Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
A randomized trial of PHAT Life, a role-playing intervention, found that teens on probation reported a reduction in number of sexual partners and an increase in consistent condom use. The program showed promise in reducing sexual risk-taking among high-risk youth.
Researchers argue that taking action before pregnancy is essential to prevent obesity, mental health problems and substance abuse in young people. The first 1000 days of life are crucial, but current policies start too late. Investing in adolescent development can guarantee a healthy future for both parents and children.
A new study by the Eurasian Child & Adolescent Mental Health Study network reveals a strong correlation between Human Development Index scores and the availability of mental health services. Countries with high HDI rankings have higher ratios of child and adolescent psychiatrists per population size, indicating better investment in chi...
A nationwide observational study of over one million adults with dementia found that alcohol use disorders are the most important preventable risk factors for dementia. Chronic heavy drinking was linked to 57% of early-onset dementia cases, highlighting the need for screening and treatment interventions.
A new study by Northwestern University found that gay and lesbian youth experience less psychological distress when in a romantic relationship, suggesting the benefits of initiatives like citywide 'queer proms' to promote healthy dating behaviors.
The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study has released a comprehensive dataset of over 4,500 youth, providing insights into brain development, substance use, and mental health. The data will inform future prevention and treatment efforts and policy decisions.
Research in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association warns that schizophrenia and psychiatric issues may be triggered by marijuana use, especially among young people. Physicians are advised to counsel patients on dosing and risks, as well as consider a family history of mental illness.
A new systematic review suggests that pets contribute to managing mental health conditions by providing emotional support and reducing feelings of loneliness. The study highlights both positive and negative aspects of pet ownership, emphasizing the importance of incorporating pet-related support into mainstream mental health care.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that only one-third of patients diagnosed with depression start treatment, with racial and ethnic minorities and the elderly facing significant disparities. The study's findings highlight the need for improved detection and treatment strategies to address these disparities.
A new study challenges the long-held assumption that amyloid beta buildup in brain cells is the origin of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that standard diagnostic tools fail to detect future AD in many patients under age 70, and that a decline in cerebrospinal fluid clearance may be the early feature of AD.
A $5-million gift will help develop a new CASA Research Chair in Child and Adolescent Mental Health at the University of Alberta. This initiative aims to improve front-line care for children and youth with mental health and addictions issues, and will focus on community-focused research and evidence-based findings.
A Saint Louis University study found that treating depression can increase the likelihood of successful opioid cessation in non-cancer pain patients. Patients who adhered to antidepressant medications were more likely to stop opioids and experience a rapid decline in depression symptoms.
A Mount Sinai study found that white adults with mental illness were 50% more likely than blacks to experience delays in care, and 20% more likely to lack sufficient funds for treatments. The researchers suggest that the Great Recession may have contributed to these disparities.
Researchers found music and singing, intergenerational initiatives, art and culture, and multi-activity interventions to promote wellbeing and health among older people. These initiatives foster meaningful relationships and make individuals feel valued, benefiting their physical and mental health.
A UMass Amherst researcher is studying the influence of emotions on medical decision-making and diagnosis among emergency medicine staff, with a focus on improving care for vulnerable patients. The study aims to develop cognitive interventions that can reduce diagnostic errors and improve physical health outcomes.
Experts argue that austerity policies are at the heart of rising homelessness in England, with serious health implications. The number of homeless people has increased significantly since 2010, with families and young people disproportionately affected.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that urban black men experience varying emotional responses to intentional and unintentional injuries, including heightened feelings of fear and distrust. These reactions can lead to social withdrawal and inadequate support, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed int...
A new comprehensive system, SAEBRS, equips teachers to identify students at risk of mental health issues through student self-assessments. The tool aims to provide early intervention and support to nearly 1 in 5 students who experience severe mental or behavioral health problems during their academic careers.
A new study found positive associations between voting, volunteering, and activism with health, education, and income outcomes in adulthood. However, activism was also associated with more risky health behaviors in adulthood. The study suggests that civic engagement can build community and fulfill social needs.
A new study found that teens who experienced severe bullying as children are more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in adolescence. The research, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, suggests that early intervention is crucial to prevent severe victimization.
