Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
A new study by the University of Washington found that transgender children who are socially transitioned and supported by their families have similar rates of depression and anxiety as non-transgender children. The research challenges long-held assumptions about the mental health of transgender youth.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry shows that genetic counseling is valuable for patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and similar conditions. Genetic counseling helps clarify misconceptions about the cause of psychiatric illnesses and reduces feelings of guilt and distress.
The study found that many types of disability are underrepresented in psychology classes, including chronic health and physical disabilities. To address this, researchers recommend reworking course content to include more diversity and examples of different disabilities.
A RAND Corporation study found that the US military health system provides good care in following up with patients after discharge, but needs improvement in other realms. Most patients receive at least one psychotherapy visit, but may not receive sufficient evidence-based therapy.
Premature babies born with low birth weight are more likely to be bullied and develop depression, anxiety, ADHD, or antisocial behavior in adulthood. Childhood bullying significantly increases their risk for mental health problems, particularly anxiety disorders.
A study of 34,653 US adults found that marijuana use was associated with an increased risk of developing alcohol and drug use disorders, including nicotine dependence, over a three-year period. However, the study did not find a link between marijuana use and mood or anxiety disorders.
A new study explores the mental and physical health of transgender active-duty US military personnel and veterans, finding that they experience fewer health problems than their non-transgender counterparts. The research suggests that age and years of service are associated with mental and physical health issues.
A new initiative brings together findings from mental health research and clinical care to develop better treatments for psychological disorders. The National Institute of Mental Health's Research Domain Criteria provides a framework for this approach, which is highlighted in an article about RDoC-oriented research.
Experts explore how learning a second language improves thinking skills, mental agility, and delays brain ageing. The event aims to share research findings on bilingualism with the public, highlighting its benefits for society through education and policymaking.
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that people who feel older than their peers are more likely to be hospitalized. The study analyzed data from over 10,000 adults and found a 10-25% increased likelihood of hospitalization among those who reported feeling older.
A new Northwestern University study found that about a third of adolescents experience severe and ongoing bullying, which can lead to major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study also highlighted the importance of addressing these patterns in schools through policies and programs.
A meta-analysis found that bipolar patients with childhood maltreatment developed BD more than four years earlier, had more severe symptoms, and higher risks of suicide and PTSD. This study suggests a history of childhood maltreatment could be an early indicator of high risk for poor outcomes among individuals with bipolar disorder.
A systematic review of hormone therapy's effects on transgender individuals found significant improvements in mental health status and quality of life after as little as 3-6 months of treatment. Researchers suggest that increased access to hormone therapy could help eliminate or reduce depression and anxiety in this population.
A group of researchers, aid workers, and Syrian medical professionals warn that ineffective interventions are worsening the health, education, and livelihoods of refugees. They call for evidence-gathering and transparency in aid allocation to direct funds to effective programs.
Participating in women-only cardiac rehab resulted in lower symptoms of anxiety and depression and improvements in diet. Women who attended the supervised programs exhibited increased physical activity and improved quality of life.
A study found a significant increase in mental health-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and office-based services among children and youth in Ontario, Canada. Anxiety disorders were the most common reason for these visits, accounting for 47% of the total increase.
A new UCLA-led study reports the success of a Finnish anti-bullying program called KiVa, which improves the mental health of sixth-graders who experience bullying. The research-based program includes role-playing exercises and computer simulations to increase bystander empathy and intervention.
A new analysis shows that team-based coordinated specialty care (CSC) is more cost-effective than typical community care for young people with first episode psychosis. CSC produces better clinical and quality of life outcomes, making it a better value despite modestly higher costs.
A study by University at Buffalo researchers highlights the importance of health care providers having knowledge about military culture and values to provide effective care for veterans. The research team conducted focus groups with veterans and their families to identify gaps in health care provision.
A new study finds that educating and involving family members in the care of a loved one with memory loss can significantly reduce hospital readmissions. The study, conducted at Henry Ford Hospital, showed a 30% decline in 30-day readmission rates for patients with congestive heart failure.
Researchers found that younger smokers are more likely to have psychiatric disorders than older smokers. The study suggests that mental health screening may be warranted for this population to address related problems early.
A new study found that implementing LGBT training for healthcare staff in New York City correctional facilities led to a significant decrease in patient complaints. Within six months, all patient complaints were resolved, marking a major improvement in transgender healthcare.
