Long-acting antipsychotic therapy plus cognitive training show promise for schizophrenia

 Patients who received the combination therapy had increased cognition and functioning

For ScienceDaily article click here

Mental health inequalities: factsheet

 Read Centre for Mental Health factsheets here

NHS urges people with mental health worries to seek help

 Read NHS news piece here

BMA reveals how record numbers of mental health patients are being sent miles from home for care

 Thousands of mental health patients still being cared for miles from home, despite Government pledge to end ‘harmful’ practice

Read Medical Life Sciences news article here

Read BMA original news piece here

Loneliness a leading cause of depression in older adults

 Loneliness is responsible for 18% of depression among people over 50 in England, according to a new study led by UCL researchers.

Read ScienceDaily article here

Read Lancet Psychiatry full text article here

What Does The Future Hold For Digital Health And Care? Eight Key Technologies Explained

The Covid-19 pandemic has seen many health and care services turn to digital technology to continue meeting patients’ needs. But beyond remote consultations, what are the key technologies to look out for in the future? We explain eight key innovations and their potential to transform health and care delivery.

Read king's Fund blog explainer here

COVID-19: mental health and wellbeing surveillance report

This is a routinely updated report about population mental health and wellbeing in England during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Read government report and analysis here

COVID-19 and psychiatry: can electronic medical records provide the answers?, Lancet Psychiatry

 Click here for full text comment

Reporting on suicidal behaviour and COVID-19—need for caution, Lancet Psychiatry

 Read correspondence article here (click pdf in right upper corner)

Mental health for all?

 The final report of the Commission for Equality in Mental Health

Read report here

The transition from children's services to adult services for young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: the CATCh-uS mixed-methods study

 Read paper from the national Institute of Health research here

Inequalities in health care for people with depression and/or anxiety

 This read describes the health care use of people with depression and/or anxiety across primary and secondary care prior to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Click here to read Health Foundation report

Burnout can exacerbate work stress, further promoting a vicious circle

 Work stress and burnout are mutually reinforcing; surprisingly, the effect of work stress on burnout is much smaller than the effect of burnout on work stress.

Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Lack of positivity bias can predict relapse in bipolar disorder

 New findings could provide a tool for people with bipolar disorder and clinicians to predict relapse and intervene in a timely manner

Click here for ScienceDaily article

Click here for full text article

Hundreds of young people with eating disorders to benefit from ‘gold standard’ NHS treatment

 Young people with eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia are to get rapid access to specialist NHS treatment across England

Read NHS England news here 

NICE to become single point of access for Covid-19 guidance and advice

NICE has today (6 November) announced that it is to host a new, single point of advice on caring for people with Covid-19 and the management of Covid-19 in a variety of clinical settings.

NICE news here

COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing

 Read government guidance here

Suicide prevention profile updates

 Data on suicide, associated prevalence, risk factors and service contact among groups at increased risk.

Read government statistics here

Dementia ward inpatients need better protection from COVID-19

 Clarissa Giebel summarises a recent study on the prevalence, management, and outcomes of COVID-19 infections in older people and dementia patients on mental health wards.

Read Mental Elf review here

Click here for article review is based on

Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and the COVID-19 crisis

 Those most at risk from COVID-19 – older people, and people with existing long-term health conditions – are likely to be over-represented in the group of people whose rights and freedoms are protected by the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005. This quick guide describes the protections the MCA gives them, both during the crisis and in more typical times.

Click here to read Social Care Institute for Excellence guide

People with mild memory problems are left in limbo between health and dementia, and need help to make lifestyle changes

 People with memory problems who are told they do not have dementia – but might get it in future – are left in limbo, uncertain about their future and with few services to help them.

Click here to read National Institute of Health Research alert 

Postpartum depression may persist three years after giving birth

  A study of 5,000 women has found that approximately 1 in 4 experienced high levels of depressive symptoms at some point in the three years after giving birth. The rest of the women experienced low levels of depression throughout the three-year span.

Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Click here for full text and click "Download pdf" link

Out of sight – who cares?: Restraint, segregation and seclusion review

 This report looks at use of restraint, seclusion and segregation in care services for people with a mental health condition, a learning disability or autistic people. A number of recommendations to improve care are made, including renewed attempts to reduce restrictive practice.

Read CQC report here

Minds that matter: understanding mental health in later life

 his report looks at the life events and circumstances that can affect people's mental health in later life, including bereavement, loneliness, ill health and caring responsibilities

Read Independent Age report here

Single brain region links depression and anxiety, heart disease, and treatment sensitivity

Over-activity in a single brain region called the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sgACC) underlies several key symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders, but an antidepressant only successfully treats some of the symptoms.

Click here to read ScienceDaily article 

Click here to read full text article

Recommendations from male students help shape mental health support for this high-risk group

 Male university students suggested approaches that would encourage them to seek help with their mental health. Examples include providing male-only spaces, and using positive masculine narratives of help-seeking. Terms other than ‘mental health’ could be used to describe group sessions.

Click here for National Institute for Health Research report

CQC reports on local action to improve mental health care for children and young people

 Click here for CQC report

The impacts of volunteering on the subjective wellbeing of volunteers: a rapid evidence assessment

 There is a growing body of research on the links between volunteering and wellbeing. This review (co-published with Spirit of 2012, and in partnership with the Institute of Volunteer Research) brings together the most relevant studies. Click here to access King's Fund blog

Advancing Mental Health Equalities Strategy

 This strategy summarises the core actions all mental health services need to take to better address inequalities in access, experience and outcomes across the sector. Read King's Fund blog and link to NHS England Strategy here

COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing

 Click here for government guidance

COVID-19: guidance on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing

 Read government guidance here

CQC reports on the need for better access to mental health care and support

 Click here to two CQC reports

COVID-19 policies in the UK and consequences for mental health - The Lancet - Correspondence

 Read full text The Lancet correspondence here (Look for pdf download)

Guidance on the support of mental health social workers working in NHS, independent or integrated services.

 Read HEE guidance here

Evaluating digital health products

 Resources to help anyone developing or running a digital health product to conduct an evaluation.

Click here for government collection

COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable

 Click here for government guidance

Suicide prevention: developing a local action plan

 Read Public Health England resource pack here

How mental health charities are responding to Covid-19

 Covid-19 has put extra pressure on many people’s mental health, and charities that provide helplines or support have reported increasing demands for help. Mental health organisations have had to quickly adapt their services to meet these needs and find ways of meeting additional demand with reduced resource

Click here to read Centre for Mental Health report

NHS EmployersAttracting more people into mental health nurse education

 A new report from the Nuffield Trust, commissioned by NHS Employers and the Mental Health Network explores how we can attract more people, from a broad range of backgrounds, to study mental health nursing.

