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Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, Schizophrenia / 07.11.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ian Kelleher PhD, MB BCh BAO (Medicine) Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Academy of Medical Sciences Professor Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research University of Edinburgh MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response:  Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness associated with hallucinations, delusions and a marked decline in functioning. It usually begins in adulthood, in the 20s, but we know from recent research that as many as half of all individuals who develop schizophrenia had attended child and adolescent psychiatry services earlier in life for other mental health problems. That’s exciting because it suggests: maybe there’s something we could do to reduce risk of schizophrenia in adolescent psychiatry services. But, at present, we don’t have evidence that any intervention reduces schizophrenia risk in this clinical population. Lots of researchers are interested in the antibiotic doxycycline, and the structurally similarly minocycline, because it has potential neuroprotective effects. It crosses the blood brain barrier and seems to reduce inflammation and apoptosis (or programmed cell death). We think that excessive synaptic pruning may play a key role in the development of schizophrenia. In laboratory studies, doxycycline seems to reduce the level of synaptic pruning by its effect on the immune system. Some research suggests that even low dose exposure to doxycycline may lead to long-term effects in “dampening down” activity by microglia, the brain’s resident macrophages, which are central to the process of synaptic pruning. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, Telemedicine / 15.10.2025

Editor's note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting "START" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Today, maintaining mental health is just as important as staying physically fit. Unfortunately, not everyone has the time or access to attend in-person sessions with a therapist. That’s where virtual counseling comes in. A virtual counselor provides professional therapy sessions online, helping people receive support from the comfort of their homes.

What Is a Virtual Counselor?

A virtual counselor is a licensed therapist who conducts sessions online through video calls, phone calls, or messaging. They help individuals manage stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other emotional challenges. The main goal of a virtual counselor is to make mental health therapy accessible to everyone, especially those living far from therapy centers or managing busy lifestyles. With virtual counseling, therapy has become easier than ever. You can now talk to a trained therapist without worrying about travel time, waiting rooms, or tight schedules. It’s especially helpful for people seeking consistent care and support without disrupting their daily routines. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research / 15.10.2025

Editor's note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting "START" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Somatic Psychotherapy When Mara described her panic, she didn’t start with a memory. She started with a body: “My chest tightens and I can’t get my breath,” she said. “Then the memory follows.” That pattern — sensation first, story second — is exactly why traditional talk therapy sometimes stops short. Talking can change our view of a problem. When anxiety, shame, or trauma get trapped in the body, we need to address it. We can do this by focusing on sensations and finding ways to regulate our feelings.  The limits of words alone Talk therapies (such as CBT) are said to be evidence-based for many problems. They help people reframe thoughts, test beliefs and build coping strategies. For some clients these approaches are sufficient. The issue is that if the nervous system becomes dysregulated, cognitive change only provides a short-term solution. People can intellectually understand their patterns without changing them. They will still get “taken over” by bodily reactions — breath changes, tremor, numbness, tension. My clinical experience is that insight without regulation often gives short-lived relief. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, Race/Ethnic Diversity, University of Pennsylvania / 26.08.2025

Mental health is shaped by much more than individual experiences or biology. The social and systemic forces that surround a person—including their identity and environment—play a critical role in determining how they access care, the kind of treatment they receive, and their overall likelihood of facing mental health challenges. This is where the concept of intersectionality offers crucial insight. Originally introduced by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw, intersectionality highlights how overlapping social identities—such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and disability—combine to influence a person’s lived experience. When it comes to mental health, this framework helps us better understand how multiple layers of disadvantage can magnify risks and create barriers to care. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research / 25.08.2025

MedicalResearch.com: Maria Y. Tian, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger College of Health Sciences Scranton, Pennsylvania MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Schizophrenia-spectrum disorders are severe, disabling conditions that are associated with substantial economic burden. Approximately one-third of patients have treatment-resistant schizophrenia, which clozapine is the only evidence-based therapy for. Clozapine also provides unique benefits, including reduced suicide risk, aggression, and all-cause mortality. Despite this, it has historically been underutilized due to concerns over adverse effects, required blood monitoring, patient adherence, and limited clinician training. Previous research in Medicaid populations had demonstrated marked state-level variation in use, but little was known about prescribing trends in the U.S. Medicare system, which covers nearly half of individuals with schizophrenia. This study analyzed Medicare Part D data from 2015–2020 to assess national and regional trends in clozapine prescribing and to identify states with significantly different prescribing patterns.

