NHS and schools in England will provide expert mental health support

The NHS will work with schools and colleges to make expert mental health support available to a population of more than 470,000 children and young people across England. Read government news here

Serious loneliness spans the adult lifespan but there is a silver lining

Moderate to severe loneliness can persist across adult lifespans, but researchers found it is particularly acute in three age periods: late-20s, mid-50s and late-80s. Wisdom proved a protective factor. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

The Women’s Mental Health Taskforce: Final Report

The Women’s Mental Health Taskforce was formed in response to a rise in mental ill health among women. The taskforce’s final report sets out how women’s experience of mental ill health can differ to men’s Click here for link from King's Fund webpage

Many mental health trusts are too small, says top CEO

Many mental health trusts are “too small” and risk being “left on the side” in system integration plans, a leading chief executive has warned. read HSJ news item here. Contact Library service if you need a password for the full text

Selfless St Andrews student using 21st to highlight mental health issues

A St Andrews student is raising money and awareness of mental health issues after the community was rocked by the tragic death of two of his former schoolmates. Read article here

Puppy therapy to help prisoners with mental health and addiction launched for the first time in the UK

Puppy therapy to help prisoners with mental health and addiction is being offered in the first scheme of its kind in the UK. read newspaper article here

Mental health nurse appointed as ICS trust chief executive

A nurse has been appointed as the new chief executive of a community and mental health trust in one of England’s most advanced health economies. Click here for HSJ news. If you need password please contact the library

Health matters: reducing health inequalities in mental illness

Actions that local areas can take to reduce health inequalities experienced by people living with mental illness. Click here to read Government guidance

Depression, anxiety may take same toll on health as smoking and obesity

Incidence of arthritis, heart disease, stroke -- but not cancer -- strongly swayed by psychological status. Read ScienceDaily article here

Regular trips out guard against depression in old age

New study finds clear link between cultural engagement and lower risk. Read ScienceDaily article here

Internet therapy apps reduce depression symptoms

In a sweeping new study, psychologists have found that a series of self-guided, internet-based therapy platforms effectively reduce depression. Read ScienceDaily article here

Mental health nurses and paramedics to respond together to reduce avoidable hospital admissions

Thousands of Londoners experiencing a mental health crisis will be sent a specialist nurse and a paramedic in a car on blue lights. Read NHS England news here

Study links vitamin D-deficient older adults with greater risk of developing depression

A new study has shown for the first time in Ireland that a deficiency in vitamin D was associated with a substantial increased risk of depression over a four-year follow up period. The findings form part of the largest representative study of its kind. Read ScienceDaily article here

Targeted cognitive training benefits patients with severe schizophrenia

Researchers find that patients with severe, refractory schizophrenia benefit from targeted cognitive therapy, improving auditory and verbal outcomes and the way they process information. Click here for ScienceDaily

Principles for mental health in the NHS long-term plan

The Mental Health Policy Group is pleased to present the following Consensus Statement with partner organisations committed to improving the lives of people with mental health problems. Click here to read NHS Confederation statement

CQC response to the Independent Review of the Mental Health Act

Responding to the Independent Review of the Mental Health Act published today Dr Paul Lelliott, Deputy Chief Inspector of Hospitals (lead for mental health) at the CQC said...to find out click here

CQC to review the use of restraint, prolonged seclusion and segregation for people with mental health problems, a learning disability and/or autism

We will review and make recommendations about the use of restrictive interventions in settings that provide inpatient and residential care for people with mental health problems, a learning disability and/or autism. read CQC new here

The role of volunteers in the NHS: views from the front line

This report was commissioned by Royal Voluntary Service and Helpforce in July 2018. Its intention is to ascertain the perceptions of frontline NHS staff working in acute care about the operational pressures they face, how they understand the roles and value of volunteers and what gaps there are that volunteers could help fill. Read King's Fund report here

Partners of new mums with mental illness set to get targeted support on the NHS

New and expectant fathers will be offered mental health checks and treatment under radical action to support families, NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens announced today (2 December 2018). Click here read article

Youngest Students in Class More Likely to Be Diagnosed With ADHD

August-born children living in states with a school enrollment cut-off date of September 1 are 30 percent more likely to receive a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), compared with their slightly older peers enrolled in the same grade, according to a new study led by Harvard Medical School researchers. Click here for PsychCentral article

What police “picking up the pieces” of mental health services don’t tell you

Deaths of people suffering mental health crises in custody are going up. Click here to read New Statesman article

Suppressing Negative Feelings Around Kids May Be Wrong Advice

New research contradicts the commonplace advice to avoid showing conflict and strong negative emotions around one’s children. Read PsychCentral article here

Keep it complex: Study shows that previous research oversimplified Schizophrenia symptoms

 Negative symptoms in schizophrenia can be so disabling that they interfere with a person's ability to attend school, begin a fulfilling career, and even live independently. Click here to read article

Beware of evening stress

Stressful events in the evening release less of the body's stress hormones than those that happen in the morning, suggesting possible vulnerability to stress in the evening. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Video Chat Can Help Combat Depression in Seniors

A new study finds that of four online communication technologies, using video chat to connect with friends and family appeared to hold the most promise in staving off depression among seniors. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Childhood Trauma Linked to Later Psychotic Experiences

A new study from the U.K. has found greater evidence for a link between trauma in childhood and psychotic experiences by 18 years old. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Shared responsibility for health: the cultural change we need

In this long read we argue that one of the biggest challenges facing the NHS is cultural. Specifically, the relationship between the public and the NHS, and between patients and the staff who care for them, needs to be transformed. Click here for link to King's Fund blog

Mental Health May Benefit from Face-to-Face Social Contact – But Not Online

In-person social contact may help buffer against symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but the same is not true of contact on Facebook, according to a new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. Click here to read PsychCentral article

RCPSYCH response to the Zholia Alemi investigation

Read statement here

Using Skype to beat the blues

Researchers compared four different types of online communication technologies -- video chat, email, social networks and instant messaging -- used by people 60 and older and then gauged their symptoms of depression based on survey responses two years later. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Shooting Up: infections among people who inject drugs in the UK

This Public Health England report describes the extent of infections among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the United Kingdom. Click here to government link

Prevention concordat for better mental health: consensus statement

Describes the consensus statement of the prevention concordat for better mental health and lists the signatories. Click here for government link to paper

Using Music as Sleep Aid

A new study shows that many individuals use music to fight sleep difficulties. Click here for PsychCentral article

LGBT in Britain: Health Report

Click here for link to report

Hundreds of Brummie kids 'devastated' at months of waiting before mental health treatment

Hundreds of Birmingham children face months of waiting before they are even contacted about starting mental health treatment. Click here for newspaper article

Frank Bruno to give mental health talk for Onside charity

Frank Bruno is coming to Droitwich to deliver a speech for a Worcester-based charity. Click here for news paper piece

Booking opens for Mental Health Network conference

Early bird booking is now open for the 2019 Mental Health Network Annual Conference and Exhibition, which will be held at the King’s Fund in London on 14 March 2019. Click here for details

New mental health campaign launched across the Midlands

Public Health England’s new Every Mind Matters campaign encourages adults in the Midlands to look after their mental health as they do their physical health. Click here for press release

People with severe mental illness experience worse physical health

A new Public Health England report shows people with severe mental illness (SMI) suffer worse physical health compared to the general population. Click here to read government report

Church to host mental health events

A HEREFORD city centre church will become the new home for Herefordshire Mind for a week, as the organisation celebrates its 40th anniversary. Read news article here

