Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
A systematic review found that sedentary behavior is associated with an increased risk of anxiety in adults and children. The link may be due to disturbances in sleep patterns, social withdrawal theory, and poor metabolic health. Further research is needed to confirm the causal relationship between sedentary behavior and anxiety.
A study found that one in five young patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) require psychotropic drugs within five years, with a risk double that of healthy peers. This highlights the need for specialist care and long-term follow-up for VTE patients.
Researchers developed a predictive model using VHA health system data to identify small groups of individuals with very high predicted suicide risk. The study found that the model was more sensitive than clinical flagging and could help tailor suicide prevention efforts to those at highest risk.
Children and teens with Down syndrome are at higher risk for behavioral medications, study finds. The odds of being on a stimulant increased with age, while antidepressant use rose with age, suggesting changing mental health needs over time.
A new study found that childhood trauma can lead to heightened inflammation across three blood biomarkers in adults. This increased inflammation may contribute to various health problems, including type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that different types of trauma have varying effects on inflammation levels.
A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that New Yorkers spend an average of over 7 hours a day sitting, greatly exceeding the recommended healthy levels. College-educated individuals, higher-income residents, and those aged 65 or older spent the most time sedentary.
A comprehensive international study found that approximately five percent of the general population experiences hallucinations and delusions at some point in their lives. The study, involving over 31,000 participants from 19 countries, revealed that these experiences can be temporary and not always linked to serious mental illness.
ER physicians emphasize the importance of developing strategies to optimize communications between police and ED workers due to differing perspectives on patient privacy and investigation needs. They suggest attempting to obtain patient consent before disclosing information and using limited disclosure when necessary.
The University of Texas at Arlington educator Alexa Smith-Osborne has received a $200,000 grant to enhance mental health awareness in African-American faith-based communities. The initiative aims to reduce stigma and improve healthcare access, addressing the disproportionately high rates of psychological distress among Black Americans.
A University of Alberta study found that youth from families receiving government subsidies and First Nations children accounted for disproportionately high rates of self-harming behavior at Alberta's emergency rooms. The study suggests that social determinants, such as living conditions, play a crucial role in mental health outcomes.
A mass media campaign is reaching a majority of California adults, increasing their confidence to intervene with those at risk of suicide. The program is estimated to prevent at least 140 deaths and 3,600 attempts over three decades, while generating an estimated $1,100 in economic benefits for each $1 invested.
Dr. Madhukar Trivedi, a renowned expert in depression and mood disorders, received the American Psychiatric Association Award for his significant contributions to the field. His research has led to notable advances in treatment strategies and patient outcomes.
A new study by Douglas Mental Health University Institute researchers suggests that the shape of the hippocampus, not its size, is linked to improved memory function. The research, published in Human Brain Mapping, found that individuals with a broader hippocampus tend to perform better on memory tests than those with a smaller one.
A University of Maryland study found that men and women in the US had lower odds of depression diagnoses and better mental health during the Great Recession compared to pre-recession. Women were more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders post-recession, while men experienced less psychological distress.
A new study from UC Berkeley shows hallucinations and delusions associated with psychiatric disorders seldom foreshadow acts of aggression. Only 12% of violent incidents were preceded by psychosis, contradicting the media-fueled stereotype of homicidal mayhem.
A new study found that immigrants from the Caribbean, Bermuda, East Africa, and South Asia are at a higher risk of psychotic disorders, with a 1.5 to 2 times increased risk compared to the general population. In contrast, immigrants from Northern Europe, Southern Europe, and East Asia had about half the risk.
A UK study reveals extremely high rates of cardiovascular risk factors in people with psychosis, including obesity and metabolic syndrome. The research highlights the importance of incorporating weight and cardiovascular risk assessment into routine care, as well as promoting healthy lifestyles.
A new study published in Accident Analysis and Prevention found that Ontario adults who experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) also reported higher incidents of serious road-related driving aggression. The study, conducted by researchers at St. Michael's Hospital, analyzed data from almost 4,000 adults aged 18-97 and discovered a s...
A RAND Corporation study found that online training programs can be as effective as in-person instruction in teaching psychotherapists evidence-based treatments. The approach may speed up the adoption of new treatments and improve patient outcomes by providing an efficient and scalable way to train large numbers of clinicians.
