Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
A narrative review identifies seven digital programs supporting nonspecialist health workers in increasing access to mental health care in low- and middle-income countries. The projects illustrate possibilities of using digital platforms to support task-sharing interventions, but many challenges remain.
A new study by University of Washington professor Jane Lee finds that partisan rhetoric and cultural divides contribute to poor health among immigrants. The study identifies 'sociopolitical context' as a key factor in shaping health-related behaviors, with participants reporting fear, uncertainty, and discrimination as major stressors.
Researchers at the University of York have developed an effective smoking cessation program for individuals with severe mental illness. The study found that smokers who received tailored behavioral support and access to nicotine replacement therapy were more than twice as likely to quit six months after intervention, compared to those ...
Children's Hospital Los Angeles is conducting a 5-year national study of pre-pubescent transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) children's mental health, aiming to enroll 320 participants. The study will provide valuable insights into the interplay between mental health and gender issues in this understudied age group.
Research found that daily cannabis use was three times higher among those with past-month serious psychological distress compared to those without it. The study suggests potential consequences of increased cannabis use for vulnerable groups, emphasizing the need for tailored clinical efforts to reduce excessive use.
Research detects structural changes in white matter of the brain six weeks after stopping alcohol consumption. The study refutes the idea that brain damage normalizes immediately after quitting drinking.
A new University of Liverpool-led study highlights the effectiveness of a brief group psychological intervention for women affected by anxiety and depression in post-conflict Pakistan. The intervention, known as Group Problem Management Plus, was tested in a randomized controlled trial involving 612 women in rural Swat, with promising ...
A study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that children with obesity experience a range of health issues, including anxiety, dyslipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The research suggests that using a clinical staging system is more useful than BMI alone to identify these health concerns.
A new study has found that 58% of people displaced following the civil war in Sri Lanka have suffered from mental health problems. The research, led by Dr Shannon Doherty at Anglia Ruskin University, also highlights the significant unmet mental health needs in the region.
A new study found that adults with serious mental illness and substance use disorders are less likely to meet Medicaid work requirements due to their health conditions. Researchers warn policymakers to consider the accessibility of mental health treatment and exemptions for those affected by work requirements.
A Columbia University study found that adversity-induced disruptions in gut microbes are associated with changes in brain function in young children. The research linked gastrointestinal symptoms in childhood to potential emotional health issues later in life.
A recent LSU Health study reports high levels of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among women exposed to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The research found that nearly half of these women did not receive mental health treatment in the past year, underscoring the need for better access to care.
A study found persistent income-related inequalities in psychological distress and suicidal behaviors among Indigenous peoples. Improving social determinants of health, such as income and food availability, may help address these mental health issues.
A new study by Leanne Knobloch and her team provides guidance on supporting military couples during the reintegration process, highlighting the importance of providing ample support for at-home partners, addressing mental health symptoms, and working with couples to address relationship questions and disruptions.
A national study reveals that young and middle-aged adults with hearing loss are twice as likely to misused prescription opioids and other substances compared to their hearing peers. Health care providers may need to take special care when treating pain and mental health conditions in deaf and hard-of-hearing patients.
A large-scale study by Sussex psychologists found a clear link between early adulthood depression and anxiety with decreased memory function in midlife. Accumulating symptoms over three decades predicted linear decline in memory function by age 50.
James Bray, a UTSA psychologist, is training first responders in Houston to recognize prescription opioid overdoses and administer naloxone. This project aims to provide treatment services for overdose victims through the Houston Recovery Center.
A Rutgers study found that former inmates who receive social support have better mental health and successful reentry into society. Without such supports, men of color face significant challenges upon release from prison.
The percentage of young Americans experiencing mental health disorders rose significantly between 2005 and 2017, but remained stable for older adults. The study suggests that increased digital media use may be contributing to the trend, particularly among teens and young adults.
A new NIH study identifies distinct brain connectivity and activity patterns in children with anhedonia, a condition characterized by loss of interest in activities. The research may aid in developing targeted treatments for this condition.
A double-blind controlled trial of TNS found significant reductions in ADHD symptoms and associated improvements in brain functioning. The study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, suggests that TNS has great potential as an additional option for managing ADHD.