'Strongest evidence yet' that being obese causes depression

New research released today from the University of South Australia and University of Exeter in the UK has found the strongest evidence yet that obesity causes depression, even in the absence of other health problems. Click here for ScienceDaily article

RCPsych Awards 2018: winners announced

Find out who won and watch a video of this year's lifetime achievement award winner - click here

Cognitive Science Helps to Unravel the Power of Storytelling

The art of storytelling has ancient origins as humans have relied on it to engage, to share emotions and to relate personal experiences. Read PsychCentral article here

Diet Important for Woman’s Emotional Well-Being

New research suggests women need a more nutrient-rich diet to support a positive emotional well-being. Investigators used social media to discover that unlike men, women are less likely to experience mental well-being until a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are followed. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Safeguarding adults with dementia: top tips

Effective safeguarding and risk assessment depend on building relationships with the person with dementia. Click here for link to CommunityCare article

The window of opportunity to improve mental health is now open

The UK government has today announced that prevention will be an integral part of the NHS’s long term plan. The announcement brings a long-awaited focus on public health measures, which represent the most cost-effective ways to dramatically improve the overall health of the nation and reduce the demand on public services. Read BMJ blog here

Suicide Prevention

NICE are consulting on a quality standard which will cover ways to reduce suicide and help people bereaved or affected by suicides in community and custodial settings. Click here for King's Fund blog

Worcestershire wellbeing consultant says early intervention is key to mental health

The Worcester News and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust have united for the Now We’re Talking campaign, to raise awareness of the county’s Healthy Minds service. Read newspaper article here

Prevention Is Better Than Cure: Our Vision To Help You Live Well For Longer

The document sets out the government’s vision for stopping health problems from arising in the first place and supporting people to manage their health problems when they do arise. Read King's Fund blog here

A Fair, Supportive Society: Summary Report

This report, commissioned by NHS England, highlights that some of the most vulnerable people in society – those with learning disabilities – will die 15-20 years sooner on average than the general population. Read King's Fund blog here

Bullying And Harassment: How To Address It And Create A Supportive And Inclusive Culture

The BMA began its bullying and harassment project in 2017 following doctors highlighting the impact that bullying and harassment had on the working lives and well-being of members, and growing evidence of how it harms patient care and safety. Click here to read King's Fund blog

Study: Most Psychoactive Drugs Taken During Pregnancy Do Not Increase Risk of Autism

New research finds that a mother’s use of antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs while pregnant does not place the baby at risk for autism. Read PsychCentral article here

Children who experience violence early in life develop faster

A study has shown that exposure to violence early in life -- such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse -- is associated with faster biological ageing, including pubertal development and a cellular metric of biological ageing called epigenetic age. Read ScienceDaily article here

Brain Imaging Shows How LSD Alters Perception

In a new study, researchers from the University of Zurich in Switzerland used brain imaging technology to investigate how LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide, or “acid”) appears to alter a healthy person’s perception of reality. Read PsychCentral article here

FREE access to The British Journal of Occupational Therapy during Occupational Therapy Week

Click here for details

Mental health leaders welcome first NHS strategy to tackle violence against staff

Mental health leaders have welcomed the Government’s announcement of the first ever NHS strategy to tackle violence against staff, saying it has the potential to ‘turbocharge’ existing efforts across the country. Read NHS Confederation report here

Budget 2018: £1bn real terms cut to wider health budget

The Health Foundation yesterday released analysis following the budget, which included calculations of what the budgets will be in the coming years for NHS England and the wider Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). Read report here

Veterans with PTSD Can Benefit from Horseback Riding Intervention

A new study shows that an 8-week therapeutic horseback riding program reduces anxiety, anger and depression in veterans with combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Read PsychCentral article here

NMC response to budget 2018

Click here for NMC response

Budget 2018: Mental health and social care in the spotlight

In her Conference speech last month, the Prime Minister declared an “end to austerity” but at the high table of Budget giveaways, today was not an all-you-can-eat buffet. Click here to read NHS Confederation article

How Should Health Policy Respond To The Growing Challenge Of Multimorbidity?

There is growing awareness internationally of the increasing number of people living with multiple long-term health conditions, known as multimorbidity. Health services, including the NHS, need to adapt to address this challenge. This policy report discusses the issue of multimorbidity, and offers a summary of recommendations. read King's Fund blog here

Mental Health Network signs letter to Prime Minister calling for better funding for mental health

Leading voices from across the mental health sector, charities and other public bodies have come together to write to the Prime Minister to put the case for a five per cent annual funding increase for mental health. Read NHS Confederation news item here

Young, Alone And Miles Away From Mum: Life In A Mental Health Unit Four Hours From Home

Katie Scott was just a few months shy of her 18th birthday when she was sent to stay in an inpatient unit four hours drive from her home town. It was already a difficult time for the student who was trying to recover from anorexia, anxiety and severe depression – and now at some distance from her family. Read Huffington Post article here

Aerobic Exercise Shown to Outdo Other Therapies for Depression

Supervised aerobic exercise may offer significant relief for patients with major depressive disorder, according to a new study published in the journal Depression and Anxiety. Read PsychCentral article here

Tackling the causes: Promoting public mental health and investing in prevention

This briefing explores the social determinants of mental health and the relationship between physical and mental health, investigates what is being invested in public mental health across the UK, and makes recommendations for improving public mental health. Click here for link to briefing

NHS to trial tech to cut missed appointments and save up to £20 million

Patients will be able to book and change medical appointments online, receive text reminders and even access maps showing them where in a hospital they need to go through a digital patient tool set to be trialled in ten hospitals. Click here to read NHS news

PTSD symptoms improve when patient chooses form of treatment

A new study is the first large-scale trial of hundreds of PTSD patients, including veterans and survivors of sexual assault, to measure whether patient preference in the course of treatment impacts the effectiveness of a type of cognitive behavioral therapy and use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a type of antidepressant often prescribed for PTSD. Click here for ScienceDaily article

Progress of the 'Five Year Forward View for Mental Health': on the road to parity

This report is the product of an in depth inquiry into the progress of the government's mental health strategy, the Five Year Forward View for Mental Health.  Click here to read further.

Aerobic exercise has antidepressant treatment effects

An analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials indicates that supervised aerobic exercise has large antidepressant treatment effects for patients with major depression.  Click here to read further.

Psychopathic Traits in Men May Help Them Emerge as Leaders

A new study published online in the Journal of Applied Psychology reveals that psychopathic traits in men may help them emerge as leaders, but such tendencies in women are often punished.  Click here to read further.

Government to amend deprivation of liberty scheme to cover 16- and 17-year-olds

The government will amend its planned replacement to the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) so that it applies to 16- and 17-year-olds, not just those over 18, a minister has confirmed. To read further click here.

People Ordered into Mental Health Care Less Likely to See It as Helpful

A new study finds that people who independently seek mental health care are more likely to rate their treatment as effective, compared to those ordered into care.  Click here to read further.

Postpartum Depression Linked to Mother’s Pain After Childbirth

While childbirth pain has been linked to postpartum depression, the culprit may be the pain experienced by the mother following childbirth, rather than during the labor and delivery process, according to a new study.  Click here to read further.

Linguistic red flags from Facebook posts can predict future depression diagnoses

Research finds that the language people use in their Facebook posts can predict a future diagnosis of depression as accurately as the tools clinicians use in medical settings to screen for the disease.  Click here to read further.

