research topic about mental health issue

Research Topics Ideas: Mental Health

100+ Mental Health Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

I If you’re just starting out exploring mental health topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of mental health-related research topics and ideas.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Mental Health Topic Ideas

Mood disorders
Anxiety disorders
Psychotic disorders
Personality disorders
Obsessive-compulsive disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Neurodevelopmental disorders
Eating disorders
Substance-related disorders

Mood Disorders

Research in mood disorders can help understand their causes and improve treatment methods. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

The impact of genetics on the susceptibility to depression
Efficacy of antidepressants vs. cognitive behavioural therapy
The role of gut microbiota in mood regulation
Cultural variations in the experience and diagnosis of bipolar disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder: Environmental factors and treatment
The link between depression and chronic illnesses
Exercise as an adjunct treatment for mood disorders
Hormonal changes and mood swings in postpartum women
Stigma around mood disorders in the workplace
Suicidal tendencies among patients with severe mood disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Research topics in this category can potentially explore the triggers, coping mechanisms, or treatment efficacy for anxiety disorders.

The relationship between social media and anxiety
Exposure therapy effectiveness in treating phobias
Generalised Anxiety Disorder in children: Early signs and interventions
The role of mindfulness in treating anxiety
Genetics and heritability of anxiety disorders
The link between anxiety disorders and heart disease
Anxiety prevalence in LGBTQ+ communities
Caffeine consumption and its impact on anxiety levels
The economic cost of untreated anxiety disorders
Virtual Reality as a treatment method for anxiety disorders

Psychotic Disorders

Within this space, your research topic could potentially aim to investigate the underlying factors and treatment possibilities for psychotic disorders.

Early signs and interventions in adolescent psychosis
Brain imaging techniques for diagnosing psychotic disorders
The efficacy of antipsychotic medication
The role of family history in psychotic disorders
Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment of psychotic disorders
Co-morbidity of psychotic and mood disorders
The relationship between substance abuse and psychotic disorders
Art therapy as a treatment for schizophrenia
Public perception and stigma around psychotic disorders
Hospital vs. community-based care for psychotic disorders

Personality Disorders

Research topics within in this area could delve into the identification, management, and social implications of personality disorders.

Long-term outcomes of borderline personality disorder
Antisocial personality disorder and criminal behaviour
The role of early life experiences in developing personality disorders
Narcissistic personality disorder in corporate leaders
Gender differences in personality disorders
Diagnosis challenges for Cluster A personality disorders
Emotional intelligence and its role in treating personality disorders
Psychotherapy methods for treating personality disorders
Personality disorders in the elderly population
Stigma and misconceptions about personality disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

Within this space, research topics could focus on the causes, symptoms, or treatment of disorders like OCD and hoarding.

OCD and its relationship with anxiety disorders
Cognitive mechanisms behind hoarding behaviour
Deep Brain Stimulation as a treatment for severe OCD
The impact of OCD on academic performance in students
Role of family and social networks in treating OCD
Alternative treatments for hoarding disorder
Childhood onset OCD: Diagnosis and treatment
OCD and religious obsessions
The impact of OCD on family dynamics
Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Causes and treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Research topics in this area could explore the triggers, symptoms, and treatments for PTSD. Here are some thought starters to get you moving.

PTSD in military veterans: Coping mechanisms and treatment
Childhood trauma and adult onset PTSD
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficacy
Role of emotional support animals in treating PTSD
Gender differences in PTSD occurrence and treatment
Effectiveness of group therapy for PTSD patients
PTSD and substance abuse: A dual diagnosis
First responders and rates of PTSD
Domestic violence as a cause of PTSD
The neurobiology of PTSD

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

This category of mental health aims to better understand disorders like Autism and ADHD and their impact on day-to-day life.

Early diagnosis and interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD medication and its impact on academic performance
Parental coping strategies for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
Autism and gender: Diagnosis disparities
The role of diet in managing ADHD symptoms
Neurodevelopmental disorders in the criminal justice system
Genetic factors influencing Autism
ADHD and its relationship with sleep disorders
Educational adaptations for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
Neurodevelopmental disorders and stigma in schools

Eating Disorders

Research topics within this space can explore the psychological, social, and biological aspects of eating disorders.

The role of social media in promoting eating disorders
Family dynamics and their impact on anorexia
Biological basis of binge-eating disorder
Treatment outcomes for bulimia nervosa
Eating disorders in athletes
Media portrayal of body image and its impact
Eating disorders and gender: Are men underdiagnosed?
Cultural variations in eating disorders
The relationship between obesity and eating disorders
Eating disorders in the LGBTQ+ community

Substance-Related Disorders

Research topics in this category can focus on addiction mechanisms, treatment options, and social implications.

Efficacy of rehabilitation centres for alcohol addiction
The role of genetics in substance abuse
Substance abuse and its impact on family dynamics
Prescription drug abuse among the elderly
Legalisation of marijuana and its impact on substance abuse rates
Alcoholism and its relationship with liver diseases
Opioid crisis: Causes and solutions
Substance abuse education in schools: Is it effective?
Harm reduction strategies for drug abuse
Co-occurring mental health disorders in substance abusers

Choosing A Research Topic

These research topic ideas we’ve covered here serve as thought starters to help you explore different areas within mental health. They are intentionally very broad and open-ended. By engaging with the currently literature in your field of interest, you’ll be able to narrow down your focus to a specific research gap .

It’s important to consider a variety of factors when choosing a topic for your dissertation or thesis . Think about the relevance of the topic, its feasibility , and the resources available to you, including time, data, and academic guidance. Also, consider your own interest and expertise in the subject, as this will sustain you through the research process.

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How To Choose A Research Topic: 5 Key Criteria

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Good morning everyone. This are very patent topics for research in neuroscience. Thank you for guidance

What if everything is important, original and intresting? as in Neuroscience. I find myself overwhelmd with tens of relveant areas and within each area many optional topics. I ask myself if importance (for example – able to treat people suffering) is more relevant than what intrest me, and on the other hand if what advance me further in my career should not also be a consideration?

This information is really helpful and have learnt alot

Phd research topics on implementation of mental health policy in Nigeria :the prospects, challenges and way forward.

This info is indeed help for someone to formulate a dissertation topic. I have already got my path from here.

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150+ Trending Mental Health Research Topics For Students (2023)

Mental health is an important part of our well-being, encompassing our emotional, psychological, and social health. In the United States, the importance of addressing mental health has gained recognition, with growing concerns about stress, anxiety, and depression.

In this blog, we will guide you the meaning of mental health research topics with our 5 useful tips. Moreover, we give you a list of 150+ Mental Health Research Topics in 2023, including qualitative, interesting, and even controversial ones, you’ll find options that suit your interests. From the impact of social media to the intersection of Mental Health with political science and music therapy, we’ve got you covered.

Stay tuned for more on mental health research topics, and do not forget our bonus tips for selecting the best topics.

What Is Mental Health?

Table of Contents

Mental health is about how we feel and think inside our minds. It’s like taking care of our thoughts and emotions, just like we take care of our bodies. When our mental health is good, we usually feel happy and calm and can handle life’s challenges. But when our mental health is not so good, we might feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed.

What Are Mental Health Research Topics?

Mental health research topics are subjects that scientists and experts study to learn more about our thoughts and emotions. These topics include things like understanding what causes mental health problems, finding better ways to help people who are struggling, and figuring out how to prevent these issues from happening. Researchers also examine how different treatments, like therapy or medication, can help improve mental health.

These research topics are important because they help us learn more about our minds and how to keep them healthy. By studying these topics, scientists can discover new ways to support people who are facing mental health challenges, making it easier for everyone to lead happier and more balanced lives.

5 Useful Tips For Choosing Mental Health Research Topics

Here are some useful tips for choosing mental health research topics:

1. Your research will be more focused and impactful.

2. You will be more likely to find funding and support.

3. You will be more likely to publish your research in peer-reviewed journals.

4. You will be more likely to make a huge contribution to the field of mental health research.

5. You will be more likely to enjoy your research experience.

Choosing the right mental health research topic is essential for success. By following the tips above, you can choose a topic that is focused, impactful, and relevant to your interests and expertise.

150+ Mental Health Research Topics In 2023

In this section, we will explore 150+ mental health research topics on different categories:

Mental Health Research Topics For College Students

College students often face unique mental health challenges. Here are 15 research topics for studying mental health in this demographic:

The impact of academic stress on college students’ mental health.
Exploring the relationship between sleep patterns and mental well-being among college students.
Analyzing the effectiveness of campus mental health services.
Investigating the prevalence of substance abuse and its effects on mental health in college students.
The role of peer support groups in reducing anxiety and depression among college students.
Examining the influence of social media usage on the mental health of college students.
The correlation between mental stress and financial stress issues in college students.
The value of practicing mindfulness and meditation for college students’ mental health.
Getting a better idea of how different cultures affect college students’ mental health.
Trying to figure out how mental health and physical movement affect college students.
Investigating the stigma surrounding mental health issues in college environments.
Analyzing the role of academic pressure in the onset of eating disorders among college students.
The effectiveness of online mental health resources and apps for college students.
Examining the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ college students.
The impact of COVID-19 and remote learning on the mental health of college students.

Mental Health Research Topics For High School Students

High school students also encounter unique mental health concerns. Here are 15 research topics for studying mental health in this age group:

The effects of academic pressure on the mental health of high school students.
Investigating the role of family dynamics in the emotional well-being of high school students.
Analyzing the impact of bullying and cyberbullying on the mental health of teenagers.
The relationship between social media use and body image issues in high school students.
Examining the effectiveness of mental health education programs in high schools.
Investigating the prevalence of self-harm and suicidal ideation among high school students.
Analyzing the influence of peer relationships on the mental health of adolescents.
The role of extracurricular activities in promoting positive mental health in high school students.
Exploring the effects of substances abuse on the mental well-being of teenagers.
Investigating the stigma surrounding mental health issues in high schools.
The effects of COVID-19 and remote learning on the mental health of high school students.
Examining the mental health challenges faced by immigrant and refugee high school students.
Analyzing the relationship between sleep patterns and mental health in adolescents.
The effectiveness of art and creative therapies in treating mental health issues in high school students.
Investigating the role of teachers and school counselors in supporting students’ mental health.

Mental Health Research Topics For Nursing Students

Nursing students play a vital role in mental health care. Here are 15 research topics relevant to nursing students:

The impact of nursing education on students’ mental health.
Investigating the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in psychiatric nursing.
Analyzing the role of psychiatric medications in mental health treatment.
The importance of self-care practices for nursing students’ mental well-being.
Exploring the challenges faced by nursing students in caring for patients with severe mental illness.
Investigating the influence of nursing curricula on reducing mental health stigma.
Analyzing the role of clinical placements in preparing nursing students for mental health nursing.
The effects of peer support programs on nursing students’ mental health.
Examining the prevalence of burnout and stress among nursing students.
The importance of cultural skills in nursing care for different mental health patients.
Investigating the impact of technology and telehealth on mental health nursing practices.
Analyzing the ethical dilemmas faced by nursing students in mental health care.
Exploring the use of simulation training in psychiatric nursing education.
The effectiveness of mindfulness and stress management programs for nursing students.
Finding out what nursing students think about the healing model in mental health care is the goal of this study.

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Psychology Culture, And Mental Health Research Topics

Psychology and culture intersect in complex ways. Here are 15 research topics in this area:

Cross-cultural variations in the manifestation of mental disorders.
The influence of cultural beliefs on help-seeking behaviors for mental health issues.
Analyzing cultural factors in the diagnosis and treatment of depression.
The effect of acculturation on the mental health of newcomers.
Exploring cultural stigma surrounding mental illness in different societies.
Investigating the role of traditional healing practices in mental health care.
Cross-cultural perspectives on the concept of resilience in mental health.
Analyzing cultural variations in the experience of anxiety disorders.
The role of cultural competence in psychotherapy and counseling.
Exploring indigenous perspectives on mental health and well-being.
The impact of globalization on cultural attitudes toward mental health.
Investigating the influence of religion and spirituality on mental health outcomes.
Analyzing cultural differences in the perception and treatment of eating disorders.
The role of cultural identity in coping with trauma and adversity.
Cross-cultural perspectives on the use of psychotropic medications in mental health treatment.

Community Mental Health Research Topics

Community mental health research is crucial for improving public well-being. Here are 15 research topics in this field:

Evaluating the effectiveness of community-based mental health programs.
Investigating the role of peer support networks in community mental health.
Analyzing the impact of housing instability on mental health in urban communities.
Why early intervention programs are so important for avoiding serious mental illness.
Exploring the use of telemedicine in delivering mental health services to underserved communities.
Investigating the integration of mental health care into primary care settings.
Analyzing the effectiveness of crisis intervention teams in community policing.
The role of community art and creative programs in promoting mental well-being.
Examining the mental health challenges faced by homeless populations.
The impact of community outreach and education on reducing mental health stigma.
Investigating the use of community gardens and green spaces for improving mental health.
Analyzing the relationship between neighborhood characteristics and mental health disparities.
Exploring the role of community leaders and advocates in mental health policy.
The effectiveness of community-based substance abuse treatment programs.
Finding out what part social determinants of health play in the mental health of a community.

Global Mental Health Research Topics

Mental health is a global issue with unique challenges. Here are 15 research topics in global mental health:

Analyzing the burden of mental illness on global public health.
Investigating the cultural variations in mental health stigma worldwide.
The impact of arms conflict and displacement on mental well-being.
Exploring the use of teletherapy for improving access to mental health care in low-resource settings.
Analyzing the role of traditional healers in global mental health care.
Investigating the mental health challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers.
The effectiveness of international mental health aid and interventions.
Examining the mental health implications of weather change and natural disasters.
Analyzing the global prevalence and treatment of common mental disorders.
Exploring the intersection of infectious diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS) and mental health.
Mental Health in Urban Environments: Analyzing the unique challenges faced by individuals living in densely populated urban areas.
Mental Health and Digital Technology: Exploring the impact of digital technology on mental well-being across cultures and age groups.
Mental Health in Indigenous Communities: Investigating mental health disparities among indigenous populations and the role of cultural preservation.
Mental Health in the Workplace: Examining workplace-related stressors and policies to support employees’ mental well-being globally.
Youth Mental Health: Studying mental health challenges among children and adolescents, considering factors like education and family dynamics.

Qualitative Mental Health Research Topics

Qualitative research in mental health can provide rich insights into individuals’ experiences and perceptions. Here are 15 qualitative research topics in mental health:

Exploring the lived experiences of individuals with schizophrenia.
Qualitative analysis of the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.
Understanding the coping mechanisms of parents with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Investigating the narratives of individuals recovering from addiction.
Analyzing the cultural perceptions of depression and its treatment.
Examining the subjective experiences of caregivers of dementia patients.
Discussing the role of spirituality in the recovery process for people with mental illness.
Qualitative assessment of the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on stress reduction.
Investigating the narratives of survivors of suicide attempts.
Understanding the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in mental health care.
Analyzing the perceptions of veterans regarding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment.
Exploring the subjective experiences of individuals with eating disorders.
Qualitative assessment of the role of peer support groups in recovery from substance abuse.
Investigating the stigma and barriers faced by individuals with bipolar disorder.
Understanding the cultural variations in perceptions of anxiety disorders.

