This Week in Mental Health

TW // Mentions of sexual abuse

Conversations about mental health have grown exponentially over the last decade, with more and more people committing to personal and collective wellness. While we have a ways to go before mental health awareness, education and treatment are accessible to all, each day brings new and positive strides within the field. 

Our This Week In Mental Health series covers the latest happenings in research, treatment, human interest stories, and more. Stay updated on new developments so you’re better equipped to navigate the world, and most importantly, your own recovery.

Here’s what’s happening the week of June 21st.

Research

Toxic Workplaces Increase Risk Of Depression By 300% 

A study from The University of South Australia shows that employees’ risk of depression increases 300 percent when their workplace doesn’t prioritize mental health. Poor management can lead to poor mental health in the workplace when they have practices such as overworking employees and not acknowledging employees’ work. Workplaces also create poor mental health when burnout and bullying are present.

Learn more here.

Twenty-year Study Links Childhood Depression To Disrupted Adult Health And Functioning

A new study shows that having depression in childhood or adolescence increases mental health issues into adulthood. Researchers looked at 1,420 participants in the rural US Southeast since 1993. They found that long-term symptoms of depression had stronger correlations with adulthood mental health issues. However, providing mental health services to children helped to alleviate these issues, and researchers urge for better preventive measures.

Learn more here.

Study Shows Brain Differences In Interpreting Physical Signals In Mental Health Disorders

Introception, the interpretation of physical signals from the body, may work differently for those with mental disorders. Researchers from The University of Cambridge looked at the brain activity of 626 participants with mental disorders and 610 without. It was found that those with mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia had different brain activity during introception (such as processing pain and hunger). Focusing on the area of the brain where there is this activity change, the dorsal mid-insula, could help in creating new treatment options.

Learn more here.

Twin Study Is First To Reveal Genetic Risk Factors For PTSD And Migraine

A new study looking at identical twins found that PTSD and migraines could share common genes. Researchers looked at six pairs of twins, one with PTSD and the other without, as well as 15 pairs of twins where one experienced migraines and the other did not. The study showed that there are similar epigenetic changes in PTSD and migraines, suggesting new types of treatment options.

Learn more here.

Work Productivity Increases Alongside ADHD Medication Adherence

Adults with poor medication adherence for ADHD have a higher risk of absenteeism and indirect costs. Researchers surveyed 602 participants with ADHD who had taken medication for three or more months, and those with poor adherence had greater absenteeism and indirect costs. Some participants cited reasons such as not being able to afford medication, and not prioritizing taking it regularly.

Learn more here.

Multiple Long-term Physical Health Problems Increase Risk Of Depression Later In Life 

Having multiple physical health conditions can increase mental health issues, according to a new UK study. Researchers looked at over 150,000 people in the UK, and found that having two or more physical conditions can increase the risk of depression and anxiety. Certain physical conditions such as respiratory and gastrointestinal also had strong risks for mental health issues. These findings suggest the importance of helping certain patients, such as those who experienced COVID-19. 

Learn more here.

Advocacy

Simone Biles Initially Resisted Therapy. Now, It Helps Her 'Process All the Emotions' 

Simone Biles talked to Glamour about going to therapy for the first time. Initially, Biles was hesitant because of stigma and wanting to figure things out on her own. After attending therapy, she now sees it as a safe space to help her both in and outside of the gym. She has been able to work through and recover from the sexual abuse she endured from USA Gymnastics, and she now looks forward to continuing therapy.

Learn more here.

Alec Baldwin Says He's 'Really Seriously' Struggling with OCD 

Actor Alec Baldwin opened up about his OCD on the newest episode of his podcast What's One More. Baldwin and his wife spoke to Howie Mandel, and thanked him for his openness about OCD. Baldwin and Mandel talked about intrusive thoughts, when they first noticed OCD symptoms, the themes they struggle with, and more.

Learn more here.

Selena Gomez Opens Up In Vogue Australia Cover Story 

Selena Gomez spoke to Vogue Australia about the pandemic, shows she’s been watching, her mental health, and more. Using her brand Rare beauty, she’s been able to advocate for mental health and fundraise for it through the Rare Impact Fund. She explains how she has studied dialectical behavioral therapy, and how she wants to see mental health curriculum like DBT in schools.

Learn more here.