An overview of reviews: the effectiveness of interventions to address loneliness at all stages of the life-course

This review is the first of its kind to establish what we know about loneliness and effective ways to tackle it. It is a first step to develop the evidence, revealing big gaps in the current evidence base.  Click here to read further.

Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock's speech at the Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit in London.Click here for speech and video

Long waits for mental health treatment lead to divorce, job loss and money problems, RCPsych finds

Long waits for mental health treatment lead to divorce, job loss and money problems, RCPsych finds. Read article here

Press release: PM pledges action on suicide to mark World Mental Health Day

Prime Minister Theresa May announces new funding for Samaritans’ helpline and appoints first UK Minister for Suicide Prevention. See government press release here

New mental health campaign launched across the Midlands

Public Health England’s new Every Mind Matters campaign encourages adults in the Midlands to look after their mental health as they do their physical health. Read Government press release here

Quarter of CCGs fall below psychosis spend benchmark

Nearly a quarter of clinical commissioning groups are spending less than the estimated sum needed to provide proper care to seriously ill mental health patients, according to a new analysis by HSJ. Read article here Contact the library 01905 760601 if you need a password.

Access To Children And Young People’s Mental Health Services: 2018

This report examines access to specialist services, waiting times for treatment, and provision for those children that are not able to receive treatment. Read King's Fund Blog here

Matt Hancock calls for world to unite in responding to the challenge of mental health

Ministers will agree to work towards parity between mental health and physical health at today’s global ministerial mental health summit. Read Government news article here

NHS to prioritise doctors’ mental health

NHS chief Simon Stevens today announced a new mental health support scheme to cover all doctors working in the NHS. Click here to read NHS England news piece

Diet and weight may affect response to bipolar disorder treatment

Data from a clinical trial has shown that how people respond to treatment for Bipolar Disorder may be influenced by their weight and the overall quality of their diet, including whether they are eating a diet high in foods thought to contribute to general inflammation. Read ScienceDaily article here

Worried about your friend’s mental health? Don’t just ask them if they are ok, do it twice

We all hear it, dozens of times of day: ‘how are you?’ I’m willing to bet many of us are so pre-programmed in our responses, we routinely find ourselves in a seemingly never ending loop of: ‘How are you?’ ‘Fine thanks, how are you?’ ‘Fine thanks’… We ask our friends and family how they are, but are we really asking, or just waiting for the usual and expected response so that we can get on with our day? Click here to read newspaper article

Be the change : ensuring an effective response to all in psychiatric emergency equal to medical care

According to this report, care for people in mental health crisis does not adequately address the needs of the community it is intended to serve. It outlines ten recommendations that if fulfilled would make urgent and emergency psychiatric health care ‘minimally adequate’, and calls on governmental agencies, policy makers and health and social services to take radical action to address inequalities and improve mental health crisis care. Read King's Fund blog here

Drop in mental health nurses shows NHS under ‘severe strain’

Statistics published by NHS Digital on Thursday (27 September)  are evidence of a service under severe strain, says the Mental Health Network. Read NHS Confederation article here

Brave words: a photographic project is helping people with mental health issues express how they truly feel - The Guardian

The thing about mental illness,” says journalist Bryony Gordon, “is that it doesn’t want to be on the outside. It wants to be in your self and it wants you alone, isolated, thinking you’re a freak. That’s how it thrives. It does not want you to talk about it being there.” Read newspaper article here

Postnatal depression could be linked to fewer daylight hours during late pregnancy

Women in late pregnancy during darker months of the year may have a greater risk of developing postpartum depression once their babies are born. This is consistent with what is known about the relationship between exposure to natural light and depression among adults in the general population.Click here to view ScienceDaily article

Severe mental illness (SMI): physical health inequalities

Comparing physical health conditions between people with SMI and the general population by age, sex and deprivation using primary care data. Click here for government statistics

Worcester film showing raised £250 for mental health charity, Mind

Fred Hanbury, 24, had his film ‘Bits and Pieces' premiered at the ODEON, in Worcester, raising over £250 for Mind - a mental health charity. It was inspired after digging deep into his past and recognising the link between mental health issues and social media, after a class peer took his own life. Click here for newspaper article

RCPsych eNewsletter September 2018

Click here for latest eNewsletter

Even Mild Physical Activity May Boost Memory

New research suggests that even light workouts can improve brain function. Indeed, modest yoga exercises or tai chi may help with memory tasks such as remembering where you left the keys. Click here for PsychCentral article

All The Lonely People: Loneliness In Later Life

This report presents new evidence about what Age UK knows about loneliness amongst people aged 50 and over, what increases the chances of people experiencing loneliness and how best to help those older people who are persistently lonely. Click here for King's Fund blog

Brain Region Involved with Stress Bigger in Those Depressed or Bipolar

A new study reveals that in people who are depressed or have bipolar disorder, the left hypothalamus was on average 5 percent larger than that of their healthy counterparts. Click here for PsychCentral article

Performing Acts of Kindness Can Reduce Depression in Disagreeable People

When people who are prone to hostility make an effort to engage in acts of kindness toward their close loved ones, it can significantly reduce their depression, according to new research published in the journal, Translational Issues in Psychological Science. Read PsychCentral article here

Boosting emotional intelligence in physicians can protect against burnout

An educational curriculum for resident physicians improves their emotional intelligence, which may help protect against burnout, according to a new study. Click here for ScienceDaily article

World Alzheimer Report 2018: The State Of The Art Of Dementia Research: New Frontiers

This report looks at a broad cross section of research areas including basic science; diagnosis; drug discovery; risk reduction and epidemiology. With the continued absence of a disease modifying treatment, the report also features progress, innovation and developments in care research. It highlights an urgent need for increased and sustainable funding for dementia research.Read King's Fund blog here

Study Finds You Can Handle The Truth, After All

New research from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business explores the consequences of honesty in everyday life and finds that people can often afford to be more honest than they think. Click here for PsychCentral article

Seeing Yourself as Busy Can Bolster Self-Control

In a new study, researchers from the global business school INSEAD find that although busyness is often thought of as a modern-day affliction, it can help delay gratification and provide long-term benefits. Read PsychCentral article here

Social media impacts on young people’s wellbeing need to be better understood, says Centre for Mental Health

Social media interact with young people’s mental health and wellbeing in many ways that need to be better understood if we are to help young people to navigate the challenges of twenty-first century life, according to a briefing published today by Centre for Mental Health. Click here for article

Researchers find children experience concussion symptoms three times longer than adults

Parents should be aware that significant changes in concussion treatment have emerged in recent years. Primarily, there has been a major shift to promoting active recovery -- including a quick return to social, academic, and athletic activities, as well as specialized rehabilitation.  Read ScienceDaily article here

Long term NHS funding plan welcome but not enough to bring about equality for mental health

“The Prime Minister’s pledge of a long term funding settlement for the NHS and her call for improved mental health services as a priority are both much needed and very welcome. But they are not enough to bring about the transformation we need to tackle the injustices and inequalities that affect too many people’s mental health,” Centre for Mental Health chief executive Sarah Hughes said today. Click here for more details

World Occupational Therapy Day - 27 October 2018

The World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT) has launched promotional materials for World Occupational Therapy Day, which is on 27 October 2018. The theme for this year’s event is 'Celebrating Our Global Community. Click here for details

One in four older adults prescribed a benzodiazepine goes on to risky long-term use

They may start as well-intentioned efforts to calm anxiety, improve sleep or ease depression. But prescriptions for sedatives known as benzodiazepines may lead to long-term use among one in four older adults who receive them, according to new research.  Read ScienceDaily article here

