Depression

Using data from twin studies conducted over many years, researchers have found a link between levels of depression and the amount of fruit and vegetables people eat each day.

A recent clinical trial has shown that it's possible to safely and effectively treat depression at home using a brain stimulation device. That means patients can give themselves low-intensity impulses to see positive results with 30-minute sessions.

Giving psilocybin to rats made them more optimistic in the longer term, suggesting that the psychedelic substance could have great potential in treating a core symptom of depression in humans.

As the daylight hours shrink and temperatures drop, it's easy to spend more time indoors. But new research has shown that by self-monitoring time out in the sunshine – also linked to physical activity – can help treat seasonal mood disorder symptoms.

After comparing the long-term effects of the psychedelic psilocybin and a commonly prescribed antidepressant, new research found that both significantly reduced depression. However, psilocybin provided something more: a significant boost to quality of life.

A head-mounted ultrasound device has now completed two human trials. One showed how the targeted sound waves could improve pain symptoms, while another revealed a marked improvement in depression symptoms after just one session.

Taking placebos fully aware that they contain no active ingredients can still significantly reduce stress, anxiety and depression according to a new study. It’s suggested that these 'non-deceptive placebos' might be an effective way of improving mental health.

Exercise’s positive effect on depression is well-known, but not how it produces its anti-depressant effects. After reviewing a broad range of studies into how depression and physical activity affect motivation, researchers have now come up with a hypothesis.

A slow-release, twice-a-week ketamine tablet significantly reduced depression symptoms, according to the results of a clinical trial. The tablet can be taken at home without medical supervision, making it more convenient than current ketamine treatments.

Finding support and information from medical professionals lacking, people wanting to come off their antidepressant medication are turning to online groups instead, according to new research. The study highlights an ongoing problem that needs addressing.

Living with ADHD is a complex experience, but one that's made more manageable with the right medication. What's of particular interest to researchers is how these drugs are positively impacting other mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

MoodCapture will use your smartphone camera as you unlock the screen to assess facial expressions and backgrounds for depression severity. While the app is still in development, the team says it represents a breakthrough in personal diagnostic medicine.