Interesting Mental Health Research Topics

Fascinating mental health topics can engage researchers and readers alike. Here are 15 intriguing research topics in mental health:

The impact of virtual reality therapy on anxiety and phobias.
Investigating the connection between creativity and mental well-being.
Analyzing the role of pet therapy in reducing stress and anxiety.
Exploring the effects of nature and green spaces on mental health.
The relationship between personality types (e.g., introversion, extroversion) and mental health outcomes.
Investigating the benefits of laughter therapy on mood and stress.
Analyzing the effects of lucid dreaming on nightmares and trauma.
Exploring the mental health benefits of volunteering and altruism.
The impact of time-restricted eating on mood and cognitive function.
Investigating the use of virtual support groups for individuals with social anxiety.
Analyzing the relationship between music and memory in Alzheimer’s disease.
Exploring the mental health effects of color psychology and interior design.
The role of adventure therapy in enhancing self-esteem and resilience.
Investigating the influence of childhood hobbies on adult mental well-being.
Analyzing the connection between humor and emotional intelligence in mental health promotion.

Social Media On Mental Health Research Topics

Social media’s impact on mental health is a timely and relevant research area. Here are 15 research topics on this subject:

Analyzing the relationship between social media use and feelings of loneliness.
Investigating the effects of cyberbullying on adolescent mental health.
The influence of social media comparison on body image dissatisfaction.
Exploring the role of social media in the dissemination of mental health information.
Analyzing the impact of social media detoxes on well-being.
Investigating the link between excessive screen time and sleep disturbances.
The effects of online support communities on mental health recovery.
Exploring the role of influencer culture in shaping mental health perceptions.
Analyzing the relationship between social media activism and mental well-being.
Investigating the impact of “FOMO” (Fear of Missing Out) on anxiety levels.
The role of social media in spreading wrong information about mental health.
Exploring the effects of targeted advertising on mental health outcomes.
Analyzing the relationship between online gaming and addictive behaviors.
Investigating the influence of social media on political polarization and mental health.
The role of social media in fostering a sense of community among marginalized groups with mental health issues.

Cool Mental Health Research Topics

Cool mental health topics can pique interest and lead to innovative research. Here are some cool research topics in mental health:

Investigating the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances for mental health treatment.
Analyzing the impact of virtual reality gaming on managing stress and anxiety.
Exploring the use of artificial intelligence and chatbots in mental health counseling.
The effectiveness of mindfulness apps and wearable devices in promoting mental well-being.
Investigating the role of gut microbiota in mood and mental health.
Analyzing the use of neurofeedback technology for improving attention and focus in ADHD.
Exploring the benefits of equine-assisted therapy for individuals with PTSD .
The potential of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for treating depression.
Investigating the use of art therapy and virtual art galleries for mental health support.
Analyzing the impact of music and sound therapy on sleep quality and anxiety.
Exploring the use of scent and aroma therapy in mood regulation.
The role of biofeedback and wearable sensors in managing panic disorders.
Investigating the mental health benefits of urban gardening and green rooftops.
Analyzing the use of brain-computer interfaces in enhancing emotional regulation.
Exploring the connection between outdoor adventure activities and resilience in mental health recovery.

research topic about mental health issue

1. Choose a research topic according to your interest ,expertise, and career goals.
2. Make sure the topic is feasible and can be completed within the given time and resources.
3. Choose a topic that will make a meaningful contribution to the mental health field.
4. Consider the ethical implications of your research and ensure that it protects the rights and well-being of 5. participants.
5. Select a topic that is original and innovative and not simply a rehash of existing research.

Understanding what mental health is and exploring various mental health research topics is crucial in addressing the challenges individuals face today. Choosing the right topic involves considering your audience and interests, as highlighted in our five tips. With 150+ mental health research topics for 2023, we have provided options for college, high school, and nursing students and those interested in psychology, culture, and global perspectives.

Moreover, qualitative and intriguing topics offer diverse avenues for exploration while acknowledging the impact of social media on mental health is essential. Remember our bonus tips when selecting your mental health research topic – prioritize relevance and impact to make a meaningful contribution to this vital field.

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207 Mental Health Research Topics For Top Students

College and university students pursuing psychology studies must write research papers on mental health in their studies. It is not always an exciting moment for the students since getting quality mental health topics is tedious. However, this article presents expert ideas and writing tips for students in this field. Enjoy!

What Is Mental Health?

It is an integral component of health that deals with the feeling of well-being when one realizes his or her abilities, cope with the pressures of life, and productively work. Mental health also incorporates how humans interact with each other, emote, or think. It is a vital concern of any human life that cannot be neglected.

How To Write Mental Health Research Topics

One should approach the subject of mental health with utmost preciseness. If handled carelessly, cases such as depression, suicide or low self-esteem may occur. That is why students are advised to carefully choose mental health research paper topics for their paper with the mind reader.

To get mental health topics for research paper, you can use the following sources:

The WHO website
Websites of renowned psychology clinics
News reports and headlines.

However, we have a list of writing ideas that you can use for your inspiration. Check them out!

Mental Illness Research Questions

The role of antidepressant medicines in treating mental illnesses
How taxation of alcoholic beverages and their restriction can help in curbing mental illnesses
The impact of mental illnesses on the economic development of a country
Efficient and cost-effective ways of treating mental illnesses
Early childhood interventions to prevent future mental illnesses
Why children from single-parent families are prone to mental illnesses
Do opportunities for early learning have a role in curbing mental diseases?
Life skills programmes that everyone should embrace to fight mental illnesses
The role of nutrition and diet in causing mental illness
How socio-economic empowerment of women can help promote mental health
Practical social support for elderly populations to prevent mental illnesses
How to help vulnerable groups against mental illnesses
Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health promotional activities in schools

Hot Mental Health Topics For Research

Do stress prevention programmes on TV work?
The role of anti-discrimination laws and campaigns in promoting mental health
Discuss specific psychological and personality factors leading to mental disorders
How can biological factors lead to mental problems?
How stressful work conditions can stir up mental health disorders
Is physical ill-health a pivotal contributor to mental disorders today?
Why sexual violence has led many to depression and suicide
The role of life experiences in mental illnesses: A case of trauma
How family history can lead to mental health problems
Can people with mental health problems recover entirely?
Why sleeping too much or minor can be an indicator of mental disorders.
Why do people with mental health problems pull away from others?
Discuss confusion as a sign of mental disorders

Research Topics For Mental Health Counseling

Counselling strategies that help victims cope with the stresses of life
Is getting professional counselling help becoming too expensive?
Mental health counselling for bipolar disorders
How psychological counselling affects victims of mental health disorders
What issues are students free to share with their guiding and counselling masters?
Why are relationship issues the most prevalent among teenagers?
Does counselling help in the case of obsessive-compulsive disorders?
Is counselling a cure to mental health problems?
Why talking therapies are the most effective in dealing with mental disorders
How does talking about your experiences help in dealing with the problem?
Why most victims approach their counsellors feeling apprehensive and nervous
How to make a patient feel comfortable during a counselling session
Why counsellors should not push patients to talk about stuff they aren’t ready to share

Mental Health Law Research Topics

Discuss the effectiveness of the Americans with Disabilities Act
Does the Capacity to Consent to Treatment law push patients to the wall?
Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health courts
Does forcible medication lead to severe mental health problems?
Discuss the institutionalization of mental health facilities
Analyze the Consent to Clinical Research using mentally ill patients
What rights do mentally sick patients have? Are they effective?
Critically analyze proxy decision making for mental disorders
Why some Psychiatric Advance directives are punitive
Discuss the therapeutic jurisprudence of mental disorders
How effective is legal guardianship in the case of mental disorders?
Discuss psychology laws & licensing boards in the United States
Evaluate state insanity defence laws

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Mental Health

Do mentally ill patients have a right to choose whether to go to psychiatric centres or not?
Should families take the elderly to mental health institutions?
Does the doctor have the right to end the life of a terminally ill mental patient?
The use of euthanasia among extreme cases of mental health
Are mental disorders a result of curses and witchcraft?
Do violent video games make children aggressive and uncontrollable?
Should mental institutions be located outside the cities?
How often should families visit their relatives who are mentally ill?
Why the government should fully support the mentally ill
Should mental health clinics use pictures of patients without their consent?
Should families pay for the care of mentally ill relatives?
Do mentally ill patients have the right to marry or get married?
Who determines when to send a patient to a mental health facility?

Mental Health Topics For Discussion

The role of drama and music in treating mental health problems
Explore new ways of coping with mental health problems in the 21 st century
How social media is contributing to various mental health problems
Does Yoga and meditation help to treat mental health complications?
Is the mental health curriculum for psychology students inclusive enough?
Why solving problems as a family can help alleviate mental health disorders
Why teachers can either maintain or disrupt the mental state of their students
Should patients with mental health issues learn to live with their problems?
Why socializing is difficult for patients with mental disorders
Are our online psychology clinics effective in handling mental health issues?
Discuss why people aged 18-25 are more prone to mental health problems
Analyze the growing trend of social stigma in the United States
Are all people with mental health disorders violent and dangerous?

Mental Health Of New Mothers Research Topics

The role of mental disorders in mother-infant bonding
How mental health issues could lead to delays in the emotional development of the infant
The impact of COVID-19 physical distancing measures on postpartum women
Why anxiety and depression are associated with preterm delivery
The role of husbands in attending to wives’ postpartum care needs
What is the effectiveness of screening for postpartum depression?
The role of resilience in dealing with mental issues after delivery
Why marginalized women are more prone to postpartum depression
Why failure to bond leads to mental disorders among new mothers
Discuss how low and middle-income countries contribute to perinatal depression
How to prevent the recurrence of postpartum mental disorders in future
The role of anti-depression drugs in dealing with depression among new mothers
A case study of the various healthcare interventions for perinatal anxiety and mood disorders

What Are The Hot Topics For Mental Health Research Today

Discuss why mental health problems may be a result of a character flaw
The impact of damaging stereotypes in mental health
Why are many people reluctant to speak about their mental health issues?
Why the society tends to judge people with mental issues
Does alcohol and wasting health help one deal with a mental problem?
Discuss the role of bullying in causing mental health disorders among students
Why open forums in school and communities can help in curbing mental disorders
How to build healthy relationships that can help in solving mental health issues
Discuss frustration and lack of understanding in relationships
The role of a stable and supportive family in preventing mental disorders
How parents can start mental health conversations with their children
Analyze the responsibilities of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
The role of a positive mind in dealing with psychological problems

Good Research Topics On Refugees Mental Health

Why do refugees find themselves under high levels of stress?
Discuss the modalities of looking after the mental health of refugees
Evaluate the importance of a cultural framework in helping refugees with mental illnesses
How refugee camp administrators can help identify mental health disorders among refugees
Discuss the implications of dangerous traditional practices
The role of the UNHCR in assisting refugees with mental problems
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder among refugees
Dealing with hopelessness among refugees
The prevalence of traumatic experiences in refugee camps
Does cognitive-behavioural therapy work for refugees?
Discuss the role of policy planning in dealing with refugee-mental health problems
Are psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine effective in refugee camps?
Practical groups and in‐group therapeutic settings for refugee camps

Adolescent Mental Health Research Topics

Discuss why suicide is among the leading causes of death among adolescents
The role of acting-out behaviour or substance use in mental issues among adolescents
Mental effects of unsafe sexual behaviour among adolescents
Psychopharmacologic agents and menstrual dysfunction in adolescents
The role of confidentiality in preventive care visits
Mental health disorders and impairment among adolescents
Why adolescents not in school risk developing mental disorders
Does a clinical model work for adolescents with mental illnesses?
The role of self-worth and esteem in dealing with adolescent mental disorders
How to develop positive relationships with peers
Technology and mental ill-health among adolescents
How to deal with stigma among adolescents
Curriculum that supports young people to stay engaged and motivated

Research Topics For Mental Health And Government

Evaluate mental health leadership and governance in the United States
Advocacy and partnerships in dealing with mental health
Discuss mental health and socio-cultural perspective
Management and coordination of mental health policy frameworks
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Mental health awareness: uniting advocacy and research

Nature Mental Health volume 1 , pages 295–296 ( 2023 ) Cite this article

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Mental Health Month has been observed to reduce the stigma that is associated with mental illness and to educate the public and encourage individuals to make their mental health and wellbeing a priority. It is an important moment to bring the strengths of advocacy groups and researchers together to promote mental health awareness and to improve equity.

Observances have become a popular tool to garner media and notice for topics deserving attention, from medical conditions to public health concerns, commemoration of notable events, or celebration of cultural groups. Codifying the scope and needs connected to an issue or illness through awareness campaigns can provide opportunities for imparting useful information, reducing stigma and marshalling support for policy change. The impact of awareness campaigns can be difficult to measure beyond tallying social media mentions or news stories. Effective advocacy, however, extends beyond traffic and paves the way for the creation of knowledge and partnerships among allies and with those whose interests are being represented. When the magnitude of an issue and the potential for improvement are great and are matched by broad involvement and recognition by stakeholders, the possibility for impact is also great.

Held annually in May, Mental Health Month , also called Mental Health Awareness Month, is an observance with such reach, resonating with many people. Nearly everyone has experience with the challenges that are associated with mental health, either first-hand or through loved ones or in their community. There is a need for education, support and initiative to improve our understanding of the causes of mental health disorders and to increase the availability of resources for prevention and treatment. Mental Health Month also offers the possibility of bringing together groups who often work in parallel, such as mental health advocates and mental health research organizations, that can mutually benefit from each other’s functions and expertise.

Mental Health Month was first established in the US in 1949 by the National Mental Health Association, now known as Mental Health America . At a time more often associated with the outset of the Cold War and Marshall Plan than setting an agenda for domestic mental health and wellbeing advocacy, in the more than 70 years since, Mental Health Month has grown into an international event designed to reduce exclusion, stigma and discrimination against people with mental health conditions or disorders. Mental Health America are joined by other prominent mental health advocacy groups to sponsor related observances: Mental Health Awareness Week Canada (1–7 May, 2023) and Europe (22–28 May, 2023); and federal agencies such as the Substance Use Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ( SAMSHA ) in the US, promoting related public education platforms, including National Prevention Week (7–13 May, 2023).

Observances and awareness campaigns also provide occasions to put mental health in context. Increasing acknowledgment of the role of social determinants, for example, as mechanisms that can increase vulnerability for developing disorders and that drive disparities in mental health are an important framework to underscore as part of promoting mental health awareness. Given the complex and broad scope of people, disorders, conditions and issues under the umbrella of mental health, observances also give us the chance to focus more closely on specific problems or experiences. The theme for Mental Health Month in 2023 is ‘Look Around, Look Within’, which emphasizes the interdependence of mental health and wellness with an individual’s internal and external experiences and environments.

“The ‘Look Around, Look Within’ theme builds on the growing recognition that all humans have mental health needs and that our available resources to build resilience and heal come in many forms — including in the natural world,” explains Jennifer Bright, Mental Health America Board Chair and President of Momentum Health Strategies. “Mental Health America’s strategic plan, focused on NextGen Prevention, carries a similar theme — that the social factors supporting mental health are essential building blocks. These encompass basic needs like healthy food, stable housing, and access to treatment and supports, but they also include spirituality, connection with peers with lived experience, and safe and natural spaces.”

Overlapping with Mental Health Month, Mental Health Foundation sponsors Mental Health Week in the UK (15–21 May, 2023), dedicating this year to raising awareness around anxiety. It shares an individual-centered approach to advocacy. In addition to providing toolkits and resources that point to how prevalent stress and anxiety can be to reduce stigma, it also promotes the accessibility of coping strategies for managing anxiety. As part of the Mental Health Awareness Week campaign, Mental Health Foundation and others use the international symbol of wearing a green ribbon or clothing to physically raise awareness around mental health. Nature Mental Health also incorporates the symbol of the green ribbon on the cover of this month’s issue and as our journal theme color. Green evokes the ideas of vitality, growth, new beginnings and hope — powerful imagery in mental health awareness.

