A new survey by USC Street Medicine found that street medicine programs are helping to fill the gap in access to mental health and substance use treatments for unhoused individuals in California. The study suggests that these programs can serve as a strategy to expand access to behavioral health care for people who are unsheltered.
The latest issues of American Psychiatric Association journals focus on postpartum depression, structural racism, and suicidal behaviors. The September issue highlights new solutions to address these topics, including Power Redistribution and Upending White Supremacy in Community Mental Health.
Research highlights associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and workers' insomnia among Japanese adults. ACEs, including bullying and family dysfunction, are known to have detrimental health consequences.
Research found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment for postnatal depression was associated with reduced child behavioral difficulties, ADHD symptoms, and maternal depression. The study also suggested long-term benefits of SSRI treatment on child outcomes up to five years after childbirth.
A study of over 4.4 million residents at 15,000 skilled nursing facilities found that telemedicine use was higher than pre-2020 levels and associated with improved access to psychiatry visits. Higher adoption rates were linked to better outcomes for patients in these facilities.
A randomized clinical trial found that exercise significantly reduced depressive symptoms and burnout in healthcare workers, while improving mental health. However, low adherence to exercise programming was noted towards the end of the study.
Researchers at Lund University discovered that psychedelic substances LSD and ketamine cause simultaneous synchronisation of neurons in several brain regions. This phenomenon is linked to the psychedelic experience and may hold clues for understanding psychoses and consciousness.
Researchers propose GABA-modulating treatments as potential therapeutic targets for depression's cognitive and affective symptoms. The study highlights the importance of GABA-A receptors in regulating balance and signals between neurons, and suggests compounds that promote or inhibit these receptors may alleviate depressive symptoms.
Researchers found that adults who experienced violence, financial stress, or separation from parents as children were more likely to experience physical and cognitive impairments. Adverse childhood experiences can have lifelong consequences, including difficulty walking, carrying out daily activities, and problems with memory.
A randomized controlled trial found that Nurse-Family Partnership improved child language and mental health at age 2, with no increase in child injuries or maternal pregnancies. The study involved 739 participants and their children for 2.5 years, providing new evidence on preventing early adverse childhood experiences.
Researchers found a clear pattern of suicidality related to the academic calendar, with peaks in April and October, but a decline during COVID-19 school closures. The study suggests interventions during peak months could help protect against seasonal increases in suicidality, especially for adolescent females.
A low-cost version of ketamine has shown strong results in treating treatment-resistant depression, with over 20% participants achieving total remission and a third experiencing symptom improvement. The study's findings bring definitive evidence to the field, which can be more affordable than existing treatments.
A new report suggests that AI-powered robot companions could alleviate the loneliness epidemic and its associated health risks. Companion robots have already shown promise in reducing stress and promoting physical and mental well-being in socially isolated older adults.
During the pandemic, acute care use for mental health conditions among youth increased notably, particularly among adolescent females. Prolonged boarding in emergency departments and waiting for inpatient psychiatric care are concerning trends that require interventions to address.
Researchers identified three neurobehavioral profiles that distinguish individuals with elevated mania vulnerability based on reward sensitivity and sleep-circadian characteristics. These profiles can help detect mania risk and provide targets for early interventions.
SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 11, 2023
The USC PRECOG project aims to develop automated screening tools for clinicians using objective neural and physiological signal biomarkers. The team will advance interdisciplinary methods in neuroscience, linguistics, and machine learning to better understand mental health risk factors.
A new study finds nearly two-thirds of Medicare Advantage psychiatrist networks contain less than 25% of all psychiatrists, leaving many seniors without access to mental health care. The research suggests that this limited coverage may lead to higher out-of-pocket costs, delays in care, and foregone treatment.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found no evidence that prescription stimulant treatment in childhood increases the risk of substance use disorder (SUD) later in life. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, suggests that stimulants are an effective treatment for ADHD with few side effects.
Researchers at Korea University Medicine identified a new neuroimaging-based biomarker for MDD, the local gyrification index (LGI), which shows decreased cortical folding in patients. LGI values reflect long-drawn developmental processes and are stable markers compared to previous biomarkers.