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Addiction, Author Interviews / 25.08.2025

Addiction is not simply the result of poor decisions or moral failure. It stems from a complex interplay of genetics, environmental factors, emotional regulation, and mental health conditions. One of the most promising avenues for disrupting the cycle of addiction is early intervention. Prioritizing timely mental health strategies offers a meaningful opportunity to support individuals before substance use disorder takes hold, potentially transforming lives and preventing long-term consequences. In this blog, we'll explore how early intervention in mental health can stop addiction before it starts, identify the warning signs, and discuss the systems and strategies that can break the addiction cycle.

Understanding the Link Between Mental Health and Addiction

The relationship between mental health and addiction is well-established. Studies show that individuals with mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, are significantly more likely to engage in substance use as a way to cope with distressing symptoms. Over time, this self-medication can lead to dependence, setting in motion a toxic cycle of mental illness and substance abuse. This pattern can begin in the early stages of emotional or psychological distress. Without access to the right support systems or tools, individuals may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other addictive substances to manage overwhelming feelings. As the brain adapts to repeated substance use, withdrawal symptoms and cravings strengthen the cycle of addiction, making recovery increasingly challenging over time. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research / 10.08.2025

Our minds have a remarkable way of communicating with us, often sending subtle signals long before we're ready to listen. Just as physical pain alerts us to bodily injury, emotional and psychological distress serves as our internal alarm system, indicating when professional support might be necessary. Recognizing these warning signs early can be the difference between managing mental health challenges effectively and allowing them to escalate into more serious conditions.

1. Sleep Patterns Become Unrecognizable

When your relationship with sleep fundamentally changes, it's often one of the earliest indicators that something deeper is happening. This isn't just about the occasional restless night—it's when insomnia becomes your unwelcome companion for weeks, or when you find yourself sleeping fourteen hours and still feeling exhausted. Your sleep cycle acts as a barometer for mental health, reflecting internal turbulence through either hypervigilance that keeps you awake or depression that makes you want to escape into unconsciousness. (more…)
Addiction / 01.08.2025

Substance Use Trends Across the New York City Metro

The New York City metro area is one of the most densely populated and diverse regions in the country—but it’s also facing a serious addiction crisis. Communities across the five boroughs and surrounding suburbs, including Long Island, are seeing sharp increases in opioid-related deaths, polysubstance use, and mental health challenges. These realities make the need for accessible, effective care—like Long Island addiction treatment at Victory Recovery Partners—more urgent than ever.

Alarming Rise in Opioid Overdoses

According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 2022 marked the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded in NYC, with over 3,000 fatalities—a 12% increase from the previous year.
  • Fentanyl was involved in over 80% of these deaths
  • The Bronx had the highest rate, but all five boroughs saw significant increases
  • Men aged 35–54 were the most affected demographic
In nearby Nassau and Suffolk Counties, opioid-related deaths remain high as well, with Suffolk County reporting over 350 fatalities and Nassau more than 200. These numbers highlight how the epidemic spans urban, suburban, and rural communities alike. (more…)
Education, Mental Health Research / 29.07.2025

Have you ever felt stuck even though you were doing all the “right” things to feel better? You go to therapy, take your medicine, and still don’t see real change. It can be frustrating, especially when mental health feels like a puzzle with missing pieces. Many people don’t realize that therapy and medication don’t have to work separately. When used together, they can form a powerful team that supports deeper healing. It’s not about choosing one or the other—it’s about knowing how they can support each other. In this blog, we will share how therapy and medicine work hand in hand to support your mental health journey. What You Should Know About LCSW Programs and Mental Health Care Therapy is a personal journey, and the professionals who provide it come from many educational paths. One well-known option for becoming a therapist is through LCSW programs. These programs train future Licensed Clinical Social Workers to support people with mental health needs, addictions, trauma, and more. They offer flexibility and are available to students across the country, helping create more accessible mental health services. LCSW online programs include both academic coursework and hands-on clinical experience, preparing graduates to provide talk therapy and other forms of support. Understanding who provides therapy is important when considering how therapy and medication work together. LCSWs, psychologists, and counselors all help clients explore emotions, learn coping skills, and face challenges. At the same time, medication can help stabilize symptoms so therapy becomes more effective. A strong therapist—such as one trained through an LCSW program—can work with your doctor or psychiatrist to form a complete treatment plan. When both professionals communicate well, clients often see better and faster results. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Mental Health Research / 17.07.2025