Alongside stories, sponsorships and social media resources, mental health advocacy toolkits and strategy documents include fact sheets and messaging that are shaped and informed by research. Yet, there is often a perception that a divide exists between the mental health advocacy and research spaces, but observances such as Mental Health Month can bridge the two.

According to Lea Milligan, Chief Executive Officer of MQ: Transforming Mental Health , an international mental health research organization, there are complementary approaches and priorities in advocacy and research: “Mental health research can be used to bolster awareness by providing evidence-based information and resources that can help individuals and communities better understand mental health and the factors that contribute to mental health problems. This can include information on risk factors, prevention strategies, and available treatments.”

In addition, increased efforts to involve people with lived experience of mental illness in the research enterprise is a goal that is well-served through connection with advocacy. “While MQ is primarily focused on promoting mental health research, it also recognizes the importance of advocacy in advancing the mental health agenda” suggests Milligan. “MQ advocates for increased funding and support for mental health research, as well as policies that promote mental health and wellbeing. Additionally, MQ seeks to empower individuals with lived experience of mental health conditions to be involved in research and advocacy efforts, and to have their voices heard in the development of policies and programs that affect their lives. MQ provides resources and support for individuals with lived experience who wish to be involved in research or advocacy efforts, including training programs, research grants, and opportunities to participate in research studies.”

Involvement or engagement is certainly one of the most important metrics of advocacy. By strengthening collaboration between advocacy and research organizations and identifying the mutual areas of benefit, such as engagement and increased funding, we may find new ways to green light mental health awareness and action toward mental health equity.

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Mental health awareness: uniting advocacy and research. Nat. Mental Health 1 , 295–296 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44220-023-00072-6

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55 research questions about mental health

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Research in the mental health space helps fill knowledge gaps and create a fuller picture for patients, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. Over time, these efforts result in better quality care and more accessible treatment options for those who need them.

Use this list of mental health research questions to kickstart your next project or assignment and give yourself the best chance of producing successful and fulfilling research.

Why does mental health research matter?

Mental health research is an essential area of study. It includes any research that focuses on topics related to people’s mental and emotional well-being.

As a complex health topic that, despite the prevalence of mental health conditions, still has an unending number of unanswered questions, the need for thorough research into causes, triggers, and treatment options is clear.

Research into this heavily stigmatized and often misunderstood topic is needed to find better ways to support people struggling with mental health conditions. Understanding what causes them is another crucial area of study, as it enables individuals, companies, and policymakers to make well-informed choices that can help prevent illnesses like anxiety and depression.

How to choose a strong mental health research topic

As one of the most important parts of beginning a new research project, picking a topic that is intriguing, unique, and in demand is a great way to get the best results from your efforts.

Mental health is a blanket term with many niches and specific areas to explore. But, no matter which direction you choose, follow the tips below to ensure you pick the right topic.

Prioritize your interests and skills

While a big part of research is exploring a new and exciting topic, this exploration is best done within a topic or niche in which you are interested and experienced.

Research is tough, even at the best of times. To combat fatigue and increase your chances of pushing through to the finish line, we recommend choosing a topic that aligns with your personal interests, training, or skill set.

Consider emerging trends

Topical and current research questions are hot commodities because they offer solutions and insights into culturally and socially relevant problems.

Depending on the scope and level of freedom you have with your upcoming research project, choosing a topic that’s trending in your area of study is one way to get support and funding (if you need it).

Not every study can be based on a cutting-edge topic, but this can be a great way to explore a new space and create baseline research data for future studies.

Assess your resources and timeline

Before choosing a super ambitious and exciting research topic, consider your project restrictions.

You’ll need to think about things like your research timeline, access to resources and funding, and expected project scope when deciding how broad your research topic will be. In most cases, it’s better to start small and focus on a specific area of study.

Broad research projects are expensive and labor and resource-intensive. They can take years or even decades to complete. Before biting off more than you can chew, consider your scope and find a research question that fits within it.

Read up on the latest research

Finally, once you have narrowed in on a specific topic, you need to read up on the latest studies and published research. A thorough research assessment is a great way to gain some background context on your chosen topic and stops you from repeating a study design. Using the existing work as your guide, you can explore more specific and niche questions to provide highly beneficial answers and insights.

Trending research questions for post-secondary students

As a post-secondary student, finding interesting research questions that fit within the scope of your classes or resources can be challenging. But, with a little bit of effort and pre-planning, you can find unique mental health research topics that will meet your class or project requirements.

Examples of research topics for post-secondary students include the following:

How does school-related stress impact a person’s mental health?

To what extent does burnout impact mental health in medical students?

How does chronic school stress impact a student’s physical health?

How does exam season affect the severity of mental health symptoms?

Is mental health counseling effective for students in an acute mental crisis?

Research questions about anxiety and depression

Anxiety and depression are two of the most commonly spoken about mental health conditions. You might assume that research about these conditions has already been exhausted or that it’s no longer in demand. That’s not the case at all.

According to a 2022 survey by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12.5% of American adults struggle with regular feelings of worry, nervousness, and anxiety, and 5% struggle with regular feelings of depression. These percentages amount to millions of lives affected, meaning new research into these conditions is essential.

If either of these topics interests you, here are a few trending research questions you could consider:

Does gender play a role in the early diagnosis of anxiety?

How does untreated anxiety impact quality of life?

What are the most common symptoms of anxiety in working professionals aged 20–29?

To what extent do treatment delays impact quality of life in patients with undiagnosed anxiety?

To what extent does stigma affect the quality of care received by people with anxiety?

Here are some examples of research questions about depression:

Does diet play a role in the severity of depression symptoms?

Can people have a genetic predisposition to developing depression?

How common is depression in work-from-home employees?

Does mood journaling help manage depression symptoms?

What role does exercise play in the management of depression symptoms?

Research questions about personality disorders

Personality disorders are complex mental health conditions tied to a person’s behaviors, sense of self, and how they interact with the world around them. Without a diagnosis and treatment, people with personality disorders are more likely to develop negative coping strategies during periods of stress and adversity, which can impact their quality of life and relationships.

There’s no shortage of specific research questions in this category. Here are some examples of research questions about personality disorders that you could explore:

What environments are more likely to trigger the development of a personality disorder?

What barriers impact access to care for people with personality disorders?

To what extent does undiagnosed borderline personality disorder impact a person’s ability to build relationships?

How does group therapy impact symptom severity in people with schizotypal personality disorder?

What is the treatment compliance rate of people with paranoid personality disorder?

Research questions about substance use disorders

“Substance use disorders” is a blanket term for treatable behaviors and patterns within a person’s brain that lead them to become dependent on illicit drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications. It’s one of the most stigmatized mental health categories.

The severity of a person’s symptoms and how they impact their ability to participate in their regular daily life can vary significantly from person to person. But, even in less severe cases, people with a substance use disorder display some level of loss of control due to their need to use the substance they are dependent on.

This is an ever-evolving topic where research is in hot demand. Here are some example research questions:

To what extent do meditation practices help with craving management?

How effective are detox centers in treating acute substance use disorder?

Are there genetic factors that increase a person’s chances of developing a substance use disorder?

How prevalent are substance use disorders in immigrant populations?

To what extent do prescription medications play a role in developing substance use disorders?

Research questions about mental health treatments

Treatments for mental health, pharmaceutical therapies in particular, are a common topic for research and exploration in this space.

Besides the clinical trials required for a drug to receive FDA approval, studies into the efficacy, risks, and patient experiences are essential to better understand mental health therapies.

These types of studies can easily become large in scope, but it’s possible to conduct small cohort research on mental health therapies that can provide helpful insights into the actual experiences of the people receiving these treatments.

Here are some questions you might consider:

What are the long-term effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with severe depression?

How common is insomnia as a side effect of oral mental health medications?

What are the most common causes of non-compliance for mental health treatments?

How long does it take for patients to report noticeable changes in symptom severity after starting injectable mental health medications?

What issues are most common when weaning a patient off of an anxiety medication?

Controversial mental health research questions

If you’re interested in exploring more cutting-edge research topics, you might consider one that’s “controversial.”

Depending on your own personal values, you might not think many of these topics are controversial. In the context of the research environment, this depends on the perspectives of your project lead and the desires of your sponsors. These topics may not align with the preferred subject matter.

That being said, that doesn’t make them any less worth exploring. In many cases, it makes them more worthwhile, as they encourage people to ask questions and think critically.

Here are just a few examples of “controversial” mental health research questions:

To what extent do financial crises impact mental health in young adults?

How have climate concerns impacted anxiety levels in young adults?

To what extent do psychotropic drugs help patients struggling with anxiety and depression?

To what extent does political reform impact the mental health of LGBTQ+ people?

What mental health supports should be available for the families of people who opt for medically assisted dying?

Research questions about socioeconomic factors & mental health

Socioeconomic factors—like where a person grew up, their annual income, the communities they are exposed to, and the amount, type, and quality of mental health resources they have access to—significantly impact overall health.

This is a complex and multifaceted issue. Choosing a research question that addresses these topics can help researchers, experts, and policymakers provide more equitable and accessible care over time.

Examples of questions that tackle socioeconomic factors and mental health include the following:

How does sliding scale pricing for therapy increase retention rates?

What is the average cost to access acute mental health crisis care in [a specific region]?

To what extent does a person’s environment impact their risk of developing a mental health condition?

How does mental health stigma impact early detection of mental health conditions?

To what extent does discrimination affect the mental health of LGBTQ+ people?

Research questions about the benefits of therapy

Therapy, whether that’s in groups or one-to-one sessions, is one of the most commonly utilized resources for managing mental health conditions. It can help support long-term healing and the development of coping mechanisms.

Yet, despite its popularity, more research is needed to properly understand its benefits and limitations.

Here are some therapy-based questions you could consider to inspire your own research:

In what instances does group therapy benefit people more than solo sessions?

How effective is cognitive behavioral therapy for patients with severe anxiety?

After how many therapy sessions do people report feeling a better sense of self?

Does including meditation reminders during therapy improve patient outcomes?

To what extent has virtual therapy improved access to mental health resources in rural areas?

Research questions about mental health trends in teens

Adolescents are a particularly interesting group for mental health research due to the prevalence of early-onset mental health symptoms in this age group.

As a time of self-discovery and change, puberty brings plenty of stress, anxiety, and hardships, all of which can contribute to worsening mental health symptoms.

If you’re looking to learn more about how to support this age group with mental health, here are some examples of questions you could explore:

Does parenting style impact anxiety rates in teens?

How early should teenagers receive mental health treatment?

To what extent does cyberbullying impact adolescent mental health?

What are the most common harmful coping mechanisms explored by teens?

How have smartphones affected teenagers’ self-worth and sense of self?

Research questions about social media and mental health

Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) have significantly impacted day-to-day communication. However, despite their numerous benefits and uses, they have also become a significant source of stress, anxiety, and self-worth issues for those who use them.

These platforms have been around for a while now, but research on their impact is still in its infancy. Are you interested in building knowledge about this ever-changing topic? Here are some examples of social media research questions you could consider:

To what extent does TikTok’s mental health content impact people’s perception of their health?

How much non-professional mental health content is created on social media platforms?

How has social media content increased the likelihood of a teen self-identifying themselves with ADHD or autism?

To what extent do social media photoshopped images impact body image and self-worth?

Has social media access increased feelings of anxiety and dread in young adults?

Mental health research is incredibly important

As you have seen, there are so many unique mental health research questions worth exploring. Which options are piquing your interest?

Whether you are a university student considering your next paper topic or a professional looking to explore a new area of study, mental health is an exciting and ever-changing area of research to get involved with.

Your research will be valuable, no matter how big or small. As a niche area of healthcare still shrouded in stigma, any insights you gain into new ways to support, treat, or identify mental health triggers and trends are a net positive for millions of people worldwide.

Should you be using a customer insights hub?

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New Study Shows Bipartisan Struggles with Depression, Reveals Gaps in Mental Health Care Access

Ensuring access to mental health care is a bipartisan opportunity for public health policy priorities.

Lindsey Culli

A new study published in September in the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice sheds light on the mental health crisis gripping millions of Americans, and the findings suggest that depression is a bipartisan issue that affects people across party lines. According to the study, there is, however, a striking divide on whether people seek mental health treatment, with Republicans less likely to have accessed care despite reporting similar rates of depression compared to Democrats and Independents.

This research, led by Catherine Ettman , PhD, and C. Ross Hatton, PhD, MPA, of the Department of Health Policy and Management in collaboration with NORC at the University of Chicago, comes at an urgent moment as the U.S. grapples with the ongoing mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the study, more than 22.5 million adults are estimated to have had a depressive episode in 2022, and depression has now also emerged as one of the costliest conditions for the U.S. economy, topping over $326 billion annually. As depression gains national attention, discourse, and policy conversations, the study underscores the need for a bipartisan approach to addressing gaps in mental health care access.

The study, which included a survey of 2,479 U.S. adults this past spring, explored two main questions: whether depression rates vary across political party lines, and whether people with depressive symptoms were accessing mental health care.

Contrary to previous studies that found mental health outcomes may be worse for Democrats and Independents compared to Republicans, this study finds that depressive symptoms are virtually indistinguishable across party lines. The data showed 25.2% of Democrats screened positive for depression, compared with 23% of Independents and 20.5% of Republicans. These differences were not statistically significant, meaning that depression does not appear to discriminate by political belief. While depression itself is non-partisan, access to mental health treatment may be another story altogether. Among those who screened positive for depression, the researchers found that Republicans were significantly less likely than both their Democratic and Independent counterparts to have sought help from a mental health care provider in the past 12 months. The study also showed that, among those with depressive symptoms, 73.9% of Republicans had unmet mental health care needs, versus 58.9% for Democrats and 58% Independents. Regardless of political affiliation, there was one trend that seemed to bring concern: 62% of adults with depression reported having their mental health care needs unmet in the last year. These unmet mental health care needs, across the board, were high- likely indicative that the nation's mental health infrastructure is not appropriately resilient in the face of such magnitude. "The level of unmet mental health needs for these groups was staggeringly high across every group, a signal of how the nation's mental health infrastructure may not be fit for the scale of the crisis," said Ettman. The researchers utilized the PHQ-9, an instrument that is considered a standardized measure of depressive symptoms and statistically weighted for sociodemographic covariants such as age, race, education level, and income. The results, weighted to be representative of the U.S. population, were unequivocal: depression does not cleave to political divisions, while access to mental health care does. This study carries important implications for public health officials, policymakers, and political leaders with the 2024 election on the horizon. With unmet mental health needs running so high— particularly among Republicans— bipartisan efforts to expand access to mental health care could enjoy widespread appeal among the electorate. With the elections of 2024 fast approaching, mental health policy could become one of the increasingly rare, consensus-driven issues in a deeply divided political climate. The study findings show how expanded access to mental health care might override party lines and open up an easy opportunity for candidates to gain favor with voters on this pressing issue. The researchers further recommend that policymakers invest more in policies aiming at improving access to mental health care, increase the funds to strengthen the service level of mental health, enhance insurance coverage for mental health treatments, and remove stigma associated with seeking mental health care. The results of this study demonstrate that depression is an equal-opportunity issue across the aisle, but access to care still isn't, particularly for Republicans. As the U.S. struggles to grapple with its ever-growing mental health crisis, expanded access to mental health services could be one of the few policy issues that ultimately unite Americans across the aisle.

Kids’ mental health is in crisis. Here’s what psychologists are doing to help

Research is focused on child and teen mental health, exploring why they are struggling and what can be done to help them

Vol. 54 No. 1 Print version: page 63

Mental Health

[ This article is part of the 2023 Trends Report ]

The Covid -19 pandemic era ushered in a new set of challenges for youth in the United States, leading to a mental health crisis as declared by the United States surgeon general just over a year ago. But U.S. children and teens have been suffering for far longer.

