This Week In Mental Health

TW// Mentions of suicidality

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 November 29th.

Research

Social Media Use Linked To Depression In Adults

A survey of over 5,000 adults shows that those who use Facebook, Tik Tok, and Snapchat were more likely to report feeling depressed. The average age of those surveyed was 56 years old, and was done from May 2020 to May 2021. Those who reported minimal symptoms of depression at the beginning of the study had a higher likelihood of increasing their symptoms if they were on social media. 

Learn more here.

Sleep Training For Adults Prevents Depression, Study Shows

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia can help lessen symptoms of depression. The new sleep therapy teaches patients how to prepare for better sleep instead of using traditional medication. Researchers looked at almost 300 adults for eight weeks, with half receiving CBT and the other half taking sleep education classes. For those that received CBT, they were two times less likely to have depression. 

Learn more here.

People With High Social Anxiety Aren't Happier Alone, Shows New Research

A new study shows that people with social anxiety disorder enjoy socializing, despite misconceptions about the condition. Researchers surveyed 87 participants, with around half being diagnosed with social anxiety disorder. Participants reported higher happiness levels when socializing, even when feeling anxious. A follow-up study showed that participants felt happier when they socialized with significant others and close friends. 

Learn more here.

Brain Injury Study Reveals Rugby’s Mental Health Crisis

Professional rugby players in the UK have a higher likelihood of struggling with mental health, particularly when they experience concussions. A study found that rugby players who had three or more concussions had more signs of depression, anxiety, and disrupted sleep. Additionally, one in ten reported struggling with suicidality, and one in five from that group reported no plan to seek help when struggling. Many players reported lack of health support once they retired, and some current players explain they are hesitant to speak up about mental health struggles for fear of losing their job.

Learn more here.

Schools May Respond to Student Health and Developmental Needs with Discipline 

A new study from Columbia University found that students with higher levels of mental health issues are more likely to attend a school that frequently disciplines and uses police contact. Using data from over 4,800 schools from 2003 to 2014, it was found that students’ levels of substance use and depressive symptoms can predict suspensions, expulsions, and police contact. Researchers urge schools to eliminate policies that create school-to-prison pipelines, such as using police rather than counselors and social workers. 

Learn more here.

Advocacy

Ant Clemons Talks Purpose, Mental Health, Faith, Career & Music 

Singer/songwriter Ant Clemons — who has worked on projects with SZA, Beyonce, Ed Sheeran, and more — talked about music and mental health with Complex. After reflecting on his success, and focusing more on his mental health, Clemons decided to work with The Jed Foundation this year to become a mental health advocate. He explains how during the pandemic, the world became more “emotionally conscious”, and he wants to play his part by writing songs with mental health in mind. His song “Better Days” is an example of this, which gained popularity after being played for President Biden’s inauguration.

Learn more here.

Here's Why You Won't Be Seeing Lush Cosmetics On Social Media Anytime Soon

Lush Cosmetics announced they will no longer post on Instagram, Tik Tok, Snapchat, and Facebook because of concerns about the mental health effects of social media. In light of recent news surrounding Instagram, the company decided to sign off on all platforms except Twitter, Youtube, and Pinterest. They stated in a final post on Instagram, “The serious effects of social media on mental health are being ignored by this platform. It’s time to stop scrolling and be somewhere else. We want to engage with you in places that look after you and your mental wellbeing.”

Learn more here.

Blue Wiggle Anthony Field Candidly Talks About His Long Battle With Depression

Anthony Field, better known as the Blue Wiggle, is opening up about his journey with depression. As a part of Movember, a month dedicated to men’s health, he encourages people to seek help for their mental health. Despite his success in music, he shares that sometimes depression can be caused by chemical imbalances. He says that becoming a mental health advocate a few years ago has allowed many men to be open with him, and he believes that people should continue having these open conversations instead of bottling feelings up.

Learn more here.