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Linking prolonged childhood and adolescent loneliness to schizophrenia spectrum disorders: results from EU-GEI study Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-16 Álvaro Andreu-Bernabeu, Javier González-Peñas, Alberto Mora, Miguel Bernardo, Gisela Mezquida, Silvia Amoretti, Julio Bobes, Pilar A. Saiz, Maria Paz García-Portilla, Julio Sanjuan, José Luis Santos, Estela Jiménez-López, Manuel Arrojo, Angel Carracedo, Mara Parellada, Nadja P. Maric, Cem Atbaşoğlu, Alp Üçok, Köksal Alptekin, Meram Can Saka, Lotta-Katrin Pries, Michael O’Donovan, Jim van Os, Bart P
Background Prolonged childhood and adolescent loneliness (CAL) is linked to various adverse mental health outcomes, yet its impact on schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) has been understudied. While loneliness is associated with psychosis and worsens symptoms in SSD, few studies have explored the long-term effects of early loneliness on SSD risk. Understanding how CAL interacts with genetic liability
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Neurosteroids and premenstrual dysphoric disorder Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-16 Marie Bixo, Louise Stiernman, Torbjörn Bäckström
Background Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is common, with at least 3% of the female population affected by one or more of the typical mood symptoms of depression, irritability, mood swings and anxiety. The cyclicity and close relationship to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is characteristic for this syndrome and positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) on the GABAA receptor, especially
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Predicting clinical and functional trajectories in individuals with first-episode psychosis by baseline deviations in grey matter volume Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-16 Manuel Muñoz-Caracuel, Claudio Alemán-Morillo, Natalia García-San-Martín, Nathalia Garrido-Torres, María Alemany-Navarro, Richard A. I. Bethlehem, Lena Dorfschmidt, Jakob Seidlitz, Rosa Ayesa-Arriola, Javier Vázquez-Bourgon, Miguel Ruiz-Veguilla, Lifespan Brain Chart Consortium, Benedicto Crespo-Facorro, Rafael Romero-García
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Transdermal oestradiol and testosterone therapy for menopausal depression and mood symptoms: retrospective cohort study Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-16 Sarah Glynne, Aini Kamal, Lynsey McColl, Louise Newson, Daniel Reisel, Eveline Mu, Olivia Hendriks, Pooja Saini, Caroline Gurvich, Jayashri Kulkarni
Background Psychological symptoms in perimenopause and early menopause are common. The impact of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) on menopausal mood symptoms is unclear.Aims To assess the impact of 17β-oestradiol ± micronised progesterone or the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device, and/or transdermal testosterone, on depressive and anxiety symptoms in peri- and postmenopausal women.Method
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Subjective, behavioural and physiological correlates of stress in women using hormonal contraceptives Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-13 Zoé Bürger, Charlotte Kordowich, Julia Kübbeler, Carolin Müllerschön, Ann-Christin S. Kimmig, Min Su, Michael Lämmerhofer, Julia Sacher, Melanie Henes, Erika Comasco, Birgit Derntl, Lydia Kogler
Background Stress, a major risk factor for mental health problems, is influenced by hormonal fluctuations from the menstrual cycle and hormonal oral contraceptives (OC). Despite widespread use, the impact of hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) on stress is limited to one study.Aims This study examines psychoendocrine stress responses in women using IUDs, OCs and women with a natural, regular menstrual
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Methodological obstacles in studies linking hormonal contraception and depression Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-11 Søren Vinther Larsen, Vibe G. Frokjaer, Brice Ozenne
This editorial describes common methodological obstacles, including the healthy user bias, that are encountered in research studying the link between hormonal contraceptive use and depression and provides considerations for future directions.
