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June Issues of American Psychiatric Association Journals Cover Substance Use Disorders, Opioids, Youth Self-Harm and Suicide and More
The latest issues of two of the American Psychiatric Association’s journals, The American Journal of Psychiatry, and Psychiatric Services are now available online.
Do the Words Matter?: The Language We Use for Mental Health
Several general terms used to describe mental disorders are understood by most people to have similar meanings, according to a new study published in BMC Psychiatry. However, with specific mental disorder concepts and terms, the study found some differences between public perceptions and the descriptions in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manuu56a5l of Mental Disorders (DSM).
What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Many people may be familiar with the casual use of the term narcissist, referring to a person who is very self-centered, boastful and hungry for attention and admiration. However, narcissistic personality disorder, a condition described in the DSM-5-TR*, is more severe, persistent and problematic.
Twelve-Step-Based Programs Effective for Substance Use Problems
Spiritual or religious based programs, such as those based on the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, are effective for treating people with substance use disorders, according to the first systematic review of such programs. In the U.S., more than 20 million people 12 years and older (about 7.4%) have a substance use disorder and among 18-to-25-year-olds, 15% have a substance use disorder, according to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
As Americans Turn Increasingly to Internet Betting, APA Releases New Edition of Gambling Disorder Guide
More Americans than ever are placing bets on sports online, according to many recent reports. The vast majority of people who gamble are able to do so without any long-lasting problems, but research has shown that up to 1 percent of the population currently has a gambling disorder. Gambling disorder involves repeated, problem gambling. Despite significant personal and familial problems caused by the individual’s behavior, those with gambling disorder struggle to control their gambling.
Struggling with Screen Time: A Look at Internet Use Disorders
Internet use disorders are a growing concern in today’s technology-driven society, marked by excessive and compulsive use of the internet, leading to negative consequences in various aspects of an individual's life. Online activities of concern include overuse of social media sites, gaming, gambling, problematic use of online pornography, and other digital platforms. This is a global phenomenon affecting individuals of all ages
APA Offers Tips for Understanding Prolonged Grief Disorder
Americans are currently facing several ongoing disasters that have caused death and suffering, such as COVID-19, the wind-down in Afghanistan, floods, fires, hurricanes and gun violence. While many Americans are mourning, some may experience prolonged grief disorder, which is characterized by incapacitating feelings of grief.
Eating Disorders, Weight-Shaming and “Clean” Eating
Eating disorders affect all kinds of people: women, men, young and old and from all racial and ethnic backgrounds. Many factors likely contribute to developing eating disorders, including a range of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Having a close relative with an eating disorder or a history of dieting are risk factors. High levels of body image dissatisfaction and setting unrealistically high expectations for oneself (perfectionism) also increase the risk
Could Psychedelics be Used to Treat Mental Illness?
There has been increased interest and research in psychedelics as a treatment for mental illness in recent years. A new review study concludes that while research is still preliminary, psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), show promise for treating conditions including treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
APA Statement on House Passage of FY22 Appropriations Bill Providing Needed Increases for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Programs
The American Psychiatric Association applauds today’s House passage of significant funding increases for key mental health and substance use disorder programs included in the FY 2022 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies and the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bills.
Clinical Guidelines on Eating Disorders: A Practical Tool for Trainees and Clinicians Alike
The lifetime prevalence for all eating disorders worldwide is estimated to be 7.8%, according to a systematic review covering 2000-2018.(1) The total economic cost in the United States alone in 2018-2019 was estimated to be nearly $65 billion dollars.(2) These statistics are prior to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been associated with a significant rise in the reported frequency of eating disorders, particularly among adolescents and young adults.
How to Help Those with Opioid Use Disorder in Jails & Prisons
By now we all know that opioids like heroin, prescription painkillers, and fentanyl are deadly. What doesn’t get as much attention is the wider damage done by problem use of these substances, including losses of relationships and jobs, declining health, and financial strain. These concerns affect not only the individual but also every person close to them.