Sexual Safety On Mental Health Wards

This report calls for new national guidance to improve the sexual safety of people and staff on mental health wards, following analysis of how mental health trusts in England report sexual incidents.  Click here to read King's Fund blog

Mental health issues in young people up sixfold in England since 1995

Six times more children and young people in England have mental health conditions than a generation ago, research has revealed. Read newspaper article here

Nine free apps for mental health

If you suffer from a mental illness like depression or anxiety, know that you are not alone: In a given year, about one in five US adults – or 43.8 million – experience mental illness, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. But there is hope, and help. Click here to read newspaper article

New CQC survey finds that people with mental health difficulties have poorer than average hospital experience

Today’s survey from CQC once again demonstrates that people with mental health difficulties have poorer than average experiences of being in hospital. This is despite the fact that they have higher levels of physical ill health and a 15-20 year shorter life expectancy. We must ensure that no one is treated less well because they have a mental health problem, including in A&E. Click here for Centre For Mental Health article

Mental Health at Work

Whether you work with 10 people, 10,000 people or just yourself, paying attention to mental health in the workplace has never been more important. Mental Health at Work is here to help you find the information and resources you need. Click here for link

Perception of Support Helps People Cope with Worries

Perceiving that a partner is providing support when one is worried and stressed can have a powerful effect. In fact, the perception that someone cares may be more important that receiving actual support. Moreover, the perception of support may have physical and mental benefits as sleep and health may both be improved. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Kate Granger Awards recognise inspirational healthcare staff and volunteers spanning 70 years of the NHS

A nurse who started training in 1948 is among the inspirational people and teams receiving special recognition for their dedicated services to the NHS spanning seven decades.
This year’s Kate Granger Compassionate Care Awards, announced at the 2018 Health and Innovation Expo at Manchester Central, were given to individuals, teams and organisations who demonstrate outstanding care for their patients. Click here for full details

Brain function impacts how experiences contribute to depression

A study in adolescent girls reports that recent life events impact depressive symptoms differently, depending on how the brain responds to winning and losing. A strong brain response to winning boosted the beneficial impact of positive experiences on symptoms, whereas a strong response to losing enhanced the detrimental impact of negative experiences on symptoms. Read ScienceDaily article here

My vision for a more tech-driven NHS

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock's speech at NHS Expo 2018 - All around us, a new generation of technology is changing all of our lives. From the mundane but useful, like the ubiquity of satnavs that stop family arguments and warn us of traffic jams, to the profound and extraordinary, like the ability of genomics to design drugs for each individual. Click here for full speech

Better help needed from prison to work, says Centre for Mental Health report

Prisoners with mental health difficulties need better help following release from both health and probation services, according to a report published today by Centre for Mental Health. Read article here

First-ever guidelines for detecting, treating perimenopausal depression

Clinicians and scientists have published the first-ever guidelines for the evaluation and treatment of perimenopausal depression simultaneously in the journal Menopause and the Journal of Women's Health. Read ScienceDaily article here

NMC launches new approach to resolving complaints about nurses and midwives

We’re putting people at the centre of fitness to practise. This week we’ve begun introducing a new approach to resolving complaints about nurses and midwives. Read news piece from NMC here

Stroke Can Double Risk of Dementia

People who have had a stroke are twice as likely to develop dementia, according to a new study. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Forecasting The Care Needs Of The Older Population In England Over The Next 20 Years

This study estimates that in the next 20 years, the English population aged 65 years or over will see increases in the number of individuals who are independent but also in those with complex care needs. This increase is due to more individuals reaching 85 years or older who have higher levels of dependency, dementia, and comorbidity. Click here to read King's Fund blog

Public mental health leadership and workforce development framework

This framework can inform and influence the development of public health leadership and the workforce in relation to mental health. Read government framework here

Why looking up at the stars is good for your mental health

Stephen Hawking said many inspiring things, but one of the most memorable for me was what he once said during an address at Cambridge University in 2012. Talking there, he encouraged his rapt audience to to ‘look up at the stars and not down at your feet'. Read newspaper article here

Why do we get old and sick?

Why do we get old and sick? Raj Persaud talks to Professor Volter Longo about his new book 'The Longevity Diet.' Listen to RCPsych podcast here

Sensitivity to How Others See You May Emerge by Toddler Years

Toddlers appear to be sensitive to the opinions of others and will modify their behavior accordingly when others are watching, according to a new study published in the journal Developmental Psychology. Read PsychCentral article here

How our brain and personality provide protection against emotional distress

Researchers recently examined a sample of 85 healthy college students to see how a number of personality traits can protect an individual's brain against symptoms of emotional distress, namely depression and anxiety. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Breakthrough sensor to help people with bipolar disorder monitor lithium levels

Patients living with bipolar disorder and depression will soon be able to use a unique wearable sensor to safely monitor their lithium drug levels. Read ScienceDaily article here

The Brexit White Paper on future relations and alternative proposals

This briefing paper looks at some of the proposals in the White Paper, their reception in the UK and EU, and any corresponding provisions in the DExEU ‘alternative white paper’. It discusses medicine and access to health care. View King's Fund blog here

Flexi-working, less box filling and more time with adults – how one council is liberating its social workers and OTs

Flexi-working, less box filling and more time with adults – how one council is liberating its social workers and OTs - Click here for article

Guidance On Co-Locating Mental Health Therapists In Primary Care

This guidance document has been created to assist GPs, practice managers and commissioners who are integrating mental health therapists into primary care pathways by providing information on how to do this. Click here for see King's Fund blog

New resource offers help for people with mental health issues to move forward

A new resource to help people experiencing mental health issues to be make decisions about the support they want and need to achieve their goals has been published by the Mental Health Foundation Scotland. Click here access Mental Health Foundation page

CQC now examining mental health care in acute hospitals

The Care Quality Commission is now targeting the care of mental health patients in acute hospitals during routine inspections. Subscription needed to access - please ask library for article

I had mental health issues until my cat Arthur changed my life - and now he's won an award'

Arthur was recognised after transforming the life of Emily Hatton since he arrived in her life last September, just after she had just been discharged from a three-and-a-half year stay at a mental health unit. Read news story here

Peer Support for Mental Illness Shown to Reduce Acute Care Readmission

A new study shows that care and support from peers who have also experienced mental health problems reduces readmission rates for people who have recently left acute mental health care.
Published in The Lancet, the randomized controlled trial of 400 people in England found that fewer people who received this type of support were readmitted to acute care a year after the study began, compared to people who only received a workbook.
Click here for the PsychCentral article
Click here for the Lancet article

Older Adults May Be Less Likely to Notice Their Mistakes

A new study suggests that as we get older, we become much less likely to notice our mistakes.The study involved a simple, computerized test designed to determine how readily both younger and older adults were able to detect when they’d made an error. Click here to read PsychCentral article

9 in 10 Family Caregivers of Dementia Patients Suffer from Lack of Sleep

A new study finds that nine in 10 individuals caring for a family member with dementia experience poor sleep. Researchers from the University at Buffalo (UB) School of Nursing found that most caregivers in the study got less than six hours of sleep each night, exacerbated by frequent awakenings as often as four times per hour. Click here for PsychCentral article

Mental Health Act Review offers way forward for more humane and modern legislation

The interim report of the independent Mental Health Act Review offers a welcome way forward for the prospect of more humane and responsive legislation fit for the twenty-first century, Centre for Mental Health chief executive Sarah Hughes said today. Read response here

