Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
Researchers at CAMH have identified a new gene associated with Joubert syndrome, a type of intellectual disability affecting brain functioning and leading to symptoms like kidney and eye problems. The TCTN2 gene defect is linked to this condition, which affects approximately 1 in 100,000 children.
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that people with good peer support systems at work may live longer than those without. The study also showed that control and decision authority had a different effect on mortality rates for men and women.
A study by researchers from University of British Columbia found a strong relationship between depressive symptoms and functional limitations in older married couples. The study, which tracked over 1,700 couples for 15 years, suggests that spouses have a significant impact on each other's health.
Researchers recommend a community-centered model that improves existing school practices and partners with schools to evaluate innovative solutions. This approach acknowledges the unique context of each school and prioritizes collaboration over evidence-based practices.
A three-year study found no link between severe obesity and depressive symptoms among adolescents, but did identify a possible greater vulnerability among white teens. The study suggests that clinicians should be vigilant about assessing for depression in this group, regardless of weight status.
A study found that frequent dietary supplement users engage in less exercise and more hedonic activities due to a sense of invulnerability. This 'curse of licensed self-indulgence' can lead individuals to make poor choices for their health, such as opting for fast food over organic meals.
A new study published in The American Journal on Addictions reveals that Veterans who suffer from mental health disorders also have high rates of substance use disorders. Rates of substance use disorders among those with mental illness range from 21-35%, with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia showing the highest rates.
International migrant workers arriving in Canada generally arrive healthy but may face health issues and barriers to healthcare. Common health problems include musculoskeletal injuries, eye and skin problems, and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.
A study of nearly 800 severely mentally ill patients found two-thirds were overweight or obese, and a disproportionate number suffered from diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and raised cholesterol. Life expectancy for these patients is reduced by up to 25 years, with cardiovascular disease being the major cause of death.
A report from The Hastings Center finds that many children with problematic moods and behaviors receive inadequate care due to systemic and cultural pressures. Experts agree that diagnoses have unclear boundaries, leading to disagreements about treatment, but also conclude that environments contribute to problematic behaviors.
A study of over 7,000 Australians found that poor-quality jobs have a significant impact on mental health, often worse than unemployment. Those in the poorest quality jobs experienced the sharpest decline in mental health, with each additional adverse condition lowering their score.
A new court-ordered mental health screening program led to a significant increase in children being identified as behaviorally and emotionally at risk. The number of screens completed and referrals for mental health evaluations also increased, highlighting the importance of routine screening in identifying childhood psychosocial issues.
The study found a global prevalence of 2.4% for bipolar spectrum disorder, with severe symptoms primarily affecting depressive episodes. Treatment needs are often unmet, especially in low-income countries where only 25.2% received mental health treatment.
A new study from Concordia University found that people who focus on others who are worse off with similar regrets tend to experience fewer physical symptoms and improved emotional well-being. The study, published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, suggests that downplaying others' regrets can be a protective coping mechanism.
Mental health responders to the Continental Flight 3407 disaster share key successes and areas for improvement in disaster response planning. Clear relationships among responders, long-lasting mental health referrals, and efficient communication are highlighted as critical components of effective emergency preparedness.
The American Sociological Association has launched a new journal dedicated to researching the sociology of mental health and illness. The journal features original studies applying sociological concepts to understand the social origins of mental health and illness.
A new study found that teenagers rated positively by their teachers had higher levels of well-being later in life, including higher work satisfaction and more frequent social activities. Happy children were also less likely to develop mental disorders throughout their lives.
Infants and toddlers can develop serious mental health disorders, but often go untreated due to a mistaken impression that they are resilient and 'grow out of' behavioral problems. Early childhood mental health has few practitioners, making it difficult for parents or children's programs to access help when needed.
A recent study found that racial and ethnic minority adolescents are less likely to receive treatment for major depression. The research analyzed data from over 7,700 adolescents aged 12-17 and found significant disparities in treatment rates across different racial/ethnic groups.
Patients with serious mental health conditions are at risk of poor physical health due to antipsychotic medication. The Lancet Editorial emphasizes the need for integrated care and training in cardiometabolic disease management. Effective interventions like smoking cessation and weight loss can improve patients' physical health.
