Research on psychological wellbeing and how to protect it. Covers depression and anxiety, stress, cognitive-behavioral programs, screening, and the effects of exercise.
Research by the University of Missouri School of Health Professions reveals that women's environments and support systems significantly impact their quality of life after chemotherapy. Those with limited social support, including therapy, report lower quality of life and higher depression rates.
A new survey of psychiatric nurses highlights their crucial role in providing care for patients with mental illness. The study found that 94% of psychiatric nurses feel involved in patient care, and they believe their work affects patient satisfaction.
A national study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that approximately one in five children in the US will experience severe mental disorders, which disrupt daily life. Anxiety disorders were the most common condition, followed by behavior disorders and mood disorders.
A recent study found that only 58% of young people with mental health problems successfully transitioned to adult care services, highlighting a significant gap in provision. The research team identified key factors contributing to the poor transition experience, including inadequate information transfer and inconsistent documentation.
The US Department of Health and Human Services is investing $130 million over five years to strengthen training in a dozen African countries. The Medical Education Partnership Initiative aims to train 140,000 new healthcare workers and improve primary health care delivery systems.
A University of Florida study found that heavy combat exposure can have a detrimental effect on physical health and psychological well-being in veterans, even decades after the conflict. The research suggests that early treatment and intervention can help alleviate long-term effects and promote greater wisdom and well-being.
A new study from the University of Leicester found that nurses have considerable difficulty detecting depression and distress in patients, despite being at the front line of care. The researchers call for short, simple methods to identify mood problems, which could lead to more targeted treatment.
Depression during pregnancy significantly increases risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, with poorer outcomes for depressed pregnant women living in poverty. Universal screening and access to mental health care are critical for mitigating these effects.
Research found that two-thirds of suicidal adolescents see a mental health professional within two months after an initial ED visit. Adolescents with pre-existing mental health conditions are more likely to access follow-up care, but one in five require subsequent inpatient psychiatric admissions.
Teens with certain psychiatric diagnoses, such as bipolar disorder and externalizing disorders, are more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behaviors. The study found that those with mania are at an even higher risk for HIV and STIs, having significantly more sexual partners and being four times as likely to have an STI.
Case Western Reserve University researchers develop e-SMART-MH technology to improve patient-provider communications and manage mental health. The project aims to empower young adults to take control of their mental well-being, overcoming stigma and ensuring timely treatment.
A review of 19 papers found that healthcare professionals lack adequate training and support to care for people who self-harm. The study highlights the importance of education and training in improving attitudes and quality of care.
A new study highlights the excess burden of medical conditions on top of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in returning US soldiers. Women with PTSD suffer from more medical conditions than men, with a median value of 7 conditions compared to 4.5 in women without mental health issues.
New research from CAMH and SickKids reveals that males with specific alterations of DNA on their X-chromosome are at high risk of developing Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study found mutations in the PTCHD1 gene, which may disrupt brain development and contribute to autism.
A five-year, $30-million Human Connectome Project will generate a map of the brain's major circuits using powerful scanners and analysis techniques. The project aims to understand brain connectivity and function to advance brain health and develop new treatments for disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
The UK Ministry of Defence has moved its inpatient mental health contract to the NHS, improving care for both military personnel and other patients. This shift reduces stigma associated with public-sector mental health services.
A joint Indiana University and Columbia University study found no change in prejudice and discrimination toward people with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse problems despite increased public acceptance of neurobiological explanations. Key findings include increased support for treatment but generally unrelated stigma reduction.
Researchers at University of South Florida (USF) are studying the impact of maternal infections on fetal brain development, aiming to prevent autism. Natural compounds like luteolin and diosmin may block detrimental effects of maternal infection on offspring's brains.
Research shows two major federal programs, TANF and WIA, inadequately assist people with physical or mental health impairments. Counselors lack training to help clients with disabilities, perpetuating low self-esteem and disempowerment.
Interactive computer packages moderately increase knowledge about sexual health issues and are as effective as face-to-face interventions for improving knowledge. However, their effectiveness in addressing other concerns like psychosexual difficulties or relationship problems is unclear.