A recent NIH study found that nearly one-third of preteens (ages 10-12) screen positive for suicide risk in emergency department settings. This highlights the need for universal youth suicide risk screening, which may save lives and prevent undetected cases.
New research funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) found that 67% of pregnant women in London aged between 16 and 24 years have mental health problems. Anxiety disorders are especially high, with social phobia being particularly prevalent.
Restrictive entry and integration policies are linked to poor mental health, depression, anxiety, and increased risk of premature death among migrants. More inclusive approaches can improve migrants' health and life opportunities.
A recent study published in Neuropsychopharmacology reveals that young adults at risk of addiction show differences in the putamen brain region, which is associated with impulsivity and addictive disorders. The research suggests that individuals displaying higher levels of impulsivity tend to have lower myelin levels in this area.
A new national poll reveals that one in four older adults experience feelings of loneliness, with those aged 50-80 who have health issues being most affected. Poor physical and mental health, hearing loss, and unhealthy habits are associated with a lack of companionship and feeling isolated.
The rise of psychotherapy in Uganda reveals distinct views on happiness and mental health across the country. In Northern Uganda, psychotherapy services emerged to address post-war traumas, while upper-middle-class Kampalans prioritize wellness and seek private psychology practices.
Researchers have identified baseline characteristics that predict moderate-to-severe psychiatric adverse events in smokers using smoking cessation drugs. Existing anxiety, suicidal ideation, and white race are key predictors across all three frontline medications.
Research found that long working hours, particularly 55+ hours a week and/or weekends, are associated with increased depressive symptoms in women. Women in male-dominated occupations often work longer hours, while those in low-paid service sector jobs tend to work weekends, both linked to depression.
A Danish study of 943,027 individuals found that growing up in areas with abundant vegetation was associated with a lower risk of developing psychiatric disorders. The findings suggest that incorporating natural environments into urban spaces can improve the mental health of urban residents.
Children who grow up with green spaces have a 55% lower risk of developing mental disorders later in life. This study from Aarhus University emphasizes the need for designing healthy and green cities to improve urban residents' mental health.
A randomized study by Michigan State University reveals that interpersonal psychotherapy can reduce depressive symptoms and hopelessness in prisoners. The treatment is effective, low-cost, and can be implemented in prison settings with trained counselors.
A UK-based study found that 31% of young people experienced traumatic events during childhood, with those exposed to trauma twice as likely to develop mental health disorders. Only a small proportion of young people with PTSD received effective treatment.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition has found a significant link between poor diet quality and mental illness in California adults. The research revealed that those who consumed more unhealthy food were more likely to report symptoms of moderate or severe psychological distress.
A new screening tool designed specifically for human trafficking was found to be more effective than a commonly used psychosocial assessment in identifying sexual and labor exploitation of youth. The study found that 44% of youth had been arrested, 35% had a history of foster care, and 71% had been kicked out of their homes.
Researchers at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health develop new therapeutic molecules that rapidly improve memory symptoms and renew underlying brain impairments. The compounds target specific impaired brain receptors causing memory loss, reversing cognitive deficits and improving brain function.
Researchers found that nearly one-third of persons with schizophrenia had 'normal' wisdom scores, which correlated with fewer psychotic symptoms, improved cognitive performance, and enhanced everyday functioning. Assessing and enhancing wisdom may help improve the quality of life for individuals with schizophrenia.
A child with multiple siblings is more likely to be a victim of sibling bullying than those with only one sibling. Researchers found that firstborn children and older brothers tend to be the perpetrators, while female children and younger children are often targeted.
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that people who feel shame about a secret are more likely to think about it constantly. Shame is associated with feelings of worthlessness and powerlessness, whereas guilt focuses on remorse and regret.
An estimated 7.7 million American children have at least one mental health disorder, with prevalence varying widely by state. Policy efforts are needed to improve treatment for children with mental health disorders, which affects up to 72% in some states.