In the 10 years leading up to the pandemic, feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness—as well as suicidal thoughts and behaviors—increased by about 40% among young people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System .

“We’re seeing really high rates of suicide and depression, and this has been going on for a while,” said psychologist Kimberly Hoagwood, PhD, a professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine. “It certainly got worse during the pandemic.”

In addition to the social isolation and academic disruption nearly all children and teens faced, many also lost caregivers to Covid -19, had a parent lose their job, or were victims of physical or emotional abuse at home.

All these difficulties, on top of growing concerns about social media, mass violence, natural disasters, climate change, and political polarization—not to mention the normal ups and downs of childhood and adolescence—can feel insurmountable for those who work with kids.

“The idea of a ‘mental health crisis’ is really broad. For providers and parents, the term can be anxiety-provoking,” said Melissa Brymer, PhD, who directs terrorism and disaster programs at the UCLA–Duke University National Center for Child Traumatic Stress. “Part of our role is to highlight specific areas that are critical in this discussion.”

Across the field, psychologists are doing just that. In addition to studying the biological, social, and structural contributors to the current situation, they are developing and disseminating solutions to families, in schools, and at the state level. They’re exploring ways to improve clinical training and capacity and working to restructure policies to support the most vulnerable children and teens.

Psychologists were also behind new mental health recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a group of volunteer health professionals who evaluate evidence on various preventive health services. The task force now recommends regular anxiety screenings for youth ages 8 to 18 and regular depression screenings for adolescents ages 12 to 18.

“I see these trends in children’s mental health problems as being critical, but there are solutions,” Hoagwood said. “If we refocus our efforts toward those solutions, we could see some of these tides turn.”

Sources of stress

Across the United States, more than 200,000 children lost a parent or primary caregiver to Covid -19 (“ Covid -19 Orphanhood,” Imperial College London, 2022). In the face of those losses, families had to curtail mourning rituals and goodbye traditions because of social distancing requirements and other public health measures, Brymer said. Many children are still grieving, sometimes while facing added challenges such as moving to a different home or transferring to a new school with unfamiliar peers.

The CDC also reports that during the pandemic, 29% of U.S. high school students had a parent or caregiver who lost their job, 55% were emotionally abused by a parent or caregiver, and 11% were physically abused ( Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey—United States, January–June 2021 , CDC ).

“Schools are crucial for keeping kids safe and connecting them with services, but the pandemic completely disrupted those kinds of supports,” Brymer said.

Those extreme disruptions didn’t affect all young people equally. Echoing pre- Covid -19 trends, the CDC also found that girls, LGBTQ+ youth, and those who have experienced racism were more likely to have poor mental health during the pandemic, said social psychologist Kathleen Ethier, PhD, director of the CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health.

Contributing factors likely include stigma, discrimination, and online bullying, Ethier said. Female students also report much higher levels of sexual violence than their male peers, which can further harm mental health.

As much hardship as Covid -19 wrought, it’s far from the only factor contributing to the current crisis. Biology also appears to play a role. The age of puberty has been dropping for decades, especially in girls, likely leading to difficulty processing complex feelings and knowing what to do about them ( Eckert-Lind, C., et al., JAMA Pediatrics , Vol. 174, No. 4, 2020 ). In early puberty, regions of the brain linked to emotions and social behavior are developing more quickly than regions responsible for the cognitive control of behavior, such as the prefrontal cortex, Ethier said.

Those developmental changes drive young people to seek attention and approval from their peers . For some, using social media fulfills that need in a healthy way, providing opportunities for connection and validation to youth who may be isolated from peers, geographically or otherwise.

For others, negative messages—including online bullying and unrealistic standards around physical appearance—appear to have a detrimental effect, but more research is needed to understand who is most at risk.

“There is clearly some aspect of young people’s online life that’s contributing [to the mental health crisis], we just don’t know exactly what that is,” said Ethier.

Finally, structural factors that affect millions of U.S. children, including poverty, food insecurity, homelessness, and lack of access to health care and educational opportunities, can lead to stress-response patterns that are known to underlie mental health challenges.

“Even in very young children, prolonged stress can trigger a cycle of emotion-regulation problems, which can in turn lead to anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties,” Hoagwood said. “These things are well established, but we’re not doing enough as a field to address them.”

Building capacity in schools

The biggest challenge facing mental health care providers right now, experts say, is a shortage of providers trained to meet the mounting needs of children and adolescents.

“There’s a growing recognition that mental health is just as important as physical health in young people’s development, but that’s happening just as mental health services are under extreme strain,” said clinical psychologist Robin Gurwitch, PhD, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University Medical Center.

Schools, for example, are a key way to reach and help children—but a 2022 Pew Research Center survey found that only about half of U.S. public schools offer mental health assessments and even fewer offer treatment services. Psychologists are now ramping up efforts to better equip schools to support student well-being onsite.

Much of that work involves changing policies at the school or district level to provide more support for all students. For example, school connectedness—the degree to which young people feel that adults and peers at school care about them and are invested in their success—is a key contributor to mental health. Youth who felt connected during middle and high school have fewer problems with substance use, mental health, suicidality, and risky sexual behavior as adults ( Steiner, R. J., et al., Pediatrics , Vol. 144, No. 1, 2019 ).

Through its What Works in Schools program , the CDC funds school districts to make changes that research shows foster school connectedness. Those include improving classroom management, implementing service-learning programs for students in their communities, bringing mentors from the community into schools, and making schools safer and more supportive for LGBTQ+ students.

Psychologists are also building training programs to help teachers and other school staff create supportive classrooms and aid students who are in distress. Classroom Wise (Well-Being Information and Strategies for Educators), developed by the Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network and the University of Maryland’s National Center for School Mental Health (NCSMH), is a free, flexible online course and resource library that draws on psychological research on social-emotional learning, behavioral regulation, mental health literacy, trauma, and more ( Evidence-Based Components of Classroom Wise (PDF, 205KB), NCSMH, 2021 ).

“We’re using evidence-based practices from child and adolescent mental health but making these strategies readily available for teachers to apply in the classroom,” said clinical psychologist Nancy Lever, PhD, codirector of NCSMH, who helped develop Classroom Wise .

The course incorporates the voices of students and educators and teaches actionable strategies such as how to create rules and routines that make classrooms feel safe and how to model emotional self-regulation. The strategies can be used by anyone who interacts with students, from teachers and administrators to school nurses, coaches, and bus drivers.

“What we need is to build capacity through all of the systems that are part of children’s lives—in families, in schools, in the education of everybody who interacts with children,” said psychologist Ann Masten, PhD, a professor of child development at the University of Minnesota.

Other training efforts focus on the students themselves. Given that preteens and teenagers tend to seek support from their peers before turning to adults, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) created conversation cards to equip kids with basic skills for talking about suicide. The advice, available in English and Spanish, includes how to ask about suicidal thoughts, how to listen without judgment, and when to seek guidance from an adult ( Talking About Suicide With Friends and Peers, NCTSN, 2021 ).

While training people across the school population to spot and address mental health concerns can help reduce the strain on mental health professionals, there will always be a subset of students who need more specialized support.

Telehealth, nearly ubiquitous these days, is one of the best ways to do that. In South Carolina, psychologist Regan Stewart, PhD, and her colleagues colaunched the Telehealth Outreach Program at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2015. Today, nearly every school in the state has telehealth equipment (Wi-Fi and tablets or laptops that kids can use at school or take home) and access to providers (psychology and social work graduate students and clinicians trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy). Students who need services, which are free thanks to grant funding or covered by Medicaid, meet one-on-one with their clinician during the school day or after hours ( American Psychologist , Vol. 75, No. 8, 2020 ).

“We learned a lot about the use of technology during the pandemic,” Ethier said. “At this point, it’s very much a matter of having sufficient resources so more school districts can access those sources of care.”

Expanding the workforce

Limited resources are leaving families low on options, with some young people making multiple trips to the emergency room for mental health-related concerns or spending more than six months on a waiting list for mental health support. That points to a need for more trained emergency responders and psychiatric beds, psychologists say, but also for better upstream screening and prevention to reduce the need for intensive care.

“Just as we need more capacity for psychiatric emergencies in kids, we also need an infusion of knowledge and ordinary strategies to support mental health on the positive side,” Masten said.

In New York, Hoagwood helped launch the state-funded Evidence Based Treatment Dissemination Center in 2006, which offers free training on evidence-based practices for trauma, behavioral and attention problems, anxiety, depression, and more to all mental health professionals who work with children in state-licensed programs, which include foster care, juvenile justice, and school settings, among others. The center provides training on a core set of tools known as PracticeWise ( Chorpita, B. F., & Daleiden E. L., Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology , Vol. 77, No. 3, 2009 ). It also offers tailored training based on requests from community agency leaders and clinicians who provide services to children and their families.

Hoagwood, in collaboration with a consortium of family advocates, state officials, and researchers, also helped build and test a state-approved training model and credentialing program for family and youth peer advocates. The peer advocate programs help expand the mental health workforce while giving families access to peers who have similar lived experience ( Psychiatric Services , Vol. 71, No. 5, 2020).

Youth peer advocates are young adults who have personal experience with systems such as foster care, juvenile justice, or state psychiatric care. They work within care teams to provide basic education and emotional support to other youth, such as giving advice on what questions to ask a new mental health practitioner and explaining the differences between psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers. Youth peer advocates in New York can now receive college credit for their training in peer specialist work.

“Making community health work into a viable career can also increase diversity among mental health workers and help us address structural racism,” Hoagwood said.

Pediatricians are another group that can provide a first line of defense, drawing on their relationships with parents to destigmatize mental health care.

“Pediatricians are in many ways uniquely positioned to help address the mental health crisis in youth,” said Janine A. Rethy, MD, MPH, division chief of community pediatrics at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and an associate professor of pediatrics at Georgetown University School of Medicine. “We have the privilege of building long-term relationships with children and their families over many years,” with at least 12 well-child checkups in just the first three years of a child’s life, followed by annual visits.

During these visits, they can watch for warning signs of social and behavioral problems and screen for maternal depression and other issues in parents, which is now recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (PDF, 660KB) . Several new resources provide guidance for integrating mental health care into pediatric practices, including the Behavioral Health Integration Compendium (PDF, 4.1MB) and the Healthy Steps program . But most pediatricians need more education on mental health issues in order to effectively respond, Rethy said—yet another area where psychologists may be able to help. Psychologists can provide direct consultations and training to pediatricians through the Pediatric Mental Health Care Access program.

“The more we can weave mental health knowledge, capacity, and checkpoints into places where parents feel comfortable—like the doctor’s office and at school—the better,” Masten said. “All professionals who work with young people really need the knowledge that’s being generated by psychologists.”

11 emerging trends for 2023

Scientists reach a wider audience

Psychologists take aim at misinformation

Psychological research becomes more inclusive

EDI roles expand

Worker well-being is in demand

Efforts to improve childrens’ mental health increase

Partnerships accelerate progress

Suicide prevention gets a new lifeline

Some faculty exit academia

Venture capitalists shift focus

Psychologists rebrand the field

Six Things Psychologists are Talking About

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Experts' Opinions in Public Mental Health: Emerging Issues in the Field

Opinion 13 December 2022 Pandemic consequences: An increase in divorce rate, domestic violence, and extramarital affairs at the time of COVID-19 pandemic: A sad Persian story Amir Khodavirdipour and Mahdi Samadi 2,502 views 1 citations

Perspective 24 August 2022 Law and psychiatry—current and future perspectives Tilman Steinert and Tanja Henking 2,287 views 3 citations

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The Top 10 Most Interesting Mental Health Research Topics

In the United States, the majority of people have been diagnosed with at least one mental disorder. Once considered shameful, mental health issues are now being discussed more openly through various online platforms, such as the best mental health podcasts and blogs, which have made information more accessible. As a result, more people are seeking forms of mental healthcare and researchers are learning even more.

While research on mental health has come a long way, there is still a long way to go in destigmatizing mental health conditions and spreading mental health awareness. If you are looking for mental health research paper topics and are struggling to narrow down your list, take a look at the top 10 most interesting mental health research topics to help get you started.

Find your bootcamp match

What makes a strong mental health research topic.

The best way for you to develop a strong mental health research topic is by first having a specific and well-defined area of interest. Your research topic should provide a clear and simple roadmap to help you focus your research paper. Additionally, consider your audience and the topic’s significance within the mental health field. What does it contribute?

Tips for Choosing a Mental Health Research Topic

Choose a topic that is interesting to you. You may be writing to share your findings with your peers, but your topic should excite you first and foremost. You will spend a significant amount of time on it, so it should be work you are eager to dive into.
Choose a fresh approach. There is an extensive amount of mental health research conducted by mental health professionals. Use your research skills to choose a topic that does more than just restate the same facts and information. Say something that hasn’t been said before.
Choose a topic that matters. The topic you choose should make a contribution to all the mental health education and research that already exists. Approach your topic in a way that ensures that it’s of significance within the field.
Choose a topic that challenges you. A sure-fire way to find out if your topic meets the criteria of being interesting, fresh, and significant, is if it challenges you. If it’s too easy, then there must be enough research available on it. If it’s too difficult, it’s likely unmanageable.
Choose a topic that’s manageable. You should aim to choose a topic that is narrow enough in its focus that it doesn’t overwhelm you. Consider what’s feasible for you to dedicate to the research in terms of resources and time.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

The purpose of a research topic is to let the reader know what specific area of mental health research your paper will focus on. It is the territory upon which your research paper is based. Defining your topic is typically the initial step of any research project.

A research question, on the other hand, narrows down the scope of your research and provides a framework for the study and its objectives. It is based on the research topic and written in the form of a question that the research paper aims to answer. It provides the reader with a clear idea of what’s to be expected from the research.

How to Create Strong Mental Health Research Questions

To create a strong research question, you need to consider what will help guide the direction your research takes. It is an important part of the process and requires strong research methods . A strong research question clearly defines your work’s specific focus and lets your audience know exactly what question you intend to answer through your research.

2. The Psychology of Gender Identity, Inclusivity, and Diversity

With the conversations surrounding gender and identity in recent times, a research topic on the psychology of gender identity, inclusivity, and diversity is a good option. Our understanding of gender now, in the 21st century, has evolved and gender identity has become non-binary, more inclusive, and more diverse.

3. The Psychological Effects of Social Phobia on Undergraduate Students

Some of the most common mental illnesses in the United States are phobias, so the topic of the psychology and effects of phobias is interesting and relevant to the majority of people. There are various categories of phobias that have been identified by the American Psychiatric Association that you could choose to focus on.

4. Eating Disorders Among Teenagers and Adolescents

Eating disorders among teenagers and adolescents in the United States are prevalent, especially among young women. The statistics surrounding mental health issues show that 10 in 100 young women suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, as well as a preoccupation with food and body dysmorphia.

5. The Correlation Between Childhood Learning Disabilities and Mental Health Problems in Adulthood

When groups of people with learning disorders (LD) were compared with groups that had no known history of LD, a correlation between childhood LD and mental health issues in adulthood was found. This research is important because it helps us to understand how childhood LD increases mental health risks in adulthood and affects emotional development.

6. How Mental Disorder is Glamorized and Sensationalized in Modern Media

Shows and movies centered around the depiction of mental illness have become more popular in recent years. The portrayal of characters with mental illnesses can often be damaging and fail to take into account the complexities of mental disorders, which often leads to stigmatization and discrimination, and a reluctance to seek mental health care.

