Articles tagged with Mental Health
Groundbreaking research from the University of South Australia confirms that smiling can alter perception of facial expressions and body language, generating more positive emotions. The study found that facial muscular activity stimulates the amygdala, releasing neurotransmitters to encourage an emotionally positive state.
The expansion will train 48 fellows in addiction medicine or psychiatry to provide high-quality prevention and treatment services for vulnerable populations. This training aims to address access disparities and stigma, with a focus on community-based care.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys aim to develop new therapies for schizophrenia, depression, anxiety and substance abuse by identifying potential drug targets in 'orphan' receptors. The team has created an innovative platform called LIFT to screen small molecules and validate these receptors as bonafide drug targets.
The OU Health Sciences Center will expand a national program dedicated to suicide prevention with a $38 million five-year grant. The program aims to address workforce development, education, evidence-based prevention strategies, and public awareness to help people at risk of suicide. Key findings include increased focus on culturally r...
A new study by the Yale School of Public Health found that approximately 30% of women and 17% of men in the US have experienced a major depressive episode. The study also showed that mental health programs can benefit a larger segment of the population than previously thought.
A study by Cooley et al. found that white Americans tend to compare their status to other white Americans, leading to negative emotions and poor physical health. In contrast, Black Americans more often compared their status to others within their own group, resulting in better mental well-being.
A new study found that texting intervention as an add-on to mental health treatment programs improved symptoms and increased participant engagement. The research team developed a text-messaging-based psychotherapy tool that was clinically promising, safe, and feasible for people with serious mental illness.
New research map highlights huge variation in ADHD services across the UK, with only 12 dedicated services providing full NICE-recommended treatment. The study found patchy provision of dedicated ADHD services and disparity in service labelling, affecting service users and healthcare workers.
A new study from UC Davis Health found that combining thoracic surgery with a quitline e-referral program significantly improves tobacco cessation rates. The study showed that surgical patients who participated in the program were three times more likely to remain smoke-free at six months compared to those without the intervention.
A new study found that geographical areas with high levels of lithium in public drinking water had correspondingly lower suicide rates. Lithium, known for its anti-suicidal effect, is widely used as a medication for mood disorders and has potential preventative use to combat dementia.
A recent study reveals that nearly three-quarters of women experience good psychological well-being prior to partner abuse, yet more than half are diagnosed with a mental illness after. Professor Nicole Moulding calls for a new approach focusing on societal issues and support beyond medication and counseling.
Researchers are investigating the link between impaired brain hubs and mental health issues using cutting-edge methods. The study aims to understand how hub regions contribute to altered brain network function and behavior, potentially leading to better treatments for brain disorders.
Research finds that frequent social media use can negatively impact depressive symptoms among LGBTQ youth, but a social media-free summer camp shows promise in reducing symptoms. After attending the camp, participants experienced a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, particularly those with high pre-camp social media use.
A RAND Corporation report highlights shortcomings in treating veterans with co-occurring disorders, emphasizing the need for standardized evidence-based treatments and regular evaluations. The study recommends incorporating veterans' preferences into care decisions and exploring telehealth options during the pandemic.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that improving subjective well-being through online and in-person interventions had positive effects on self-reported physical health. Participants who received the intervention reported increasing levels of happiness and fewer sick days compared to control participants.
A new University of Toronto study found that individuals with suboptimal mental health died on average 4.7 months earlier than those in excellent mental health. The study, which followed 12,424 adult Canadians from 1994 to 2011, also identified key factors associated with premature mortality.
Researchers discover that alcohol activates microglia in the brain, altering geometry and increasing dopamine diffusion, which may promote addiction. This study provides a new understanding of alcohol's effects on the brain and suggests potential treatments.
A new study found that police officers are at a higher risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) than the general public, with 38.9% reporting a TBI resulting in loss of consciousness. Officers with a history of TBI also experienced higher levels of post-concussion symptoms and mental health issues, including depression and PTSD.
A study found that Gulf Coast children who were exposed to the oil spill had a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing physical and mental health problems. The impacts persisted years after the disaster, with physical health issues being 4.5 times more common in directly exposed children.
A study by Penn State researchers found that every COVID-19 death will impact around nine surviving close family members, including grandparents, parents, siblings, spouses, and children. The multiplier effect may help raise awareness about the disease's ripple effects and inform policies on family leave and paid leave.