A study by McMaster University found that teenagers with food allergies are more likely to have depression, anxiety, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) compared to their peers without allergies. Mothers of teens with food allergies are also more likely to report these emotional and behavioral problems.
A new study from the University of Toronto found that nearly 40% of formerly suicidal Canadians reach complete mental health. Social support was identified as a crucial factor in achieving this state, with those having someone to confide in seven times more likely to succeed.
The study, which analyzed over one million students in 1,227 elementary and middle schools across the city, found that students at schools with water jets experienced a reduction in standardized body mass index (zBMI) and the likelihood of being overweight. Easy access to water led kids to substitute it for caloric beverages.
Research at Georgia State University reveals that African Americans with serious mental illness are more likely to experience recurring victimization over time. The study, published in the Journal of Quantitative Criminology, found that racial disparities in mental health services access and social barriers contribute to these outcomes.
A recent study published in Annals of Family Medicine has found that long-term opioid use is associated with an increased risk of developing new-onset depression. The research, led by Dr. Jeffrey Scherrer, analyzed data from over 70,000 patients and found that longer duration of opioid analgesic use was linked to new-onset depression.
A meta-analysis found that 23% of bariatric surgery candidates have a current mood disorder, with depression being the most common condition. Bariatric surgery is associated with postoperative decreases in depression prevalence and severity, but not necessarily eating disorders or anxiety.
Staff at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust have reduced waiting times for mental health patients after redesigning their referral system. The results show an improvement in both waiting times and percentage of patients seen within set standards following a single intervention.
A study by Simon Fraser University reveals that the number of homeless individuals with psychiatric comorbidities migrating to Vancouver's DTES has increased significantly over the past decade. Despite increasing involvement with public services, these individuals remain exposed to serious health and social risks associated with poverty.
A large-scale study of transgender and non-transgender veterans found significant disparities in mental health conditions, including depression, PTSD, and serious mental illness. The study also revealed a higher prevalence of medical diagnoses, with HIV infection being the largest disparity.
A new study by CAMH and ICES found that heavy users of mental health care account for 88% of total costs, with psychiatric hospitalizations and visits to doctors making up the majority. The average cost of healthcare used by these individuals is 30% higher than others.
A recent study by Drexel University's Dornsife School of Public Health found that local health departments provide mental health care services to around 30-40% of their populations, with those that offer services being seven times more likely to address population-based mental illness prevention. Local health departments also have oppo...
A study found that adolescents discharged from hospitals in England after an admission for violent, drug- or alcohol-related, or self-inflicted injuries have a higher risk of subsequent death and emergency re-admission up to a decade later. The risks were highest in 18-19 year olds with chronic conditions or living in deprived areas.
An international survey of mental health disorders and their association with chronic physical conditions found a significant link between the two. The study identified 16 mental health disorders and 10 chronic physical conditions, suggesting that mental disorders can increase the risk of developing these conditions.
A study by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that the circadian rhythm of gene activity changes with aging, leading to altered sleep and cognitive patterns. The team identified core genes that make up the molecular clock in the prefrontal cortex, which may explain some age-related alterations in brain function.
A USC study surveyed 3,310 ninth-grade students and found that those with moderate mental health problems who vape e-cigarettes have emotional and behavioral issues midway between smokers and non-vapers. E-cigarette use has tripled among teens in recent years, with flavors like Skittles enticing young people.
A national survey found that men rank getting help from friends and family as highly important for addressing depression symptoms, with a score of 7.7 on an importance scale. In contrast, women prefer professional counseling more highly. Experts emphasize the need to overcome barriers and promote trustworthy mental health resources.
A new initiative aims to address high suicide rates in three rural Washington counties by providing training and resources for professionals and community members. The Forefront program will focus on creating coalitions, enhancing crisis plans, and offering one-on-one telephone support through the Forefront Cares program.
A study in rural Malawi found that antiretroviral therapy (ART) not only benefits HIV-positive individuals but also those without the disease. ART reduced perceived mortality risk and led to increased productivity among HIV-negative people, particularly in terms of corn production.
Research by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso finds that exposure to violence in Mexico leads to high levels of depression, aggression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder in children. The study highlights the need for early intervention to reduce mental health problems in youth living in violent areas.
