The last month of 2021 didn’t have a single big story but that doesn’t mean we should sleep on the highlights. It’s my job to sift through the noise and find what matters–here’s the fruit of my labors (better late than never). Happy New Year, everyone. I have a feeling this is going to be a good one.

A new study looked at societal stigma in the U.S. over the last 20 years. Researchers wanted to determine if attitudes toward mental illness and alcohol dependence have changed and if so, how much. Survey data from 1996 to 2006 showed improvements in public beliefs about the causes of schizophrenia and alcohol dependence, and data from a 2018 survey noted decreased stigma for depression. 

Doctors are recommending young people spend no more than 1 to 2 hours of screen time a day. after an open paper connected worse mental health with hours spent on electronic devices.

Is insomnia a predictor for mental disorders? Researched conducted a review of studies on insomnia finding baseline insomnia was associated with a significant, 2.6-fold increased odds of mental disorder.

The use of antipsychotic medication decreases the risk of assault for emergency response personnel says this study.

Gum disease is connected with a nearly 40% increase in risk for mental illness says a major study out of England.

Schools have a small but important role in early adolescents’ mental health says this study.

Time in nature for city dwellers lessens loneliness says this study.

Hormone therapy is linked with decreased risk of suicide in trans teens says this study.

In the largest meta-analysis of trials on digital interventions for the treatment of depression, researchers found that computer- and smartphone-based treatments offer a promising method to address growing mental health needs.

More than 80 percent of oncologists frequently see mental illnesses in their cancer patients.
Anxiety and depression top the list, but addiction and PTSD also show up.The study also found nearly half of physicians believe they have inadequate resources available to support their patients with mental health needs. 

I’ll be back with more in January. Until then, be well.