RCPsych eNewsletter July 2018

Click here for the RCPsych newsletter

Discuss religion, spirituality when treating young adults with severe mental illness

A majority of young adults with severe mental illness -- bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or major depression -- consider religion and spirituality relevant to their mental health, according to a new study. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Just 10 Minutes of Daily Chat Can Aid Well-Being of Dementia Patients

The average person with dementia in a nursing home experiences only two minutes of social interaction each day. A new e-learning program that trains caregivers to engage in meaningful social interaction with dementia patients shows great promise for improving the well-being of the patient, according to a new UK study. Read PsychCentral article here

Centre for Mental Health welcomes plans by the government for a new mental health workforce in schools

Today the Government shared plans to introduce and pilot a new mental health workforce in schools. These plans follow on from the green paper consultation ‘Transforming Children and Young People’s Mental Health’, which Centre for Mental Health responded to and fed into. See response here 

People with hidden disabilities to benefit from Blue Badges

Blue Badge scheme to be extended to hidden disabilities, including autism and mental health conditions. Click here to go to government news website

Neural inflammation plays critical role in stress-induced depression

A group of researchers has discovered that neural inflammation caused by our innate immune system plays an unexpectedly important role in stress-induced depression. This insight could potentially lead to the development of new antidepressants targeting innate immune molecules.  Click here to read full article.

Mental health education to be made compulsory in English schools

Health education is to be made compulsory in all schools in England under new government plans following growing concerns about mental health problems among young people. Children will be taught how to build mental resilience – as well as how to recognise when their peers are struggling with mental health issues  – as part of statutory lessons, the government says. Read newspaper article here

App, brief intervention may be lifesaver for suicidal teens

A preliminary study shows an intervention program that includes a personalized app could make a difference: Researchers found the rate of attempted suicides by teenagers who received the intervention was halved compared to those who received the standard care during their hospitalization. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Prison health: health and justice annual report

Public Health England (PHE) annual report on health trends in prisons and other prescribed places of detention (PPDs). Click here to go to government website to view report

Incarceration of parents impacts health of their children into adulthood

A new study found that young adults who had a parent incarcerated during their childhood are more likely to skip needed healthcare, smoke cigarettes, engage in risky sexual behaviors, and abuse alcohol, prescription and illicit drugs. Read ScienceDaily article here

Scars of Partner Violence Can Hinder New Relationships

The damaging effects of intimate partner violence (IPV) often continue long after the abusive relationship is over, yet few resources exist to help victims move on to form new, healthy relationships, according to a new study published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Caring For Carers: The Lives Of Family Carers In The UK

This report focuses on the demographics and experiences of those who provide family care. The current social care system is putting pressure on families to step in and provide care for relatives where the state does not. Click here to view Kings Fund blog

Multi-million pound fund to help tackle the disability employment gap launched

A £4.2 million challenge fund to support people with mental health or musculoskeletal conditions to stay in work has been launched by the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, Sarah Newton, and the Minister for Mental Health and Inequalities, Jackie Doyle-Price. Click here to view DOH press release

Vitamin D May Not Protect from Dementia, Alzheimer’s After All

Australian scientists have failed to find evidence that vitamin D can act as a protective neurological agent. The findings are contrary to suggestions that higher levels of vitamin D can provide protection from brain disorders. Read PsychCentral article here

New NICE guideline [NG99] Brain tumours (primary) and brain metastases in adults

New NICE guideline [NG99] Brain tumours (primary) and brain metastases in adults


Published date: July 2018    


This guideline covers diagnosing, monitoring and managing any type of primary brain tumour or brain metastases in people aged 16 or over. It aims to improve diagnosis and care, including standardising the care people have, how information and support are provided, and palliative care.


For full guidance
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng99           

New NICE guideline [NG98] Hearing loss in adults: assessment and management

New NICE guideline [NG98] Hearing loss in adults: assessment and management


Published date: June 2018                


This guideline covers some aspects of assessing and managing hearing loss in primary, community and secondary care. It aims to improve the quality of life for adults with hearing loss by advising healthcare staff on assessing hearing difficulties, managing earwax and referring people for audiological or specialist assessment and management.


For full guidance
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng98

New NICE Diagnostics guidance [DG33] Biomarker tests to help diagnose preterm labour in women with intact membranes

New NICE Diagnostics guidance [DG33] Biomarker tests to help diagnose preterm labour in women with intact membranes


Published date: July 2018  Next review: July 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on biomarker tests to help diagnose preterm labour in women with intact membranes. The tests are Actim Partus, PartoSure and the Rapid fetal fibronectin (fFN) 10Q Cassette Kit (at thresholds other than 50 nanograms/millilitre).


For full guidance
 https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/dg33

Investigation Into The Transition From Child And Adolescent Mental Health Services To Adult Mental Health Services

Healthcare Safety Investigation Bureau -
This investigation report reviewed the transition from children and adolescent mental health services to understand how variations in the transition impacts the safe and effective care of young people. It makes a number of recommendations to national NHS organisations to make the transition smoother and safer for young people. Read King's Fund blog here

South Asian mental health: 'It's like a taboo...what will the neighbours say?'

Neelam and Dinesh are trying to tackle what they see as the stigma surrounding mental health in Britain's South Asian community. Click here to see BBC video

Many Ex-Smokers Crave Lost Social Identity

Many ex-smokers begin smoking again because they want to recapture a sense of lost social identity, according to new British research published in the Journal of Substance Use. In fact, according to the findings, many smokers experience quitting as a “loss." Click here for PsychCentral article

Mental Health Policy Commission: Investing in a Resilient Generation

Looking beyond treatment to promoting mental health and well-being, the Commission has examined evidence from people with experience of mental distress, families, practitioners, communities, academics, and policy makers to form ground-breaking recommendations that will support a truly different approach and provide a strategic framework for mental health for the 21st Century. Click here to view report

Grads4Nottm Work Placement with the Occupational Therapy Department at Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham

Myself (Anusha Panchal) and Zakir Hossain are two students at The Nottingham Trent University who were given an opportunity by our employability team to undertake a two week placement with the HCOP/Occupational Therapy team at Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) in Nottingham. Read blog here from fabnhsstuff

Birmingham's Mental Health Services Are Failing Young People

Birmingham is the youngest city in Europe - but as demand for help rises funding is being cut. Read Huffington Post article here

When Adult Mentors Value Teens, It Can Curb Delinquency

When non-family adult mentors, such as teachers and coaches, make adolescents feel like they matter, it has the power to reduce delinquency and destructive behavior, according to a new study published in the journal Children and Youth Services Review. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Capitalism and mental health treatment

A review of Iain Ferguson, Politics of the Mind: Marxism and Mental Distress (Bookmarks, 2017). The current crisis in the National Health Service is at its worst in the field of mental health. Click here to read review

Mental Health Professionals Share What It's Like Trying To Look After Their Own Mental Health

'No matter how well we try to look after our mental health, things happen in our personal lives.' Click here to read Huffington Post article

The NHS at 70

Historical occupational therapy leaflets available to RCOT members To support the NHS70 celebrations this week, RCOT has published a collection of front covers from historical occupational therapy leaflets. Click here to go to link - you do need RCOT membership

Open Relationships Can Be As Happy as Those in Monogamous Ones

A new study has revealed that people in open relationships are as happy as those in monogamous relationships. Read PsychCentral article here

Little Difference Seen in Mental Health of Kids of Same-Sex Vs. Hetero Parents

Children of same-sex parents show similar levels of mental health as children of heterosexual parents, according to a new Italian study published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics. Read PsychCentral article here

People undergoing voluntary and involuntary ECT treatment have similar outcomes

People who have involuntary electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for depression have similar outcomes to those who have voluntary treatment, according to a ground-breaking new study conducted by researchers from Trinity College Dublin's Department of Psychiatry. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Laying Off Your Partner In Tough Times May Have More Impact Than Comforting

If your partner is going through a stressful time, simply refraining from arguments and other negative behaviors may make an even bigger impact than reaching out with comforting behaviors, according to a new study published in the Journal of Family Psychology. Click here to read PsychCentral article

The NHS at 70: What will new technology mean for the NHS and its patients?