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One size does not fit all: how type of menopause and hormone therapy matters for brain health Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-09 Laura L. Gravelsins, Liisa A. M. Galea
Background Menopause is an inflection point in the ageing trajectory. Independent of chronological age, menopause is associated with the biological ageing of several body systems. In this review, we highlight the importance of considering the influence of menopause – its types, symptoms and interventions – on brain health. Supplementing the loss of ovarian hormones with menopausal hormone therapy (MHT)
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The value of mental science: we publish what matters Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-09 Gin S. Malhi, Katherine Adlington, Adam Al-Diwani, Shehzad Ali, Rina Arya, David S. Baldwin, Prathiba Batley, Erica Bell, German Berrios, Allan Beveridge, Mohan Bhat, Dinesh Bhugra, Asit Biswas, Sarah Byford, Colin Campbell, Hilary Cass, Rakesh K. Chadda, Samuel R. Chamberlain, Astrid Chevance, Erika Comasco, John Cookson, Harry Costello, Hugo D. Critchley, Pim Cuijpers, Angharad N. de Cates, Riccardo
Recent changes to US research funding are having far-reaching consequences that imperil the integrity of science and the provision of care to vulnerable populations. Resisting these changes, the BJPsych Portfolio reaffirms its commitment to publishing mental science and advancing psychiatric knowledge that improves the mental health of one and all.
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Clarifying our language for better women’s brain health: what do we really mean when we say ‘menopause’ and ‘hormone therapy’? Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-05 Noelia Calvo, Gillian Einstein
Interest in women’s brain health has grown rapidly. However, the terms ‘menopause’ and ‘hormone therapy’ have been used as general concepts embracing different types of menopause and treatments. In this editorial, we make a plea for accurate description of each type to generate precision evidence.
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Neurosteroid treatment of postpartum depression and beyond Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-05 Kristina M. Deligiannidis, Samantha Meltzer-Brody
Depression occurring during pregnancy or after delivery is one of the most common complications of childbirth and is associated with maternal morbidity and mortality. Here we review the breakthrough development of the first neuroactive steroid-based antidepressants approved for postpartum depression in the USA and their potential in other psychiatric illnesses.
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Premenstrual exacerbation of psychiatric symptoms: from misdiagnosis to management Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-05 Jayashri Kulkarni, Eveline Mu
Premenstrual exacerbation of existing mental illnesses (PME) is a condition where symptoms of mental disorders worsen during the luteal phase. Unlike premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, PME is poorly recognised, with misdiagnoses and inadequate treatment. Understanding the brain impact of gonadal hormone fluctuations in PME is crucial.
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Translational perspectives on women’s mental health Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-05 Liisa A. M. Galea
Preclinical and clinical research have devoted limited attention to women’s health. Animal models centred on female-specific factors will improve our understanding of mental health disorders. Exploring the heterogeneity of mental health disorders, in concert with attention to female-specific factors, will accelerate the discovery of efficacious treatments for mental health disorders.
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Multidisciplinary consensus on prevention, screening and monitoring of clozapine-associated myocarditis and clozapine rechallenge after myocarditis Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-06-02 Elias Wagner, Nicole Korman, Marco Solmi, Matin Mortazavi, Zahra Aminifarsani, Douglas Dubrovin Leão, Matthew K. Burrage, Dan Siskind, Laura McMahon, Oliver D. Howes, Christoph U. Correll, CAM Expert Group, Alkomiet Hasan
Background Clozapine is the antipsychotic of choice for people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) but is associated with the uncommon but potentially life-threatening adverse effect of myocarditis. However, there are no criteria for diagnosing clozapine-associated myocarditis (CAM) or global guidelines on detection and risk reduction, or for restarting clozapine after CAM.Aims To develop
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Cognitive behavioural therapy for sleep problems in psychosis: systematic review of effectiveness and acceptability Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-22 Hannah Wilkinson, Louise C. Johns, Rachel Batchelor, Alex Lau-Zhu
Background Sleep problems are common among people with psychosis. Research suggests poor sleep is causally related to psychosis, anxiety and depression.Aims This review investigates the effectiveness and acceptability of cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) in targeting sleep problems in people with and at risk of psychosis.Method Four databases were searched in line with PRISMA guidelines. Eligible