A system tracking foodborne illness via online Yelp restaurant reviews helped identify 10 outbreaks of foodborne illness associated with NYC restaurants. The use of machine learning techniques improved the system's sensitivity and specificity, highlighting the potential for social media data in public health surveillance.
Research at King's College London found that spending time outdoors, surrounded by trees, hearing birdsong, seeing the sky, and feeling connected to nature all have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. Individuals with higher levels of impulsivity benefit most from these experiences.
A recent study found that 58% of children with asthma, food allergy, epilepsy, diabetes, or juvenile arthritis screen positive for a mental disorder within a month of their diagnosis. Anxiety disorders were the most common type, affecting up to 42% of children six months after diagnosis.
A new study suggests that pediatricians can improve mental health screenings in children by receiving training and support. The screening rates soared 73 percent during the 15-month study, showing potential for better outcomes.
Research from the University of East Anglia found that singing in a community group improved mental health for participants. The combination of singing and socializing promoted feelings of belonging and well-being, leading to improved mood and daily functioning.
A study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that sexually abused girls receive more medical diagnoses for urinary and genital health problems compared to their peers. Researchers also discovered no significant difference in the number of diagnoses for sexually transmitted infections between girls and boys.
A study found that women's health values, work and achievement values, and spiritual values predict pelvic floor muscle training session attendance. Patients value relationships more strongly than other aspects of their lives, but these values don't necessarily influence treatment attendance.
Ontario students are drinking, smoking, and using drugs at the lowest rates since the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey began. However, new data on fentanyl use raises health risks for this potent opioid drug.
A recent study published in The BMJ found no evidence that pet ownership is linked to improved physical or psychological functioning in older adults. In fact, researchers analyzed data from over 8,700 adults and found no association between pet ownership and biomarkers of healthy aging.
The article proposes mental health and disorder recommendation programs to strengthen policy implementation in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The programs aim to address regional disparities and promote mental wellness by building international mental health networks.
A study of over 4,000 Michigan Medicaid enrollees found that nearly half are employed, while 11% are unable to work due to serious health issues. Those who cannot work face significant health challenges and may be more likely to experience worsening conditions without treatment
A University of Strathclyde project aims to enhance online support for self-harming young people by exploring technology-enabled care and digital innovations. The six-month study, funded £60,000, will investigate impact on families and develop new solutions to advance unmet needs.
A study by Dr. MG Carta et al. found a high prevalence of symptoms of depression among healthcare workers in Italy, with significant risks for physicians, nurses, and surgeons. The study highlights the impact of job stressors on mental health and quality of life among healthcare professionals.
A new study by American College of Neuropsychopharmacology reveals that chronic sleep deprivation in teenagers can raise the risk for depression and addiction. The research found that sleep restriction affects the brain's reward system, leading to less activation in the putamen region.
A new analysis published in Perspectives on Psychological Science concludes that the Goldwater Rule is not well-supported scientifically and is outdated. Examining someone directly may not be necessary if other valid sources of information are compiled, such as interviews with family members or extensive public records.
A new study found that 50% of transgender young Canadians avoid healthcare because they're uncomfortable with doctors, leading to negative health outcomes. Increasing provider knowledge is crucial for improving the health of this vulnerable group.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University found that our brains experience momentary unconscious gaps in visual perception when shifting attention. The study, published in Cerebral Cortex, discovered a brain mechanism underlying the phenomenon of mind's eye blink.
The 'Human Trafficking, Exploitation and Health' collection in PLOS Medicine explores the global crisis of modern slavery, highlighting extreme hazards suffered by trafficked workers in high-risk sectors. Research is needed for evidence-based approaches to prevention and providing appropriate health care for victims.
A recent study from the University of Helsinki found that disordered eating among young adults has significant long-term negative health effects, including higher body weight, lower psychological wellbeing, and a lower self-evaluation of general health. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to mitigate these effects.
Researchers developed a new framework to report and design models of care for multimorbidity, highlighting changing elements such as reduced home care and increased extended appointments. The framework provides a tool for standardized reporting and research on multimorbidity interventions.