7. The Relationship Between Self-esteem and Suicide Rates Among Adolescents

A relationship between self-esteem and suicide rates among adolescents has been found when looking into their suicidal tendencies. This is more so the case with any individual who already suffers from a mental health issue. Low self-esteem has been linked to increased levels of depression and suicide ideation, leading to higher chances of suicide attempts among adolescents.

8. Destigmatizing Mental Illness and Mental Disorders

The rates at which people are diagnosed with mental illnesses are high. Even so, their portrayal in the media has resulted in the belief that those who suffer from a mental health issue or live in mental health facilities are dangerous. Conducting research on abnormal psychology topics and destigmatizing mental illness and mental disorders is important for mental health education.

9. Psychological Trauma and the Effects of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Mental health statistics show that most abuse happens in childhood, causing long-lasting psychological trauma. The type of trauma caused by child abuse and childhood sexual abuse affects development in infants and children. It has been linked to higher levels of depression, anxiety, guilt, sexual issues, dissociative patterns, and relationship issues, to name a few.

10. Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Psychological Well-Being

There is no doubt about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and COVID-19 confinement on psychological well-being. The threat to public health, the social and economic stresses, and the various reactions by governments and individuals have all caused unexpected mental health challenges. This has affected behaviors, perceptions, and the ways in which people make decisions.

Mental Health Research Questions

Are digital therapy sessions as impactful as face-to-face therapy sessions for patients?
What are the best methods for effectively using social media to unite and connect all those suffering from a mental health issue in order to reduce their isolation?
What causes self-destructive behavior in some children?
Can introducing mental health topics in the school curriculum help to create understanding and reduce the stigmatization of mental disorders?
What are the most effective methods to improve brain health and emotional intelligence as we go through the aging process?

Choosing the Right Mental Health Research Topic

When choosing the right mental health research question, it is essential to figure out what single issue you want to focus on within the broader topic of mental conditions. The narrower your scope, the easier it will be to conduct thorough and relevant research. Vagueness can lead to information overload and a lack of clear direction.

However, even though it needs to be specific, your research question must also be complex enough to allow you to develop your research. If it’s too narrow in its focus, you won’t give yourself enough room to flesh out your findings as you build on your research. The key is to find the middle ground between the two.

Mental Health Research Topics FAQ

A mental disorder refers to any of the various conditions that affect and alter our behavior, thoughts, and emotions. More than half of Americans get diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their lives. They are common and manageable with the right support. Some mental illnesses are occasional, such as postpartum depression, while others are long-term, such as panic attacks.

Mental health research raises awareness of mental health disorders and promotes mental health care. It provides support and evidence for the effectiveness of mental health services and programs designed for psychiatric patients and those with mental health disorders. The information provided by the research helps us better understand mental illnesses and how best to approach treatment plans.

Behavioral health and emotional health are part of a person’s overall mental health since they are all interlinked and each one affects the other. When we speak of mental health, we are referring to behavioral, cognitive, and emotional well-being, which can also affect physical health.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the five main categories of mental illness include dementia, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, feeding and eating disorders, and personality disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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Developmental and Behavioral Health Research: Finding Answers to Tough Questions

September 25, 2024.

Ayanda Chakawa, PhD

Associate professor of pediatrics, university of missouri-kansas city school of medicine.

Cy B. Nadler, PhD

Josh barnds & stella carlson endowed professorship for autism; section chief, autism psychology; director, autism services; professor of pediatrics, university of missouri-kansas city school of medicine.

Shayla A. Sullivant, MD

Associate professor of pediatrics, university of missouri-kansas city school of medicine; assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral science, university of kansas school of medicine.

The headlines are hard to ignore —rising rates of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents; disparities in accessing mental health care; increased risks for behavioral health issues for kids with neurodevelopmental diagnoses. Researchers from the Developmental and Behavioral Health Research Group at Children’s Mercy Research Institute search for answers and solutions to these issues and more. Below are three research labs dedicated to improving the lives of children everywhere.

Ayanda Chakawa, PhD , Developmental and Behavioral Health , leads the ACCESS (Adolescent and Child Centered Engagement to Supports and Services) Behavioral Health Lab . The lab team studies how embedding behavioral health care into primary care clinics impacts access. They also study the impact that referring patients to other Children’s Mercy Kansas City (CMKC) behavioral health clinics has on accessing care. Through her ACCESS Lab research and clinical experience, Dr. Chakawa observed that many families faced challenges trying to navigate the behavioral health care system. This was even more pronounced for families whose child received a referral to another clinic for care.

Dr. Chakawa began the PATHWAY (Promoting Access To Healthy Well-Being Across Youth) Behavioral Health Program to address barriers to care by developing a culturally-relevant behavioral health care navigation model. The PATHWAY study involves piloting an individualized intervention to support families with behavioral health care navigation. Study participants are parents of youth referred to behavioral health services through primary care. The participants are from predominantly Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and speak English or Spanish. The intervention follows participants for thirteen months and includes surveys and care navigation check-ins. During the check-ins, the study team conducts motivational interviews to clarify referral information, help set goals to obtain care, and assess family confidence in meeting those goals. “This study has created space for families to explain and for us to assess what the actual barriers are. Then, we can address these barriers,” said Dr. Chakawa. “Patient-family education is a huge component in this process.”

From development to implementation, community engagement is the foundation for this study. Dr. Chakawa partners with community members from the CMKC Mental Health and Consejo de Familias Latinas y Hispanas Parent Family Advisory Councils (PFACs). In addition to the PFACs providing consultation, four parents from the PFACs form a designated community advisory board to the PATHWAY study. These parents include Emily Hamm and Jamila Weaver from the Mental Health PFAC and Brenda Quintana and Bertha “Alicia” Aldape from the Consejo de Familias Latinas y Hispanas PFAC. “The community members involved provide feedback at every phase of the study,” said Dr. Chakawa. “Their voices are there, and that is a critical component of our study.”

The community members bring their personal experience to the study. “Dr. Chakawa’s research sheds light on something families have known for so long; behavior health system navigation is challenging and complex,” shared the PATHWAY study community advisory board. “We love the collaborative effort that has gone into the project and the opportunity to be part of the change.”

Although preliminary data are limited since the PATHWAY study is still ongoing, Dr. Chakawa has noticed some trends, including issues with system-level barriers like clinic paperwork requirements or communication issues that affect the navigation process. Another data trend is that social determinants of health impact both access to care and study engagement. These determinants include economic stability, education access, health care access, neighborhood environment, and social/community environment.

Dr. Chakawa’s long-term goal is to scale up the PATHWAY intervention to include more care navigation check-in opportunities for participants and to include staff dedicated to behavioral healthcare navigation throughout the health care system.

Cy Nadler, PhD , Developmental and Behavioral Health, is the Section Chief for Autism Psychology, directs outpatient autism services at CMKC, and leads the Nadler Lab , which broadly focuses on research related to improving health care and mental health care to kids with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities.

Dr. Nadler is the co-chair for the national Supporting Access for Everyone (SAFE) Initiative to establish best practices for supporting youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities in medical settings. In April 2024, he co-authored a consensus statement published in Pediatrics that provides the principles of health care practice for kids with neurodevelopmental disabilities and outlines actionable steps to provide equitable care. “The consensus statement is in some ways aspirational in addressing what care should look like, but it is also practical because we identify specific evidence-based examples of how to get to this aspirational goal,” said Dr. Nadler.

The process to develop this consensus statement was unique because it included input from not only developmental and behavioral health professionals but also adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities, community advocates, and caregivers. “This is really the first community-engaged description of what care should look like,” said Dr. Nadler. “Now we need to evaluate the best ways to disseminate these approaches.”

Advancing safe and effective care in hospital settings for youth with developmental disabilities and mental health conditions requires an understanding of current gaps. Dr. Nadler’s ongoing collaboration with Adrienne DePorre, MD , Hospital Medicine , and other CMKC colleagues has led to investigations on the use of physical restraint , risk factors for prolonged admissions , and even violence toward health care workers . “These projects underscore our need to better equip our colleagues with training and support proactively and collaborate with patients and families on how to improve and individualize their care experiences,” Dr. Nadler said.

The Nadler Lab is also wrapping up a study that looked across major children's hospitals to understand how they approach suicide screening for youth with autism. He noted that kids with autism are at a higher risk for suicidal ideation and attempts, but there are little real-world data available about suicide screening for this group in clinical settings. The study team sought to answer questions about the screening and response plan process as well as look at the support providers and caregivers receive. “Unfortunately, what we learned is there is no standard of practice, but this sets us up to propose research to create and test standards of care,” Dr. Nadler said.

Dr. Nadler is also a site principal investigator/co-investigator on the Study to Explore Early Development (SEED) study—one of the largest multi-site, longitudinal investigations of autism and developmental disabilities. “SEED has been instrumental in helping us understand more about the care needs for kids with developmental disabilities, including the impact of the pandemic on behavioral health ,” he said. “Participants who joined the study as preschoolers are now teens or even adults, which will let us look at how their needs change over time.” As the Nadler Lab continues its mission to improving the lives of kids with neurodevelopmental disorders, Dr. Nadler is quick to recognize the collaborative effort involved and point out that most of the team wears multiple hats, including clinical and research. “I am grateful to have such great partners within Developmental and Behavioral Health as well as across the whole hospital,” he said.

Sullivant Lab

Led by Shayla Sullivant, MD , Developmental and Behavioral Health, the Sullivant Lab focuses on identification and reduction of suicide risk among youth. While suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth, it is a preventable cause of death. Dr. Sullivant and her team developed the Prepped and Ready program to help equip parents and caregivers to manage teen health and safety issues, with an emphasis on teen suicide prevention.

“Early on in my time at Children’s Mercy, I met with many young people who had attempted suicide,” said Dr. Sullivant. “I would suggest securing firearms and medications when talking to their parents, she said. “Some parents asked me a great question: why had they never heard of this before? Those parents led me to this work.”

The goal is to make homes safer for children with actionable changes that make a difference. The Prepped and Ready team created an informational video series that parents and caregivers can watch in under an hour. The videos are available online from the CMKC website. The research team has also conducted in-person and live webinar presentations. Topics covered in the presentation include suicide prevention, home safety, vaping, eating disorders, and self-care for parents. With the variety of topics covered, researchers hope to attract all parents, not just those who consider their children at risk.

Participation in the research portion of the program is not mandatory to view or attend the presentations. Caregivers who participate in the study portion of the program complete brief online surveys before and after the program, and they receive a safety toolkit to help them enact recommended changes to secure firearms and medications at home. The safety toolkit includes a lockable medication storage box, weekly medication organizers, a bag and dish soap to dispose of old medications, and —for firearm owners— a cable gun lock or locked gun box.

Surveys completed by study participants help gauge the impact of the program and what changes families make after participating and receiving the toolkit. Participants in all three versions of the presentation reported an increase in securing firearms and medications. The study team published their findings in a Discover Mental Health article and Journal of Community Health article .

In fall 2024, Rohan Akhouri, MD, Medical Director for the Center of Childhood Safety and Emergency Medicine, will become the lead principal investigator on the project. “Dr. Akhouri brings a wealth of knowledge to this work with his background in public health and injury prevention,” said Dr. Sullivant. “I am thrilled to pass him the baton as I believe he will bring a fresh perspective to this work.

Mark Connelly, PhD , Director of Research for Developmental & Behavioral Health, served as the mentor for this project. Other team members include Hung-Wen Yeh, PhD; Meredith Scafe, PhD; Angela Guzman; MA, LCSW, LSCSW; Molly Gosnell; Megan Evans; Lauren Garrett; and Sreya Mandava.

Dr. Sullivant received funding for Prepped and Ready from the Menorah Heritage Foundation , JE Dunn, and the Healthy Levy Innovation Fund from the City of Kansas City, Missouri.

Behind the Research

Departments & teams.

Developmental and Behavioral Health Research Group
Developmental and Behavioral Health
ACCESS Behavioral Health Lab

Grants & Projects

Prepped & Ready Program
Prepped and Ready: Menorah Heritage Foundation grant
Prepped and Ready: Healthy Levy Innovation Fund

Publications

Health Care for Youth With Neurodevelopmental Disabilities: A Consensus Statement
Characteristics of Patients Associated With Restraint Use at a Midwest Children’s Hospital
Factors Associated With Prolonged Mental Health Admissions at US Children’s Hospitals
Patient and Visitor-Associated Violence Toward Health Care Workers in a Children’s Health System
COVID-19 Pandemic Impacts on Behavioral and Emotional Health of Young Children With Autism
Prepped and ready: educating caregivers to secure firearms and medications via webinars
Motivating Behavior Change in Parents for Suicide Prevention in the Midwest, USA

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Int J Environ Res Public Health

The Relationship between Social Media and the Increase in Mental Health Problems

Associated data.

The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author.

Social media has become an indispensable aspect of young people’s digital interactions, as they use it mostly for entertainment and communication purposes. Consequently, it has the potential to have both positive and negative effects on them. Deterioration in mental health is one of the side effects stemming from social media overuse. This study investigates the relationship between social media and the increase in mental health problems in Saudi Arabia. The population considered for analysis includes young people from Saudi Arabia, with a sample size of 385. A closed-ended survey questionnaire was used to collect data on different social media features and criteria. Using the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP), the researcher analyzed data to compare the effect of different social media features on mental health. The social media features included in this paper are private chats and calls, group chats and calls, browsing posts, games, media sharing, adverts, likes/comments/followers, and pages. The researcher adopted entertainment, information, social interaction, privacy, esteem, and communication as the criteria in the AHP process. Among these criteria, the study found that entertainment was the most significant, while privacy was the least significant. Findings suggested that likes, comments, and followers were the biggest contributors to poor mental health (total utility = 56.24). The least effective feature was ‘games’ (total utility = 2.56). The researcher recommends that social media users be cautious when interacting with social media features, especially likes, comments, followers, media, and posts, because of their significant effect on mental health.

1. Introduction

Mental health is a crucial aspect of human wellbeing, yet it is often overlooked and stigmatized. According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of mental health problems is increasing at a rate of 13% per year [ 1 ]. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health issues, affecting 264 million and 280 million people worldwide, respectively [ 2 , 3 ]. In addition, an estimated 269 million people were struggling with drug and substance abuse by the end of 2018 [ 4 ]. These numbers are likely to continue to rise due to a variety of factors. One factor that has been identified as contributing to the increase in mental health challenges is the use of technologies, including social media. Social media refers to applications that allow users to interact with each other through the creation and exchange of media, text, and calls within a network [ 5 ]. Some examples of social media platforms include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Key social media features considered in this investigation are private chats, group chats, browsing posts, adverts, media sharing, calls, likes and comments, and pages. Social media has been linked to poor sleep patterns, depression, and anxiety [ 6 ]. In addition, ref. [ 7 ] warns of the negative impact that excessive social media use can have on the mental health of young people.

Saudi Arabia has a high level of social media usage, with 82.3% of the population (29.5 million people) using social media in 2022 [ 8 ]. Young people, who make up 36.74% of the population, are the biggest users of social media in Saudi Arabia, with 98.43% of young people using social networking sites [ 9 ]. The top three reasons given by Saudis for using social media are keeping in touch with friends and family, use of free time, and finding products to purchase [ 8 ]. The prevalence of mental health issues in the KSA is estimated to be around 20.2% [ 10 ]. Depression is the most common mental health condition, affecting 21% of the population, followed by anxiety (17.5%) and stress (12.6%) [ 11 ]. Research has shown that social media use in Saudi Arabia is correlated with increased mental health issues [ 12 ]. High social media exposure has also been found to be associated with a higher risk of depression and anxiety in the kingdom [ 12 ]. Studies have also shown a significant correlation between the use of social networking sites and the increase in depression-related conditions in Saudi Arabia [ 13 ].