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May we have your attention, please? Adult-onset attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-22 Shuichi Suetani, Stephen Parker, James G. Scott
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly considered a neurodevelopmental disorder, with symptoms present before 12 years of age. Increasingly, adults who have no evidence of impairment in childhood are seeking treatment for ADHD. In this Editorial, we propose that psychiatry considers conceptual changes to better understand impairment and distress caused by inattention and disorganisation
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Assessing the strength of innovations in the treatment of depression Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-21 Pim Cuijpers, Mathias Harrer, Toshi Furukawa
Although treatments for depression are effective, many patients do not respond. Many new innovations are currently being developed, claiming to substantially improve outcomes. We propose a new method to assess the strength of these innovations. Based on response rates of current treatments, we can estimate how many treatments are needed in total to realise response in >99% of patients if they were
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Natural remission rates of depression among rural adult populations in India: multilevel analysis of the SMART Mental Health Project Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-21 Pallab K. Maulik, Mercian Daniel, Arpita Ghosh, Siddhardha Devarapalli, Sudha Kallakuri, Amanpreet Kaur, Rajesh Sagar, Laurent Billot, Graham Thornicroft, Shekhar Saxena, Anushka Patel, David Peiris
Background Natural remission from common mental disorders (CMDs), in the absence of intervention, varies greatly. The situation in India is unknown.Aims This study examined individual, village and primary health centre (PHC)-level determinants for remission across two rural communities in north and south India and reports natural remission rates.Method Using pre-intervention trial data from 44 PHCs
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Time to prioritise the use of participatory research methods for people with intellectual disabilities Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-21 Madiha Majid, Olamide Todowede, Ashok Roy, Gerald Jordan, Stefan Rennick-Egglestone
People with intellectual disability experience significant health inequality, and consequently poor health outcomes. Although research can facilitate change, there is a risk of researchers propagating inequity by selecting methods that exclude people with some forms of intellectual disability. We argue for participatory research methods that enable inclusion.
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Characteristics of people with severe mental illness excluded from incentivised physical health checks in the UK: electronic healthcare record study Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-16 Naomi Launders, Caroline A. Jackson, Joseph F. Hayes, Ann John, Robert Stewart, Matthew H. Iveson, Elvira Bramon, Bruce Guthrie, Stewart W. Mercer, David P.J. Osborn
Background Physical health checks in primary care for people with severe mental illness ((SMI) defined as schizophrenia, bipolar disorders and non-organic psychosis) aim to reduce health inequalities. Patients who decline or are deemed unsuitable for screening are removed from the denominator used to calculate incentivisation, termed exception reporting.Aims To describe the prevalence of, and patient
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Importance of patient online activities Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-15 Scott Monteith, Tasha Glenn, John R. Geddes, Peter C. Whybrow, Eric Achtyes, Rita Bauer, Michael Bauer
Online platforms and activities, including smartphones, computers, social media, video games and applications involving artificial intelligence, have become a regular part of daily life and offer individuals a wide range of benefits. The purpose of this document is to increase psychiatrists’ awareness of the frequency and potential risks associated with excessive internet use, and to emphasise the
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Individual patient data meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors submitted for regulatory approval in adult obsessive–compulsive disorder Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-15 Sem E. Cohen, Bram W. Storosum, Jasper B. Zantvoord, Taina K. Mattila, Anthonius de Boer, Damiaan Denys
Background Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the preferred pharmacological treatment for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). However, insufficient response is common and it remains unclear whether specific patient-level factors influence the likelihood of treatment response.Aims To determine the efficacy and acceptability of SSRIs in adult OCD, and to identify patient-level modifiers
