Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
The Ugandan government has created a comprehensive national mental health policy aimed at addressing the country's growing mental health crisis. The policy provides guidelines for mental health care and services, including hospitalization, treatment, and community-based interventions.
A new study finds that humanitarian aid workers are at significant risk for mental health problems in the field and after returning home. The risk factors include a history of mental illness, weak social support, and continual exposure to a challenging work environment, rather than experiencing particular dangerous situations.
A study found that 40% of stroke patients were treated for depression without proper diagnosis. Researchers say clinicians are over-treating some patients and overlooking others due to lack of access to mental health care professionals. Screening for depression after all strokes could improve treatment outcomes.
A new study found that phone therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for people with mild to moderate depression and anxiety. The research from the University of Cambridge also showed that providing talking therapies over the phone can save the NHS money, with a cost per session 36.2% lower.
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) has released a new Practice Parameter addressing the unique challenges faced by gay, lesbian, bisexual, and gender variant youth. The parameter provides best clinical practices to combat stigma, bullying, and discrimination, as well as promote cultural competence and resea...
A pair of MSU-led projects aim to support Michigan National Guard members and their families by studying resiliency in military families and training mental health counselors to work with them. The projects are expected to help the military improve reintegration efforts and prevention and treatment programs.
Research found that physical inactivity and negative body image increase the risk of mental health problems in adolescents, while sports participation lowers this risk. The study suggests that psychosocial factors, such as body image and social interaction, play a crucial role in explaining the link between exercise and mental health.
A new study found that moving from high-poverty to lower-poverty neighborhoods increases happiness and well-being in low-income adults, despite not improving economic self-sufficiency. The study suggests that neighborhood income segregation is a key factor in shaping the outcomes of adults in these communities.
Researchers at CAMH have identified 5-hmC, an epigenetic modification of DNA, as playing a key role in the brain's plasticity. The study found that 5-hmC is highly enriched in genes related to synapses, suggesting its involvement in learning and memory.
A new report by the University of Leeds and the University of Leicester found that death rates in children's intensive care units are decreasing overall. However, there is a persistent higher risk of mortality for children of south Asian origin, highlighting disparities in staffing levels and quality of care.
A study found that Somalis living in London experience more major depression and psychological disorders than those in Minneapolis. Practical support during integration is key to better mental health outcomes.
A new study has identified a gene that appears to make women happy, but not men. The low-expression form of the MAOA gene is associated with higher self-reported happiness in women.
Six CAMH researchers have received NARSAD Young Investigator Grants to investigate biological factors underlying schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and suicidal behaviour. The grants will fund research using advanced genetics, brain stimulation and brain imaging techniques, promising new treatments.
A study of over 6500 Britons found that both men and women's midlife wellbeing is linked to having a large network of friends. Having more than six regular social contacts was associated with better psychological wellbeing for both sexes.
A new study from Case Western Reserve University's School of Dental Medicine found that a mother's emotional health and education level during her child's earliest years influence their oral health at age 14. The study analyzed the teeth of 224 adolescent participants and discovered that mothers with higher education levels, healthy em...
Chiriboga, a professor at the University of South Florida, has exemplified dedication to mentoring minority researchers in aging. He is recognized for his work fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting diversity in the field.
A study published by the University of Notre Dame found that reducing lies in daily interactions is associated with improved physical and mental health. Participants who stopped telling both major and minor lies reported significant improvements in health and relationships.
Researchers found that reducing lies can lead to improved mental and physical health, including fewer complaints about tension, headaches, and sore throats. Participants also reported better relationships and social interactions when they lied less.
A new study examines the costs of forgiveness in marriage, suggesting that temporary expressions of anger can benefit long-term relationship health. The research also highlights the importance of attachment styles in close relationships, finding that anxious attachment can predict depression and anxiety over time.
A recent study by the University of Leicester found that medical staff struggle to detect alcohol problems in non-intoxicated patients. General practitioners identified 40% of problem drinkers, while hospital doctors and mental health specialists detected 50% and 55%, respectively.