Click here for link to NHS Employers

Amyloid deposits not associated with depression in the elderly

Researchers have suspected that amyloid beta deposits might also underlie the cognitive decline seen in older people with depression, however a new study has found that abnormal amyloid beta deposits were actually found in fewer older adults with major depression compared to non-depressed control subjects.  Click here to read further. 

Inquiry into the support available for young people who self-harm

This inquiry explored the experiences of young people who self-harm in accessing support services.  Click here for further details.  

An online supported self-management toolkit for relatives of people with psychosis or bipolar experiences: the IMPART multiple case study

There were many factors impacting on implementation of the toolkit, including high staff caseloads, technical difficulties and lack of training, but staff and relatives were generally positive about the concept.  Click here for further details. 

Impact of COVID-19 on loneliness, mental health, and health service utilisation: a prospective cohort study of older adults with multimorbidity in primary care, BJGP

Study (n=583 ≥60 years) reports psychosocial health of older patients with multimorbidity markedly deteriorated and missed medical appointments substantially increased after the COVID-19 outbreak.  Click here for further details. 

National Clinical Audit of Psychosis-Early intervention in Psychosis 2019-2020 - England Report

This report provides national and organisation-level findings on the treatment of people by early intervention in psychosis (EIP) teams in England, collected as part of the National Clinical Audit of Psychosis (NCAP).  Click here for further details.

How does racism impact the mental health and wellbeing of Black and Asian LGBT+ people?

 Centre for Mental Health wants to better understand the impact of racism on the mental health and wellbeing of Black and Asian LGBT+ people in the UK.

Click here to have your say

Coronavirus and depression in adults, Great Britain: June 2020

 The proportion of the population with depressive symptoms in Great Britain between 4 and 14 June 2020, based on the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey. Includes how symptoms of depression have changed since before the pandemic (July 2019 to March 2020).

Click here for government statistics

COVID-19: guidance for those leading a nomadic way of life

 Click here for government guidance

The psychological impact of COVID-19 and other viral epidemics on frontline healthcare workers and ways to address it: A rapid systematic review

 Frontline health care workers (HCWs), especially females and nurses, are amongst the most vulnerable groups at risk of mental health problems, especially during severe viral epidemics.

Click here for full text review article

Loneliness predicts development of type 2 diabetes

 New research has shown for the first time that people over 50 who report higher levels of loneliness are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

Click here for ScienceDaily article

Click here for full text article

People react better to both negative and positive events with more sleep

 New research finds that after a night of shorter sleep, people react more emotionally to stressful events the next day -- and they don't find as much joy in the good things.

Click here for ScienceDaily article

Mental health data and analysis: a guide for health professionals

Guidance for commissioners and health professionals to make decisions about mental health services and interventions based on data and analysis.

Click here for government guidance

COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing

 Click here for government guidance

COVID-19: guidance on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing

 Click here for government guidance

Public Health England launches new Every Mind Matters campaign

 Read government news item here

‘It’s Everywhere’: Alcohol’s Public Face And Private Harm

 This Commission was set up by alcohol health experts and Parliamentarians to examine the full extent of alcohol harm across the UK. In this, their final report, the Commission outlines recommendations for reducing harm and calls for a national strategy for alcohol.

Click here to access links from King's Fund blog

Public Health England launches new Every Mind Matters campaign

 Mental health campaign supports the wellbeing of children, young people and their parents.

Click here for government news item

Rolling Out Social Prescribing: Understanding The Experience Of The Voluntary, Community And Social Enterprise Sector

 This report sets out the findings of research conducted by National Voices for NHS England to explore the perspectives and experiences of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in relation to the NHS rollout of social prescribing. 

Click here to assess The Kings Fund blog

COVID-19: impacts on health - reports and tools

 National reports and tool to support the monitoring of the direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19 on the population.

Click here for reports and tools

COVID-19: mental health and wellbeing surveillance report

This report compiles routinely updated indicators from multiple sources and summarises important findings from ongoing surveys.

Click here to access reports

Teens struggle with lockdown mental health more than parents

 Click here for newspaper article

Click here for full study

Clinical psychology in primary care

 Primary care services are most people’s first and most frequent point of contact with the NHS. However, they are struggling to meet ever-growing demand with limited resources, and GPs have variable levels of knowledge and confidence in meeting people’s mental health needs.

Click here for Centre of Mental Health report

Worlds Of Influence: Understanding What Shapes Child Well-Being In Rich Countries

 This report looks at children from the world’s richest countries and offers a mixed picture of their health, skills and happiness. For many, issues such as poverty, exclusion and pollution threaten their mental well-being, physical health and opportunities to develop skills. It finds that even countries with good social, economic and environmental conditions are a long way from meeting the targets set in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Read Unicef report here

Mental health and COVID-19

Click here to access the Collection that brings together National Institute for Healthcare Research research on several aspects of mental health that are particularly relevant to the COVID-19 situation.

Children’s mental health and wellbeing in isolated areas

 Click here to access full report from the Centre of Mental Health (link is to the right of the page)

Depression worsens over time for older caregivers of newly diagnosed dementia patients

 Caring for a partner or spouse with a new diagnosis of Alzheimer's or related dementia is associated with a 30 percent increase in depressive symptoms, compared to older adults who don't have a spouse with dementia -- and these symptoms are sustained over time, a new study found.

Read ScienceDaily article here

Telephone befriending: a valuable service during lockdown

 In response to the coronavirus outbreak, Healthwatch Enfield staff and volunteers staffed a telephone befriending scheme from April to August 2020. This report gives a snapshot of issues raised by residents identified as being vulnerable or at risk. It highlights the impact of social isolation on health and wellbeing including mental health issues on residents, with those with on-going health needs being particularly affected.

Read Healthwatch Enfield report here

Boosting Ability to Be Playful May Enhance Satisfaction With Life

 A new study finds that simple exercises can help make people more playful, which helps them feel more satisfied with their lives.

Click here for link to PsychCentral article

Click here for full text article

How has Covid-19 affected loneliness?, What Works Centre for Wellbeing

 This briefing highlights findings from the Covid Social Study, as part of ongoing data analysis work with University College London. This study has surveyed more than 70,000 people since March 2020, asking different questions about their experiences and wellbeing over the past few months, including asking people about loneliness.

Click here for briefing

Creating space for compassion, empathy and learning

 Click here to access King's Fund site

Black Patients Experience Less Anxiety, Pain with Black MD

 A new study suggests that when doctors are the same race as their patients, it can forge a sense of comfort that helps reduce anxiety and pain, particularly for Black patients.

