Research from the field of mental-health medicine. Covers diagnostic agreement, youth psychiatric emergencies, schizophrenia genetics, and clinical leadership.
A national study by Duke University researchers found that people with psychiatric disabilities are less likely to receive monetary awards or job-related benefits in court cases. They also report feeling less treated fairly and receiving less respect during the legal process compared to those with physical disabilities.
A prospective study found that higher levels of PTSD symptoms are associated with an increased risk of non-fatal and fatal coronary heart disease in older male veterans. The study analyzed data from 1,946 men enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Normative Aging Study.
Patients with PTSD exhibit lower pain thresholds, a phenomenon attributed to changes in brain regions involved in mood and cognitive pain processing. The study's findings provide evidence for reduced pain sensitivity in PTSD, shedding light on the complex relationships between trauma, brain function, and pain perception.
A recent Danish study highlights the risks of postpartum psychiatric episodes, emphasizing the need for effective screening, education, and treatment. The US has not prioritized postpartum illness as a major public health concern until recently, but efforts are underway to implement universal screening programs.
A simulation of dozens of studies suggests providing minimal enhanced care for employees' depression would result in cumulative savings to employers. This approach reduces absenteeism and employee turnover costs, yielding a net savings of $4,633 per 1,000 workers.
A study found that children with higher intelligence at age 6 were less likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by age 17, even if they experienced traumatic events. Children with anxiety disorders and conduct problems at age 6 were more likely to develop PTSD.
A Swedish study found that steroid users were twice as likely to be convicted of weapons offenses and one and a half times more likely to be convicted of fraud. In contrast, there was no association between steroid use and violent crimes or property crimes.
Despite advances in treatment, Alzheimer's care has remained consistent since Alois Alzheimer's first patient presentation in 1906. Non-pharmacological strategies like bright-light therapy and aromatherapy are still used today to manage symptoms.
A large study published in Journal of General Internal Medicine found that women with mental disorders are less likely to receive mammograms, especially those with psychotic disorders. However, the severity of depression and anxiety also plays a role in lower mammography rates.
Research by Arul Mishra and Dhananjay Nayakankuppam found that human judges are inconsistent in their assessments, rather than relying on data or calibration. This inconsistency arises from the use of causal stories to explain relationships between cues and qualities.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found two genetic mutations in the SLITRK1 gene linked to trichotillomania, affecting 3-5% of the population. The study validates a biological basis for mental illnesses and opens the door for genetic testing.
A University of Pittsburgh study reveals that weight concerns can decrease a woman's motivation to remain smoke-free postpartum. Women who were confident in their ability to control their weight without smoking were more motivated to stay abstinent.
A Hopkins-led study of over 600 people and their families found that siblings, parents, or children of those diagnosed with chronic severe unipolar depression before age 31 have a 2.52-to-1 chance of also having the disorder. This suggests the value of searching for contributory genes.
Research suggests that older fathers are more likely to have autistic children, with a significantly increased risk compared to younger fathers. The study, which analyzed data from over 318,000 individuals, found that advancing age among fathers was associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder.
Finnish soldiers rarely sought compensation for psychological war injuries due to a culture of shame. Researcher Ville Kivimäki's study reveals that restrictive war psychiatry created a reality where traumatic experiences were stigmatized, limiting veterans' ability to express their traumas.
Researchers and clinicians discuss key issues in dementia diagnosis, including assessment tools and genetic research. The article highlights the importance of early and accurate diagnoses for treatment and progression, as new medications become available.
A new care model for bipolar disorder, developed by Brown University researchers, has shown promise in reducing manic episodes and improving quality of life. The team-based approach involves psychiatrists and nurses working together to manage symptoms, resulting in a significant reduction in symptoms and improved function.
A study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry identified nine genetic regions associated with successful aging, with some affecting men and women differently. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive drinking also played a significant role in successful aging.
A recent study by UK researcher Cerel explores the connection between parental death and psychiatric problems in children. The results indicate that while bereavement has a negative impact, it is less severe than clinical depression.
A new study found that neurosurgical treatment of severe anxiety disorders can be effective in relieving symptoms, but also carries a significant risk of side-effects such as apathy and epilepsy. The study monitored 51 patients for up to 23 years after undergoing capsulotomy, a procedure that involves severing nerve fibers in the brain.