Researchers found anxiety is a stronger risk factor for prolonged and frequent sick leave than depression alone. The study, which followed 13,436 participants over six years, also showed that pain can impact the association between common mental disorders and sick leave.
Recent studies examine the costs of forgiveness in marriage, attachment processes affecting health, racial bias in perceiving pain, and how individuals choose to remain ignorant about potentially upsetting information. Researchers also investigate the role of race in shaping attitudes toward Barack Obama's election.
A large-scale study found that people with mental health problems have a lower life expectancy due to increased risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Even minor symptoms of anxiety or depression are associated with higher mortality rates.
A new telephone-based motivational interviewing technique effectively increased treatment engagement among Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans with mental health diagnoses, reducing marijuana use and stigma. The study found that 62% of participants started treatment after receiving the intervention.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation Scientific Council has recognized six exceptional young researchers for their outstanding contributions to mental health research. The awards honor achievements in clinical and basic mental health research, including studies on vascular disease, synaptic dysfunction, and mood disorders.
A study found Asian victims of domestic violence use mental health services only 5.3% of the time, compared to 14.6% of Latino victims. Cultural barriers and language limitations contribute to this trend. Researchers are calling for more outreach efforts to increase access to culturally sensitive services.
A recent UK study found that deaths by suicide among mental health patients treated at home have reached 150-200 a year, with rates nearly double those on mental health wards. The report recommends prioritizing home-treatment teams for suicide prevention and improving safety measures.
A meta-analysis of self-determination theory research in health contexts found that respect for patients' autonomy is positively related to feelings of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Satisfaction of psychological needs was also linked to improved patient well-being, including both mental and physical health.
A case study on implementing the BasicNeeds model of mental health and development in Nepal found that user empowerment and community development are key to success. The model works in partnership with governments to provide essential services where mental health has not been a priority, leading to improved outcomes for users.
Bill C-31 could have serious negative impacts on the mental health of refugees, with proposals to separate children from their parents and delay family reunification. Detention reviews will not occur for six months after initial two-week review, potentially exacerbating depression and anxiety in vulnerable individuals.
Regular exercise has clear benefits for physical and mental health, making it a key factor in reducing mortality rates. Health professionals should consider exercise levels as a vital sign to provide more help for patients to adopt exercise regimes.
New research from Carnegie Mellon University reveals parents are 52% less likely to develop a cold than non-parents when exposed to a common cold virus. The study found that parenthood has a positive effect on health, with parents experiencing reduced risk of illness regardless of the number of children they have.
A comprehensive study of 1,628 Danish children found no adverse effects of moderate alcohol consumption on their IQ, attention span, or executive functions. The research provides important new information for pregnant women and health professionals, suggesting that small amounts of alcohol are unlikely to harm the unborn child.
A study of 1117 children aged 12-36 months found that many were investigated for maltreatment and had mental health problems, but only a small percentage received treatment. The findings highlight the need for early intervention and services for young children in child welfare.
A study found that First Nations children and those from families receiving government subsidies had significantly more visits to emergency departments for mental health crises. These visits were often due to anxiety- or stress-related disorders, emotional or behavioural issues from substance abuse, or unspecific diagnoses.
Research found that teens and young adults experiencing multiple forms of discrimination, such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status, report worse mental and physical health. Those from four disadvantaged groups experienced the most health problems, with 13% reporting all four forms of discrimination.
A study by Indiana University found that teens and young adults from multiple disadvantaged groups face more discrimination than their peers, resulting in poorer health outcomes. The research analyzed data from 1,052 participants and revealed a significant gap in health problems between those with and without multiple disadvantages.
A longitudinal study found that adolescents and young adults with mental health disorders are 2.4 times more likely to become long-term opioid users than those without a mental health disorder. Long-term opioid use is common among males, older youth, and those from poorer communities.
A new study found that companion presence in physician visits hinders communication for older adults with poor mental health, leading to shorter visits and less patient-centered care. The research suggests a need for greater attention to primary care infrastructure to support delivery of mental health care.
The guidelines aim to improve diagnosis and treatment of childhood aggression, avoiding inappropriate medication use. They recommend a team-based approach, using proven psychological therapies before prescribing antipsychotic or mood stabilizer medications.