different-types-group-therapy.jpg. When it comes to mental health and emotional well-being, therapy has evolved significantly over the years. One of the most effective and widely used approaches is group therapy. Unlike individual therapy, group therapy involves multiple participants who share their experiences, challenges, and progress in a supportive setting. This format not only fosters connection but also provides unique opportunities for learning and growth that are different from one-on-one sessions. If you’re considering therapy but wondering whether group therapy might be the right fit, this guide will walk you through the various types of group therapy available today. We’ll also touch upon how modern advancements like online relationship counselling are making therapy more accessible and flexible than ever before. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 07.07.2025

Editor's note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting "START" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. For many people navigating mental health conditions, treatment isn’t always as clear-cut as either outpatient therapy or full-time residential care. Somewhere between the two lies a powerful middle ground: partial hospitalization programs (PHPs). These structured, supportive programs can provide intensive care while still allowing individuals to live at home and maintain their daily routines. But what exactly does this level of care involve, and who is it best suited for?

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

A partial hospitalization program is a form of intensive outpatient treatment designed to provide comprehensive support for individuals who need more than weekly therapy, but don’t require 24/7 supervision in a residential facility. Most PHPs operate five to seven days a week, for several hours a day. Patients attend individual and group therapy sessions, receive psychiatric care, and participate in skills-building activities or wellness programs, all while returning home in the evenings. It’s a flexible yet immersive form of treatment that bridges the gap between inpatient and standard outpatient care. PHPs are also beneficial for people who may not feel safe or comfortable in a full residential setting, but still require more engagement than they could receive in weekly therapy. They allow individuals to stay grounded in their personal environments and routines, which can be a stabilizing force during recovery. By integrating daily treatment with real-world responsibilities, patients can apply what they learn in therapy to their everyday lives almost immediately. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 24.06.2025

In Florida, the Baker Act is a statute under which an individual suspected of potentially injuring himself/herself or causing harm to another by reason of mental illness may be taken for mental health evaluation. The number of involuntary examinations for the fiscal year 2022-2023 was reported to be 173,721 for 111,803 people by the Florida DCF (Department of Children and Families). The Baker Act doesn’t mean someone is being arrested but rather, it’s a way to keep them safe while professionals check their mental health. A qualified professional may limit a patient’s rights to communicate with outside parties, receive or send mail or receive visits. You might come across the terms “baker act 52” and “baker act 32” when dealing with this particular law. The Baker Act 52 vs.32 refers to different parts of the law, and each one works in a slightly different way. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 20.06.2025

Editor's note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting "START" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has carved out its place in modern psychiatric treatment not by being trendy, but by being effective—especially when standard therapeutic models fall short. Built on the backbone of cognitive-behavioral techniques, and infused with acceptance strategies drawn from Eastern mindfulness, DBT was developed for complexity. Patients who don't fit neatly into diagnostic boxes. Individuals who are suffering, yet high-functioning. People who often test the limits of traditional frameworks, leaving both clinician and patient frustrated by the lack of progress. Not every patient is a good fit for DBT. But when the match is right, the impact can be measurable, durable, and life-changing. This overview explores the behavioral and psychological patterns that align most closely with DBT’s structure and goals, giving psychiatrists and physicians a clearer lens for when to recommend or refer. (more…)
Mental Health Research, Pediatrics / 02.06.2025

Adolescents face increasing pressure in today’s fast-paced world, and for many, those pressures can evolve into serious emotional or behavioral health issues. When that happens, adolescent mental health treatment programs provide a structured path toward healing. These programs are designed specifically for teens, offering age-appropriate care that supports recovery without disrupting key areas of life like school and family. Adolescent mental health treatment programs are available in various formats and levels of intensity, helping families find solutions that fit each teen’s needs. With therapeutic structure and individualized care, these programs guide young people through some of the most critical challenges of their development. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research / 26.05.2025