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Psychological intervention in individuals with subthreshold depression: individual participant data meta-analysis of treatment effects and moderators Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-14 Mathias Harrer, Antonia A. Sprenger, Susan Illing, Marcel C. Adriaanse, Steven M. Albert, Esther Allart, Osvaldo P. Almeida, Julian Basanovic, Kim M. P. van Bastelaar, Philip J. Batterham, Harald Baumeister, Thomas Berger, Vanessa Blanco, Ragnhild Bø, Robin J. Casten, Dicken Chan, Helen Christensen, Marketa Ciharova, Lorna Cook, John Cornell, Elysia P. Davis, Keith S. Dobson, Elsien Dozeman, Simon
Background It remains unclear which individuals with subthreshold depression benefit most from psychological intervention, and what long-term effects this has on symptom deterioration, response and remission.Aims To synthesise psychological intervention benefits in adults with subthreshold depression up to 2 years, and explore participant-level effect-modifiers.Method Randomised trials comparing psychological
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Psychosis and bipolar disorder risk in child and adolescent mental health services in the UK: population cohort study Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-14 Kirstie O’Hare, Ulla Lång, Colm Healy, Ioanna Kougianou, Animesh Talukder, Robin Murray, Stephen M. Lawrie, Ann John, Ian Kelleher
Background Current approaches to identifying individuals at risk for psychosis capture only a small proportion of future psychotic disorders. Recent Finnish research suggests a substantial proportion of individuals at risk of psychosis attend child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) earlier in life, creating important opportunities for prediction and prevention. To what extent this is true
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Anabolic-androgenic steroid use disorder: case for recognition as a substance use disorder with specific diagnostic criteria Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-13 Morgan Scarth, Ingrid Amalia Havnes, Astrid Bjørnebekk
Approximately one in three people who use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) develop dependence, characterised by both psychiatric and somatic symptoms. Despite this, AAS use disorder (AASUD) is not distinctly recognised in the latest versions of either the ICD or DSM, impeding both clinical care and research progress. It is clear that AASUD shares many features and correlates with substance use disorders
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Autobiographical memory after electroconvulsive therapy: systematic review and meta-analysis Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-13 André Beyer Mathiassen, Maria Semkovska, Christoffer Cramer Lundsgaard, Krzysztof Gbyl, Poul Videbech
Background Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment of major depression, but autobiographical memory loss may limit its use. Despite previous attempts to synthesise the literature, the nature of autobiographical memory loss after ECT is still debated.Aims To provide an overview of the effect of ECT on autobiographical memory in patients with depression and explore whether the
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Effects of ketamine on individual symptoms and symptom networks of depression in a randomised controlled trial of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-13 Shabnam Hossein, Manivel Rengasamy, Aiyedun Uzamere, Crystal Spotts, Robert H. Howland, Meredith L. Wallace, Sanjay J. Mathew, Rebecca B. Price
Background Understanding the effects of ketamine on depressive symptoms could help identify which patients might benefit and clarify its mechanism of action in both the early (≤1 day post-infusion) and late (e.g. 2–30 days post-infusion) post-infusion periods. Symptom network analyses could provide complementary information regarding relationships between symptoms.Aims To identify the effects of ketamine
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Post-traumatic stress disorder rates in trauma-exposed children and adolescents: updated three-level meta-analysis Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-13 Ilse Visser, Malindi van der Mheen, Hannah Dorsman, Rik Knipschild, Janneke Staaks, Irma Hein, Noah van Dongen, Wouter Staal, Mark Assink, Ramón J. L. Lindauer
Background In the past decade, no meta-analytical estimates of the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among children and adolescents have been published, despite a host of new prevalence studies and updated DSM-5 criteria.Aims We set out to estimate the prevalence rates of PTSD in trauma-exposed children and adolescents on the basis of DSM-IV and DSM-5 criteria, and investigate differences
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Real-world studies in psychiatry: insights into antipsychotic-associated breast cancer risk and their broader implications Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-13 Olivier Corbeil, Itziar Montalvo, Javier Labad, Jurjen J. Luykx
Real-world studies provide valuable insights into long-term outcomes across diverse populations. Here, we contextualise recent findings on the association between antipsychotic use and breast cancer risk in women with schizophrenia. We discuss clinical implications and the strengths and limitations of real-world studies in psychiatry. We conclude with future perspectives.