Researchers found that patients who smoke, misuse alcohol, have poor blood sugar control, or have a negative mindset prior to surgery are more likely to experience post-operative complications. Quitting smoking and maintaining good lifestyle habits can significantly reduce these risks.
A new study by Durham University shows that patients with severe depression can be treated successfully with behavioural activation, a psychotherapy for depression, by non-specialist mental health staff. The research suggests that this approach could lead to cost-savings for the NHS and alleviate the shortage of specialist therapists.
Researchers developed a new mode of dementia care that significantly reduces emergency department visits and hospitalizations, while encouraging the use of non-harmful medications. The model results in improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and less emotional burden on family caregivers.
Researchers have discovered a link between a variation of the BDNF gene and Alzheimer's disease, with those carrying the gene more likely to exhibit thinner temporal lobe structures and disrupted neural connections. This breakthrough study could lead to early identification and intervention for the disease.
A new study published in Medical Care found that even steep reductions in co-pays for outpatient mental health care do not motivate more seniors to seek care. Despite parity legislation and reduced co-pays, participation in mental health services remained unchanged, except for black seniors who saw a slight increase.
Rates of service use decline significantly after young adults with autism spectrum disorder exit high school. Disparities in service usage exist by race and socioeconomic status.
Research from Brigham Young University found that girls who played video games with a parent exhibited better behavior, stronger family connections, and improved mental health. The study suggests that co-playing can account for up to 20% of these outcomes.
A $3.25 million federal grant will enhance services for over 1,200 children and families in Missouri, focusing on physical, emotional, social, cognitive, and behavioral development. The LAUNCH project aims to create a coordinated support system to help children thrive in safe environments.
A Wayne State University study found that patients report less confusion and better health care quality when providers speak the same language. The study aimed to address language barriers in healthcare, which disproportionately affect minority populations, and suggests low-tech solutions to improve communication.
A study by Michigan State University suggests that a complex array of factors contribute to mass shootings, including peer victimization, lack of parental support, and ineffective mental health services. The research aims to reduce the issues that trigger violence and promote school connectedness among minority students.
A new program aiming to bridge the gap between body and mind has received a $3.9 million grant to create comprehensive, integrated healthcare systems in Colorado. The program, ACT, will engage local leaders to tackle fragmentation in healthcare and produce best practice models for whole-person care.
A recent study found that approximately one-third of adolescents with any mental disorder received services for their illness, while only half of those with severely impairing mental disorders had ever received mental health treatment. The study highlights the urgent need to address barriers to recognizing and treating mental health co...
A recent study found that up to 16% of surgeons reported suicidal thoughts in the past year, despite depression being a common link. Burnout, emotional exhaustion, and depersonalization were also strongly associated with suicidal ideation.
Seven CAMH scientists receive NARSAD Young Investigator awards to conduct genetic, clinical, and neuroimaging studies guiding future treatments and personalized approaches for schizophrenia and depression. The research aims to enhance treatments and improve the lives of people living with mental illness.
NARSAD has awarded $12.6 million in new research grants to support innovative brain and behavior research projects. The Young Investigator grants will fund the work of 214 researchers from around the world, including those studying schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, autism, ADHD, and anxiety disorders.
Two University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work students, Maria Cano and Yuliana Medina, received the Hogg Foundation Bilingual Scholarship to pursue master's degrees in social work. The scholarship aims to increase linguistic diversity in Texas' mental health workforce.
Researchers investigated indoor plant intervention on pulmonary and coronary patients' health, finding improved overall physical and mental health. Patients in the 'plant intervention group' reported larger increases in well-being during their rehabilitation programs.
A randomized controlled trial found that a team-based primary care intervention called TEAMcare reduced depression and improved blood sugar control, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in patients with diabetes and heart disease. Patients assigned to the TEAMcare intervention had better quality of life and were more likely to have t...
A cluster randomised trial found that a collaborative stepped-care intervention led by lay health counsellors significantly improved recovery rates from common mental disorders among patients attending public primary care facilities. The intervention showed a greater effect in public facilities compared to private ones.
A study by UCLA researchers found that Medicaid-funded ADHD treatment for children yielded poor quality care, with few follow-up visits and inadequate medication use. The study suggests areas for improvement in ADHD care, including better alignment of clinical severity with provider type and increased use of stimulant medication.