Researchers compiled a comprehensive list of 317 US mental health units in correctional facilities, finding that most units offered group therapy and had dedicated staff. The review suggests that smaller unit sizes and more individualized services could improve outcomes for inmates with serious mental illness.
Researchers have found that a history of rape is associated with dysfunctional breathing and late-onset asthma diagnosis, particularly in women. Nearly 20% of women reported being raped, and those who experienced trauma were more likely to develop respiratory problems at 38 years old.
A Rutgers-led study found that community and law enforcement partnerships can significantly improve PTSD screening and treatment for children who witness home violence. The Child Trauma Response Team model, which provides immediate outreach and victim safety assessments, showed a three-fold increase in child PTSD screens among families...
A large-scale US study reveals associations between high levels of outdoor and artificial light at night with less sleep and increased risk of mood disorders among teens. Teens living in areas with high levels of outdoor artificial light tend to report later bedtimes and shorter sleep duration.
A University of Houston study found that insufficient sleep alters children's emotional health, particularly in response to positive emotions. The research highlights the importance of assessing and prioritizing healthy sleep habits for emotionally vulnerable children.
A new study published in Environmental Research found that short, frequent walks in blue spaces significantly improve well-being and mood. Researchers measured participants' blood pressure and heart rate before, during, and after walks in a beach environment versus urban environments.
The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a significant toll on mental health, highlighting the need for online platforms to facilitate social support and continued mental health care delivery. The study discusses effective strategies for utilizing online platforms during the pandemic.
A study found that sleeping less than normal impairs positive feelings, reducing joy, enthusiasm, and attention. Participants experienced a flattening of emotions when they slept less, scoring worse on accuracy tests. This impact persists for multiple days after sleep deprivation, affecting mental health.
A study of 75,000 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders found that those who experienced a mood disorder or hospitalization prior to diagnosis were at the highest risk for suicide. The researchers suggest increasing age limits for first episode psychosis programs and extending clinical follow-up care as potential solutions.
A large-scale study of over 212,000 active duty Army personnel found that those with stable positive character strengths prior to deployment were less likely to struggle with mental health issues after returning home. In contrast, those with lower character strengths experienced further declines and were at higher risk for major mental...
Boston University School of Medicine's Women Veterans Network (WoVeN) has received a $1.9 million grant from the Bob Woodruff Foundation to provide online groups, peer support, and social connections for female veterans. The program aims to improve mental health, social support, and well-being for women veterans across the US.
A University of Melbourne-led study developed a world-first framework that identifies health practitioners' readiness to address family violence. The CATCH model highlights five vital themes: Commitment, Advocacy, Trust, Collaboration, and Health system support.
A study found that individuals with bipolar disorder who switched to high-deductible health plans experienced a moderate decrease in nonpsychiatrist mental health outpatient visits. However, rates of psychiatrist visits, medication use, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations remained unchanged.
A global study found a 20% increase in cardiovascular events and death among middle-aged participants with four or more depressive symptoms. Depression is now considered an important risk factor for heart disease and early death alongside traditional factors like smoking and high blood pressure.
A study analyzed 156 workers' sitting behavior, revealing that switching postures tends to occur later in the workday. Participants were more likely to stand if active in recent hours, but switching was not associated with physical fitness levels.
The Building Wealth and Health Network program at Drexel University's Center for Hunger-Free Communities reduces food insecurity by promoting healing and financial control through group experiences. Participants are 55% less likely to experience household food insecurity after completing the 16-session program.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates existing health disparities among ethnic minorities and migrants, who face higher risks of infection and severe illness. Economic hardship during the recession further marginalizes these groups, making them more vulnerable to mental health issues.
One in five Australian mothers is not receiving critical perinatal mental health checks, according to a University of Queensland study. The study found that older mothers and those with emotional distress are less likely to be screened for mental health issues.
The study, published in Journal of Mental Health, demonstrates the positive clinical outcomes of NewAccess in addressing known barriers to access of evidence-based early intervention for depression and anxiety in Australia. The program offers free therapy with no co-payment, accessible by phone, face-to-face, or self-referral.
