Articles tagged with Mental Health
A study of over 1,700 older adults found a strong association between frequent religious services and lower levels of inflammation. Researchers discovered that attending church regularly was only half as likely to have elevated interleukin-6 levels, which can indicate immune system dysfunction.
The Western Journal of Medicine publishes a special issue on successful aging, featuring expert opinions on minimizing age-related decline, delaying onset of conditions that limit function, and maintaining mental alertness. The journal aims to provide patients with advice, skills, and treatments that promote healthy aging.
The NIH study aims to determine if St. John's Wort is effective in treating moderate depression, a condition affecting over 17 million Americans annually. The three-year trial will enroll 336 patients and compare the herb's efficacy with an SSRI antidepressant.
A new study found that adolescents are more likely to disclose sensitive information about smoking, drinking, drug use, sexual behavior, and mental health when doctors assure them of confidentiality. This increases the chances of teens seeking future health care and being honest in their responses.
A national study found that strong family and school connections help protect adolescents from substance abuse, early sexual activity, and other risks. Feeling connected to parents, teachers, and peers is key to avoiding these behaviors.
Victims of interpersonal violence are more likely to develop health problems and increase healthcare services usage over time. The study found that average healthcare use increased by 18% the first year after a rape, 56% the second year, and 31% the third year.
Preliminary tests indicate that years of consuming PCB- and DDE-contaminated fish have had no negative effects on fine motor skills. A comprehensive study is ongoing to examine the effects of environmental contaminants on older people.
A study funded by NIMH found that only 23.5% of women in jail needed mental health services received them, despite having special needs such as abuse and addiction. The lack of services can lead to increased suicide rates among female detainees.
The US physician workforce faces significant downsizing, with 17 specialties needing reductions of at least 40%. To maintain current ratios, 14,644 new physicians are required annually, while 7 specialties remain unaffected.
A Purdue University study found that 10% of respondents would end their lives if faced with a terminal illness or low quality of life, while 1/3 preferred letting someone else decide. The study's findings suggest a strong need to survive and inhibitions against self-destruction among older adults.
A national survey of 1,466 gay men and lesbians found that one out of four reported poor treatment, including verbal, physical, and sexual abuse. The study calls for the establishment of total quality assurance systems to ensure client safety and community input on service effectiveness.
A study of Finnish subjects failed to find an association between the Dopamine D4 Receptor (DRD4) gene and novelty-seeking personality traits. The researchers found that individuals with higher novelty-seeking scores had a lower frequency of the DRD4 gene, contradicting previous findings.