A study led by Lund University researchers found that brief admissions by self-referral can effectively reduce the need for acute visits, admissions, and longer treatment periods among adolescents with borderline personality disorder. The method empowers patients to determine when they need treatment, enhancing their autonomy and sense...
A new study from Aarhus University found that people with mental health issues are less likely to accept offers of colorectal cancer screening. The research showed that those with severe mental disorders had a 13.8 percentage point lower participation rate compared to those without mental illness.
Researchers used brain imaging to identify multiple subtypes of depression, finding distinct deviation patterns in functional connectivity among brain regions. This study provides leads for developing better treatments and personalized therapeutic interventions.
A study found that exposure to events against moral values and lack of confidence about raising safety concerns significantly contributed to staff distress. One-in-ten healthcare workers reported experiencing suicidal thoughts six months after completing a survey.
The Better Together trial partners with community organizations and sites to provide buprenorphine treatment, reducing distance for patients and offering peer support in familiar environments. Researchers aim to address barriers such as stigma, misunderstandings about addiction, and bias against certain treatments.
The use of psychedelics in mental health treatment is gaining traction, but concerns about patient safety and regulation need to be addressed. Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise in treating conditions like depression and PTSD, but more research is needed on dosages, settings, and guidelines.
A new pilot study published in JAMA Psychiatry demonstrates the potential role of probiotic supplementation in supporting mood and mental health in adults with Major Depressive Disorder. The study found significant improvements in depression and anxiety scores over an eight-week period, with notable benefits seen from week four onwards.
A new study found that LGB adults are more than twice as likely to experience suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviors compared to straight peers. Depression, anxiety, and experiences of discrimination and bullying contribute to these increased risks.
The June issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services focus on substance use disorders, opioids, and youth self-harm and suicide. The articles highlight the importance of addressing these issues to improve patient outcomes and reduce stigma.
A study found that nursing and clerical staff experienced higher levels of psychological distress due to fear of COVID-19. In contrast, physicians had higher resilience levels. The availability of in-hospital support and consultation on infection control also played a role in mitigating fear and stress.
A clinical trial of 403 patients found that ketamine treatment was non-inferior to ECT for treating non-psychotic treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine showed fewer side effects than ECT, with improved depressive symptoms and quality of life.
A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that fewer boys aged 15-19 commit suicide in Swedish regions with higher bipolar diagnoses. The study, which analyzed registry data from 2008 to 2021, showed an inverse association between population-adjusted bipolar diagnoses and confirmed suicides among males.
New research highlights the benefits of family-based care for children exposed to early psychosocial deprivation, improving cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social development. The study found that high-quality foster care had a lasting impact on children's brain development and risk of psychopathology.
A team of researchers developed a deep-learning model called WearNet that uses Fitbit data to detect depression and anxiety. The study found that WearNet performed better than state-of-the-art machine learning models in detecting these conditions, producing individual-level predictions.
A new pilot study led by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that an AI voice-based virtual coach improved depression and anxiety symptoms, as well as problem-solving skills, in patients. The Lumen app delivered a form of psychotherapy, resulting in changes in brain activity and reduced psychological distress.
Researchers have identified a brain marker that may indicate future suicide risk, suggesting potential new treatments and prevention strategies. The study found differences in brain connections among veterans with a history of suicide attempts compared to those without, which could help identify individuals at risk.
A nationwide register-based study found significant increases in psychiatric diagnoses among Finnish children and adolescents during the pandemic, with notable rises in eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. The research highlights concerns about gaps in services and accessibility during times of crisis.
Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute used a nematode worm to study serotonin's effects on behavior and brain activity. They identified three key receptors driving slowing behavior and found complex interactions between serotonin receptors modulating brain-wide activity.
Cocaine use disorder has been rising for over a decade, with no robust treatment available. Researchers are using cocaine contingency management to provide cash or value in exchange for drug-free urine samples, aiming to change an individual's temporal horizon and reduce consumption. The study aims to guide innovative interventions tha...
Hoarding disorder affects 2% of the population with clutter in homes and excessive acquisition of possessions. The new guidance provides best practice for diagnosing and supporting those affected.
Researchers discovered that sleep spindles can alleviate anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), contradicting recent findings. The study found that spindle rate frequency was higher during a stressful visit than a control visit, suggesting non-invasive ways to harness the benefits of this sleep stage for symptom ...