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Efficacy and safety of an alpha 7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist, VQW-765, in subjects with performance anxiety: randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-09 Yunsheng He, Christos M. Polymeropoulos, Michael A. Mohrman, Sunny O. Truslow, Changfu Xiao, Yukun Wu, Gunther Birznieks, Mihael H. Polymeropoulos
Background Despite the high prevalence of social and performance anxiety, current treatments do not meet the full needs of patients. Development of novel anxiolytics with rapid onset of action for on-demand treatment of social and performance anxiety is an active area of clinical research.Aims To examine the anxiolytic effect of VQW-765, an α7-nAChR agonist, in subjects with performance anxiety.Method
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[18F]Fluorodeoxyglucose position emission tomography for differential diagnosis of depressive cognitive impairment: incremental value compared with clinical diagnosis Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-08 Sabine Hellwig, Lars Frings, Meret Heibel, Nils Schroeter, Ganna Blazhenets, Katharina Domschke, Joachim Brumberg, Philipp T. Meyer
Background Assessment of regional glucose metabolism by [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose position emission tomography ([18F]FDG PET) serves as a biomarker for differential diagnosis of dementia. Conversely, depressive cognitive impairment shows no abnormalities on cerebral [18F]FDG PET.Aims This study validates the diagnostic value of [18F]FDG PET in addition to clinical diagnosis in a real-life gerontopsychiatric
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Duration of untreated or undiagnosed bipolar disorder and clinical characteristics and outcomes: systematic review and meta-analysis Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-08 Kamyar Keramatian, Jairo V. Pinto, Vivian W. L. Tsang, Trisha Chakrabarty, Lakshmi N. Yatham
Background The duration of undiagnosed or untreated bipolar disorder (DUBD) has become a focus of research interest. However, its relationship with clinical characteristics and outcomes remains poorly understood.Aims The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine DUBD and explore its relationships with clinical characteristics and outcomes in bipolar disorder.Methods We conducted
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Changes in brain function during negative emotion processing following cognitive–behavioural therapy in depressive disorders Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-07 Tiana Borgers, Esther Zwiky, Melissa Klug, Verena Enneking, Lukas Fisch, Lydia Klein, Laura Neutz, Elisabeth Johanna Leehr, Nils Opel, Philine König, Konrad Schöniger, Antonia Küttner, Janine Selle, Udo Dannlowski, Ronny Redlich
Background Cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is a first-line treatment for depressive disorders, but research on its neurobiological mechanisms is limited. Given the heterogeneity in CBT response, investigating the neurobiological effects of CBT may improve response prediction and outcomes.Aims To examine brain functional changes during negative emotion processing following naturalistic CBT.Method
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Real-world effectiveness of antipsychotic medication in relapse prevention after cannabis-induced psychosis Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-06 Antti Mustonen, Heidi Taipale, Alexander Denissoff, Venla Ellilä, Marta Di Forti, Antti Tanskanen, Ellenor Mittendorfer-Rutz, Jari Tiihonen, Solja Niemelä
Background Cannabis use is linked to treatment non-adherence and relapses in psychotic disorders. Antipsychotic medication is effective for relapse prevention in primary psychoses, but its effectiveness after cannabis-induced psychosis (CIP) remains unclear.Aims To examine the effectiveness of antipsychotic medication for relapse prevention following the first clinically diagnosed CIP.Method A cohort
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Efficacy and safety of cholinergic modulators in patients with schizophrenia: meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-05-02 Amiya Shaju, Archana Mishra, Debadatta Mohapatra, Anand Srinivasan, Rituparna Maiti
Background One-third of schizophrenia patients show a lack of response to conventional antipsychotic drugs because of adverse effects and limited efficacy. Emerging treatments target muscarinic and nicotinic receptors, leveraging cholinergic dysfunction implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.Aims To evaluate the efficacy and safety of cholinergic modulators in schizophrenia.Methods Reviewers
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Neural correlates of social affect and social cognition as risk markers of bipolar disorder Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-30 Dahna Choi, Katharina Förster, Malin Katharina Hildebrandt, Lara Zoë Maliske, Konrad Lehmann, Philipp Kanske, Emanuel Jauk
Background The identification of early warning signs is of great importance for identifying individuals at risk for mental disorders. Especially in the case of bipolar disorder, these research endeavours are imperative considering that the frequently delayed diagnoses and longer illness duration are associated with symptom exacerbation and lower recovery rates.Aims To multimodally investigate associations
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Stigma and the pejorative use of disabling conditions Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-29 James L. Cherney, Gin S. Malhi
Ableist culture stigmatises psychiatric and psychological conditions, which perpetuates misconceptions about them and can discourage people from seeking appropriate treatment for mental conditions. This editorial examines how pejorative use of diagnostic terms contributes to stigmatisation, identifies its discriminatory impact and explores its connection to fears about becoming disabled.