To mark the BBC's coverage of the NHS's 70th birthday in July 2018, researchers from the Health Foundation, the Institute for Fiscal Studies, The King’s Fund and the Nuffield Trust have joined forces for the first time, using combined expertise to shed light on some of the big questions on the NHS. Click here to go to King's Fund blog

The NHS at 70: Does the NHS need more money and how could we pay for it?

To mark the BBC's coverage of the NHS's 70th birthday in July 2018, researchers from the Health Foundation, the Institute for Fiscal Studies, The King’s Fund and the Nuffield Trust have joined forces for the first time, using combined expertise to shed light on some of the big questions on the NHS. Click here to go to King's Fund blog

Helping young people speak up about their mental health

Becky felt there wasn’t enough mental health support for people her age, and decided something needed to change. Find out how through working with Healthwatch Dudley, Becky has helped more young people get the support they need to share their experiences of mental health. Click here to read Healthwatch article

Children’s public health 0 to 5 years: national reporting

Children’s public health 0 to 5 years: interim national reporting process for the universal health visiting service: full guidance for local authority members of staff 2018/19 Read guidance here

Anger overlooked as feature of postnatal mood disorders

Women in the postpartum period should be screened for anger in addition to depression and anxiety, new research from the University of British Columbia suggests. Read ScienceDaily article here

Parkinson’s Drugs Tied to Impulse Control Disorders

Nearly half of patients taking certain drugs for Parkinson’s disease may eventually develop impulse control disorders such as compulsive eating, gambling or shopping, according to a new French study published in the journal Neurology. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Simple Problem-Solving Task Improves Brain Function After Concussion

A simple cognitive task as early as four days after a sports-related concussion activates the region of the brain that improves memory function, and may guard against developing depression or anxiety, according to a new study. Click here for PsychCentral article

People with schizophrenia account for more than one in 10 suicide cases

A new study shows that people with schizophrenia account for more than one in 10 cases of suicide in Ontario, and that young people are disproportionately affected. People with schizophrenia also had more contact with the health care system, pointing to an opportunity to intervene. The researchers emphasize the need for early suicide risk assessments to reduce risks. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Changes in stress after meditation

For a thousand years, people have reported feeling better by meditating but there are few systematic studies that quantified stress and how much stress changes as a direct result of meditation, until now. Click here for ScienceDaily article

Consultancies hired to 'accelerate' integration of four STPs

Two management consultancies have been commissioned to help four STPs in the West Midlands “accelerate” their integration plans, HSJ has learned.
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Allied Health Professions hold key role in future NHS

The Allied Health Professions (AHPs) have a significant role to play in the future delivery of integrated urgent care within the NHS. And the quality of leadership of the AHPs will be vital in determining their impact and the quality of care that patients receive. See NHS England article here

Parent-child therapy helps young children with depression

Children as young as 3 can be clinically depressed, and often that depression recurs as kids get older and go to school. It also can reappear during adolescence and throughout life. See ScienceDaily article here

People with dementia should be involved in discussions about their care, says NICE

Professor Gillian Leng, deputy chief executive at NICE, reflects upon the difficulties people with dementia can experience, and how she hopes the guidance will help them, their family and their carers. Dementia is a highly complex and challenging condition. It can present differently from person to person, having a huge impact on the patient, their family and their carers. See NICE news piece here

Long term NHS funding plan welcome but not enough to bring about equality for mental health

“The Prime Minister’s pledge of a long term funding settlement for the NHS and her call for improved mental health services as a priority are both much needed and very welcome. But they are not enough to bring about the transformation we need to tackle the injustices and inequalities that affect too many people’s mental health,” Centre for Mental Health chief executive Sarah Hughes said today. See article here

Increase in news coverage of mental health issues has led to nearly a third of people feeling 'less alone'

An “unprecedented” level of media coverage of mental health issues in the past year has resulted in 31 per cent of people feeling “less alone”, according to a poll conducted on behalf of mental health charity Mind. Click here for PressGazette article

Art by Injured Service Members May Reveal Aspects of Trauma

Creative arts therapy can be very beneficial for survivors of traumatic brain injury (TBI), because the nature of the injury often makes it difficult for patients to verbalize their thoughts and feelings. See PsychCentral article here

New CQC survey finds that people with mental health difficulties have poorer than average hospital experience

Today’s survey from CQC once again demonstrates that people with mental health difficulties have poorer than average experiences of being in hospital. This is despite the fact that they have higher levels of physical ill health and a 15-20 year shorter life expectancy. We must ensure that no one is treated less well because they have a mental health problem, including in A&E. See Centre for Mental Health article here

New NIHR Signal Balance of long-term benefits and risks of caesarean delivery explained

New NIHR Signal Balance of long-term benefits and risks of caesarean delivery explained
Published on 12 June 2018


Caesarean delivery has immediate known benefits and risks for those women who need help in childbirth. This review measures the long-term outcomes for the mothers’ health, the links to a higher risk of childhood illness and the chance of problems with future pregnancies.
From the NIHR Dissemination Centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-000601/balance-of-long-term-benefits-and-risks-of-caesarean-delivery-explained

New NIHR Signal Fewer side-effects and similar benefits from shorter chemotherapy after bowel cancer surgery

New NIHR Signal Fewer side-effects and similar benefits from shorter chemotherapy after bowel cancer surgery
Published on 12 June 2018


A three-month course of chemotherapy after surgery for bowel cancer seems no less effective than the standard six-month course, and half as many people suffered from nerve damage as a side-effect. Three-quarters of people survived to three years without disease progression on either treatment.
From the NIHR Dissemination Centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-000603/fewer-side-effects-and-similar-benefits-from-shorter-chemotherapy-after-bowel-cancer-surgery

New NIHR Signal Aspirin may be a follow-on option to prevent blood clots, starting five days after hip or knee surgery

New NIHR Signal Aspirin may be a follow-on option to prevent blood clots, starting five days after hip or knee surgery
Published on 5 June 2018


In a recent trial, switching to low-dose aspirin was just as effective at preventing blood clots after joint replacement surgery as continuing the anti-clotting drug rivaroxaban. Six per 1,000 people taking aspirin experienced a blood clot, compared with seven per 1,000 taking rivaroxaban. Three to five per 1,000 patients experienced major bleeding with either drug.
From the NIHR Dissemination Centrre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-000599/aspirin-may-be-a-follow-on-option-to-prevent-blood-clots-starting-five-days-after-surgery

New NIHR Signal Prescribing anti-inflammatories for urine infection reduces antibiotic use but increases complication risk

New NIHR Signal Prescribing anti-inflammatories for urine infection reduces antibiotic use but increases complication risk
Published on 5 June 2018


Urinary tract infection symptoms resolved by three days for 80% of women given antibiotics compared with 54% given anti-inflammatories. Anti-inflammatories reduced antibiotic use, but 5% of women developed more severe infection of the kidneys.
From the NIHR Dissemination centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-000598/anti-inflammatories-for-urine-infection-reduces-antibiotic-use-but-increases-complication-risk

