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Evidence-based patient-psychotherapist matching improves mental health care

A randomized clinical trial found that patients matched with therapists who have a strong track record of treating their primary concerns experienced greater reductions in general impairment. This 'match effect' was more pronounced for patients with severe problems and those from traditionally underserved populations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateJun 28, 2021

Parents of children with complex medical conditions more likely to have mental health issues

A recent study published in Pediatrics found that parents of children with the most complex medical conditions are more likely to report poor or fair mental health and struggle to find community help. The study recommends that healthcare systems provide support resources and prioritize mental health for these families.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 24, 2021

Some good news for those with migraines

A new study from the University of Toronto found that 63% of Canadians with migraines experience almost daily happiness and high levels of social and psychological well-being. Those who had a confidant or used spiritual coping mechanisms were more likely to be in excellent mental health.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnnals Of Headache Medicine Journal·DateJun 24, 2021

Multiple long-term physical health problems increase risk of depression later in life

A large-scale analysis of over 150,000 middle-aged people found that those with two or more physical health conditions were at greater risk of developing depression and anxiety. The study confirmed the importance of integrating mental health support into care plans for individuals with multiple physical health conditions.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateJun 22, 2021

Summer catch-up programs need to focus on teens' wellbeing, not just academic progress

Researchers found that social connections with friends and family, as well as emotional closeness with parents, significantly impacted young people's mental health during lockdown. The study highlights the need for summer holiday programs to prioritize wellbeing support and increase funding for child and adolescent mental health services.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateJun 21, 2021

Commercial video games could help treat mental illness

Researchers at Lero found that commercial video games could be used as an effective and stigma-free alternative for treating depression and anxiety. The study suggests that these games can be accessed at a low cost or for free, making them a viable option for people with limited access to mental health care.

SourceLero·JournalJMIR Serious Games·DateJun 17, 2021

US sex trafficking survivors face challenges as mothers

US sex trafficking survivors experience difficulties building parenting confidence and exhibiting emotional withdrawal, impacting their ability to be protective parents. The study highlights the need for targeted support to help these individuals overcome challenges in motherhood.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 2021

Teenagers at greatest risk of self-harming could be identified almost a decade earlier

Researchers found two subgroups of adolescents who self-harm, one with emotional and behavioral difficulties, and a second group without those difficulties but with different risk factors. The study suggests that it may be possible to predict which individuals are most at risk of self-harm up to a decade ahead of time.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 15, 2021

Largest-ever pre-adolescent brain activation study reveals cognitive function maps

A new study provides valuable information on the cognitive processes and brain systems underlying adolescent development. The data from the largest longitudinal neuroimaging study to date reveals which brain regions are involved in key psychological processes, including cognitive control, reward processing, and social/emotional function.

Fairness 'important - but not enough'

Researchers discovered that fair treatment alone is insufficient to foster a sense of value in groups; instead, recognizing individual talents and qualities provides a sense of inclusion while promoting mental health. This approach complements the idea of 'fitting in' by allowing individuals to stand out and feel valuable.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 14, 2021

Little to no increase in association between adolescents' mental health problems and digital tech

A new study published in Clinical Psychological Science found little evidence of increased association between adolescents' technology engagement and mental health problems. Only social media use showed a slight increase in emotional problems, while other associations remained consistent or decreased over time.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateMay 4, 2021

Digital mental health interventions for young people are perceived promising, but are they effective

Computerized cognitive behavioral therapy was found effective for anxiety and depression in adolescents and young people. However, the effectiveness of other digital interventions remains inconclusive. Engagement with a health professional or peer can strengthen the effectiveness of these interventions.