A study of 190 Australian women found that workplace sexism is associated with a poorer sense of belonging, leading to poorer mental health and job satisfaction. Integrated strategies can improve mental health but better addressing sexism is key
A meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials found that all types of dietary improvement significantly reduce depressive symptoms, with weight loss, fat reduction, and nutrient-improving diets having similar benefits. Simple changes like eating more fiber-rich meals can be effective in improving mental health.
A large-scale genetic study has linked hundreds of genes to depression, providing new insights into the condition's origins. The study also suggests that neuroticism may contribute to depression risk and could inform personalized treatments.
A new European Fans in Training (EuroFIT) program has shown promise in increasing physical activity among male football fans in Europe. The 12-week group-based program resulted in improved physical activity and reduced sedentary time, with participants also experiencing improvements in diet, body weight, and well-being.
A new study by the University of Leeds found a positive association between fruit and vegetable consumption and self-reported mental well-being in the UK population. Consuming an extra portion of fruits and vegetables daily could have a significant impact on mental health, equivalent to 8 extra days of walking.
Research by Lehigh University professor Sirry Alang found that Blacks with high socioeconomic status are less likely to seek mental health care due to mistrust and racial inequities. The study suggests teaching about the history of racism in medicine and prioritizing marginalized narratives as solutions.
A population-level study identified specific gut bacteria linked to depression and found that a wide range of gut bacteria can produce neuroactive compounds. The study used faecal microbiome data from 1,054 individuals and validated its results in independent cohorts.
A new NIH-funded study identifies the common occurrence of mental health symptoms after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in civilians. Lower education levels, African-American status, and history of mental illness are associated with increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder.
A study suggests that only about 10 percent of people who had non-fatal opioid overdoses in West Virginia received treatment in the aftermath. This missed opportunity to prevent future fatal overdoses is particularly concerning given the state's high overdose death rate.
Research from Vanderbilt University Medical Center found a significant association between long-term unemployment and higher rates of neonatal abstinence syndrome. Rural counties plagued by unemployment had significantly higher rates of babies born with neonatal abstinence syndrome compared to urban areas.
A large-scale genomic analysis reveals the inner workings of the body clock and its link to mental health and disease. Being genetically programmed to rise early may lead to greater well-being and a lower risk of schizophrenia and depression, while morning people are found to have lower risk
A new study published in the European Journal of Neurology found that women are more likely to experience severe depression following a stroke, with 20% of women suffering from severe depression compared to 10% of men. The study suggests that women's social relationships and longer lifespan contribute to this increased risk.
Researchers developed a new test to examine theory of mind in people with autism. The study found that individuals with autism struggle with tracking Sally's beliefs about the environment and making logical conclusions about her behavior. This understanding can help develop treatments for autism in the future.
A recent study found that positive well-being is associated with a lower risk of depression in adults with autism. The research followed 36 newly employed adults with autism and discovered that interventions targeting mental health and well-being in the workplace may be necessary to improve outcomes.
A study of people who grew up in the era of leaded gasoline found that higher blood lead levels at age 11 were associated with signs of mental illness and difficult personality traits by age 38. Participants exposed to higher levels of lead as children were rated as more neurotic, less agreeable, and less conscientious than their peers.
A new study from the University of York found that first-time mothers who give birth via unplanned cesarean section are 15% more likely to experience postnatal depression. The study highlights the need for increased mental health support for women whose babies are delivered via emergency C-section.
Millions of adults are entering middle age with high levels of childhood lead exposure, associated with lower IQ, behavioral problems, and mental health issues. Childhood blood lead levels were linked to adult difficulties in personality traits such as neuroticism, agreeableness, and conscientiousness.
Research from the University of New Hampshire reveals that youths with disabilities are more likely to experience harassment via technology, while those with learning disabilities face in-person harassment. The study's findings emphasize the need for schools to consider context and implement peer-to-peer programs to minimize risk.
A recent survey of 3,500 households in the North West UK found that 31% had attended A&E in the past year, with age being a significant factor. Other key predictors included lack of employment and poor housing conditions, which increased attendance rates by 38% and 34%, respectively.
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect up to 14% of women in their lifetimes, leading to adverse outcomes for mothers and babies. Integrated care approaches, including screenings in primary care clinics, NICU, and ED, are being implemented to help women with PMADs receive timely treatment.