Click here for PsychCentral article

Click here for full text article

Who could benefit from exercise and behavioral treatment?

 Aerobic exercise clearly benefits young adults with major depression, and a study suggests it may be possible to predict those who would benefit from behavioral therapy with exercise.

Click here to read ScienceDaily article

None of the most common blood pressure medications increased the risk of depression, some lowered the risk

Among the 41 most common blood pressure medications, none of them raised the risk of depression, according to an analysis from Denmark. The study also found that some high blood pressure medications lowered the risk of depression.

Click here for ScienceDaily article

West Midlands inquiry into Covid-19 fatalities in the BAME community

A task force has found that the disproportionate number of Covid deaths in Black and ethnic minority communities in the West Midlands were avoidable. 

 Read report here

Reading about women’s mental health throughout history, I began to understand myself

While it hurts to read about these women’s pain, worse still is knowing what isn’t written. The mistreatment, the lack of understanding.

Read newspaper piece here 

The Library & Knowledge Services will be purchasing the book in due course

Rehabilitation for adults with complex psychosis - NICE guideline [NG181]

 This guideline aims to ensure people can have rehabilitation when they need it and promotes a positive approach to long-term recovery. It includes recommendations on organising services, care planning, and meeting people’s physical healthcare needs.

Click here for NICE guidance

Targeted treatment for depression could benefit patients with psychosis

 Patients with early onset psychosis may benefit from treatment for depression, including with anti-depressants alongside other medication, new research shows.

Click here for ScienceDaily article

Future mental health care may include diagnosis via brain scan and computer algorithm

 Most of modern medicine has physical tests or objective techniques to define much of what ails us. Yet, there is currently no blood or genetic test, or impartial procedure that can definitively diagnose a mental illness, and certainly none to distinguish between different psychiatric disorders with similar symptoms. Experts are combining machine learning with brain imaging tools to redefine the standard for diagnosing mental illnesses.

Read ScienceDaily article here

Read full text article here

Social connection is the strongest protective factor for depression

 Social connection is the strongest protective factor for depression.

Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Wider impacts of COVID-19 on health monitoring tool

 National monitoring tool that brings together metrics to assess the wider impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) on health.

Click here for Government research and analysis

Decision making and mental capacity

 Click here for NICE guidance

Stress and anger may exacerbate heart failure

Mental stress and anger may have clinical implications for patients with heart failure, according to a new report.

Click here for ScienceDaily article

NHS Reset: Mental health services and COVID-19: preparing for the rising tide

 While ostensibly a physical health issue, COVID-19 has and will continue to have huge implications for mental health providers and the individuals they support.

Click here to read NHS Confederation report

One in eight men suffer from at least one mental health disorder, says Worcestershire Healthy Minds

 ONE in eight men in the UK suffer from at least one common mental health disorder say the team at Worcestershire Healthy Minds.Yet they can easily get free and confidential support without having to visit a GP first.

Read local newspaper report here

The calm before the storm? How primary care networks and mental health providers can prepare for rising demand for mental health services

In June 2020, the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network and PCN Network convened senior leaders to discuss how both sectors can work together to prepare for the expected increase in demand for mental health support following the COVID-19 outbreak.

Read NHS Confederation news piece here

COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing

Read Government guidance here

Strong relationships in adulthood won't 'fix' effects of early childhood adversity

Harsh conditions in early life are a fundamental cause of adult stress, and according to new research on wild baboons, this effect is not explained by a lack of social support in adulthood.
Read ScienceDaily article here
Read full text article here

COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable

Information for shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19.
See Government guidance here

Forecasting needs and risks in the UK

Second forecast of the mental health impacts of the pandemic warns that the combination of a possible rise in Covid-19 cases combined with seasonal flu, the absence of financial safety nets such as the furlough scheme, and a no-deal Brexit may affect the whole UK economy and have a major knock-on effect on mental health.
Read Centre for Mental Health report here

To improve students' mental health, study finds, teach them to breathe

When college students learn specific techniques for managing stress and anxiety, their well-being improves across a range of measures and leads to better mental health, a new study finds.
Read SciencDaily article here
See Full text article here

Practitioners who support young adults needed to take part in digital technology study

Digital technology can present both opportunities and harms to young people and their mental health. A new research project is asking for practitioners who support young adults with their mental health to take part in a UK-wide online survey to identify the importance of adolescents' digital technology use to consultations about mental health.
Click here to read more

Text messaging: The next gen of therapy in mental health A psychotherapy tool in real-time that enhances care

In the US, approximately 19% of all adults have a diagnosable mental illness. Clinic-based services may fall short of meeting patient needs. In the first randomized controlled trial of its kind, a team investigated the impact of a texting intervention as an add-on to a mental health treatment program versus one without it. A new study finds that a text-messaging-based intervention can be a safe, clinically promising and feasible tool to augment care for people with serious mental illness
Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Mindfulness Training Can Benefit Anger Management in Men

New research suggests mindfulness training can help men learn to control their anger and to be less violent towards their partner.
Read PsychCentral article here
Read full text BMC Psychiatry article here

Improving mental health and reducing antipsychotic use in people with dementia in care homes: the WHELD research programme including two RCTs

Read full report from the National Institute of Health Research here

Lithium in drinking water linked with lower suicide rates

Naturally occurring lithium in public drinking water may have an anti-suicidal effect - according to a new study. The study collated research from around the world and found that geographical areas with relatively high levels or concentration of lithium in public drinking water had correspondingly lower suicide rates.
Read ScienceDaily article here

The Psychology Of Loneliness: Why It Matters And What We Can Do

Read King's Fund blog here for report

Older adults coped with pandemic best, study reveals

Adults aged 60 and up have fared better emotionally compared to younger adults (18-39) and middle-aged adults (40-59) amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new research.
Click here for ScienceDaily article

Click here for full text article (Does have irritating watermark!)