New NIHR Signal Plastic wraps or bags keep pre-term infants warm immediately after birth

New NIHR Signal Plastic wraps or bags keep pre-term infants warm immediately after birth
Published on 22 May 2018


Cheap and simple plastic wrapping used in the first 10 minutes after birth helps pre-term and low birth weight infants avoid hypothermia. Infants treated in this way are likely to be warmer when admitted to neonatal intensive care than those treated according to standard care. Pre-term infants are most likely to benefit.
From the NIHR Dissemination Centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-00596/plastic-wraps-or-bags-keep-pre-term-infants-warm-immediately-after-birth

New NIHR Signal Cell salvage during caesarean section doesn’t reduce blood transfusions

New NIHR Signal Cell salvage during caesarean section doesn’t reduce blood transfusions
Published on 15 May 2018


In a large UK trial, cell salvage for women at risk of blood loss during caesarean did not reduce the need for donor blood transfusion, though few needed transfusion (2.5% compared with 3.5% among controls).
From the NIHR Dissemination Centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-00592/cell-salvage-during-c-section-doesnt-reduce-blood-transfusions

New NIHR Signal Probiotics can prevent bacterial diarrhoea in hospital patients receiving antibiotics

New NIHR Signal Probiotics can prevent bacterial diarrhoea in hospital patients receiving antibiotics
Published on 1 May 2018

Giving probiotics to people taking antibiotics reduces the chance of them developing diarrhoea caused by Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) bacteria by 60%. One case of Clostridium-associated diarrhoea was prevented for every 42 people receiving probiotics. They appear to work best for patients at more than 5% risk of Clostridium infection.

From the NIHR Dissemination Centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-00589/probiotics-to-prevent-diarrhoea-caused-by-c-difficile

MusicShelter – your new go to resource on the thereuptic use of music in care settings

Interested in co-production and social prescribing? Use music within your care setting? Well this new website is for you!   A collaboration between Ignar Rip, a library, a museum and  local museum. Click here for blog to the music guide

New NIHR Signal Atraumatic needles reduce headaches following lumbar puncture

New NIHR Signal Atraumatic needles reduce headaches following lumbar puncture
Published on 17 April 2018


Use of atraumatic needles rather than conventional needles for lumbar puncture more than halves the rate of post-procedure headache. Moreover, this improvement does not come at the expense of procedure success rates.


From the NIHR Dissemination Centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-00583/atraumatic-needles-reduce-headaches-following-lumbar-puncture

New NIHR Signal Swimming in seawater is linked with an increased chance of some illnesses

New NIHR Signal Swimming in seawater is linked with an increased chance of some illnesses
Published on 17 April 2018


People who swim in seawater have almost double the odds of experiencing illness than people who avoid it. The specific illnesses linked to seawater exposure are ear and gastrointestinal illnesses, but the exact or absolute rates of infection are not available.
From NIHR Dissemination Centre
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-00585/swimming-in-seawater-is-linked-with-an-increased-chance-of-some-illnesses

New Quality standard [QS166] Trauma

New Quality standard [QS166] Trauma
Published date: March 2018  Next review: August 2018


This quality standard covers assessing and managing trauma (complex fractures, non-complex fractures, major trauma and spinal injury) in adults, young people and children. It describes high-quality care in priority areas for improvement.
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/qs166

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA526] Arsenic trioxide for treating acute promyelocytic leukaemia

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA526] Arsenic trioxide for treating acute promyelocytic leukaemia
Published date: 13 June 2018  Next review: June 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on arsenic trioxide (Trisenox) for treating acute promyelocytic leukaemia in adults.
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta526

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA525] Atezolizumab for treating locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma after platinum-containing chemotherapy

Atezolizumab for treating locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma after platinum-containing chemotherapy
Published date: 13 June 2018  Next review: June 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on atezolizumab (Tecentriq) for previously treated locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma in adults.
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta525

NHS England announces areas to receive new funding to improve employment support for people with severe mental illness

As outlined in the Five Year Forward View for Mental Health and Implementing the Five Year Forward View for Mental Health, NHS England has committed to doubling access to Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services nationally by 2020/21, enabling approximately 20,000 people who experience a severe mental illness (SMI) to find and retain employment. Click here to view NHS England news

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA524] Brentuximab vedotin for treating CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA524] Brentuximab vedotin for treating CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma
Published date: 13 June 2018  Next review: June 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris) for treating CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma in adults.
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta524

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA523] Midostaurin for untreated acute myeloid leukaemia

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA523] Midostaurin for untreated acute myeloid leukaemia
Published date: 13 June 2018                 Next review: June 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on midostaurin (Rydapt) for untreated FLT3-mutation-positive acute myeloid leukaemia in adults.
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta523

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA522] Pembrolizumab for untreated locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer when cisplatin is unsuitable

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA522] Pembrolizumab for untreated locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer when cisplatin is unsuitable
Published date: 13 June 2018                 Next review: More evidence on pembrolizumab is being collected, until November 2019. After this, NICE will decide whether or not to recommend it for use on the NHS and update the guidance. It will be available through the Cancer Drugs Fund until then, as part of the managed access agreement


Evidence-based recommendations on pembrolizumab (Keytruda) for untreated locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma in adults.
for full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta522

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA521] Guselkumab for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA521] Guselkumab for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
Published date: 13 June 2018                   Next review: June 2021
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta521

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA520] Atezolizumab for treating locally advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer after chemotherapy

New Technology appraisal guidance [TA520] Atezolizumab for treating locally advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer after chemotherapy
Published date: 16 May 2018  Next review: May 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on atezolizumab (Tecentriq) for locally advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer after chemotherapy in adults.
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta520

New Interventional procedures guidance [IPG616] Intranasal phototherapy for allergic rhinitis

New Interventional procedures guidance [IPG616] Intranasal phototherapy for allergic rhinitis
Published date: June 2018  Next review: June 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on intranasal phototherapy for allergic rhinitis in adults. This involves using light to reduce inflammation inside the nose.
 For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ipg616

New Interventional procedures guidance [IPG615] Low-level laser therapy for preventing or treating oral mucositis caused by radiotherapy or chemotherapy

New Interventional procedures guidance [IPG615] Low-level laser therapy for preventing or treating oral mucositis caused by radiotherapy or chemotherapy
Published date: May 2018  Next review: this guidance will be reviewed if there is new evidence or safety concerns.




Evidence-based recommendations on low-level laser therapy for preventing or treating oral mucositis caused by radiotherapy or chemotherapy. This involves applying low-energy lasers to the affected tissue.
For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ipg615

New Interventional procedures guidance [IPG614] Endoscopic bipolar radiofrequency ablation for treating biliary obstruction caused by cancer

New Interventional procedures guidance [IPG614] Endoscopic bipolar radiofrequency ablation for treating biliary obstruction caused by cancer
Published date: May 2018  Next review: May 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on endoscopic bipolar radiofrequency ablation for treating biliary obstruction caused by cancer in adults. This involves using heat energy both to clear blockage in the bile ducts before inserting stents and to clear blocked stents.


For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ipg614

New NICE Interventional procedures guidance [IPG613] Percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty for fetal critical aortic stenosis

New NICE Interventional procedures guidance [IPG613] Percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty for fetal critical aortic stenosis
Published date: May 2018 Next review: May 2021


Evidence-based recommendations on percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty for fetal critical aortic stenosis. This involves placing a catheter into the baby’s heart, while the baby is still in the womb. The aim is to help the heart develop properly.