A new RAND Corporation study finds that campus programs have led to a significant increase in California college students seeking mental health treatment, with an estimated additional 329 students graduating for each year of investment. The study also predicts a net societal benefit of over $6 per dollar invested.
A systematic review found that many health professionals have limited knowledge of FGM/C, its types, complications, and laws. Despite its illegality in many countries, the medicalization of FGM/C perpetuates this practice.
According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) survey, Ontario students reported high levels of hazardous drinking, with 29% of 12th graders engaging in hazardous drinking. The survey also found that more students used electronic cigarettes than tobacco cigarettes.
A review of 18 studies found that health professionals' knowledge of female genital mutilation (FGM/C) varies greatly according to their work setting. FGM/C is a harmful practice affecting 100-140 million women worldwide, with long-term complications including recurrent urinary infections and psychological problems.
A new study found that a brief dissonance-based eating disorder prevention program alters how young women's brains respond to images of thin supermodels. The program reduces pursuit of unrealistic beauty standards and changes brain responsivity to normal-weight women, suggesting a shift in valuation towards healthy weight.
A recent study found that a reform model aimed at improving coordinated care for individuals with mental health diagnoses has yet to deliver desired results. The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Alternative Quality Contract, which began in 2009, was designed to encourage high-value care and improve quality coordination, but its ...
A new study by Ohio State University found that young couples experience a similar decline in emotional distress when moving in together as they do getting married. Men experienced a drop in emotional distress only when going directly to marriage, while women saw the same benefits from cohabitation. The study suggests an evolving role ...
Researchers found that mental health courts significantly reduced repeat offending, particularly among offenders with co-occurring mental health and substance use problems. Offenders who completed treatment programs in MHCs spent 76% less time in jail for repeat offenses compared to those in traditional courts.
Individuals with depression are more likely to experience preventable hospitalizations for common chronic conditions, such as diabetes and congestive heart failure. Researchers found that those with depression were 2.35-times more likely to be hospitalized for preventable conditions than without depression.
A feasibility study found that women with breast cancer experienced improved feelings of positivity, control, and meaning after tending small indoor 'garden bowls'. The benefits were attributed to the process of nurturing and reflecting on the garden, suggesting a simple ecotherapy-based intervention can have significant impacts.
Recent studies found that Latino immigrant youth who reported feeling discriminated against had more depressive symptoms and were less likely to perform altruistic behaviors six months and a year after experiencing discrimination. The study suggests that discrimination can lead to mental health issues and decreased social engagement.
Researchers found anxiety before and after a child arrives is just as prevalent as depression, affecting around one in ten men and half the rate for women. Mental health expert Dr. Liana Leach highlighted the importance of early intervention to reduce symptoms and duration.
Researchers found a categorical distinction between people who are heterosexual and those who are not, with notable mental health issues among non-heterosexuals. The study's findings support biological hypotheses of sexual orientation and challenge the notion of homosexuality as a lifestyle choice.
Decreasing county-wide psychiatric services led to a significant increase in emergency psychiatric consults and prolonged hospital stays. The study found that patients with mental illness faced greater challenges in accessing care, resulting in increased medical issues.
Research finds a 'serious' toll on mental health after introducing tougher disability benefit assessments in England. A higher reassessment rate was linked to more suicides, mental ill health issues, and antidepressant prescribing. The study suggests that the policy may be undermining the mental health of claimants.
A UK study found that each additional 10,000 people reassessed using the Work Capability Assessment was associated with an increase in suicides, self-reported mental health problems, and antidepressant prescribing rates. The most deprived areas experienced the greatest increases in these adverse outcomes, widening health inequalities.
The Virginia Tech shooting emphasizes the importance of coordinated mental health services on college campuses. Dr. Marisa Giggie argues that effective communication and threat assessments are key to preventing such incidents, while increasing access to psychiatric care is crucial for addressing growing mental health needs.
A study from Carnegie Mellon University found that self-rated health accurately predicts susceptibility to the common cold in healthy adults. Those with better self-rated health were more resistant to developing a cold, despite accounting for socioemotional factors and health practices.
A large study found that low-income patients on Medicaid are rarely screened for diabetes, despite being at high risk. Integrated health care would make it easier for patients to get screening and treatment.