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Interaction between mental disorders and social disconnectedness on mortality: a population-based cohort study: commentary, Kukreja et al. Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-29 Sarthak Kukreja,Rahul Mathur,Nishtha Chawla
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The relevance of engagement: maximising the benefits of screening for major depressive disorder. Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-29 Jorge Arias-de la Torre,Amy Ronaldson,Alex Dregan,Antoni Serrano-Blanco,Jose M Valderas,Vicente Martín,Jordi Alonso
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'Eleanor Rigby': loneliness, depression and suicide in older adults - Psychiatry in music. Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-29 Nadine A M Abdalla
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Promises and pitfalls of large language models in psychiatric diagnosis and knowledge tasks. Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-29 Chang-Bae Bang,Young-Chul Jung,Seng Chan You,Kyungsang Kim,Byung-Hoon Kim
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Truthful communication of mental science: pledge to our patients and profession Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-24 Gin S. Malhi, Joan Marsh, Dost Ongur, Fiammetta Cosci, John H. Krystal, Karen L. Cropsey, Gregers Wegener, Susan Redline, Carmine M. Pariante, Ida Hageman, Cameron Carter, Winfried Rief, Robin Emsley, Lynn E. DeLisi, Andrea Cipriani, Benedicto Crespo-Facorro, Steve Kisely, Lakshmi N. Yatham, Jeffrey C. L. Looi, Roger Mulder, Rajiv Tandon, Paola Dazzan
Summary Recent changes in US government priorities have serious negative implications for science that will compromise the integrity of mental health research, which focuses on vulnerable populations. Therefore, as editors of mental science journals and custodians of the academic record, we confirm with conviction our collective commitment to communicating the truth.
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When an earthquake hits a war-affected population: longitudinal growth trajectories of psychopathology in individuals in northwest Syria Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-21 Dana Churbaji, Linnea Ritter, Pascal Schlechter, Ahlke Kip, Nexhmedin Morina
Background The Kahramanmaraş earthquakes in February 2023 represented a disaster within a disaster, as northwest Syria had been affected by years of war. Literature on the immediate psychological impact of such natural disasters in high-adversity populations is lacking.Aims To examine prevalences, longitudinal trajectories and cognitive predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression
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The association between relapse and the outcome of schizophrenia and recurrent psychotic disorders Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-14 Joanna Moncrieff, Elizabeth Pillai, Louise Marston, Glyn Lewis, Thomas R. E. Barnes, Sonia Johnson, Stefan Priebe
Background Having a relapse of schizophrenia or recurrent psychosis is feared by patients, can cause social and personal disruption and has been suggested to cause long-term deterioration, possibly because of a toxic biological process.Aims To assess whether relapse affected the social and clinical outcomes of people enrolled in a 24-month randomised controlled trial of antipsychotic medication dose
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Dog-assisted interventions for children and adults with mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions: systematic review Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-14 Emily Shoesmith, Sophie Hall, Amanda Sowden, Heidi Stevens, Jodi Pervin, Jenny Riga, Dean McMillan, Daniel Mills, Chris Clarke, Qi Wu, Selina Gibsone, Elena Ratschen
Background Dog-assisted interventions (DAIs) to improve health-related outcomes for people with mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions are becoming increasingly popular. However, DAIs are not based on robust scientific evidence.Aims To determine the effectiveness of DAIs for children and adults with mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions, assess how well randomised controlled trials
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Introduction of point-of-care blood testing in early intervention in psychosis services: effects on physical health screening Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-11 Monty Lyman, Jack B. Fanshawe, Joshua Brewin, Thomas R. Fanshawe, Philip J. Turner, Margaret Glogowska, Ian Smith, Sarah Amani, Gail Hayward, Belinda Lennox
Background There is a significant mortality gap between the general population and people with psychosis. Completion rates of regular physical health assessments for cardiovascular risk in this group are suboptimal. Point-of-care testing (POCT) for diabetes and hyperlipidaemia – providing an immediate result from a finger-prick – could improve these rates.Aims To evaluate the impact on patient–clinician