The aim of this study is to examine the impact of social media on mental health in Saudi Arabia and to identify which social media features have the greatest impact on increasing mental health issues. The study uses an Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) to analyze several social media features and determine their impacts on mental health. By understanding the specific features that contribute to mental health problems, individuals and policymakers can take steps to alleviate mental health issues and reduce the negative effects of social media. The results of this study will provide valuable insights into the impact of social media on mental health in Saudi Arabia and can inform the development of strategies to mitigate these effects.

2. Literature Review

One of the primary features of social media is chatting. As a social network, chats are a powerful method of communication among social media users. They may take the form of group or private chats. According to [ 14 ], young people with psychological issues tend to worsen their conditions by participating in social media chatrooms. Private chats are not exempted, as ref. [ 15 ] found that constant chatting with other people without feeling their physical presence is one reason for the increase in mental health issues among social media users. The outcome is more loneliness, a common factor in psychological deterioration. While chatting may not directly cause depression and other mental health problems, it can exacerbate an individual’s symptoms if one engages in long chats [ 16 ]. The studies further caution that young people must be careful when chatting with their peers on social media.

Browsing posts and advertisements are equally part of social media. Social media posts often portray falsehoods by allowing one to elevate their good qualities and suppress their negative ones [ 17 ]. Young people may not understand this fact, and they are likely to think that something is wrong with themselves because they do not look as good as the posts made by their friends. The authors of [ 18 ] found that social media influencers significantly contribute to the poor mental health of social media users. Advertisements power most social networking platforms, and users have had to embrace the presence of ads alongside their digital social lives. Because of their wide viewership, ads shape the psychology and opinions of young people on these platforms [ 19 ]. An advertisement portraying a muscular individual may depress a social media user who does not have similar body features. Similarly, ads with tall girls may negatively impact young girls psychologically because of social projection.

Sharing media, playing games on digital social networks, and interacting on video conferencing channels may negatively impact an individual’s mental health. In some cases, ref. [ 14 ] found that the sharing of media and interactions on social media prompts users to think less of themselves. Some users may not have good enough videos because their equipment, such as cameras, is not as good as their friends’ devices. Moreover, watching videos on social media can be an addictive habit if left unchecked. The authors of [ 20 ] argue that the active watching of and commenting on YouTube videos makes the platform overly addictive compared to people who passively watch videos without associated interactions. The authors advise that people’s interactions on video-based social media platforms should be minimal. Regarding games, ref. [ 21 ] argues that high involvement in social media games can result in addiction. Such a condition may make an individual overly dependent on these games, which distorts their mental health.

An individual’s following and the intensity with which people react to their posts can impact their mental health. For example, ref. [ 22 ] reports that users who update more frequently on their social media pages tend to receive more feedback in the form of likes and comments. This feedback is important, as it enhances the self-esteem of post authors. Moreover, ref. [ 23 ] observes that people receiving negative feedback from their social media posts are more susceptible to emotional distress. The study affirms that technologies aiding young people in comparing social statuses present a risk to their mental wellbeing. Some turn to social media to increase followers and gain a sense of gratification to compensate for their emotional and psychological challenges [ 24 ]. This leads them further down the path of a graver depression.

3. Methodology

This section provides an explanation of the methodological processes that the researcher used in order to acquire data and analyze them. The research design of this study is described in Section 3.1 , which is then followed by the population, the sampling method, and the survey instrument. The phases of the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) used in the research are explained in the following subsections.

3.1. Research Design

The specific approach taken by the researcher is the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP). It is a decision-making model that uses paired comparisons to determine the most significant factors that affect a decision [ 25 ]. In this case, the researcher wished to identify and rank social media factors impacting mental health. This ranking will help in prioritizing which aspects of social media use to manage at a personal level. The elements of social media in this study are private chats, group chats, browsing posts, adverts, media sharing, calls, likes and comments, and pages. The study undertakes a survey that asks respondents to indicate how useful these social media features are to them and how each element may lead to mental health problems.

3.2. Population, Sampling, and Survey Instrument

This study considered Saudi Arabia as the unit of study, while the study population was Saudi youth aged between 18 and 35. The United Nations defines youth as persons between 18 and 24. However, the researcher sought a more accommodating criterion regarding respondent ages. The selection of young people as the target population was motivated by the fact that 98.43% of them are on social media [ 9 ]. In addition, ref. [ 9 ] also reports that 7,623,336 young people belong to this demographic. The computed sample size from this population is 385 using Yamane’s formula [ 26 ]. Gender-wise, the researcher allowed respondents to indicate whether they were male, female, or non-binary. All respondents selected either the male or female category. Hence, the researcher analyzed the results in this fashion. The sample for this study was selected using simple random sampling on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. This sampling method involves selecting participants randomly from the target population, which in this case were young people in Saudi Arabia who use social media. This helped to ensure that the sample was representative of the target population and that the responses were accurate and reliable. To ensure the content validity of the questionnaire, a pre-test of the survey was performed, since it is in the researcher’s best interest to have expert evaluations and reviews of the comprehensibility and clarity of the used research instrument. Several questions were altered, reworded, or eliminated in response to positive comments and ideas for small modifications. The amended questionnaire was forwarded to the collaborating academics for review and evaluation to confirm the instrument’s face validity. This questionnaire’s question types were determined by their degree of relevance to each identified concept. The Content Validity Index (CVI) was calculated to be 1, indicating that all three questions were relevant and appropriate for the study. This suggests that the questionnaire was valid and that it measured the variables of interest in a reliable and accurate manner.

The researcher used social media platforms to reach a diverse and representative sample of young people in the country. The social media platforms used in communication with participants (personal and business) included Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. The researcher sent out a post including all the details about the research, and a link was included to direct the participants to the questionnaire page. The questionnaire was hosted on Google Forms to facilitate distribution, and it was left open for one month to allow respondents to respond at their convenience. The final questionnaire had a two-part structure, including demographic questions and three main questions with selective options for participants. Appendix A shows the list of questions asked to the respondents.

3.3. Analytical Hierarchical Process

The Analytical Hierarchical Process involves four primary steps, which are

Identifying decisions, options, and criteria;
Conducting pairwise comparisons;
Computing weights for the criteria;
Calculating utility values.

3.3.1. Identifying Decisions, Options, and Criteria

The decision is determining which social media features have the biggest effect on increasing mental health problems. The options were the eight social media features, namely private chats, group chats, browsing posts, adverts, media sharing, calls, likes and comments, and pages. The criteria for determining which features are the most influential were the importance of a feature to an individual, the time spent interacting with the feature, and the recency of interaction.

3.3.2. Pairwise Comparison

Pairwise comparisons involve comparing two criteria simultaneously to build a square n × n matrix, where n is the number of criteria. The comparison is structured in such a way that the value entered in a cell represents the number of times one criterion is more important relative to the other. Because the two criteria being compared are the same, the relative value of each criterion is equal to one when they are compared to each other [ 25 ]. The maximum possible score is n, and larger numbers indicate that a criterion is becoming essential. The pairwise comparison will compare time spent on a feature, recency in using the feature, and the overall importance of the feature to the respondents.

3.3.3. Importance Weights

After populating the matrix, it is used to compute the importance weights. They signal to an analyst the extent to which each criterion will affect their ultimate decision. The researcher gave the biggest weight to the item with the most significant importance. The study computed the geometric mean of the criteria to ensure objectivity in the computation in the first step, as suggested by [ 27 ]. In the second step, the relative composition of the criterion values was determined, which was used to determine their weights [ 28 ]. In order to complete the procedure, the computation of the ratio of the value of each criterion to the overall value is needed.

3.3.4. Calculating Utility Values

Computing the utility is the final step in the analytical hierarchal process. It involves establishing the ‘utiles’ associated and multiplying them by their corresponding importance scores [ 27 ]. The ‘utiles’ are obtained using respondents’ subjective evaluation of how each feature instigates mental health challenges. ‘Utility’ is a quantitative value that indicates how useful something is to an individual. This figure helps in selecting the most significant option. It is possible to represent utility as a percentage. It is argued that a criterion’s usefulness increases as its advantages or benefits increase. Depending on the criterion, it is conceivable that utility will be computed differently. The importance of the criteria selected for investigation and the utility attached to the criterion were multiplied to show the utility calculation for each criterion. The values for each criterion were added to determine the total utility of each social media feature.

4.1. Analysis of Demographic Characteristics

This section analyzes the age, gender, and occupations of the study participants. The findings reveal that the most populous age group was that of members aged between 18 and 25, as they constituted 60.3% (232) of the study population. Male respondents accounted for 55.3% (213) of the sampled participants. The most dominant group by occupation was students, as they accounted for 41.8% (161) of the sampled participants. Table 1 provides further details about the demographic characteristics of the respondents.

Respondents’ demographic characteristics.

Demographics		Frequency	Percentage (%)
Gender
	Male	213	55.3
	Female	172	44.7
Age
	18–25	232	60.3
	26–30	114	29.6
	31–35	39	10.1
Occupation
	Student	161	41.8
	Unemployed	138	35.8
	Employed	86	22.3
	Total	385	100%

4.2. Favorite Features of Respondents

The researcher first examined which of the selected social media features were favored by the respondents. The findings suggested that likes, comments, and followers were the most relevant aspects of social media that the respondents liked, obtaining a mean score of 7.29/8.00. The least favorite feature was gaming, scoring a mean of 2.05/8.00. Table 2 shows the performance of the different features.

Ranking the relevance of social media features to respondents.

Feature	Mean Relevance
Likes, Comments, and Followers	7.29
Media Sharing and Consuming	7.16
Browsing Posts	6.33
Group Chats and Calls	4.80
Private Chats and Calls	3.98
Pages	3.11
Games	2.05
Adverts	1.26

4.3. Pairwise Comparison

The researcher established the criteria comparison matrix using the responses to questions that asked participants to rank the factors influencing their sentiments on social media features. The ranking was based on the mean score obtained from the 385 responses regarding their criteria ranking. In this case, the highest ranked criteria by the respondents scored higher values in Table 3 . Evidence suggests that people decided which social media feature they valued mostly based on its entertainment value (value = 6) and less so based on the feature’s privacy (value = 1).

Criteria importance.

Key	Feature	Value
ENT	Entertainment	6
INF	Information	2
SOC	Social Interaction	5
PRI	Privacy	1
EST	Esteem	4
COM	Communication	3

The computation of matrix values in Table 4 was based on the values established in Table 3 above. The basis of the values is the mean ranks of the criteria, as expressed by the respondents. In this case, the matrix values indicated the number of times one criterion was more important than the corresponding criterion [ 28 ]. For example, the highlighted pair in Table 4 shows that esteem was two times more important that the corresponding information criterion.

Pairwise comparison matrix.

	Ranks →	6	2	5	1	4	3
Ranks ↓		ENT	INF	SOC	PRI	EST	COM	V	W
6	ENT	1.00	3.00	1.20	6.00	1.50	2.00	2.004	0.28571
2	INF	0.33	1.00	0.40	2.00	0.50	0.67	0.668	0.09524
5	SOC	0.83	2.50	1.00	5.00	1.25	1.67	1.670	0.23810
1	PRI	0.17	0.50	0.20	1.00	0.25	0.33	0.334	0.04762
4	EST	0.67	2.00	0.80	4.00	1.00	1.33	1.336	0.19048
3	COM	0.50	1.50	0.60	3.00	0.75	1.00	1.002	0.14286

4.4. Importance Weights

The first step involves the computation of the criteria’s geometric mean [ 28 ] to determine their influence on the final decision. In this case, it is the sixth root of the product of the row elements in Table 4 . Below is the basic formula used in computing the weights of the criteria, assuming n criteria:

V i : Geometric mean for criterion i ;
X i 1 : Pairwise importance of criterion i relative to criterion 1;
X i 2 : Pairwise importance of criterion i relative to criterion 2;
X in : Pairwise importance of criterion i relative to criterion n ;
n : Number of criteria.

The second step involves finding the proportionate composition of the criteria values, which will count as their weights [ 28 ]. The procedure requires the computation of the ratio of each criterion’s value against the total value:

W i : Weights for criterion i .

4.5. Computing Utility Values

The researcher computed the feature utiles by first ranking their respective mean responses. The findings in Table 5 show that respondents thought that likes, comments, and followers on social media would often cause people’s mental health problems. Other similarly high-risk features are browsing posts and adverts.

Utility values.

Feature	Utiles
Private Chats and Calls	2.26
Group Chats and Calls	3.48
Browsing Posts	7.11
Games	1.25
Media Sharing and Consuming	3.55
Adverts	5.75
Likes, Comments, and Followers	7.71
Pages	4.89

4.6. Comparing Social Media’s Effects on Mental Health

This study computed the total utility as the product of the utiles (feature strengths), importance weights (criteria weights), and how favored the features were by the respondents (relevance). In Table 6 , each feature’s strength is multiplied by the criteria weights to obtain the cell values. The row values are then added and multiplied by a feature’s importance to determine the total utility. The total utility is obtained using the following formula:

TU i : Total Utility for criterion i ;
W i : Weights for criterion i ;
UV j = Utility Value for feature j ;
MR i : Mean Relevance for criterion i ;
i from 1 to 8, j from 1 to 6.

Estimating the effect of social media features on mental health problems.

			Criterion Weights
			0.29	0.10	0.24	0.05	0.19	0.14
			ENT	INF	SOC	PRI	EST	COM	Mean Relevance	Total Utility
Feature Strength (Utility Value)	7.71	LCF	2.20	0.73	1.84	0.37	1.47	1.10	7.29	56.24416
	7.11	BRP	2.03	0.68	1.69	0.34	1.35	1.02	6.33	45.03454
	3.55	MDS	1.01	0.34	0.84	0.17	0.68	0.51	7.16	25.39835
	3.48	GCC	1.00	0.33	0.83	0.17	0.66	0.50	4.80	16.72801
	4.89	PGS	1.40	0.47	1.16	0.23	0.93	0.70	3.11	15.20282
	2.26	PCC	0.65	0.22	0.54	0.11	0.43	0.32	3.98	9.024443
	5.75	ADV	1.64	0.55	1.37	0.27	1.09	0.82	1.26	7.241052
	1.25	GMS	0.36	0.12	0.30	0.06	0.24	0.18	2.05	2.561511

The findings suggest that the feature with the most significant negative effect on mental health is ‘likes, comments, and followers.’ This feature scored a total utility of 56.24. On the other hand, the feature with the least significant negative effect on mental health is ‘social media games’. This study found the feature to have a total utility of 2.56. While the respondents had opined in Table 3 that adverts substantially contribute to mental instability, the criteria weights for this feature were too low to significantly impact the feature’s total utility.

5. Discussion

In this study, the researcher found that social media has a significant negative impact on the mental health of Saudi Arabian youth. The feature that had the greatest impact was likes, comments, and followers, with a utility value of 56.24. This suggests that individuals who are seeking validation and social esteem through social media may be more prone to experiencing stress, depression, and anxiety. Browsing posts and media sharing were also identified as significant features that negatively impact mental health, with utility values of 45.03 and 25.40, respectively. These findings align with previous research that has identified the presence of influencers on social media as a potential source of stress and depression for regular users who may feel pressure to emulate these individuals [ 18 ]. Additionally, excessive exposure to social media videos has been linked to negative mental health outcomes [ 20 ].

