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Facebook updates could help understand -- and potentially treat -- mental health disorders

Researchers from the University of Cambridge suggest that social networks like Facebook can provide valuable data to improve knowledge of mental health disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. The study proposes using Facebook data to detect early signs of mental illness and potentially even offer support and interventions.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateOct 26, 2016

Study of youth attending mental health service finds low rates of contraception and high rates of unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections

A study of youth attending mental health services reveals low rates of contraception and high rates of unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The research highlights the need for incorporating sexual health clinics into early intervention services to address these unmet needs.

Inadequate state children's mental health structure hampers chances for improved care

A national survey of state mental health directors reveals poorly organized state agency structures, workforce shortages, limited accessibility, and stigma concerns are hindering improvements in children's mental health care. The survey highlights the need for increased public awareness and understanding to increase access to services.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research·DateOct 11, 2016

Recessions are harmful to health

A review of studies on the 2008 European recession found an association with adverse health outcomes, particularly for suicides and mental health problems. The evidence is strongest for these outcomes, but the quality of the research varies greatly.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 6, 2016

The Lancet Psychiatry: Increasing number of US adults using marijuana as fewer people perceive the drug as harmful

A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that the number of US adults using marijuana increased between 2002 and 2014, with a corresponding decrease in perceived risk of harm. Despite this, the prevalence of marijuana use disorders remained stable, highlighting the need for effective education and prevention messages.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateAug 31, 2016

Black and Hispanic children and youth rarely get help for mental health problems

A nationwide study found that Black and Hispanic children and youth are less likely to receive mental health care than their white counterparts, despite similar rates of mental health problems. The study also revealed significant racial and ethnic disparities in substance abuse treatment and outpatient mental health services.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalInternational Journal of Health Services·DateAug 12, 2016

Health-care costs are bad medicine

New research reveals that over 40% of people with depression and anxiety skipped healthcare treatment due to cost. Adults with asthma, emphysema, and COPD faced significantly higher household out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure compared to those without a health condition.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalAustralian Journal of Primary Health·DateAug 3, 2016

Even mild vision impairment has influence on quality of life

Research reveals a significant association between visual health and social determinants of general health, including education, socio-economic status, and ethnicity. The study found that even mild vision impairment can have a substantial impact on daily life, increasing the risk of unemployment and mental health issues.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJul 28, 2016

The Lancet: Simpler, cheaper psychological treatment as effective as cognitive behavioural therapy for treating depression

A large trial has shown that behavioral activation therapy is non-inferior to cognitive behavioral therapy in treating depression, with two-thirds of participants reporting a 50% reduction in depressive symptoms. The treatment is also cheaper and more accessible, with average intervention costs £974.81 compared to CBT's £1235.23.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 22, 2016

Secrets of the human brain unlocked

The study found that brains with more variability and frequent connections tend to have higher IQs and creativity. This discovery could lead to advancements in artificial intelligence and a better understanding of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and ADHD.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBrain·DateJul 18, 2016

Most Ontario adults support government regulation over cannabis production and sale

A strong majority of Ontarians support government-controlled options for producing and selling cannabis, with nearly two-thirds backing sales in government-regulated outlets. The survey also found growing support for liberalizing recreational cannabis use, with over half supporting legalization.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalCanadian Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice/La Revue canadienne de criminologie et de justice pénale·DateJul 5, 2016

Relationship quality tied to good health for young adults

A recent study by Ashley Barr found that high-quality relationships are associated with improved physical and mental health in young adults. The longer individuals stay in high-quality relationships or quickly exit low-quality ones, the better their overall health. Low-quality relationships have detrimental effects on health.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateJun 24, 2016

Tele-psychiatry reaches rural kids in need

A study by the University of Missouri School of Medicine shows that video-based mental health services are providing care to underserved rural children. The research highlights the need for mental health services in these areas, where only 20% of children with behavioral health issues receive treatment.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Health Management·DateJun 22, 2016

Military members with PTSD/depression can be treated successfully in primary care settings

A new study found that military members with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression can experience significant improvements in symptoms after enrolling in a treatment program that includes specially trained care managers and telephone therapy options. The approach resulted in better outcomes and improved access to high-qu...

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 13, 2016