Mental health before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal probability sample survey of the UK population, The Lancet Psychiatry

Click here for full text article

Supporting Staff To Return To The Workplace

Read King's Fund blog here for guidance and news

Mental health and primary care networks: Understanding the opportunities

Read King's Fund publication here

Use of talking therapy outdoors

Read British Psychological Society guidance here

Intending to Do a Daily Task Can Create False Memories of Completion

There’s a good reason why you can’t remember if you actually took your daily medication today or not. A new study suggests that having an intention to complete a commonly performed task can be misremembered as actually having completed it.
Click here for PsychCentral article

Public Mental Health and Wellbeing and Covid-19

The Local Government Association (LGA) and the Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) have jointly produced this briefing for Directors of Public Health about the public mental health and wellbeing issues arising from the COVID-19 outbreak.
Read paper here

How mental health care should change as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Lancet Psychiatry

Read Full Text article here

Traditional PTSD therapy doesn't trigger drug relapse

Researchers have now demonstrated that behavior therapy that exposes people to memories of their trauma doesn't cause relapses of opioid or other drug use, and that PTSD severity and emotional problems have decreased after the first therapy session.
Read ScienceDaily article here
Read Full Text article here

Apathy not depression helps to predict dementia

Apathy offers an important early warning sign of dementia in individuals with cerebrovascular disease, but depression does not, new research suggests.
Read ScienceDaily article here
Read full text article here

New Analysis of fMRI Data May Hone Schizophrenia Treatment

In a new study, researchers from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) have developed tools to improve the analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data, and as a result are now able to identify subgroups of schizophrenia patients.
Read PsychCentral article here

Emerging evidence on COVID-19’s impact on mental health and health inequalities

Different groups of people in the UK are experiencing the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the lockdown very differently. One area of concern is the impact of the pandemic on mental health and how this is affecting some groups much more than others.
Read The Health Foundation report here

Infant sleep problems can signal mental disorders in adolescents

Specific sleep problems among babies and very young children can be linked to mental disorders in adolescents, a new study has found.
Click here for ScienceDaily article
Click here for link to full text original article

Brief Prenatal Role-Play Predicts New Fathers’ Parenting Skills

A new study suggests a five-minute role-play done with men before the birth of their first child can predict the quality of their parenting after the baby arrives.
Read PsychCentral article here
Read full text article here - you may need an athens password

“Business as usual is not an option”: Prime Minister urged to create new Mental Health Renewal Plan for England

Read Centre for Mental Health news piece here

Prescribing guidelines for patients with a first episode psychosis

Read NICE guidance here

COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable

Read Government guidance here

Life after lockdown: tackling loneliness

Read The British Red Cross article here

Covid-19: understanding inequalities in mental health during the pandemic

Read Centre for Mental Health briefing here

Parental Suicidal Behavior Tied to Emotional Difficulties as Risk Factors for Youth Suicide

A new pilot study suggests a parental history of suicidal behavior and difficulty in regulating emotions are risk factors for suicidal behaviors in youth.
Read PsychCentral article here

Poor sleep significantly linked with teenage depression

Teenagers who experience very poor sleep may be more likely to experience poor mental health in later life, as depressed teens in study slept 30 minutes less per night than other groups.
Click here for ScienceDaily article
Click here for Full text article

Therapists and patients have good quality interactions during telephone sessions

Read National Institute of Health Research alert here
Read full text article here

COVID-19: guidance on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing

Read Government guidance here

COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing

Read Government guidance here

COVID-19: understanding the impact on BAME communities

Read Government research here

Depression associated with greater risk of cardiovascular disease

A new study provides further evidence of the link between depressive symptoms and an increased risk of heart disease and early death. Read ScienceDaily article here

Decisive action needed to tackle Covid-19 impact on BME people

Read NHS Confederation news piece here

A Comprehensive List Of Mental Health Resources For Black Women

Click here for summary and links

Inclusion of people with dementia in research can help nurses understand how to deliver successful reminiscence interventions (Commentary)

This study was a metasynthesis of qualitative studies relating to reminiscence therapy in dementia care from a patient’s perspective. With an emphasis on living well with dementia,2 it is important to understand what living well looks like from the perspective of those with dementia.
Read full text article here - you may need an athens password

Research delves into causes of nightmares that shadow female survivors of sexual trauma

A new study attempts to shed light on triggers of post-trauma nightmare occurrences -- a topic that has received scant study.
Click here to access ScienceDaily article
Click here for fulltext article

The mental health effects of the first two months of lockdown and social distancing during the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK

Read Institute of Fiscal Studies report here

Taking trauma related work home - advice for reducing the likelihood of secondary trauma,

Exposure to distressing material – such as traumatising conversations, images and written or auditory testimony – occurs in the work of many people. However the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in this type of work being undertaken in the home.
Read British Psychological Society advice here

Centre for Mental Health to study impact of Covid-19 on wellbeing of whole population by asking for people’s stories in own words

A Year in Our Lives, a project launched today (11 June 2020), is asking people to write up to 2,000 words about how Covid-19 has affected their own mental health and wellbeing. The submissions will be shared in an online archive, but will also be analysed by researchers to identify trends in how people have been affected and whether different groups of people are affected in different ways.
Click here to read more

Persistent negative thinking patterns may raise the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study.
Click here to read PsychCentral article

Talking about death - end of life care guidance for the psychological workforce, BPS

The way we communicate as staff is affected by cultural taboos and also by our own beliefs and experiences, and our personal beliefs and values can affect our clinical decisions and willingness to talk about death.

This document lays out some useful guidance to help managers and supervisors support staff and colleagues who are caring for patients who are dying.
Click here to read document

Spotlight On... The Impact Of Covid-19 On Mental Health Trusts In The NHS

This briefing sets out the immediate challenge of Covid-19 for mental health trusts, how the sector has responded and what is needed to navigate the next phase. It argues that NHS trusts providing mental health and learning disability services have been playing a critical role, both to maintain services and to respond to the current environment alongside their colleagues in the acute, community ambulance and primary care sectors. Read King's Fund blog here

Suicide prevention profile updates

Data on suicide, associated prevalence, risk factors and service contact among groups at increased risk. Statistics delayed - read government update here

Yoga eases depressive symptoms in people with other mental health issues

Read blog here
Read research article here - you may need an athens password

Impact of children's loneliness today could manifest in depression for years to come

A rapid review into the mental health impacts of loneliness on children and young people concludes that there could be a spike in demand for mental health services in the years to come.
Click here to read ScienceDaily article
Click here for full text article

How can an employer support staff mental health and wellbeing during and after lockdown?

Read online article here

Loneliness Found to Be More Common in Young People, Men, Certain Societies

A new large-scale global study finds that young people, men, and people of specific cultures or societies report higher levels of loneliness.
Click here to read PsychCentral article
Click here for full text article - you may need athens password

Depression viewed differently when thought to be biological

People who believe more strongly that depression is biologically caused also tend to think it is more severe and long lasting, compared to those who see less of a role for biological causes, a new study finds.
Read ScienceDaily article here
Click here for full text article - you may need an athens password

Supporting people who are isolated or at risk during the COVID-19 crisis, SCIE (updated 28th May 2020)

This guide shares information, ideas and resources that can be used, especially while working remotely or in isolation, with people who are isolated or vulnerable. Update in this version (published 28th May) - includes updates and new rules from 27th May (England only).