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When the future escapes: study of the sense of control in predictions about the future over time after exposure to a traumatic event Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-11 Laura Charretier, Mickael Laisney, Jacques Dayan, Florence Fraisse, Denis Peschanski, Vincent de La Sayette, Pierre Gagnepain, Francis Eustache, Peggy Quinette
Background Traumatic experiences can trigger post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and influence one’s future perspective, which can change over time with the sense of control.Aims We measured changes in predictions about the future among individuals who experienced a traumatic event, with or without PTSD, according to their sense of control, and its relationship with post-traumatic change (post-traumatic
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Protecting and promoting editorial independence - CORRIGENDUM. Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-11 Kamaldeep Bhui,Aileen O'Brien,Rachel Upthegrove,Alexander C Tsai,Mustafa Soomro,Giles Newton-Howes,Matthew R Broome,Andrew Forrester,Patricia Casey,Anne M Doherty,William Lee,Kenneth R Kaufman
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The impact of immigration detention on children’s mental health: systematic review Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-10 Isabella Priestley, Sarah Cherian, Georgia Paxton, Zachary Steel, Peter Young, Hasantha Gunasekera, Caroline Hunt
Background There are 117.3 million people forcibly displaced because of war, conflict and natural disasters: 40% are children. With growing numbers, many high-income countries have adopted or are considering increasingly restrictive policies of immigration detention. Research on the impact of detention on mental health has focused on adults, although recent studies report on children.Aims To synthesise
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Antipsychotic therapy and suicide risk in patients with treatment-resistant depression: target trial emulation framework study Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-08 Daniel Hsiang-Te Tsai, Avery Shuei-He Yang, Zi-Xuan Wong, Albert Tzu-Ming Chuang, Michael Chun-Yuan Cheng, Chin-Yao Shen, Shih-Chieh Shao, Edward Chia-Cheng Lai
Background Previous studies investigating the effectiveness of augmentation therapy have been limited.Aims To evaluate the effectiveness of antipsychotic augmentation therapies among patients with treatment-resistant depression.Method We included patients diagnosed with depression receiving two antidepressant courses within 1 year between 2009 and 2020 and used the clone-censor-weight approach to address
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Engaging the next generation of psychiatrists for geriatric psychiatry: call for action on behalf of the European Association of Geriatric Psychiatry Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-08 Richard C. Oude Voshaar, Lia Fernandes, Michel Benoit, Sujoy Mukherjee, Pierre Vandel, Manuel Franco-Martin, Octavian Vasiliu, Timm Strotmann-Tack, Linda Furuäng, Eivind Aakhus, Ninoslav Mimica, Filip Bouckaert
Geriatric (old age) psychiatry faces growing challenges amid Europe’s ageing population. This editorial emphasises the need for specialised training, mentorship and subspecialty recognition to attract young psychiatrists. By addressing structural gaps and fostering innovation, the field offers a rewarding career in enhancing older adults’ mental healthcare and quality of life.
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Addressing disparities in eating disorders: underfunding, research gaps and clinical training deficiencies among males and men Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-07 Eshaan Prashar, Kathryn J. Schulze, Joyla A. Furlano
This paper highlights systemic research and clinical deficiencies in addressing eating disorders among males and men, focusing on societal stigma, gender-biased diagnostics and barriers to care. It advocates for comprehensive reforms, including addressing systemic underfunding, closing research gaps, improving clinician training and tailored interventions to reduce disparities and improve outcomes
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Efficacy and tolerability of antidepressants in individuals suffering from physical conditions and depressive disorders: network meta-analysis Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-04 Beatrice De Luca, Andrea Canozzi, Carlotta Mosconi, Chiara Gastaldon, Davide Papola, Alessia Metelli, Federico Tedeschi, Francesco Amaddeo, Marianna Purgato, Marco Solmi, Corrado Barbui, Giovanni Vita, Giovanni Ostuzzi
Background Antidepressants are effective for depression, but most evidence excludes individuals with comorbid physical conditions.Aims To assess antidepressants’ efficacy and tolerability in individuals with depression and comorbid physical conditions.Methods Systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Co-primary outcomes were efficacy on depressive symptoms
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Mental health homicide inquiries in England 2010–2023: review of methodology and findings Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-04 Mayura Deshpande, Julia M. A. Sinclair, Zoe Tebbs, David S. Baldwin