The 23rd ECNP Congress emphasizes the urgent need to address mental disorders, a major challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Key findings include improved early recognition and diagnosis, as well as comprehensive treatment programs for patients with neurological and mental disorders.
A study of over 400 patients found that 53% reported improved pain levels, but 17% experienced increased pain. The research also showed that 39% of patients experienced increased vitality, while 24% saw a decline. Poor recovery was relatively frequent six and 12 months after surgery.
A study in rural Bangladesh found that women with depression and anxiety during pregnancy gave birth to smaller babies, which are more likely to die in infancy. The research highlights the importance of mental health support services to reduce child mortality in developing countries.
A pioneering new study led by University of Leicester researchers shows that training Health Visitors to assess and support mothers after childbirth can significantly reduce the development of depression over the following year. Intervention women were 30% less likely to develop depression compared to control women receiving usual care.
Studies show that watching superheroes promote aggressive and autonomic behaviors can harm boys' relationships and psychological adjustment. Experts recommend teaching boys to resist these stereotypes and promoting healthy family and friendship relationships to improve their mental well-being.
A survey in the Central African Republic found that over three-quarters of adults experienced traumatic events, leading to high rates of depression and anxiety. The study's findings highlight the urgent need for aid programs and security sector reforms to protect civilians.
A study of 1,041 Chinese teens found that pathological internet use was associated with a higher risk of developing depression. The research suggests that early intervention and prevention strategies targeting at-risk groups could reduce the burden of depression on young people.
A Rutgers-Camden psychologist has found a link between reality TV shows and the likelihood of teenagers undergoing cosmetic surgery. The study suggests that exposure to these programs can lead to a desire for plastic surgery as a means of self-satisfaction, with some participants describing it as an 'inspirational' experience.
Researchers found that people with better mental health felt less pain, while those with worse mental health experienced more. The study suggests that mental-health treatment could be an effective way to lessen arthritis pain.
A study found that nearly half of suicides among mental health patients occurred within a year of visiting an emergency department, highlighting the need for better screening and assessment practices. Frequent attendees were more likely to have a history of self-harm and alcohol misuse, underscoring their high risk group status.
A study published by the American Psychological Association found that people with insecure attachments in relationships may be at higher risk for cardiovascular problems. Those with anxious attachments were particularly associated with a range of health conditions, including chronic pain and cardiovascular diseases. The researchers al...
The University of Southern California has received a $56.8 million Clinical and Translational Science Award from the NIH to support real-life applications of scientific discoveries in healthcare. The Los Angeles Basin CTSI will partner with community organizations and providers to address health issues in urban environments.
Researchers found that former child soldiers who returned to communities with low violence levels had better mental health outcomes. The studies suggest that children who experienced trauma such as rape or killing others showed higher levels of hostility over time, highlighting the need for targeted social and mental health services.
A new study finds that many US states are cutting mental health funding due to budget crises, while others have reduced Medicaid payments. However, a few countries are investing in stimulus-funded services to address recession-related mental health disorders, such as the UK's training of psychotherapists and nurses.
A survey of over 1,900 physicians found that more than one-third did not agree that reporting incompetent colleagues is always necessary. Many physicians feel unprepared to deal with impaired or incompetent colleagues, citing reasons such as lack of knowledge about reporting obligations and fear of retribution.
A new study published in Applied Research in Quality of Life found that positive emotions and life satisfaction are strong predictors of physical health in teenagers. Researchers analyzed data from 401 students aged 12-14 and found that subjective well-being was a significant unique predictor of physical health outcomes.
The new standards provide information on organizational policies, staffing ratios, intake screening, and suicide prevention. They are designed to help correctional professionals develop effective rehabilitation programs for mentally ill individuals.
A $4 million grant will be used to investigate the effects of THC on HIV, with a focus on anti-inflammatory and viral suppression mechanisms. The research aims to develop targeted therapeutic interventions to improve HIV disease progression.
A study of African-American women in Portland, Ore. reveals that racism and the expectation to be a 'strong black woman' are significant obstacles to depression care. The researchers recommend that health providers better understand how racism affects patient experiences.
A study found that adolescents who experienced difficult childhoods, such as food insecurity and physical abuse, were more likely to engage in drunkenness. Researchers suggest early treatment for traumatic experiences may help prevent alcohol abuse among teens.