A Swedish study tracking 500,000 children found that high neighborhood deprivation increases risk of conduct disorder and anxiety disorders, while familial factors have a stronger impact on psychiatric disorders. The research suggests shaping policies to promote mental health by considering both family and neighborhood environments.
Women with depression and bipolar disorder performed poorly on a test of cognitive control, which requires sustained concentration. Brain scans showed different levels of activity in the right posterior parietal cortex compared to healthy women.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool found that eating a wide range of different brands and types of pepperoni pizza led to increased calorie intake. The study suggests that this high variability in food options can make it difficult for people to manage their consumption, potentially exposing new public health implications.
A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that children who experienced bullying had worse long-term mental health problems than those who were maltreated by adults. The research, led by Professor Dieter Wolke, analyzed data from over 5,000 participants and found that being both bullied and maltreated increased the risk of o...
New research finds that childhood bullying has a greater negative impact on teenager's mental health than being maltreated, with bullied children five times more likely to experience anxiety and nearly twice as likely to report depression and self-harm at age 18.
A study of over 1,300 women service members and veterans found that fewer than a third sought post-assault health care, despite growing awareness and efforts to deter sexual crimes. Researchers identified embarrassment, confidentiality concerns, and adverse career impacts as key factors preventing servicewomen from seeking care.
Researchers found that victims of bullying fare worse in the long run than maltreated children, with those who experienced both facing increased risk of depression and self-harm. The study suggests a need for more efforts by schools and policymakers to address bullying.
A comprehensive report by Drexel University's A.J. Drexel Autism Institute highlights poor life outcomes for young adults on the autism spectrum, including high disconnection rates, limited employment and education opportunities, and increased health risks.
A new study reveals that online forums have positive links to well-being and are associated with increased community engagement offline. Users of these forums who engage more with others experience greater benefits, including improved mental health and increased involvement in offline activities.
A Saint Louis University study found that text messages can provide private support for at-risk mothers suffering from postpartum depression, with 86.1% of delivered messages successfully received by 54 mothers over six months. The low-cost intervention was well-received and had a positive impact on the child's development.
Research finds 9/11 emergency medical services workers, especially those on the scene, are at high risk for physical and mental ailments. The study tracked 2281 NYC Fire Department workers over 12 years, finding nearly all health conditions analyzed were more prevalent among those who arrived earliest.
A study published in Medical Care found that nearly 22,400 individuals made healthcare visits within a year before attempting suicide, with 38% making a visit within a week. Racial and ethnic differences were noted, with Asian-Americans being the least likely to make any type of visit before an attempt.
The $2.5 million funding package supports five health innovations in India, including mobile daycare centers for migrant construction workers' children and early childhood development programs. Grand Challenges Canada has partnered with the Indian government to accelerate efforts to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis in Bihar.
Research by Dr Keelin Howard found that Facebook can provide social support and connection for recovery from mental health problems. However, excessive or problematic use can exacerbate symptoms of paranoia, anxiety, and depression. Participants developed strategies to protect their mental well-being on the platform.
A new suite of interactive mini-apps called Intellicare provides personalized therapy for depression and anxiety. The app uses a recommender system to suggest tailored apps based on user feedback and preferences.
A new study found that ACL surgery resulted in significant improvements in physical function at two years, which continued for at least six years. Younger patient age, lower body mass index, and complete excision of torn ACL during surgery were key predictors of positive outcomes.
A study of 1,052 mothers found that domestic violence was associated with a higher risk of depression and schizophrenia-like psychotic symptoms in women. The research also highlighted the importance of considering childhood abuse as a factor in predicting mental health outcomes.
A study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that all levels of educational attainment have similar odds of high mental wellbeing. High mental wellbeing is defined as feeling good and functioning well, with surprising results including increased odds among Afro-Caribbeans, particularly men.
A study analyzing Oregon's Medicaid experiment reveals significant benefits in mental health, financial protection, and preventive screenings. The researchers estimate a $62,000 gain in quality-adjusted life years, making Medicaid a cost-effective investment.
A collaborative study by 11 major US healthcare providers found that psychiatric comorbidities increase 30-day readmissions for heart failure, AMI, and pneumonia. The study suggests that depression, anxiety, and substance abuse may be key targets for screening efforts to reduce readmission rates.