Background The methodology and impact of independent inquiries of homicides by people in care of mental health services have been questioned.Aims To analyse characteristics of patients who committed homicide, their victims and inquiries published in England between 2010 and 2023.Method Documentary and thematic analysis of 162 mental health homicide inquiries. We compared characteristics of perpetrators
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Psychiatric and somatic morbidity patterns among patients diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and the risk of involuntary treatment: register-based cohort study Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-04 Line Bager, Hannah Chatwin, Katrine Holde, Birgitte Dige Semark, Mohamed Abdulkadir, Benjamin Mac Donald, Loa Clausen, Liselotte Vogdrup Petersen
Background Involuntary treatment for patients with anorexia nervosa is common and lifesaving, but also highly intrusive. Understanding how morbidity patterns relate to involuntary treatment can help minimise its use.Aim We estimate the relative risk of involuntary treatment according to morbidity profiles in patients with anorexia nervosa.Method This register-based cohort study included all individuals
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Missing a trick? Bupropion for the pharmacological treatment of depression in the UK Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-03 Michael Browning, Philip J. Cowen
Bupropion is not licensed as an antidepressant in the UK, limiting its use. We highlight bupropion’s distinct pharmacological profile and its potential benefits in treatment-resistant depression and people experiencing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-induced sexual dysfunction. The National Health Service repurposing medicines programme could improve equity of access for UK patients.
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Mental health homicide inquiries in England 2010-2023: review of methodology and findings - commentary, Crichton. Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-03 John H M Crichton
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Triple-network model–based graph theory analysis of the effectiveness of low-dose ketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression: two resting-state functional MRI clinical trials Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-02 Wei-Chen Lin, Li-Kai Cheng, Tung-Ping Su, Li-Fen Chen, Pei-Chi Tu, Cheng-Ta Li, Ya-Mei Bai, Shih-Jen Tsai, Mu-Hong Chen
Background Evidence suggests the crucial role of dysfunctional default mode (DMN), salience and frontoparietal (FPN) networks, collectively termed the triple network model, in the pathophysiology of treatment-resistant depression (TRD).Aims Using the graph theory- and seed-based functional connectivity analyses, we attempted to elucidate the role of low-dose ketamine in the triple networks, namely
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Systematic review of the efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for improving quality of life of people with dementia Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-04-01 Dominic Luxton, Naomi Thorpe, Emily Crane, Molly Warne, Olivia Cornwall, Daniel El-Dalil, Joshua Matthews, Anto P. Rajkumar
Background People with dementia (PwD) and their carers often consider maintaining good quality of life (QoL) more important than improvements in cognition or other symptoms of dementia. There is a clinical need for identifying interventions that can improve QoL of PwD. There are currently no evidence-based guidelines to help clinicians, patients and policy makers to make informed decisions regarding
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Late-life affective disorders and risk of progression to dementia: retrospective cohort study of patients in secondary care Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-03-31 Laith Alexander, Katherine Beck, Mariia Bocharova, Allan H. Young, Robert Stewart, Rowena Carter, Christoph Mueller
Background Late-life affective disorders (LLADs) are common and are projected to increase by 2050. There have been several studies linking late-life depression to an increased risk of dementia, but it is unclear if bipolar affective disorder or anxiety disorders pose a similar risk.Aims We aimed to compare the risk of LLADs progressing to all-cause dementia, and the demographic and clinical variables
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Factors associated with self-harm in patients with substance use disorders who died by suicide: national hybrid questionnaire registry study Br. J. Psychiatry (IF 8.7) Pub Date : 2025-03-27 Martin Ø. Myhre, Fredrik A. Walby, Ole Klungsøyr, Jørgen G. Bramness, Lars Mehlum
Background Self-harm, self-poisoning or self-injury, irrespective of the motivation, is a central risk factor for suicide. Still, there is limited knowledge of self-harm among patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) who die by suicide.Aims We aimed to describe the prevalence of a history of self-harm and identify the factors associated with self-harm, comparing individuals who died by suicide with