Click here for guidance

Exercise for Seniors in Nursing Homes Can Boost Mental Well-Being, Social Engagement

Tailored exercise programs led by accredited exercise physiologists don’t just provide physical benefits for residents living in nursing homes — they improve mental wellbeing and social engagement, according to a new study. Read PsychCentral article here

Coronavirus infections may lead to delirium and potentially PTSD

People taken ill by coronavirus infections may experience psychiatric problems while hospitalized and potentially after they recover, research suggests.
Read ScienceDaily article here
Read full text article here - you may need an athens password

Overview Of The UK Government’s Response To The Covid-19 Pandemic

Read King's Fund blog here

COVID-19: Psychological assessment undertaken remotely, BPS

These guidelines apply to UK practitioner psychologists conducting psychological assessments of individuals under the specific restrictions in practice which are in place during the Covid-19 pandemic. Click here to read guidelines

Offspring outcomes when a parent experiences one or more major psychiatric disorder(s): a clinical review

Read abstract here or full text here from Evidence-Based Mental Health Journal. You may need an athens account

Covid-19 and the nation’s mental health

Forecasting needs and risks in the UK: May 2020. Read Centre for Mental Health briefing here

How experiencing traumatic stress leads to aggression

Strengthened amygdala pathways increase aggression, may be targets for PTSD treatment.
Read ScienceDaily article here

Youth Who Get Job Skills Training Less Likely to Use Drugs In Long Run

A new study shows that job skills training for low-income youth does more than help them get better jobs. It makes them significantly less likely to use illicit drugs, even 16 years later.
Read PsychCentral article here
Read Full Text article here you may need an athens passowrd

What Fuels Burnout in Health Care Workers During Pandemic?

In an article a team of experts from Texas A&M University and Houston Methodist Hospital outline the effects of fatigue and burnout on intensive care unit (ICU) workers, and the steps that can be taken to reduce these symptoms. Read PsychCentral article here
Read full text article here - you will need an athens account

How COVID-19 May Affect People at Risk for Psychosis

In a new review, published in the journal Schizophrenia Research, a team of researchers describes how the current COVID-19 pandemic may affect people with psychosis or those at risk for psychosis. Click here for PsychCentral link

Click here for full text article - you may need an Athens password. Ring 01905 760601

Resources supporting our mental health and wellbeing

Click here for online resources compiled by The King's Fund

Evaluating digital health products

Resources to help anyone developing or running a digital health product to conduct an evaluation.
Read Government resources here

Can enhanced CBT help people with eating disorders during COVID-19?

Read Article here

CQC has made changes to Mental Health Act complaints process

In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis we have made changes to the way we respond to people contacting us with a complaint about the Mental Health Act. Read CQC news piece here

The potential impact of COVID-19 on mental health outcomes and the implications for service solutions

Read the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) West report here

Our concerns about mental health, learning disability and autism services

Read CQC news piece here 

More Green Tea, Berries and Apples May Halve Risk of Alzheimer’s

A new study finds that over a span of 20 years, older adults who ate less flavonoid-rich foods such as berries, apples and tea were two to four times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias compared with people whose intake was higher.

Read PsychCentral article here

Adaptations to psychological practice: Interim guidance during Covid-19 pandemic

Read The British Psychologist Society guidance here

Chronic illness in childhood linked to higher rates of mental illness

Read ScienceDaily article here

Mental Health in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Emergency—The Italian Response

Read Jama - Psychiatry full text article here

Supporting patients of all ages who are unwell with coronavirus (COVID-19) in mental health, learning disability, autism, dementia and specialist inpatient facilities

Read NHS guidance here

Supporting mental health equality through the pandemic - Centre for Mental Health Strategy

Read Centre for Mental Health news piece and link to strategy here

Severely ill eating disorder patients getting least support, says leading expert

Read HSJ article here

Mental health and COVID-19

As part of its public health response, WHO has worked with partners to develop a set of new materials on the mental health and psychosocial support aspects of COVID-19. Click here to go to WHO website

Feeling burned out? The contributors could be more related to depression than you think

Click here to read ScienceDaily post

Managing anxiety: breathing

Read King's Fund blog publication here

Covid-19 and mental health: a transformational opportunity to apply an evidence-based approach to clinical practice and research Evidence- Based Mental Health

Read article here

Prevention concordat for better mental health: consensus statement

Read government policy paper here

Our Favorite Fictional Villains May Remind Us of – Ourselves

Read PsychCentral article here

Can Suicide Be Predicted From Patients’ Records?

A new study demonstrates that a predictive computer model can identify patients at risk for attempting suicide from patterns in their electronic health records — an average of two years ahead of time.
Read PsychCentral article here
Foe full text click here and search for "Reis" (Author)

Mobilising volunteers to tackle health inequalities

Read HSJ article here

Suicide risk and prevention during the COVID-19 pandemic, The Lancet Psychiatry

Read full text article here

Natural mood regulation low or even absent in people with depression

Mood varies from hour-to-hour, day-to-day and healthy mood regulation involves choosing activities that help settle one's mood. However, in situations where personal choices of activities are constrained, such as during periods of social isolation and lockdown, this natural mood regulation is impaired which might result in depression. New research suggests a new target for treating and reducing depression is supporting natural mood regulation. Read ScienceDaily article here

Almost a quarter of adults living under lockdown in the UK have felt loneliness

Almost a quarter of adults living under lockdown in the UK have felt loneliness, raising concern about long-term risk to mental health: Mental Health Foundation Longitudinal Study. Read study here

NHS urges public to stay safe ahead of Ramadan

Read NHS England news piece here

Worcester employer pays for mental health nurses to look after his staff during lockdown

Read local newspaper piece here

PHE response to a Sun newspaper column

Click here for government news piece

Why Some People Don’t Social Distance

Click here to read PsychCentral article
Click here for preview article

COVID-19 mental health campaign launches

Read Government press release here

‘Unprecedented’ plan to prevent suicides during covid-19 crisis

Read Health Service Journal article here

Kids Like Books That Explain Why and How Things Happen

A new study finds that children prefer storybooks that explain why and how things happen, a more nuanced and logical view of the world than may be expected.
Read PsychCentral article here
Click here for full text article

Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind: Why Less-Well Off, Middle-Aged Men Don’t Get The Support They Need

An ongoing Samaritans research project seeks to build on what is already known about the reasons for the high rates of suicide among less well-off, middle-aged men, by exploring what can be done to drive change. Read report on King's Fund Blog here

CQC sets out next steps to support adult social care during the COVID-19 pandemic

Our Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care, Kate Terroni, has written to the adult social care sector highlighting the action we are taking to support providers at this time. Read CQC news piece here