The latest May issues of American Psychiatric Association journals focus on new treatments for conditions like trichotillomania, social anxiety disorder, and opioid use disorder. Additionally, a special issue of Focus journal explores suicide preventive interventions and knowledge.
A recent study reveals that many children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are not receiving adequate treatment. The findings highlight the need for improved communication and access to outpatient mental health care for children with ADHD.
Researchers have created a new manual to study human diseases, using evolutionary genomics to analyze genetic risk. The manual reveals the importance of highly constrained genes that unite mammals, providing insights into neurological disorders and psychiatric conditions.
Research suggests that problems with the brain's ability to 'prune' itself of unnecessary connections may underlie a wide range of mental health disorders that begin during adolescence. Adolescents experiencing mental health problems showed similar patterns of brain activity, which were largely apparent in the frontal lobes.
A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that individuals with a family history of depression exhibit reduced cognitive abilities. The research highlights the potential impact of genetic and environmental factors on brain development and aging, as well as modifiable lifestyle factors.
Researchers from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences identified 17 factors that can predict ADHD symptoms in childhood, including sex, cigarette smoke exposure, and mother's urinary tract infections. The study suggests that prenatal information may help identify children at risk of developing ADHD, particularly when combine...
A new study found that emotion-focused therapy increased activation and connectivity of the amygdala in patients with bipolar disorder, leading to improved emotion processing. In contrast, cognitive-behavioral therapy showed increased activation of brain regions related to social function but not altered amygdala activity.
SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 17, 2023
Research found that individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorder have erratic sleep patterns and rigid daily routines, predictive of worse symptoms. The study suggests varying daily routines and incorporating movement can improve brain health and reduce negative mental health symptoms.
A randomized trial found tailored education and peer support significantly reduced binge-drinking among Army National Guard members over the course of a year. Participants who received online education sessions and supportive phone calls from veteran peers showed substantial declines in binge-drinking days and scores on risk assessments.
A randomized clinical trial found that patients who knowingly took placebos were more likely to stay on methadone and had improved sleep quality. After three months of follow-up, 78% of the placebo-treated group remained on methadone compared to 61% of the control group.
Research finds that endocannabinoids protect against addiction in individuals exposed to childhood maltreatment. The 'resilient' group showed increased function of the endocannabinoid system and different brain activity compared to other groups.
A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found a link between opioid prescribing patterns and suicide risk. The researchers analyzed data from 2009-2017 and discovered that regions with the greatest decrease in opioid prescriptions also experienced the greatest decline in suicide deaths. This suggests that policies a...
A new 'enhanced primary care' model has been found to be effective in reducing blood pressure and hemoglobin A1c levels among patients with severe mental illness. The study, conducted at UNC WakeBrook, showed significant improvements in screening for people with severe mental illness compared to usual primary care.
The new guidelines, developed by 22 experts across three continents, provide a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating catatonia. The recommendations include the use of benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy, with attention to special requirements for certain groups.
A national survey found that South Carolina residents were more hesitant to receive COVID-19 vaccines due to low confidence in public health scientists and collective responsibility. Researchers hope that targeted education efforts will address these factors and reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Psychiatrists at Indiana University School of Medicine found deaths by suicide increased during the week of a full moon, especially in people over age 55. They also identified 3-4 p.m. and September as peak times for suicides.
A recent study found that veteran suicides did not increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, but those with pre-existing loneliness and psychiatric issues were more susceptible to developing new suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Evidence-based prevention efforts targeting these factors can help mitigate suicide risk in this population.
Researchers found higher levels of certain fungi and lower levels of bacteria in children with ADHD compared to healthy controls. The study suggests that a 'leaky gut' may allow toxins into the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation and brain damage.
A new study by Oregon Health & Science University reveals a significant variance in Medicaid reimbursement rates for mental health services across US states. The study found that Nebraska, Alaska, and Arkansas reimburse at the highest rates, while Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Maine reimburse the least for the same set of services.
A recent study has found a significant link between fibromyalgia and increased odds of exacerbation in pain-related opioid use disorder. Researchers surveyed 125 individuals living with both conditions, revealing that those with fibromyalgia were more likely to report worsening addiction symptoms due to chronic pain.