A new study by Duke University researchers found that people at-risk for anxiety were less likely to develop the disorder if they had higher activity in a region of the brain responsible for complex mental operations. Higher functioning dorsolateral prefrontal cortex may buffer against worsening anxiety.
Experts argue that a non-discriminatory legal framework governing involuntary treatment could replace unjust discrimination against people with mental ill health. Critics, however, worry that changing the law without proper resourced services could lead to reduced rates of compulsion and decreased care for vulnerable individuals.
A special issue in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry explores the intersection of neuroscience and law, highlighting key areas such as addiction, dementia, chronic pain, and behavioral genetics. The research has significant implications for legal proceedings and mental health treatment.
A new study by San Diego State University professor Jean Twenge found that increased screen time is associated with higher symptoms of depression and suicide-related behaviors among American teenagers, particularly girls. Spending more than five hours per day on electronic devices was linked to at least one suicide-related outcome.
A new study reports that a care model for older adults with dementia can benefit ICU survivors of all ages, addressing persistent cognitive impairment and depression. The Critical Care Recovery Center (CCRC) model provides interdisciplinary care to help ICU survivors recover from their hospitalization.
The University of Texas at San Antonio's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program will receive specialized training to serve underserved communities. Students will be trained in integrated behavioral healthcare settings, enabling them to provide critical mental health services to rural and vulnerable populations.
A new study suggests that including exercise in treatment plans for depression may improve patient outcomes. Over 80% of patients surveyed believed exercise helped alleviate their mood and anxiety.
Researchers found that a positive outlook and BMI both contribute to good health among college students. The study showed subjective happiness had the most significant impact on overall health, followed by hope and then BMI. In contrast, gratitude and life satisfaction didn't influence overall health individually.
A study found that women with PCOS are more likely to be diagnosed with mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. The research also showed that children born to mothers with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.
A digital health coaching program improved RA patients' well-being, decreased symptoms, and reduced flare frequency. The program showed significant increases in physical activity, sleep hours, and medication adherence.
A University of Washington study found a direct connection between toxic air and mental health, with fine particulate matter linked to increased psychological distress. The study, which controlled for other factors, showed that even moderate levels of pollution can be detrimental to health, particularly among specific populations.
A study by Chloe Berryman found that social media use among young adults is more closely linked to mental health problems than the amount of time spent using it. However, vaguebooking – writing cryptic posts to solicit attention – was a worrying trend that showed a correlation with loneliness and suicidal thoughts.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers links childhood spankings to depression, substance abuse and suicidal tendencies in adulthood. The study suggests that spanking should be considered an adverse childhood experience, similar to physical and emotional abuse.
A five-year, $2.6 million grant will fund the Pregnant and Mothers Postpartum Enhanced Recovery-Oriented Residential Services (PAMPERRS) program at Santa Maria Hostel in Houston. The program aims to treat underlying mental health conditions in high-risk pregnant and postpartum women seeking recovery services.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that less than 1 in 5 adults believe kids are physically healthier today compared to when they were growing up. Mental health issues are also a dominant factor in children's well-being, with only 15% of respondents believing the chances for good mental health have improved.
A new study by Rice University found that nearly a quarter of Mexican immigrants living near the California-Mexico border without legal authorization have a mental disorder, with major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder being the most prevalent. The study's findings highlight the need for culturally s...
A study from the University of Sydney reveals that men with depression are not engaging with treatment as much as expected, despite increased help-seeking behavior. The research highlights the need for more structured and goal-oriented approaches in treatment regimens to better support men's mental health needs.
Researchers used a mathematical equation to analyze how our self-esteem is shaped by what others think of us. They found that self-esteem changes are guided by whether we expect to be liked and that increased prediction errors in the brain can confer risk for mental health problems.
A UK study aims to improve mental health identification in autistic individuals with learning difficulties, who face unique challenges. The research will develop an assessment tool to distinguish between anxiety/depression and physical health-related distress.
A new study found that psychedelic drugs like magic mushrooms, LSD, and mescaline are associated with a decreased likelihood of antisocial criminal behaviour. The research suggests that these substances may have positive effects on reducing criminal offences, particularly larceny and violent crime arrests.