Study: Screen Time Has Little Impact on Kids’ Social Skills

Read PsychCentral article here

Coronavirus: Impact on young people with mental health needs

Read YoungMinds report here

How stress remodels the brain

Research has shown how stress changes the structure of the brain and reveals a potential therapeutic target to the prevent or reverse it. Read ScienceDaily article here

Creativity Triggers Reward Signals in the Brain

While creativity is one of humanity’s most distinctive abilities, it obviously is not necessary for survival because many species that do not possess it have managed to flourish far longer than humans. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Phone Therapy Reduces Depression in Parkinson’s Patients

While depression is common in people with Parkinson’s disease, contributing to faster physical and mental decline, it is often overlooked and undertreated.
Click here to read PsychCentral article
Click here for full text article - you may need athens account (available www.wkp.nhs.uk )

Hugs May Play Important Role in Infant-Parent Bond

A new Japanese study offers some of the first hard evidence that hugs may play an important role in early bonding between parents and their infants. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Dementia profile

Publicly available data on dementia, broken down by geographical area. Click here for government collection

Survey: Increase in Teen Reports of Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Thoughts

An extensive multi-year national survey suggests that anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and other “internalizing” problems are increasing among teens. These conditions now represent a significant portion of the adolescent mental health burden. Read PsychCentral article here

Treatment relieves depression in 90% of participants in small study

Read ScienceDaily article here

Free access to wellbeing apps for all NHS staff

Click here to access NHS Employers site

Smokers at greater risk of severe respiratory disease from COVID-19

Click here to read government news piece

Leading virtual meetings – top tips

Click here to read King's Fund publication

NHS approved mental health and wellbeing app is now free for everyone

Read newspaper article here with links to free apps

RCOT statement on occupational therapists and access to PPE

Click here to read statement

Government to make emergency changes to Mental Health Act

The government is set to make changes to the Mental Health Act, due to concerns there will be a lack of psychiatrists available to assess people that may need to be sectioned and admitted to hospital. Read HSJ news piece here

Mental health and psychosocial considerations during Covid-19 outbreak

Read WHO guidance here

Targeting Unhealthy Lifestyles May Increase Longevity in Those With Severe Mental Illness

Addressing unhealthy lifestyle factors among people with severe mental illness could potentially provide the greatest benefit in increasing life expectancy, according to a new U.K. study conducted by researchers at King’s College London. Click here for link to PsychCentral articlee

Royals back coronavirus mental health campaign - BBC News

Click here to read news piece - with links to PHE advice

COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing

Read government guidance here

COVID-19: guidance on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing

Read government guidance here

For Mental Well-Being, Live in Moment But Plan For Future

People who manage to balance living in the moment with planning for the future are best able to weather daily stress without succumbing to negative moods, according to a new study by researchers from North Carolina (NC) State University. Read PsychCentral article here

These are the easy steps to take to look after your mental health during coronavirus

These are the easy steps to take to look after your mental health during coronavirus, Click here to read article

Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel advice for educational settings

Click here for government guidance

COVID-19: guidance for domestic abuse safe accommodation provision

Click here for government advice

ADHD Drugs Cause Brain to Focus on Benefits of Work, Not the Costs

It has long been assumed that stimulant drugs, such as Ritalin and Adderall, work by helping people focus. Click here to link to PsychCentral article

Mental Stress May Predict 2nd Heart Attack or Dying from Heart Disease

For some people who survive a heart attack, mental stress may be a stronger predictor of a repeat heart attack or dying from heart disease than physical stress, according to new research. Click here for PsychCentral article

Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on vulnerable children and young people

Click here to see government guidance

RCOT issues advice to help those who are social distancing

Click here for advice and guidance

Racial disparities in mental health: literature and evidence review.

The Racial Equality Foundation has published a report on the persistent racial disparities in mental health. Click here to access it

Being Mindful of Your Mental Health During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Click here for healthline advice

Government to make emergency changes to Mental Health Act

The government is set to make changes to the Mental Health Act, due to concerns there will be a lack of psychiatrists available to assess people that may need to be sectioned and admitted to hospital. Read HSJ article here

People Addicted to Running at Risk for More Severe Injuries

The psychological, health and social benefits of running are well-known, but when the sport becomes an addiction, it can cause more harm than good, according to a new study by University of South Australia Adjunct Professor Jan de Jonge and his team.
Click here to access PsychCentral article

CQC suspend routine inspections

Routine inspections suspended in response to coronavirus outbreak. Click here for news piece

Coronavirus: How to protect your mental health

Click here to read news piece

COVID-19: guidance for hostel or day centres for people rough sleeping

See government guidance here

COVID-19: guidance for primary care

See government guidance here

COVID-19: prisons and other prescribed places of detention guidance

Click here for government advice

Shrewsbury and Telford choir members raise thousands for specialist dementia nurses

Click here to read newspaper article

Parents share diary of daughter's mental health battle

Family 'thrown into a world we didn't understand'  BBC News. Read news piece here

Reasons for Loneliness May Differ by Generation

New research suggests loneliness persists in equal measure among various generations. However, the origin of feeling lonely may be different over the course of life.
Click here for PsychCentral article
Click here for link to full text - you may need an athens password

Kids Who Blame Themselves for Mom’s Sadness More Likely to Face Depression, Anxiety

Children who feel a sense of responsibility for their mother’s sadness or depression are more likely to face depression and anxiety themselves, according to a new study led by researchers at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Texas.
Read PsychCentral article here
Click here to full text - you will need an athens password - available from www.wkp.nhs.uk

Gratitude interventions don't help with depression, anxiety

Go ahead and be grateful for the good things in your life. Just don't think that a gratitude intervention will help you feel less depressed or anxious.Click here for ScienceDaily article

Family Meals Can Provide Mental and Physical Benefits

New research finds that more frequent family meals were associated with better dietary outcomes and family functioning outcomes.
Click here for PsychCentral article
Click here for full text article - you will been Athens password - (Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, 2019-11-01, Volume 51, Issue 10)

Virtual Workshop: Transforming the Practice of Mental Health Care

On April 2, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) will host a virtual workshop on Transforming the Practice of Mental Health Care. Click here for details on how to join

Large Study Adds New Evidence to Genetic Map of Psychiatric Disorders

A new international study of approximately 230,000 patients has identified 109 genetic variants associated with eight psychiatric disorders: autism, attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette Syndrome.
Read PsychCentral article here
Click here for full text article

Social Media Messages to Inspire Exercise May Backfire

A new Australian study suggests an Instagram movement to promote better health is flawed. Researchers discovered the images associated with an online program appear to make many women feel worse about themselves and their bodies rather than inspiring them to exercise.
Click here to read PsychCentral article
Click here for Full Text article