A study found that recently released prisoners in England and Wales are at a significantly higher risk of suicide, particularly women, who are 36 times more likely to commit suicide than the general population. The authors suggest that inadequate mental health care and support after release from prison may contribute to this risk.
A study found that nearly half of elementary school teachers admitted to bullying students, with a strong correlation between those who were bullied in childhood and those who bully others as adults. This highlights the need for teacher support and effective discipline methods to prevent bullying.
A whole-genome scan for OCD has identified six potentially significant regions in the genome linked to the condition. These regions are found on five different chromosomes and may hold the key to understanding the genetic basis of OCD.
A study by Saint Louis University found significant changes in brain activity after vagal nerve stimulation treatment began, continuing to evolve over 21 months. The treatment appears to induce long-lasting brain changes, with benefits lasting up to two years.
Researchers found that following a healthy lifestyle plan, including memory exercises, physical activity, and balanced diet, significantly improved brain metabolism and cognitive function in just 14 days. The study suggests that simple lifestyle changes can have a lasting impact on mental health and overall well-being.
Internet addiction is increasingly affecting people's lives, leading to negative consequences such as divorce and physical symptoms like cyber shakes. Recognizing this addiction will allow for appropriate treatment, enabling therapists to address technological addictions and their associated issues.
Researchers identified a gene mutation linked to autism, revealing physical abnormalities in the brain that mimic some cases of autism. The study found altered nerve cell structure and function, potentially leading to sensory overload.
Dr. Andreasen, a leading expert on schizophrenia, receives Vanderbilt Prize for Biomedical Science for her groundbreaking research and mentorship of women in science. The award includes a $25,000 prize and establishes a scholarship to support a promising M.D./Ph.D. candidate.
Staff members cite eight advantages, including secure care and protection from the outside world, but also 18 disadvantages, such as controlling doors being an uncomfortable task. The majority of patients had mood disorders or anxiety conditions.
Researchers have identified two patterns of cognitive impairment in people with AIDS, differing in severity and brain region affected. The study found that while severe dementia has decreased, a milder form of impairment has increased, warranting further investigation into its mechanisms and potential treatments.
A study found that the transition to menopause is strongly associated with an increased risk of developing high depressive symptoms and diagnosed depressive disorders in premenopausal women. Changes in hormone levels were significantly linked to these outcomes, emphasizing the need for further research on this topic.
Researchers found that individuals with depression who exhibit increased activity in certain brain regions are more likely to respond to CBT. The study used fMRI to identify these regions, which included the subgenual cingulate cortex and amygdala.
A recent study found that 33 women (10%) experience symptoms of anxiety and stress after giving birth, independent of postnatal depression. Health practitioners should assess new mothers for broader signs of distress than depression alone to provide adequate care.
A four-phase study on treatments for depression found that one-third of patients achieved full remission after initial treatment, while nearly 50% became symptom-free after one or two treatments. The study suggests that augmenting a first antidepressant with a second may be effective for some patients.
A large-scale study found that successful treatment of mothers with depression leads to significant improvements in their children's mental health, including a 33% higher remission rate for children whose mothers recovered from depressive symptoms. Children of non-remitted mothers showed a 12% increase in depression diagnoses.
A study of 106 healthy volunteers found that lower omega-3 levels were associated with depression symptoms, a negative outlook, and impulsivity. Higher omega-3 levels were linked to increased agreeableness.
The landmark COBY study found bipolar disorder in children and teens progresses differently than in adults, with more frequent mood swings and longer symptom duration. Children and teens often switch between different illness sub-types during the course of follow-up.
A new study confirms that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is associated with improved health-related quality of life in the short term and long term. ECT, a treatment for severe mental illness, was found to improve symptoms of depression and enhance overall well-being in patients who attained remission.
A study by Professor Renzo Guerrini highlights the importance of special precautions for children with severe epilepsy at home to prevent accidents. These precautions include using shields around heat sources and ensuring children are never left alone during bathing.
This study analyzed Civil War data on 15,027 soldiers, finding strong relations between traumatic exposure, comorbid disease, mental health ailments, and early death. Younger soldiers were more likely to show signs of physical and mental disorders, as well as cardiovascular disease alone.