A recent study found that children of deployed military parents experience increased mental healthcare needs and physical injury rates compared to non-deployed children. The risk of child maltreatment also increases when parents return from deployment injured.
A study published in Scientific Reports identified a rural community in Brazil that still adheres to traditional sleep patterns, unlike many urban areas where artificial lighting has disrupted the natural day-night cycle. The researchers found that town residents and those living in the countryside have different preferred wake-up and ...
A new study by CAMH reveals that people with severe schizophrenia have distinct differences in their brain networks compared to those with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and healthy individuals. The research provides strong evidence that schizophrenia is not one but rather multiple brain disorders.
Middle-aged adults who show sustained concern for others are more likely to construe their lives as stories of personal redemption. Redemption narratives sustain hope that sacrifices today may produce future dividends, helping generative adults persevere in promoting the well-being of future generations.
A new study found that clinical therapists are more likely to misdiagnose mental illness when their patients belong to disadvantaged groups. The researchers followed patients and therapists during intake sessions, finding a twofold difference in diagnostic accuracy between advantaged and disadvantaged clients.
A new study found that rural US youth have a nearly double suicide rate compared to urban areas, with a significant increase in hanging as a method. The researchers suggest improving access to mental health care in rural areas through telemedicine and school-based interventions.
Research found that socially engaged middle-aged adults with good mental health are more likely to view their lives as stories of personal redemption. This narrative format is associated with healthy psychosocial adaptation in the midlife years and resonates particularly deeply with African American adults.
A study of over 135,000 people found no correlation between psychedelic use and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. The researchers suggest that psychedelics may even be linked to fewer mental health problems, with benefits including deeply meaningful experiences and lasting positive effects.
A study by WSU researcher Graham Dixon found that emotional messages can backfire among individuals with anti-vaccine views. The approach highlights the consequences of non-vaccination using emotional pictures may not be as effective as previously thought.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that one-quarter of insurance exchange plans appear non-compliant with parity laws requiring equal benefits for general medical and mental health care. The research highlights inconsistencies in benefit brochures, including prior authorization requirements and financial r...
A new study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that Australia's mental health care system is multi-tiered rather than universal, with those living in disadvantaged areas receiving fewer services and from less highly trained providers. The research highlights a disparity in access to psychiatric and clinical psychologis...
Research suggests that those who experienced violence during the Guatemala Civil War are four times more likely to suffer from PTSD and alcohol-related disorders. The study, led by Victor D. Puac-Polanco and Charles C. Branas, found significant mental health problems among Guatemalans who witnessed or experienced violent events.
A new study reveals that children of undocumented Mexican immigrants are more likely to experience internalizing and externalizing behavior problems, such as sadness and aggressiveness. The researchers rule out explanations based on socioeconomic status or maternal mental health, highlighting the need for culturally-sensitive services.
A recent study by Penn State researchers found that children of undocumented Mexican immigrants have a significantly higher risk of internalizing and externalizing behavior problems compared to their co-ethnic counterparts with documented or naturalized citizen mothers. The study used data from over 2,500 children ages three to 17 in L...
A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that one in four prison inmates have a diagnosed mental health condition, yet few receive treatment. The study highlights the need for prisons to prioritize validated screening procedures and treatment for mental health disorders.
A study investigated how GPs negotiate sick notes with patients presenting with physical vs. mental health issues. The results showed stronger doctor endorsement and patient entitlement for physical symptoms, but weaker endorsement for mental health issues.
A pilot study by NC State University finds that 25% of homeless children in the US are in need of mental health services. The study highlights the critical need for more screening and support for these vulnerable children.
A study by Joshua Grubbs and Julie Exline found that individuals who attribute their bad behavior to being born in this way are more prone to feelings of anger towards God. This can lead to depression, conflict with deity, and poor recovery from illness.
A large survey of trafficking survivors found high rates of physical and psychological abuse, mental health problems, and hazardous living conditions. The study highlights the urgent need for access to healthcare and mental health support for survivors of human trafficking.
A promising new approach to treat multiple sclerosis has been discovered by scientists at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. They identified a previously unknown change in the spinal cord related to MS and developed a peptide that disrupts this change, leading to major improvements in neurological functioning.
A study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found that an instructional DVD reduced MRI scan patients' anxiety, leading to more successful scans with higher image quality. The DVD provided relaxation techniques to help patients prepare for and complete the scan.