'You might feel nobody cares, but I do'

Link to BBC video here

Unhealthy Diet Linked to Anxiety Disorders

New research shows that adults who have low fruit and vegetable intakes have a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. This finding helps to explain the discovery of an association or correlation between body composition and anxiety disorders. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Mental health crisis services rolled out across england

Mental health crisis teams will be strengthened and new alternative forms of provision such as safe havens and crisis cafes will open across the country as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. Read NHS news here

Occupational therapy’s role in social prescribing

RCOT has been working on the topic of social prescribing and the unique contribution occupational therapy can make for a considerable time – it’s been a thread woven throughout much of our work over the past few years. Read RCOT news piece here

How Culture Impacts Our Reaction to Being Sick

A new study suggests that a person’s culture and personal values may shape their internal views on how to be “socially appropriate” when they are sick. The findings are published in the journal Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience.
Click here for PsychCentral article
Click here for full text

NHS to celebrate ‘health and care heroes’ with parliamentary awards

The NHS has today (4 March) launched the NHS Parliamentary Awards 2020, to celebrate and give national recognition to staff who go above and beyond the call of duty. There is a category for Mental Health. Click here to access government news website. Click here to award site

Delivering health and care for people who sleep rough

See King's Fund guidance here

7 Ways Traveling Can Be Good For Your Mental Health

Read article from The Science Times here

Race Inequality In The Workforce: Exploring Connections Between Work, Ethnicity And Mental Health

Read King's Blog report here

Health matters: smoking and mental health

This edition of Health Matters focuses on smoking among people living with a broad range of mental health conditions. Click here to read government guidance

Older people’s hospital admissions in the last year of life

Number of admissions and length of stay in hospital amongst people aged 75 years and older in England in 2017, by age, sex, cause of death. Click here to see government statistics

When and How to End Antidepressant Treatment And Avoid Withdrawal Symptoms

Many experts are now recommending that individuals who have taken antidepressants for years should consider coming off the medication, if symptoms have been resolved.
Click here to read PsychCentral article
Click here for original full text article

We Need To Pay Better Attention To Loved Ones' Mental Health

Demi Lovato's latest words are a reminder that just telling a loved one to reach out for help isn't enough. Click here to read HuffPost article

Connection with Nature Important for Health

Emerging research suggests reconnecting with nature could be key to improving individual health. Investigators report that individuals who visit natural spaces weekly and feel psychologically connected to them report better physical and mental well-being. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Mental Health Foundation publishes major new report on social inequalities and mental health problems

The Mental Health Foundation today launched its briefing paper: Tackling social inequalities to reduce mental health problems: How everyone can flourish equally. Click here to access report

Stretched staff doing their best to provide great care but mental health services need more staff and modern facilities

Sean Duggan, chief executive of the Mental Health Network, responds to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman’s report on NHS mental health services. Read NHS Confederation news piece here

Staff survey: Best and worst for mental health

Staff working for mental health and learning disability providers remain the least likely to say they are happy with the standard of care offered by their organisation – although there has been a slight improvement. Read HSJ summary here

NHS staff morale improves but too many facing abuse

NHS staff say they are now happier and more likely to recommend their organisation as a place to work than last year, but too many still experience unacceptable abuse from patients and the public. Read NHS news piece here

Monitoring the Mental Health Act in 2018/19

The findings detailed in this report include the fact that services must apply human rights principles and frameworks, and that their impact on people should be continuously reviewed to make sure people are protected and respected. Click here to read CQC report

Sitting still linked to increased risk of depression in adolescents

Too much time sitting still -- sedentary behaviour -- is linked to an increased risk of depressive symptoms in adolescents, finds a new UCL-led study.

Click here for ScienceDaily article
Click here for full text article - any problems accessing journal please ring 01905 760601

Health matters: rough sleeping

A professional resource for local authorities and commissioners on preventing and ending rough sleeping. Click here for government guidance

AI, brain scans may alter how doctors treat depression

Artificial intelligence may soon play a critical role in choosing which depression therapy is best for patients. Read ScienceDaily article here

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy connected to elevated risk of ADHD

The risk of ADHD was 34 percent higher in children whose mother had a vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy than in those children whose mother's vitamin D level was sufficient during the first and second trimesters. The result was adjusted for maternal age, socioeconomic status and psychiatric history. Read ScienceDaily article here

‘Overwhelming and terrifying’: the rise of climate anxiety

Experts concerned young people’s mental health particularly hit by reality of the climate crisis. Read national news piece here

County's hospitals and mental health wards given clean bill of health

THE county’s community hospitals and mental health wards have been given a clean bill of health following a recent environmental inspection. Read local news piece here

The state of children's mental health services

This report gives an overview of the provision of Children and Young People's Mental Health Services (CYPMHS) in England. The briefing also looks ahead to assess whether current government plans go far enough to meet demand. Click here for report

New online therapy for lingering depression symptoms could fill important gap in care

An online version of a pioneering therapy aimed at reducing the lingering symptoms of depression can offer additional benefits for patients receiving care, according to a new U of T Scarborough study. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

CQC finds more focus on human rights needed by healthcare services when using the Mental Health Act

Services need to improve how they provide care and treatment for people detained under the Mental Health Act (MHA) in a way that respects their human rights, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has found. Read CQC report here

What does your internal monologue say about your mental health?

Psychologists the world over were likely exchanging virtual knowing glances a couple of days ago when a thread about the universal existence of inner monologues popped off on Twitter. Read MIC blog here

General Anesthesia During Childbirth May be Risk Factor for Depression

New research suggests having general anesthesia in a cesarean delivery is linked with significantly increased odds of a variety of mental health concerns.
Click here to read PsychCentral article
Click here to read original full text article - contact 01905 760601 if you have difficulty accessing the full text

Behavioural insights: public health

An overview of how behavioural insights are used to improve public health in England. Read government collection here

Children's mental health is effected by sleep duration

Depression, anxiety, impulsive behavior and poor cognitive performance in children is effected by the amount of sleep they have researchers have found. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Palliative and end of life care profiles: February 2020 data update

The profiles provide an overview of palliative and end of life care in England at various geographies. Click here for government statistics

Adoptees Have Slightly Higher Genetic Risk for Mental Illness

Adopted children have an increased risk for depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders. Research has primarily attributed this to stressful early childhoods, but a new study finds that genetics also plays a role. Read PsychCentral article here

Building resilience: how local partnerships are supporting children and young people’s mental health and emotional wellbeing

Too many children and young people nationally do not receive the support they need to improve their mental health and wellbeing. The purpose of this research, commissioned from Isos Partnership, is to explore some of the factors which are contributing to this nationally challenging context. Read King's Fund blog and report here