tms-therapy-mental-health.jpg Many people deal with mental health issues each year, and they may want non-invasive treatment options to improve their conditions. Although traditional methods like taking medication remain valuable, they might not offer the relief that some people are looking for. Some want to quit smoking, and when the standard treatments don’t work, they may research transcranial magnetic solutions to cure them of the habit. During TMS sessions, an electromagnetic coil will be placed in certain regions of the head to stimulate the nerve cells. It’s going to deliver magnetic pulses to help control depression. The simulation seems to be working where some patients have reported that their depression symptoms have eased after the session. TMS has captured the attention of the medical community with its non-invasive nature. The outcomes can be impressive, especially for people struggling to regulate their moods, and it’s now being viewed as a promising alternative for those who are seeking better emotional balance. If you’re currently struggling with a disorder, you may turn to TMS Therapy San Diego for high- quality care, and with their FDA-approved approach, you many get long-lasting relief from depression. Below is some information on how TMS works in general: (more…)
Bipolar Disorder, Cocaine / 16.05.2025

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Understanding the Complex Connection Between Bipolar Disorder and Cocaine Addiction

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging enough on its own. Bipolar disorder patients benefit from dual diagnosis care, which includes managing bipolar symptoms alongside substance abuse to enhance chances of relapse prevention and improve overall treatment outcomes.  Adding cocaine addiction into the mix creates a complex and often dangerous combination that requires specialized care and understanding. Many people searching for answers about the relationship between bipolar disorder and cocaine addiction are either struggling themselves or seeking help for a loved one.  This guide for MedicalResearch.com will help you understand how these two conditions interact, why they so often co-occur, and what treatment options can offer hope and healing. (more…)
Legal-Malpractice, Mental Health Research, Occupational Health, PTSD / 28.04.2025

The Role of Mental Health Professionals in Proving Emotional Distress Emotional injury is the psychological pain inflicted by another's act or failure to act, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. In Jackson's court cases, such as workers' compensation or personal injury, one needs to establish such effects, although it is difficult because there is no physical evidence. If you're looking for a claim of emotional distress, a personal injury lawyer in Jackson can help you navigate the process. The professional can also ensure mental health professionals affirm your claim so that the case becomes more sound through professional diagnoses and reports. Let us take a look at the major role that mental health practitioners play in determining emotional distress and how their presence can seal a case. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research / 22.04.2025

MedicalResearch.com with: Luke Cavanah, BS Department of Medical Education Geisinger College of Health Sciences Scranton, PA, 18509 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Almost a third of patients with medication-treated major depressive disorder will fail at least two depressants—many patients failing more.1 Esketamine is an intranasal medication that was FDA-approved in 2019 for such patients when used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant.2 Esketamine also is unique from the more traditional oral antidepressants in its mechanism of action, quick onset, and evidence for treatment of acute suicidality.3 While esketamine has been of much interest for these last few years, a recent study found low and geographically variable use of this medication within the Medicaid population.4 We were interested in investigating esketamine treatment utilization among Medicare patients in 2019 and 2020. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 19.04.2025

Mental health research is one of the most pressing priorities in healthcare, yet it remains one of the most underfunded areas. Despite rising rates of anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, researchers in this space often struggle to secure the financial support needed to study these complex issues. In the face of mounting demand, the funding pipeline simply isn’t keeping up. Government funding hasn't dried up entirely, but it has become more competitive and narrowly focused. Programs that do receive grants often cater to a specific population or intervention model, leaving other equally critical areas behind. That imbalance is pushing more mental health researchers to look elsewhere.

Looking Beyond Federal Dollars

One emerging solution involves expanding the scope of where researchers seek financial support. Traditional NIH or CDC funding is still a cornerstone, but mental health grant opportunities are quickly becoming essential. Foundations, nonprofits, private healthcare networks, and corporate sponsors are increasingly supporting mental health studies, especially those that address underserved populations, youth mental health, or integrated care models. These opportunities can be more flexible than federal grants, with fewer administrative hurdles and shorter application cycles. Some even encourage pilot projects and exploratory work, allowing early-stage researchers to build a track record before applying for larger government funding. By expanding their grant search beyond the usual suspects, researchers can move their work forward without waiting years for a federal green light. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 10.04.2025

Editor’s note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Finding the right therapist in Miami can be a transformative step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you're dealing with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, or simply seeking support for life’s challenges, Miami offers a diverse range of licensed clinical psychologists and therapists who can provide tailored care to meet your unique needs. Therapist in Miami

Why Finding the Right Therapist Matters

Mental health is a critical aspect of our lives, yet many struggle to find the right support. A compassionate and skilled therapist can make a significant difference in helping you navigate mental health issues, build on your strengths, and create positive change. In Miami, FL, you’ll find professionals who specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and other disorders, offering both in-person and online therapy sessions to suit your lifestyle.

