with many unable to access therapy. The study highlights the importance of addressing barriers to care, including cost, stigma, and confidentiality concerns.