A study found that Medicaid-funded ADHD treatment in primary care clinics was often infrequent and ineffective, with many children receiving inadequate follow-up visits and medication management. In contrast, specialty mental health clinics provided more comprehensive care, but still faced challenges in improving continuity of care.
A study found that integrating smoking cessation treatment with mental health care for PTSD resulted in higher rates of prolonged smoking abstinence among military veterans. The treatment, known as integrated care (IC), was more effective than referral to specialized cessation treatment.
Research by King's Health Partners found that people with psychotic disorders are 12 times more likely to commit suicide than average. The risk of suicide persists long-term, remaining four times greater than the general population ten years after diagnosis.
The Mental Health Research Network aims to make research faster, less expensive, and more relevant to real-world healthcare. By analyzing data from 10 million people in 12 states, researchers hope to find effective methods for detecting, treating, and preventing mental disorders.
A $7 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will support a four-year research project to develop clinical guidelines for pre-eclampsia diagnosis and treatment in lower- and middle-income countries. The project aims to reduce maternal, fetal, and newborn deaths related to pre-eclampsia.
A large-scale study found that military deployment significantly influences sleep quality and quantity, with participants reporting 28% more trouble falling asleep during deployment. The study suggests promoting healthier sleep patterns may be beneficial for military service members, particularly those with mental health issues.
Researchers found that nearly one-third of LGBT youth have attempted suicide in their lifetime, but about 70% did not meet criteria for any mental disorders. The study also revealed that bisexual youth tend to have lower rates of mental health problems compared to gay and lesbian youth.
Researchers at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health have developed a protein peptide that disrupts coupling between dopamine receptors, potentially treating depression. The peptide showed marked improvement in depression-related behaviors in animal models, comparable to traditional anti-depressant medications.
Researchers at King's College London have discovered a new gene associated with Hypospadias, a congenital malformation of the male genitalia. The study found that changes in the DGKK gene are strongly linked to an increased risk of hypospadias.
Researchers conclude that caring for prisoners' mental and physical health directly impacts public health, with a significant burden of chronic and infectious disease among incarcerated individuals. The authors recommend targeted healthcare resources in prisons to prevent disease transmission and ensure effective treatment upon release.
A culturally sensitive treatment model significantly improves depression recognition among Chinese immigrants, nearly sevenfold. The model addresses misconceptions and stigma through a collaborative care approach.
Researchers found a 30-50% difference in glial cells between female and male rats, which affected social behavior. Exposure to cannabis-like compounds normalized the difference in play behavior in female rats.
Researchers at King's College London found a correlation between VGLUT1 protein levels and cognition scores in individuals with and without dementia. Preserving VGLUT1 artificially after a stroke may reduce the risk of developing vascular dementia.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have found that social interactions can impact an individual's sensitivity to physical pain. Participants who experienced indifferent social interactions reported less pain sensitivity, while those with positive social experiences showed no change. This discovery has significant clinical implica...
The LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans Department of Psychiatry was recognized for its successful integration of mental health services into the school system, youth leadership, and community outreach after Hurricane Katrina. A study found that 72.3% of students had recovered or demonstrated resilience five years post-Katrina.
The National Council's new eight-month pilot program aims to advance standards of care for people living with schizophrenia by improving their daily functioning, reducing stigma, and broadening understanding of the condition. The program will provide technical assistance and utilize an interactive assessment tool to track progress.
A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that five minutes of green exercise can improve mental health. The research analyzed data from 1,252 people and showed a tangible impact on mood and self-esteem. ACS' Global Challenges podcast series explores this topic further.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers shows that providing small amounts of flexible, targeted follow-up care can help chronically depressed patients manage their symptoms. The approach includes self-monitoring tools and follow-up phone calls from a care manager, resulting in higher remission rates and reduced-function days.
A new study from CAMH found that contraband cigarettes account for 43% of all cigarettes consumed by Ontario high school daily smokers in grades 9 to 12. Youth are more likely to afford and access these lower-priced, unregulated products due to their affordability and lack of restrictions on purchase.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that positive psychological attributes, such as meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose, can counteract the negative effects of socioeconomic status on health. The study suggests that these characteristics may moderate the levels of inflammatory protein Interleukin-6 ...