How to Find Miami Therapists: In Person or Via Telehealth

Here are steps to finding a therapist for your needs and ensuring you receive the best possible care:
  • Identify Your Needs: Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety disorders, mood disorders, or relationship challenges, understanding your specific needs is the first step. Miami therapists offer expertise in areas like psychotherapy, counseling, and integrative treatment approaches.
  • Research Credentials: Look for a licensed clinical psychologist or therapist with a doctoral degree and experience working with clients dealing with similar issues. Many Miami therapists specialize in working with adults, teens, children, and families.
  • Consider Therapy Options: Some therapists in Miami, FL, offer in-person sessions, while others provide online therapy sessions for added convenience. Choose an option that makes you feel comfortable and supported.
  • Evaluate Their Approach: A good therapist will use evidence-based techniques to assist you in your journey toward recovery and happiness. Look for someone who emphasizes understanding, compassion, and tailored care.
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Mental Health Research / 07.04.2025

Editor's note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting "START" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.    There are days when everything feels off, but you can’t explain why. You might feel tired, disconnected, or overwhelmed even when things seem “fine.” You push through, hoping it passes. But sometimes, those feelings stick around longer than expected. That’s when it might be time to pause and look closely at what’s really happening. In Georgia, mental health struggles are more common than most people realize. Stress, anxiety, and depression affect thousands every year. While many continue to live with these feelings in silence, more individuals are now taking steps to seek help. Yet, others hesitate—unsure if they’re “bad enough” to reach out. This article will help you spot signs that shouldn’t be ignored and show you where to start.
  1. You’re Constantly Overwhelmed or Anxious
If your mind is always racing or you’re constantly on edge, that’s not something to overlook. Anxiety can show up in many ways—feeling tense, having trouble focusing or even struggling to fall asleep. When worry becomes part of your daily life, it may be time to talk to someone. A licensed professional can help you understand and learn how to manage these feelings. (more…)
Addiction, Author Interviews, Mental Health Research / 31.03.2025

Parita K. Ray

Medical Student

Department of Medical Education

Geisinger College of Health Sciences

Scranton, PA 18509

 

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

  • Citalopram and escitalopram are two of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the U.S. and are widely used for treating major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), along with various off-label indications. While both medications share similar mechanisms of action, escitalopram was introduced as a purified version of citalopram’s active enantiomer. Despite little evidence showing a clear superiority of escitalopram over citalopram in efficacy or tolerability, prescribing trends appear to favor escitalopram, raising concerns about "evergreening"—a practice where pharmaceutical companies promote newer formulations of existing drugs to extend market exclusivity. Prior research has shown variations in the prescription rates of psychotropic medications across states and within specific populations, particularly among Medicaid and Medicare patients. However, little is known about the long-term prescribing patterns of citalopram versus escitalopram in these populations and whether these trends reflect potential evergreening practices.

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Mental Health Research / 28.03.2025

Finding the right mental health support in a big city can feel overwhelming. Learning how to find a therapist in NYC requires understanding several key factors that can make the search more manageable.

This guide provides practical steps and considerations for anyone seeking therapeutic support in New York City. While the process might seem daunting at first, breaking it down into smaller steps makes finding the right mental health professional more achievable.

Understanding Your Needs

Identifying Personal Requirements

Before starting the search, people should consider what they want from therapy. Some might need help with specific issues like anxiety or depression, while others seek general emotional support.

Those specifically looking for anxiety treatment NYC specialists may want to focus on providers with expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based approaches. Understanding personal needs helps narrow down the search for the right professional.

Taking time to reflect on these needs before beginning the search often leads to better matches with therapists.

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Accidents & Violence, Brain Injury, Mental Health Research / 18.03.2025

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have lasting effects on a person's mental health, sometimes changing their emotions, behavior, and overall well-being. While some people recover quickly, others struggle with long-term psychological challenges. Brain injuries often occur due to car accidents, falls, and workplace incidents. These injuries can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings, and even personality changes. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, seeking professional help is important. A Kansas City brain injury lawyer can assist in getting financial compensation for medical treatment and mental health care. (more…)