A system is needed to monitor and address performance issues in doctors due to underlying causes such as mental health problems, substance abuse, or physical illness. The proposed model involves explicit performance standards, annual evaluations, and access to treatment programs.
A study by Utah researchers confirms that a specific region on chromosome 3 is linked to autism, with results showing strong similarities to Finnish studies. The researchers used genetic markers to analyze the DNA of 31 family members, seven of whom have autism or an autism-related disorder.
A new initiative aims to track the experiences of Hurricane Katrina survivors, gathering data on their recovery process, mental health, and access to healthcare. Quarterly reports will be posted online to inform policy decisions.
Researchers in antidepressant studies focus on symptoms to gauge remission, while patients prioritize factors like positive mental health and return to usual functioning. Studies suggest that patients consider multiple factors beyond symptom disappearance to determine remission from depression.
The study found that 12.3% of participants had night eating syndrome, which was more common in obese patients and those with substance abuse issues. The condition is often associated with life stress and depression, and mental health practitioners need to screen for and treat it.
A new case of dementia arises every seven seconds worldwide, with 60% of those affected living in developing countries. By 2040, rates are projected to rise by 71% in developing countries and 100% in developed countries.
Patients with bipolar disorder experience worsening psychosocial disability as depressive symptom severity increases, and vice versa. Psychosocial functioning normalizes when patients are asymptomatic, but remains poor compared to well controls.
A new study found that telephone-based care management significantly improves symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as mental health-related quality of life. The intervention resulted in fewer missed workdays and lower emergency room usage among participants.
Research suggests that adults with Down syndrome have higher concentrations of myo-inositol in the brain, leading to reduced cognitive ability and increased risk of early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to develop a new treatment approach by reducing myo-inositol levels in the brains of people with Down syndrome.
A study using fMRI technology found that men and women utilize distinct brain areas when performing similar tasks. This discovery has significant potential for improving psychiatric treatments, particularly for conditions such as major depression.
Chronic major depressive episodes are associated with older age, lower education and income, medical illnesses, and lack of private insurance. African Americans and patients in primary care settings experience more chronicity.
A new study found that brain structure associated with fear inhibition is also linked to personality traits like extraversion and neuroticism. The researchers used a standard personality test in combination with brain imaging to analyze the link between the brain region and extinction memory.
The Columbia Center for Homelessness Prevention Studies aims to develop effective approaches to prevent chronic homelessness by focusing on high-risk individuals and population-level prevention. The center will conduct pre-intervention research, clinical trials, and effectiveness studies to advance the knowledge base on homelessness.
A study of advanced cancer patients found that 12% met criteria for a major psychiatric disorder, while 28% received treatment and 17% discussed emotional complaints with providers. Notably, over half of those with psychiatric complaints had not accessed mental health services.
Research finds that individuals with a family history of alcoholism exhibit a dysfunctional stress response prior to developing alcohol dependence, while those without a family history experience a decline after developing alcohol dependence. Low-dose alcohol consumption blocks the response to stress in both high- and low-risk groups.
A study found a nearly doubling of age-adjusted suicide rates in rural Haywood County, NC, from 1997-2002. The researchers suggest possible exposure to hydrogen sulfide and other toxins released by nearby paper mill operations may be linked to the increased suicides.
A new approach to preventing SAD by starting antidepressant treatment in the fall has shown promise. Early intervention with bupropion-XL reduced the risk of fall-winter depression by 44% in patients with a history of recurring episodes.
A study found that suicidal patients treated in inpatient settings had better substance-related outcomes than those treated in outpatient settings, but not better psychiatric symptoms. This suggests that inpatient treatment is beneficial for certain populations with SUDs.
Recent studies by McMaster University's Erika Dyck reveal LSD's potential in treating mental illness, following a nearly decade-long withdrawal from medical research. The discovery of the term 'psychedelic' as a Canadian invention adds to the significance of Dyck's findings.
Despite predicted mental health issues, many tsunami survivors in Sri Lanka and India have shown remarkable resilience thanks to strong family and community ties. However, many people are still suffering from symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders, highlighting the need for more research on effective interventions.