For full guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ipg613

Suicide: How You Can Make a Difference

The recent deaths of high-profile public figures and a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report on rising suicide rates have brought the topic of suicide into everyday conversations. It’s important to know some facts and to know what to do if you think someone might be at risk for self-harm. A crisis can pass with time and the most important thing is to stay safe through the crisis and get help. Click here to read National Institute of Mental Health article

Therapy offered within one month to prevent PTSD, says NICE

People who have suffered trauma and are at risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) should be offered therapy within one month, NICE says in new draft guidance. Click here to see NICE news piece

Serial Sharing of Threat News Can Amplify Bias & Fear

A new investigation helps shed light on how news stories about potential threats become more negative, inaccurate and hysterical when passed from person to person. Researchers from the University of Warwick, discovered that even drawing the public’s attention to balanced, neutral facts does not calm this hysteria. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Scientists discover schizophrenia gene roles in brain development

A University of Southern California research team identified 150 proteins affecting cell activity and brain development that contribute to mental disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar condition and depression. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Catching them before they fall: How to support employees’ mental health

A recent survey has discovered that just 15% of employees would tell their line manager about a mental health issue. With poor mental health affecting an increasing number of the UK’s working population, it is crucial that businesses address the stigma attached to mental health in the workplace. Read article here

Kate Spade Feeling Unable To Seek Help With Her Mental Health Reminds Us Stigma Can Affect Anyone

Quite simply, we need to find a way to let everyone get the help they require. Read HuffPost blog here

Mental Health, Human Rights And Standards Of Care

This report assesses the quality of institutional care for adults with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities in the WHO European Region. Out of all the quality ratings made, only 25 per cent showed compliance with international standards, suggesting that long-term institutional care in the Region has room for improvement. Click here to see Kings Fund blog

Good news for patients as more young doctors are inspired to work in mental health

There has been an almost 30% increase in the number of doctors opting to train in Psychiatry in England.New statistics from Health Education England, analysed by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, show 307 doctors will start training this year in England to specialise in psychiatry, the most since 2009.This is a rise from the 239 doctors who had chosen psychiatry at this stage of the recruitment process last year. Read rcpsych news here

For doctors with mental illness, ‘help me’ can be the hardest words

There is a greater openness about mental health generally, but for medical professionals the taboo remains Click here for newspaper link

For Teens, More Screen Time Tied to More Insomnia, Less Sleep

New research suggests that greater amounts of daily screen time are associated with more insomnia symptoms and shorter sleep duration among adolescents.Click here for PsychCentral article

Sleep Disorders May Signal Depression in Young Athletes

A new study finds that nearly one-quarter of student athletes say they experience dream-like hallucinations as they are falling asleep or waking up, and 18 percent experience occasional sleep paralysis. These symptoms have been independently associated with depression. Click here for PsychCentral article

Dieting Linked to Risky Behaviors in Teen Girls

Teenage girls who diet are more likely to act in ways inimical to good health, including smoking, binge drinking and skipping breakfast, according to new research.Click here for PsychCentral article

Lasting Regrets May Come From Not Living Up to ‘Ideal Self’

Regrets may be bred of forsaken dreams, romance not pursued, or taking a job near home rather than an adventurous position overseas. But the most enduring regrets are the ones that stem from our failure to live up to our ideal selves, according to new Cornell University research. Click here for PsychCentral article

NHS operation productivity: unwarranted variations: mental health services and community services.

This review, carried out by Lord Carter, examines the productivity and efficiency of mental health and community health services. It identifies unwarranted variation in the delivery of the services, as well as potential savings of nearly £1 billion that could be made in efficiencies by 2020/21. It makes 16 recommendations to improve productivity and enable the benefits to be reinvested in improving quality and access to care. Click here for link to full report

NHS met unpredecented patient demand last year

Despite experiencing the worst winter in a decade, frontline NHS staff and managers have risen to the challenge and cared for more patients than ever before. However, this surge in demand has affected the NHS’s performance in key areas, such as waiting times and its reliance on temporary workers. For link to full NHS report click here

Cognitive training reduces depression, rebuilds injured brain structure and connectivity after traumatic brain injury

New research shows that certain cognitive training exercises can help reduce depression and improve brain health in individuals years after they have suffered a traumatic brain injury. Read ScienceDaily post here

Psychological Distress Linked to Internal Goal Conflict

New research finds that when our personal goals are divergent, leaving us torn as to which path to pursue, psychological stress can result. Click here for Psychcentral article

Why do we get old and sick?

Why do we get old and sick? Raj Persaud talks to Professor Volter Longo about his new book 'The Longevity Diet.' Click here for rcpsych podcast

The Fifteen Steps Challenge – Quality from a patient's perspective: An mental health toolkit

This document, focusing on the mental health inpatient healthcare setting, is part of a suite of toolkits for The Fifteen Steps Challenge, which helps to explore patient experience and are a way of involving patients, carers and families in quality assurance processes. Click here for document

Mental health statistics for England: prevalance, services and funding

How common are mental health problems? How long do people wait to access therapy for depression and anxiety? Do mental health services work for everyone? How much is spent on mental health services? Click here for link

After a diagnosis of dementia: what to expect from health and care services

This document is for anyone diagnosed with dementia and the people who care for them. It has details about what support they should get. Click here for link

Getting my life back: occupational therapy promoting mental health and wellbeing

About one in six people experience a common mental health problem each week and over 85% of people first disclose their problem to their GP. Despite this only 5% of mental health professionals, such as occupational therapists, work in GP services, with the majority of mental health services based in secondary and acute care. This makes services difficult for people to access when difficulties first become apparent. Click here for link

The most effective antidepressants for adults revealed in major review

The review provides new evidence which may help people decide which antidepressant to choose first-line for moderate to severe depression. However, it did not assess antidepressants compared to other treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, or treatments in combination. Though there are some concerns over items not reported by individual trials, this review is likely to be reliable. It is extensive, included only controlled double blind trials and searched successfully for unpublished trials. Click here for link

Carer support and involvement in secure mental health services.

This toolkit aims to provide clear information for carers, service users, service providers and commissioners about how carers of people who use secure mental health services should be engaged with, supported, involved and empowered. Click for link here

Problem Parental Drug And Alcohol Use: A Toolkit For Local Authorities

This toolkit has been developed for commissioners of alcohol and drug services and will also be useful to commissioners of children and family services. It helps commissioners to understand the extent of problem parental alcohol and drug use in their area and how this can impact on children aged between 0 and 18 in the same household. Click here to see King's Fund blog

Gardening experts team up with NHS over mental health projects

Gardening experts are teaming up with the NHS to promote the positive impact horticulture can have for people’s mental health. Read news item here

Major new initiative seeks to reduce physical health inequalities for people with mental health problems

A major new initiative to tackle one of the biggest health inequalities was launched today by Centre for Mental Health, Kaleidoscope Health and Care and Rethink Mental Illness in collaboration with more than 20 professional organisations, charities and health service bodies across the country. Read Centre for Mental Health news here

Dementia-Friendly Rural Communities Guide

Rural communities have an important part to play in tackling the social and economic impact of dementia, by supporting people living with dementia to be part of their local community. This guide gives best practice advice on how to create a dementia-friendly community in rural areas and shares successful case studies from across the country. Click here to read Kings Fund Blog