The new app, called neureka, uses brain games and self-reflection challenges to collect data on mental health and dementia research. It aims to identify modifiable risk factors for disorders of the mind and capture complex datasets to develop individualized understanding of brain health.
A new survey found a more-than-threefold increase in U.S. adults reporting symptoms of psychological distress from 3.9% in 2018 to 13.6% in April 2020. Young adults, adults in low-income households, and Hispanics expressed the highest psychological distress.
A RAND Corporation study found that behavioral health integration is possible in various medical practices, with adaptation to each practice's needs being key to success. Financial sustainability remains a challenge, despite the effectiveness of integration in improving patient care and reducing mental illness burden.
A new study found that lower body fat percentage is associated with higher levels of N-acetyl aspartic acid in white matter, a marker of neuronal health. Fitter adults show improved structural brain connectivity.
Former child soldiers in Sierra Leone who were accepted by their families and communities experienced improved emotional and social well-being. The longitudinal study of over 500 former child soldiers found that stigma was a significant barrier to their recovery, with some experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress dis...
A new review suggests that lockdown's effects on children's mental health may be long-lasting, with young people who experience loneliness being up to three times more likely to develop depression. The study emphasizes the importance of prioritizing play and social interaction during the transition back to school.
Researchers found that frequent cannabis users are unaware of effective harm reduction techniques, such as avoiding driving after use. Public health practitioners need to better inform users about these strategies to minimize costs and risks associated with cannabis use.
A new study from the University of Bristol found that users of high-potency cannabis are four times more likely to report associated problems than users of lower-potency strains. The research used data from a long-term health study and controlled for other factors, such as frequency of use and early mental health symptoms.
A study found that nearly three-quarters of people with depression also suffered from anxiety, leading to a higher risk of long-term depression. The researchers highlight the need for integrated anxiety screening and culturally adapted therapies to address this complex combination of mental health issues.
Researchers found that people who believe depression is biologically caused tend to think it is more severe and long-lasting, but are also more optimistic about treatment. Those with a genetic or brain-related perspective on depression are less likely to hold negative attitudes towards individuals with the disorder.
A new study reveals that medical personnel working with COVID-19 patients in China have higher rates of anxiety, somatization, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms compared to the general population. The study collected data from over 30,000 healthcare providers during the pandemic's peak.
Coronavirus infections can cause delirium in hospitalized patients, which increases the risk of death or extended hospital stay. Long-term effects may include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue.
A randomized noninferiority clinical trial found that internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for health anxiety had similar effects to traditional face-to-face treatment. The study involved 204 adults with health anxiety and showed that online therapy was effective despite limited therapist-patient interaction.
A study found that an optimal minimum legal age of 19 for non-medical cannabis use balances the risk of adverse outcomes with the potential benefits. This age limit is lower than previously recommended ages, but higher than the current age of 18 in Canada.
Visits for mental health disorders rose 60%, while deliberate self-harm increased 329%. The rate of substance use disorders also saw a significant rise. To address this, researchers recommend improved preparedness and screening for suicidal ideation in emergency departments.
A recent OSU study highlights the grange as a community-based organization with close ties to public health goals. The grange's physical buildings and similar missions make it an ideal partner for health initiatives, including blood drives, mental health awareness classes, and food programs.
Patients who visited the emergency department for an opioid overdose are 100 times more likely to die by drug overdose in the year after being discharged. Those who experienced a sedative/hypnotic overdose had overdose death rates 24 times higher and suicide rates 9 times higher than the general population.
A recent study conducted by researchers at Universitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona discovered a direct link between the rurality of an environment and improved mental well-being in older adults. The study found that individuals living in rural areas had significantly better levels of mental well-being compared to those residing in urban o...
Researchers developed a set of recommendations to manage the mental health of frontline medical workers, including clear communication, training, and infection control procedures. These changes aim to reduce psychological distress among clinicians during viral outbreaks.
Children with chronic health conditions may experience higher rates of mental illness in early adolescence, according to new research. The study found that children with chronic health problems showed higher rates of mental illness at 10 years and continued to be associated with poor mental health at ages 13 and 15.
A study by NYU researchers found that peer support specialists with criminal and psychiatric histories can lead more empowered, meaningful, and productive lives. The role offers a possibility for employment despite past limitations, leading to increased hope and community reintegration.