A new study links child abuse to increased rates of mental disorders in young adulthood, including anxiety, mood, and substance abuse conditions. The study used national records and a community survey to analyze the long-term effects of childhood maltreatment on adult mental health.
AcademyHealth recognized leading researchers in health services research and policy, including Dr. Lisa I. Iezzoni and Dr. Aaron S. Kesselheim, for their significant contributions to advancing policy and practice in healthcare.
A new study shows that laparoscopic gastric banding significantly improves psychological health in morbidly obese adults, with better quality of life and reduced levels of anxiety and depression after one year.
A longitudinal study of former child soldiers in Sierra Leone found that community acceptance, social support, and school attendance can mitigate the negative effects of wartime experiences. The study suggests investing in longer-term approaches to monitoring and supporting war-affected youth.
The article highlights the prevalence of mental health issues among prisoners and emphasizes the importance of training correctional staff, treatment programs, and community prevention programs. The editorial argues that society's values and understanding of mental health disorders contribute to this issue.
A study published in the journal Addiction found that smoking cessation treatment is as effective among people with severe mental illnesses as it is for the general population. The treatment did not cause deterioration in mental health, and instead improved physical health, reducing mortality rates by three times.
A significant number of fathers experience prenatal and postpartum depression, with the highest rates in the 3 to 6 month postpartum period. The study suggests that early paternal depression may have substantial effects on children and recommends a joint approach to screening and treatment for both parents.
A unique depression care program implemented by Henry Ford Health System has resulted in a 75% decrease in suicide rates among patients. The program, which includes various interventions such as cognitive behavior therapy and access to support services, has achieved zero suicides per 100,000 patients for over two years.
Researchers at the University of Haifa have developed an intervention to reduce self-stigma among people with serious mental illness. The study found that participants who completed the intervention exhibited reduced self-stigma and increased quality of life and self-esteem compared to a control group.
Exercise programs improved anxiety and depression symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia, while changes in physical health outcomes were not significant. Regular exercise is recommended for those with schizophrenia, just like the general population.
The surveys will track trends in behavioral health services, consumer access, and cost sharing in the nation's privately insured individuals. The data collected will provide insights for policy-makers, advocacy groups, and health plan executives on how to improve delivery of behavioral health services.
A recent study by London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that British Indian children have substantially lower rates of mental health disorders, with only 3.7% affected compared to 10.0% for White children. This advantage was attributed to factors such as two-parent households and higher academic abilities, suggesting a rea...
Researchers analyzed data from 93,676 women aged 50-79 years and found that those exposed to verbal and physical abuse had lower scores on mental health assessments and greater depressive symptoms. Social visiting was also shown to be effective in improving mood and quality of life for depressed elderly individuals.
Researchers at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health found that postpartum blues are associated with elevated brain monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) levels in healthy women. Higher MAO-A levels can lead to feelings of sadness as it accelerates the removal of chemicals like serotonin, contributing to depression.
A new study found that hospital interventions can be more effective when focusing on alcohol-attributable illnesses, especially among patients with less severe drinking habits. Researchers suggest that addressing the link between physical health and drinking may motivate patients to change their behavior.
A study published in Scandinavian Journal of Public Health found that better labour management practices lead to improved psychosocial environments and reduced health-related problems. The research identified control, social support, and compensations as key factors in creating an ideal working atmosphere.
Researchers at University of Nottingham launch £1.2 million project to improve 'quit smoking' services for smokers with severe mental illness. The program aims to address the historical culture of tolerance of smoking in mental health settings, where tobacco use is deeply embedded and often condoned by clinicians and staff.
The university will provide administration and management support to contractors, helping primary care providers select products and use technology to improve patient care. The funding builds on a recent Center of Excellence designation for translating technology and research into better health.
Diabetes patients who struggle with trust and social relationships have a 33% higher mortality rate than those who easily interact with others and seek support. This association holds true even after controlling for other risk factors.
A new 27-item questionnaire, the M-3 checklist, is a valid and effective tool to help primary care doctors screen patients for four common psychiatric illnesses. The checklist was developed by a team of mental health practitioners and experts and was found to be effective in screening for any mood or anxiety disorder 83% of the time.