A new series in PLoS Medicine aims to address the gap between public health approaches and clinical methods for addressing mental disorders. The series seeks case studies that demonstrate global mental health practices in real-world contexts.
A systematic review found that trafficked women experience high levels of physical and sexual violence, as well as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The study also highlights the lack of evidence on the health consequences experienced by trafficked children, men, and individuals trafficked for labor exploitation.
Researchers developed a program to screen and treat pregnant women for mental health disorders, achieving high uptake and acceptability rates. The model demonstrates the feasibility of stepped care approaches for primary healthcare settings.
A Northwestern University study found that simply changing one bad habit, such as spending less time on the couch, can have a domino effect on other unhealthy behaviors. The most effective way to rehab a delinquent lifestyle requires two key behavior changes: cutting time spent in front of screens and eating more fruits and vegetables.
Suicide rates among psychiatric in-patients have fallen by 29-31% between 1997 and 2008, according to a new study. Young patients and those with schizophrenia saw the largest declines. However, the risk of suicide for recently discharged patients may have increased over the same period.
The Science Media Centre, London, has been awarded the 2012 ECNP Media Award for its outstanding contributions to destigmatising brain disorders. The centre's work highlights the connection between scientific research and public awareness, making complex issues more accessible to a wide audience.
Patients with unipolar Major Depressive Disorder achieved significant improvements in depression symptoms and quality of life after five weeks of NeuroStar TMS therapy. The treatment resulted in a 30.5% increase in patients reporting no problems with performing usual activities.
A new study found that heart patients with a distressed personality type (Type D) reported worse health after having an implanted internal defibrillator. Those who received a shock from their device within the first year scored themselves up to 30 points lower than others, indicating poorer overall health and mental well-being.
A new study reveals that people's judgements about their depression and anxiety symptoms are influenced by how they rank their own suffering compared to others. This can lead to inaccurate diagnoses, with vulnerable individuals being at higher risk of missed diagnoses due to relative severity perception.
The Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center is conducting clinical trials on mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, and testing the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for teenagers who have attempted suicide or engaged in self-harm behaviors.
Researchers at CAMH discovered a new form of intellectual disability linked to the NSUN2 gene mutation, affecting cognitive development and neuron functioning. The study found that this recessive disorder requires inheriting two defective genes from parents to develop intellectual disability.
The editors of PLOS Medicine argue that disclosure policies for financial conflicts of interest in medicine may actually exacerbate the problem of bias. Studies in social science suggest that overemphasis on disclosure can leave the root issue unaddressed.
The Lancet comments urge major investments in adolescent health, with a focus on preventive interventions. The authors argue that adolescence is critical for global health goals and that investing in the second decade of life will determine economic success and quality of life.
A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers found that managing negative thoughts and emotions is crucial for a successful job search. Effective self-management strategies, such as seeking social support and developing daily routines, can increase the likelihood of landing employment and sustaining motivation over time.
A quality-of-care incentive program at community health clinics reduced depression treatment time by more than half, from over 60 weeks to less than 25 weeks. The initiative improved patient care and clinical outcomes for low-income adults with temporary disabilities.
A study of Vietnam-era veterans found that those who experienced more combat-related killing had twice the likelihood of reporting suicidal thoughts. The relationship held even after adjusting for PTSD, depression, and other factors.
A Harvard School of Public Health study found that positive psychological well-being reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The research also showed that individuals with a sense of well-being engage in healthier behaviors and have better biological function.
A new study by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health found that opioid addiction is associated with the highest risk of death, with a 5.71-fold increased risk compared to healthy individuals. The study tracked over 800,000 hospital records and found that alcohol dependence was related to the highest number of deaths overall.
A new study from Lawson Health Research Institute shows that 75% of mental illnesses emerge by age 25. The First Episode Mood and Anxiety Program (FEMAP) provides direct access to specialized services for youth ages 16-26, leading to improved outcomes.
A study found that people with more socially-accepted mental illnesses, such as depression and mild mood disorders, receive less support from family members and friends. In contrast, those with severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder face greater rejection and discrimination.