On the other hand, this study found that social media games had the least impact on mental health, with a utility value of only 2.05. This finding differs from previous research that has identified games on social media as highly addictive and potentially harmful to mental health [ 21 ]. However, it is important to note that this study only compared the negative impact of different social media features on mental health, and it is possible that social media games may have a greater impact when studied in isolation. These findings highlight the need for caution in the use of social media, particularly among young people in Saudi Arabia. While social media can provide a sense of connection and support, it is important to be aware of its potential negative impacts on mental health. In light of these findings, it may be beneficial for individuals to set limits on their social media use and prioritize activities that promote mental wellbeing, such as physical exercise and social interaction with friends and family.

One potential implication of these findings is the need for greater education and awareness about the potential dangers of social media. This could involve educating people about the importance of finding validation from sources other than social media, as well as helping people to develop healthy habits when it comes to their social media use. This could involve setting limits on the amount of time spent on social media, being selective about the content that is consumed, and finding ways to disconnect from social media when necessary. Overall, these findings highlight the need for caution when using social media, particularly for youth in Saudi Arabia. While social media can be a useful tool for communication and connection, it is important to be mindful of the potential negative effects on mental health. It may be helpful for individuals to limit the attention they pay to certain features, such as likes, comments, and followers, and to engage in passive rather than active consumption of media. Further research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms by which social media impacts mental health and to identify effective interventions to mitigate negative effects.

There are several potential limitations to this study that should be considered when interpreting the results. First, the sample size of 385 participants may not be representative of the larger population of Saudi Arabian youth. Additionally, the self-reported nature of the data may be subject to bias, as individuals may not accurately recall or report their social media habits. Finally, the cross-sectional design of the study means that it is not possible to establish cause-and-effect relationships between social media use and mental health. Another limitation of this study is that the definition of “youth” is not explicitly stated. It is possible that the experiences and activities of respondents aged 18 and those aged 35 may differ significantly. Additionally, the study did not explicitly consider the potential impact of gender on the relationship between social media use and mental health. Future research should aim to further explore these demographic variables in order to better understand the specific effects of social media on mental health among different populations. Such investigations should consider using larger and more diverse samples, as well as more robust research designs to further explore the relationship between social media and mental health.

6. Conclusions

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of social media on mental health among young people. Social media has become an integral part of modern society, with platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram offering a range of features including messaging, media sharing, and gaming. However, there is growing concern that the use of social media may have negative effects on mental health, particularly among young people who are more likely to use these platforms extensively. The study aimed to identify the specific features of social media that have the greatest impact on mental health and to examine the underlying reasons for these effects. To achieve these objectives, the study used AHP to assess the relevance and importance of eight social media features to 385 respondents aged between 18 and 35. The findings showed that likes, comments, and followers were the most relevant features to respondents, while gaming was the least favorite feature. In terms of the criteria influencing the respondents’ sentiments, entertainment was the most important factor, while privacy was the least important. The study concludes that social media can have both positive and negative effects on mental health, depending on how it is used and the specific features that are engaged with. It is therefore important for young people to be aware of the potential risks and to use social media in a balanced and responsible manner.

Appendix A. List of Questions Asked to the Respondents

Question 1: Rank the importance of the following social media features as they occur to you as (1) for the least important and (8) for the most important.
Question 2: How do you determine the importance of social media features to you? Rank how the following factors influence your sentiments as (1) for least significant Determinant and (6) for the most significant Determinant.
Question 3: On a scale of 1 to 8, rate the effect of the below social media features in inducing mental health issues as (1) for Smallest Effect and (8) for Biggest Effect

Funding Statement

This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Not applicable.

Informed Consent Statement

Data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

The author declares no conflict of interest.

Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Articles on Youth mental health crisis

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Friday essay: Bad therapy or cruel world? How the youth mental health crisis has been sucked into the culture wars

Nick Haslam , The University of Melbourne

As the mental health crisis in children and teens worsens, the dire shortage of mental health providers is preventing young people from getting the help they need

Steven Berkowitz , University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

As suicides rise in the US, the 988 hotline offers hope – but most Americans aren’t aware of it

Emmy Betz , University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

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Mental Health Topics for Presentation for Students: 100+ Ideas to Get Started

Discover over 100 impactful mental health presentation topics for students, covering awareness, disorders, stress management, relationships, and more.

Why Mental Health Matters for Students

Academic Performance : Mental health issues can severely affect a student's ability to concentrate, remember, and perform academically.
Social Life : Poor mental health can lead to social withdrawal, impacting relationships with friends and family.
Physical Health : Mental and physical health are interconnected. Anxiety and depression can lead to various physical health problems like sleep disturbances and weakened immune systems.
Long-term Impact : Early intervention in mental health issues can prevent long-term problems and help students develop coping skills that will serve them throughout life.

How to Choose a Topic

Relevance : Choose a topic that resonates with your audience. Consider the age group, cultural background, and current issues affecting your peers.
Scope : Ensure the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow. For instance, "Mental Health" is too broad, while "The Role of Omega-3 in Managing Anxiety" might be too specific for a general audience.
Resources : Choose a topic for which you can find reliable and credible resources to support your presentation.

List of 100+ Mental Health Topics for Students

1. general mental health awareness topics.

What is Mental Health?
The Importance of Mental Health in Daily Life
Mental Health vs. Mental Illness: What’s the Difference?
The Impact of Mental Health on Academic Performance
How to Talk About Mental Health with Friends and Family
The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: How to Overcome It
Mental Health Statistics and Trends Among Students
How to Support a Friend with Mental Health Issues
The Role of School Counselors in Supporting Student Mental Health
The Connection Between Mental and Physical Health

2. Specific Mental Health Disorders

Understanding Depression: Symptoms and Treatment
Anxiety Disorders: Types, Symptoms, and Coping Strategies
Bipolar Disorder: Managing the Highs and Lows
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Students
Eating Disorders: Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Myths and Facts
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Young Adults
Social Anxiety Disorder: Overcoming Fear of Social Situations
Schizophrenia: Early Signs and Treatment Options
Borderline Personality Disorder: Understanding the Basics

3. Mental Health and Academic Stress

The Impact of Academic Pressure on Mental Health
Time Management Techniques for Reducing Stress
How to Deal with Exam Anxiety
Balancing Academic and Social Life for Better Mental Health
The Role of Extracurricular Activities in Reducing Stress
How to Create a Healthy Study Routine
Coping with Academic Failure and Rejection
The Importance of Sleep for Mental Health and Academic Success
Strategies for Managing Procrastination and Overwhelm
How to Set Realistic Academic Goals

4. Mental Health and Technology

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
How to Manage Screen Time for Better Mental Well-being
Cyberbullying and Its Effects on Mental Health
The Role of Digital Detox in Mental Health
Online Therapy and Mental Health Apps: Are They Effective?
Gaming Addiction: Understanding and Managing It
How to Use Technology Mindfully
The Role of Telehealth in Student Mental Health Care
The Connection Between Sleep and Screen Time
Using Technology for Mental Health Education and Support

5. Mental Health and Relationships

The Impact of Family Dynamics on Mental Health
How to Navigate Romantic Relationships and Mental Health
Building Healthy Friendships for Mental Well-being
Managing Peer Pressure and Its Effects on Mental Health
The Role of Communication in Relationship Health
How to Handle Toxic Relationships and Emotional Abuse
Understanding and Managing Loneliness in College
Setting Boundaries for Better Mental Health
The Role of Support Systems in Mental Health Recovery
How to Cultivate Empathy and Understanding in Relationships

6. Mental Health and Lifestyle

The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
Exercise and Mental Health: The Science Behind It
Mindfulness and Meditation: Techniques for Students
The Benefits of Journaling for Mental Health
Art Therapy: Using Creativity for Emotional Expression
The Role of Music and Dance in Emotional Healing
Yoga and Its Benefits for Mental Health
The Importance of Hobbies and Leisure Activities
How to Develop a Self-Care Routine
Managing Mental Health Through Gratitude Practice

7. Mental Health and Social Issues

The Impact of Racism and Discrimination on Mental Health
LGBTQ+ Students and Mental Health: Challenges and Support
How Socioeconomic Status Affects Mental Health
Understanding and Managing Stress in Immigrant Students
The Role of Community in Supporting Student Mental Health
Mental Health Challenges Faced by First-Generation Students
Addressing Substance Abuse and Mental Health
How to Advocate for Mental Health in Your Community
The Impact of Trauma and Abuse on Mental Health
Mental Health and Violence: Prevention and Support

8. Mental Health Coping Strategies

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Techniques for Students
Developing Resilience: Skills for Coping with Adversity
Stress Management Techniques for Students
The Importance of Gratitude in Mental Health
How to Develop Positive Thinking Habits
The Role of Humor in Mental Health
How to Create a Stress-Relief Toolkit
Effective Breathing Techniques for Anxiety and Stress
Building Emotional Intelligence for Better Mental Health
How to Develop a Growth Mindset

9. Mental Health in Different Age Groups

Mental Health in Elementary School Students: What to Watch For
Understanding Mental Health Challenges in Middle School
High School Mental Health: Common Issues and Solutions
College Mental Health: Coping with the Transition
Mental Health Support for Graduate Students
Mental Health and the Transition to Adulthood
The Impact of Parental Mental Health on Children
How to Support Siblings with Mental Health Issues
The Role of Early Intervention in Childhood Mental Health
Understanding the Mental Health Needs of Young Adults

10. Mental Health Resources and Support

How to Find a Mental Health Professional
The Role of School Counselors and Psychologists
How to Use Campus Mental Health Services
Crisis Hotlines and Emergency Mental Health Resources
Online Support Groups and Communities for Students
Books and Podcasts for Mental Health Education
How to Create a Mental Health Support Plan
The Role of Peer Support in Mental Health
How to Advocate for Better Mental Health Resources at School
Understanding and Using Insurance for Mental Health Services

Tips for Creating an Effective Mental Health Presentation

Start with a Strong Introduction : Begin your presentation with a compelling story, statistic, or question to grab your audience's attention.
Use Visuals : Incorporate charts, graphs, and images to illustrate your points. Visuals can help make complex information more digestible.
Incorporate Personal Stories : If you feel comfortable, share personal experiences or stories that relate to your topic. This can make your presentation more relatable and impactful.
Include Interactive Elements : Engage your audience with Q&A sessions, polls, or group discussions. This encourages participation and helps deepen understanding.
Use Reliable Sources : Ensure your information is accurate and up-to-date by using reliable sources such as academic journals, mental health organizations, and expert interviews.
End with a Call to Action : Conclude your presentation by encouraging your audience to take specific actions, such as seeking help if they need it, supporting others, or learning more about mental health.

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Library Mental Disorders Case Studies Top Disorders & Issues Articles - Mental & Medical Disorders

Top Disorders & Issues Articles – Mental & Medical Disorders

With average life expectancy rising, it’s inevitable that an increasing number of people will experience mental and medical disorders and issues in their lifetimes. (1) Life issues, illnesses, and diseases can affect the body, thoughts, emotions, and behavior and make daily life more challenging. Although many transmittable diseases can now easily be treated or healed, the abundant, fast-paced, and high-stimulation society people live in has seen an increase in noncommunicable diseases. (2)

The number of adolescents and adults reporting mental disorders is increasing. (3) Plus, lifestyle-related medical disorders are the largest global cause of mortality, accounting for 74% of all deaths. (4) These types of disorders and issues are highly complex and interrelated, and lifestyle is a primary risk factor in their occurrence.

The convenience, choice, and freedom that come with modern life put people at a higher risk of physical and mental disorders. While genes and environment are risk factors for any illness, individuals and families can play a major role in reducing their chances of developing a mental or physical disorder. By seeking treatment and making gradual lifestyle shifts, people with a diagnosis can manage or reduce their symptoms. (5)

Mental Disorders

Medical disorders.

Wellness & Personal Development

Life Issues

Treatments & Interventions

Diagnosing a mental disorder is complex. (6) Unlike a broken bone or viral infection, it isn’t possible to take an X-ray or a sample to confirm someone has a psychological illness. Medical professionals must use their extensive specialized knowledge of various symptoms and the patient’s self-description to reach a conclusion. As such, getting a diagnosis for a mental disorder often requires patience and persistence.

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders involve an obsessive preoccupation with weight, food consumption, and body image. (7) They negatively impact daily life and harm the individual’s physical and mental health. Examples include:

Anorexia nervosa
Bulimia nervosa
Rumination disorder
Binge eating disorder

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are characterized by disproportionate levels of worry and fear regarding future events. (8) Individuals with the following conditions have difficulty functioning in daily life because of their symptoms:

Generalized anxiety disorder
Panic disorder
Social anxiety disorder
Specific phobias
Separation anxiety disorder

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders impact an estimated 21% of adults in the United States. (9) Affected individuals experience severe and persistent disturbances to their moods that hinder their ability to work, go to school, and have healthy relationships. Some mood conditions include:

Depressive disorders
Bipolar disorder
Substance-induced mood disorder

Psychotic Disorders

Psychosis is an inability to separate reality from imagination that’s usually caused by extreme stress, viruses, and changes in brain functioning. (10) Psychotic disorders include:

Schizophrenia
Schizoaffective disorder
Delusional disorder
Substance-induced psychosis

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Neurodevelopmental disorders result from abnormal brain development and affect communication, cognition, and behavior. (11) They include:

Autism spectrum disorder
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Global developmental delay
Intellectual development disorder

Trauma-Related Disorders

Distress and trauma present psychological symptoms, but they have a physical impact on the brain and central nervous system. (12) The changes they make can make daily life difficult for those with the condition. Below are some trauma-related disorders:

Post-traumatic stress disorder
Adjustment disorders
Acute stress disorder

Impulse Control Disorders

Impulse control disorders cause people to act in unwanted ways and cause disruption to their own or other people’s lives. (13) Here are some examples:

Conduct disorder
Oppositional defiant disorder
Intermittent explosive disorder
Kleptomania

Substance Use and Addictive Disorders

Substance use disorders and behavioral addictions involve continuing to habitually take substances or engage in risky behaviors, despite negative outcomes. Some common addictive disorders include:

Alcohol use disorder
Opioid use disorder
Cannabis use disorder
Gambling disorder
Internet gaming disorder
Internet addiction

Personality Disorders

People with personality disorders have markedly different experiences of the world compared to average people. They think, feel, and relate to others in chronically unhealthy ways that impede their experience of daily life. Some examples are:

Paranoid personality disorder
Schizoid personality disorder
Antisocial personality disorder
Narcissistic personality disorder
Avoidant personality disorder
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

Medical disorders often develop over time as a result of a range of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Unlike communicable diseases, they aren’t contagious and can’t be passed from one person to another in the same way as viral or bacterial infections. (14) However, they’re often at least partly hereditary—and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of developing them are highly heritable. (15)

Heart Disease

Heart disease is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect the heart, and it’s the leading cause of death in the United States and globally. (16) High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and tobacco use are the leading risk factors. Coronary artery disease, in which the arteries that transport blood to the heart and brain are narrowed, is the most common type of heart disease.

Cancer is a group of illnesses characterized by unhealthy cell growth, and it’s the second-leading cause of death behind heart disease in the United States. (17) Around 90% of cancer cases are attributed to environmental and lifestyle factors, including tobacco, alcohol, poor diet, sun exposure, environmental pollution, infections, obesity, and physical inactivity. (18)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is the third-leading cause of death globally and is thought to be preventable for many people. (19) People with the illness have narrowed airways and struggle to carry out day-to-day activities due to breathlessness.

Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes occurs when the pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to effectively manage blood sugar. (20) It’s one of the leading causes of heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and stroke. A person can prevent or delay the disease with medication, regular physical activity, and a healthy diet, as well as avoiding tobacco.

Neurodegenerative Disorders

Neurodegenerative disorders are diseases of the brain characterized by a decline in cognitive abilities. (21) Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but there are other types.

