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6 papers
This review says postpartum depression (PPD) is a common and disabling problem that has been rising in many places. It summarizes known risk factors in social and economic life, childbirth history, lifestyle, and past mental illness. The paper also reviews biological and genetic work (the serotonin transporter gene, SERT, is…
This study surveyed 607 caregivers of people with mental disorders in Changsha, China, using short stories (vignettes) about schizophrenia, depression, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Caregivers usually expected positive outcomes, but many still held stigmatizing views and wanted social distance, especially for schizophrenia. The authors say more work is needed…
This paper says that millions of people now use AI chatbots for emotional support. The authors note reports of harms — including suicide, violence, and delusional thinking — linked to people forming emotional relationships with chatbots. They argue that chatbot traits like strong agreeableness and fast adaptation can interact with…
This paper reviews research on ayahuasca and its main ingredient, DMT, and how they might help with mental health. Ayahuasca is a plant brew that makes DMT work when you drink it because it also contains chemicals that stop the body from breaking DMT down. Lab studies and a small…
This Nature news feature by Lynne Peeples (10 December 2025) looks at new research on mental fatigue — why thinking hard can make people feel worn out. It explains that scientists are trying to build better ways to measure cognitive exhaustion. The article says those better measures could help point…
Researchers created a short survey that people who were helped could use to report what their friend or family member did. They tested it with 1,116 adults who had a recent mental health problem and were helped by someone close. The survey grouped actions into two types (recommended and not…
