PsiHub

Hello and welcome to another edition of Best 5 Reads. Grab your coffee and lets start!

1) One-Third of Adults May Unknowingly Use Medications that Can Cause Depression

A new study from University of Illinois at Chicago researchers suggests that more than one-third of U.S. adults may be using prescription medications that have the potential to cause depression or increase the risk of suicide, and that because these medications are common and often have nothing to do with depression, patients and health care providers may be unaware of the risk.

The researchers retrospectively analyzed medication use patterns of more than 26,000 adults from 2005 to 2014, which were collected as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. They found that more than 200 commonly used prescription drugs — including hormonal birth control medications, blood pressure and heart medications, proton pump inhibitors, antacids and painkillers — have depression or suicide listed as potential side effects.

2) Scientists discover schizophrenia gene roles in brain development

A USC research team identified 150 proteins affecting cell activity and brain development that contribute to mental disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar condition and depression.

3) State Laws Permitting Denial of Services to Sexual Minorities Increase Mental Distress

State laws that permit denial of services to same-sex couples or other sexual minorities are associated with a 46% increase in mental distress among sexual minority adults, according to the results of a study published in JAMA Psychiatry. Sexual minorities experience depression, anxiety, mental distress, and suicide attempts at a higher rate than heterosexual individuals.

Currently, 12 states have implemented laws allowing the denial of services to sexual minorities, including gays, lesbians, bisexuals, or those not sure of their sexual orientation. Evidence indicates that stigma related to sexual orientation is associated with poorer mental health outcomes.

4) Why We Need To Stop Demonizing Medications for Depression

As demonized as antidepressants have come to be by many, we must not forget the number of lives that those same medications have saved.

5) Suicide, Mental Health Stigma, Shame and Social Media

The tragic deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain are reminders of the importance of mental health, and the continuing prevalence of stigma. We can do better.

I hope you enjoyed today’s edition. See you tomorrow for more articles.

Best Regards,

Vikram