NHS operational planning and contracting guidance 2020/21

This guidance covers system planning, full operational plan requirements, details of workforce transformation requirements, the financial settlement and the process and timescales around the submission of plans that the NHS must plan to do during 2020/21. Click here for NHS guidance

How it feels to be hospitalised for your mental health

Three women share their stories of life on a psychiatric ward. Read magazine article here

Choose evaluation methods: evaluating digital health products

Compare different evaluation approaches and choose an appropriate method. Click here for government guidance

Alcohol and drug misuse and treatment statistics

Statistics to support improvements in decision making when planning alcohol and drug misuse treatment services. Access government statistics here

Ramblers Walking for Health

Walking for Health targets older adults and those with long-term health conditions to improve and maintain their health and wellbeing. Read government case study here

Research leads to life changing improvement for some people living with depression

Deep brain stimulation study targets people with treatment-resistant depression. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Unhealthy and unhappy: Mental toll of troubled relationships

Some forms of domestic violence double victims' risk of depression and anxiety disorders later in life, according to recent research. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Reasonable adjustments for people with a learning disability

Guides on how reasonable adjustments should be made to health services and adjustments to help people with learning disabilities to access services. Click here to access government guides

Antidepressants may reduce anxiety more than symptoms of depression

An NIHR-funded trial has shown that one of the most common antidepressants, sertraline, reduces anxiety symptoms several weeks before it has an effect on depressive symptoms.
Click here to access website

Click here to access full text article

Nasal spray medicine for treatment-resistant depression not recommended by NICE

A nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression has not been recommended by NICE because of uncertainties over its clinical and cost effectiveness. Click here to read NICE news

Mental Health: Victims and Witnesses with Mental Health Conditions and Disorders

This guidance identifies the principles relevant to victims and witnesses with mental health conditions or disorders. Read Crown Prosecution Service guidance here

Depression Around Menopause Often Goes Undetected

New research suggests a high number of women experience symptoms of depression during perimenopause yet the mental health issue is not detected and as a consequence, untreated. Read PsychCentral article here

Cognitive function in people with mental illness

A study has shown few differences in the profiles of genes that influence cognition between people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and the general population. This surprising finding could provide new insights into therapies designed to improve cognition.Read ScienceDaily article here

How Does Cyberbullying Impact Young Psychiatric Inpatients?

Cyberbullying can magnify symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in young inpatients at an adolescent psychiatric hospital, according to a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Government funding for occupational therapy students

In a speech today to the Policy Exchange, Minister for Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock outlined new funding for pre-registration occupational therapy students in England. Read RCOT news piece here

Mental health: needs of gang-affiliated young people

A briefing on the burden of mental illness faced by young people involved with gangs, part of the 'Ending Gang and Youth Violence' programme. Click here to read government research and analysis

Country’s top mental health nurse warns video games pushing young people into ‘under the radar’ gambling

NHS mental health director Claire Murdoch has today called on gaming companies to crack down on gambling addiction risks by banning loot boxes from their products. Click here to read NHS news item

Rich rewards: Scientists reveal ADHD medication's effect on the brain

Researchers scan the brain to uncover how medication for ADHD affects the brain's reward system. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Delivering The Dementia Moonshot: A Plan To Find Life-Changing Treatments

This report calls on government to invest in six priority research areas, which will help to deliver a life-changing treatment for dementia by doubling research funding and speeding up trials for new treatments. Click here for link to King's Fund blog

Does It Matter What We Eat for our Mental Health?

A new expert review confirms a link between a poor diet and mood disorders.However, researchers in the new field of nutritional psychiatry caution that the evidence for many diets is comparatively weak. Click here to read PsychCentral article

Mix of stress and air pollution may lead to cognitive difficulties in children

Children with elevated exposure to early life stress in the home and elevated prenatal exposure to air pollution exhibited heightened symptoms of attention and thought problems, according to researchers. Early life stress is common in youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who also often live in areas with greater exposure to air pollution. Read ScienceDaily article here

HIV in the UK: towards zero HIV transmissions by 2030

A new report by Public Health England shows that HIV transmission in the UK has continued to fall. Read Government report here

Measuring Progress: Commitments To Support And Expand The Mental Health Workforce In England

This report finds that recent commitments to support and expand the mental health workforce have fallen short of their goals. To assess progress against these commitments and identify where further action is required, the report analyses workforce data and a survey of health care professionals working in the sector. Click here to read report

Beyond parity of esteem report

Doctors remain extremely concerned about the state of mental health services and the ability to deliver on commitments to achieve parity. Mental health services remain a long way behind most physical health services in terms of their resourcing, patient ability to access care and overall patient outcomes. This report outlines our findings about the state of mental health in England and recommendations for improvements. Read BMA report here

Older people encouraged to ditch “stiff upper lip” approach to mental ill health

NHS England and Age UK have joined forces in a campaign to encourage older people to access treatment for mental health conditions, as new analysis shows a majority of older people do not seek help.Click here to read NHS news link

Study sheds light on link between cannabis, anxiety and stress

A molecule produced by the brain that activates the same receptors as marijuana is protective against stress by reducing anxiety-causing connections between two brain regions, researchers report. Click here to read ScienceDaily article

Baby and Adult Brains Sync Up During Play Time

New research suggests that during play time, parents and their babies might be “on the same wavelength,” experiencing similar brain activity in the same brain regions. Read PsychCentral article here

Plants can improve your work life

In modern society, stress reduction in the workplace is a pressing issue. While it has been commonly assumed that plant life is soothing to those required to regularly face stressful or mundane situations, this study scientifically verifies the degree of psychological and physiological impact induced by indoor plants. Read ScienceDaily article here

How to build effective teams in general practice

Read King's Fund blog here

Mental health policy in England

House of Commons Library briefing on mental health policy in England. Around one in four people in the UK suffer from a mental health problem each year. The NHS has set out that it wants to achieve “parity of esteem” between mental and physical health, in terms of access to services, quality of care and allocation of resources.  Click here to read further.

Cognition May Progressively Decline in Later Stages of Psychotic Illness

A new study finds that people with psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, show reduced cognition in several areas, and these impairments are likely to worsen with age.  Click here to read further.

Tau Protein Tangles May Predict Sites of Brain Degeneration in Alzheimer’s

Brain imaging of tau-protein “tangles” predicts the location of future brain atrophy in Alzheimer’s patients a year or more in advance, according to a new study.  Click here to read further.

Diet High in Refined Carbs May Trigger Insomnia in Older Women

A new study finds that postmenopausal women who eat a diet high in refined carbohydrates, particularly added sugars, may be at greater risk for insomnia.  Click here to read further.