A stroke is caused by a blockage that hinders blood supply to the brain or a burst blood vessel in the brain. (22) Blood delivers oxygen to the brain and facilitates speech, movements, memories, thoughts, and emotions. Lack of oxygen causes brain cells to die within minutes, which results in a stroke.

Wellness & Personal Development

Wellness encompasses the steps a person takes to maintain good health and stave off physical and mental disorders. The more an individual focuses on the personal development of health-promoting habits, the easier it is to avoid mental and medical disorders. (23)

Even someone who grew up in a household where smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress were commonplace can learn new habits and reduce their risk of developing chronic illness. However, overhauling an entire lifestyle isn’t easy and often requires professional help. A coach or counselor can help with:

Learning how to eat a healthy, balanced diet
Getting motivated to do regular exercise that feels good
Quitting smoking, drinking excessively, or using substances
Journaling to stay in touch with emotions and help with the upkeep of new habits
Nurturing positive relationships

Mental illness impacts almost one in five Americans, but everyone will experience a problem in their life at some point. (24) People with a mental or medical disorder might be more vulnerable to their symptoms when they experience stress related to life issues. Examples include:

Relationship problems, such as divorce, infidelity, and loss of friendships
Financial issues, such as debt, overspending, and job loss
Mental health issues
Health issues
Bereavement

The philosophy of lifespan development encourages people to view themselves as being in a continual state of development from birth to older age. By learning about the milestones everyone goes through—and potential hurdles along the way—individuals are better prepared for the future.

The first step for anyone concerned they may have any type of disorder is to reach out to a healthcare professional. After diagnosis, they can help patients devise a treatment plan that might include:

Physical therapy: In cases of heart disease, stroke, or cancer, physical therapy might be necessary. The human brain and body are capable of astounding feats of healing, and many people can regain full function following a major illness, provided they work hard.
Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, emotion-focused therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy are examples of evidence-based therapeutic approaches used by mental health professionals.
Medication: Physical and mental disorders might require the use of medication to help manage symptoms.
Rehab: In some cases, inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation might be the best solution.

Treatments & Interventions

In addition to self-care, wellness, and healthcare, a number of complementary and alternative approaches show promise in helping people manage the symptoms of illness. Here are some popular complementary therapies:

Acupuncture
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
Aromatherapy
Biofeedback
Meditation
Mindfulness
Music and art therapy
Visualization

Getting diagnosed with a medical or mental disorder can be distressing and disorienting, and it can make people with existing conditions feel overwhelmed. Although it’s challenging, there’s no other time when practicing self-care and healthy habits are more important. Taking time to focus on the long-term benefits of eating well, getting plenty of exercise, and connecting socially can help people resist the urge to resort to unhealthy but familiar behaviors.

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health
https://www.un.org/en/chronicle/article/lifestyle-diseases-economic-burden-health-services
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/mental-health/index.htm
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4535518
https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-020-01668-w
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29958509
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24852727
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-mood-disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18516523
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7365295
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK207191
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3089999
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zts9y4j/revision/2
https://www.sciencealert.com/new-evidence-suggests-you-can-pass-poor-lifestyle-choices-onto-future-generations
https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/research/update-on-cancer-deaths/index.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2515569
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-(copd)
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499922
https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/about.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/about/prevent/index.htm
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness

Our Medical Affairs Team is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience who actively contribute to the development of our content, products, and services. They meticulously evaluate and review all medical content before publication to ensure it is medically accurate and aligned with current discussions and research developments in mental health. For more information, visit our Editorial Policy .

MentalHealth.com is a health technology company guiding people towards self-understanding and connection. The platform offers reliable resources, accessible services, and nurturing communities. Its mission involves educating, supporting, and empowering people in their pursuit of well-being.

The content on this page was originally from MentalHelp.net, a website we acquired and moved to MentalHealth.com in September 2024. This content has not yet been fully updated to meet our content standards and may be incomplete. We are committed to editing, enhancing, and medically reviewing all content by March 31, 2025. Please check back soon, and thank you for visiting MentalHealth.com. Learn more about our content standards here .

Imogen Sharma is a writer and contributor on the Editorial Team at MentalHealth.com, covering addiction, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and therapy.

Bio coming soon.

Construction industry ‘must address root causes’ of worker mental health issues: CPWR

Silver Spring, MD — Nearly 1 out of 5 construction workers report having anxiety or depression, and the overwhelming majority of them haven’t sought expert help, a new report shows.

According to the CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training report:

In 2021, 15.4% of construction workers said they had anxiety or depression, based on medication or symptoms.
Among them, 84.3% didn’t seek help from a mental health professional in the previous 12 months.

Mental health, the report notes, has played a role in the construction industry having the highest death rate and second highest suicide rate among all U.S. industries.

In 2022, more than 1 out of 6 people ages 16 to 64 who suffered fatal overdoses were construction workers. Synthetic opioids were linked to around 75% of those overdose deaths.

That same year, 5,200 construction worker suicides were recorded. That’s 5.3 times more than the number of fatal work-related injuries documented in the industry.

“Work-related stressors such as job precarity, long working hours, injuries and poor safety climate are highly correlated with symptoms of anxiety and depression,” the report states. “To prevent mental health issues , the construction industry must address root causes, including work-related factors. Future research addressing modifiable workplace stressors and hazards that affect mental health is imperative to create safer worksites.”

Cpwr report examines causes of death for current, retired and former construction workers, what causes falls in construction cpwr survey digs in, mental health resources and training ‘underutilized’ in civil construction industry: report, cpwr: construction industry accounts for about half of job-related electrical deaths, construction worker suicide: new video talks about mental health, stigma, post a comment to this article.

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Social, Political, Economic and Environmental Issues That Affect Us All

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The Crucial Connection Between Climate Change and Mental Health

by Alison Kentish ( saint lucia )
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Inter Press Service

SAINT LUCIA, Sep 25 (IPS) - Climate change is driving a mental health crisis and accelerating eco-anxiety. Dr. Emma Lawrance is leading Climate Cares, Imperial College London, a centre dedicated to research on climate change in mental health. The researcher spoke to IPS about the need to address this growing concern."Young people today are growing up with enormous uncertainty about their future. Climate change is a major driver of that uncertainty, but we weren't talking enough about how the climate crisis impacts mental health," researcher Dr. Emma Lawrance told IPS from her family home in Australia.

With sombre news at every climate report and an era defined by increasing eco-anxiety, Lawrence is leading research into a pressing yet under-explored area: the intersection of climate change and mental health. As the Mental Health Lead at the Institute of Global Health Innovation , Imperial College London, Lawrence's unique career path—from physics and neuroscience to mental health advocacy—is putting a spotlight on the deeply intertwined nature of human well-being and the planet's health.

"I've always had a deep connection to nature," Lawrence told IPS, reminiscing about her upbringing in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia. "Growing up with trees, koalas, and birds, it was always clear to me that we're not separate from nature. Our health and well-being are intimately connected to the well-being of the planet."

Lawrence also worked in science communication and was part of a science circus, traveling around Australia, performing in schools, and embracing the opportunity to visit remote, indigenous communities.

Her early love of the natural world drove her academic interests in physics and chemistry, where she understood the dangers of burning fossil fuels and their catastrophic effects on the climate. But her journey didn't stop at environmental science; it wound through the complexities of mental health, a field shaped both by personal experience and her academic research.

Dr. Emma Lawrance, Mental Health Lead at the Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London. Credit: LinkedIn

In her teenage years, she faced mental illness firsthand, a period that profoundly shaped her worldview and motivated her to co-found It Gets Brighter , a youth mental health charity. This initiative, she explains, was about offering young people a platform to share and hear stories of hope, letting those struggling know they are not alone.

"I felt that mental health and social connection were critical, especially during periods of uncertainty, which my neuroscience research later supported," she says. During her graduate studies at Oxford, Lawrence's work explored how the brain processes uncertainty and how mental health conditions, like anxiety, can alter decision-making. "When we're missing critical information, it changes how we approach decisions, and anxiety often worsens those effects."

At Imperial College London, her work increasingly focused on the growing mental health crisis among young people. As emotional distress, anxiety, and depression rates surged, Lawrence saw a glaring gap in the conversation: climate anxiety.

Lawrence's research highlights a vicious cycle: the climate crisis exacerbates mental health issues, and those struggling with psychological distress may find it harder to engage in climate action. "People need psychological resilience to face these challenges. But the stress and anxiety stemming from climate change, such as the trauma of witnessing environmental destruction, can undermine that very resilience."

Her work came to the forefront during the Connecting Climate Minds global event in Barbados this year. It was a landmark event that brought together experts, activists, and policymakers from across the globe to discuss the intersection of climate change and mental health. One of the key takeaways from the event, according to Lawrence, is the need to invest in community-based mental health support, especially in areas most affected by climate change.

"What often determines whether someone thrives or struggles under climate-related stress is the strength of their community. Building resilient communities not only helps individuals cope but also equips them to take action."

Policy Action

Lawrence is calling on lawmakers to focus on creating systems that address the intertwined nature of climate and mental health. "There needs to be more awareness about the connections between the health of people and the health of the planet. Policymakers need to recognize that promoting environmental sustainability and mental health resilience go hand in hand."

One striking example of this is the growing issue of extreme heat , which not only affects physical health but can also have profound psychological impacts, particularly for people with pre-existing mental health conditions. "In many parts of the world, people are essentially trapped in their homes due to extreme heat, which places an enormous burden on their mental health," she explains. "Policymakers need to factor this into their public health responses, ensuring that communities are equipped with the resources and information to manage both the physical and mental health impacts."

As Lawrence looks to the future, she remains hopeful. The connections forged at the Barbados event and through her ongoing work at Imperial College London offer a blueprint for addressing the twin crises of climate change and mental health.

"We need to invest in connection—across policy, communities, and regions. There are already so many great initiatives happening, but they need to be scaled up and brought out of their silos. The solutions are there, but we need to bring people together to make them happen."

Lawrence is at the forefront of this vital conversation, and as climate anxiety grows, her work offers both a warning and a call to action—mental health is inextricably linked to the health of the planet. The conversation needs to be amplified.

IPS UN Bureau Report

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Mental Health America are joined by other prominent mental health advocacy groups to sponsor related observances: Mental Health Awareness Week Canada (1-7 May, 2023) and Europe (22-28 May ...
Key questions: research priorities for student mental health
In the context of increasing prevalence of youth and young adult mental health problems, 1, 2 including university students, 3 concern about mental health in the university setting is mounting and gaining media and public attention. 4 Increasing demand for services on campus has been observed internationally. 2, 3 However, current approaches lack a solid evidence base, 5, 6 and students have ...
55 research questions about mental health
Mental health and related conditions are a hot-button healthcare topic in 2024. With an estimated one in five Americans living with a mental health condition, ongoing research into the causes, treatment options, and possible triggers has never been more necessary.. Research in the mental health space helps fill knowledge gaps and create a fuller picture for patients, healthcare professionals ...
WHO highlights urgent need to transform mental health and mental health
The World Health Organization today released its largest review of world mental health since the turn of the century. The detailed work provides a blueprint for governments, academics, health professionals, civil society and others with an ambition to support the world in transforming mental health. In 2019, nearly a billion people - including 14% of the world's adolescents - were living ...
COVID-19 and Mental Health
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 most often affects the lungs and respiratory system, but it can also affect other parts of the body. Some people develop post-COVID conditions, also called Long COVID . These symptoms can include neurological symptoms such as difficulty thinking or concentrating, sleep problems ...
Mental health
All WHO Member States are committed to implementing the Comprehensive mental health action plan 2013-2030, which aims to improve mental health by strengthening governance, providing community-based care, implementing promotion and prevention strategies, and strengthening information systems, evidence and research.. WHO's World mental health report: transforming mental health for all called ...
Research
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders, supporting research that aims to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research. Learn more about NIMH-funded research areas, policies ...
The Impact of Mental Health Issues on Academic Achievement in High
found mental health concerns can cause a student to have difficulty in school. with poor academic performance, even chronic absenteeism, and disciplinary. concerns. Weist (2005) notes that in the prior two decades, "school mental health. programs have increased due to the recognition of the crisis in children's mental.
Health Topics
Health Topics. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders, offers basic information on mental disorders, a range of related topics, and the latest mental health research. It is not the intention of NIMH to provide specific medical advice, but rather to provide users with information ...
New Study Shows Bipartisan Struggles with Depression, Reveals Gaps in
A new study published in September in the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice sheds light on the mental health crisis gripping millions of Americans, and the findings suggest that depression is a bipartisan issue that affects people across party lines. According to the study, there is, however, a striking divide on whether people seek mental health treatment, with Republicans less ...
Mental health issues of higher education students reflected in academic
Abstract. Objective: This study investigated mental health issues among higher education students to identify key concepts, topics, and trends over three periods of time: Period 1 (2000-2009), Period 2 (2010-2019), and Period 3 (2020-May 2024).Methods: The study collected 11,732 bibliographic records from Scopus and Web of Science, published between January 2000 and May 2024, and ...
Kids' mental health is in crisis. Here's what psychologists are doing
The Covid-19 pandemic era ushered in a new set of challenges for youth in the United States, leading to a mental health crisis as declared by the United States surgeon general just over a year ago.But U.S. children and teens have been suffering for far longer. In the 10 years leading up to the pandemic, feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness—as well as suicidal thoughts and ...
Experts' Opinions in Public Mental Health: Emerging Issues ...
Mental disorders can cause significant suffering for individuals, their families, as well as causing a strain on public health services. As some mental illnesses arise early on in life and can lead to the development of physical illnesses, awareness of mental health disorders and the services and treatment available is crucial for public health.<br/><br/>Public Mental Health aims to provide ...
Mental Health Research Topics
Top 10 Mental Health Research Paper Topics. 1. The Effects of Social Media Platforms on the Mental Well-Being of Children. The effects of social media platforms on the mental well-being of children is a research topic that is especially significant and relevant today. This is due to the increasing usage of online social networks by children and ...
Developmental and Behavioral Health Research: Finding Answers to Tough
The research team has also conducted in-person and live webinar presentations. Topics covered in the presentation include suicide prevention, home safety, vaping, eating disorders, and self-care for parents. With the variety of topics covered, researchers hope to attract all parents, not just those who consider their children at risk.
Issues and Challenges Concerning Mental Health in India: Time to Brood
The fundamental cause of mental health issues is societal and cultural norms and practices that affect the individual as well as their relatives. This article highlights the factors contributing to mental illness and socio-economic, cultural, religious and legal challenges in dealing with mental health. ... Sage Research Methods Supercharging ...
The Relationship between Social Media and the Increase in Mental Health
The prevalence of mental health issues in the KSA is estimated to be around 20.2% [10]. Depression is the most common mental health condition, affecting 21% of the population, followed by anxiety (17.5%) and stress (12.6%) [11]. Research has shown that social media use in Saudi Arabia is correlated with increased mental health issues [12].
Youth mental health crisis
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, substance abuse issues or mental health problems. Related Topics Friday essay
Mental Health Topics for Presentation for Students: 100+ Ideas to Get
Relevance: Choose a topic that resonates with your audience.Consider the age group, cultural background, and current issues affecting your peers. Scope: Ensure the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow.For instance, "Mental Health" is too broad, while "The Role of Omega-3 in Managing Anxiety" might be too specific for a general audience.
Top Disorders & Issues Articles
Learn about mental and medical disorders, including eating disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychosis, neurodevelopmental disorders, trauma-related disorders, impulse control disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. Explore risk factors, symptoms, treatments, and the importance of self-care for good mental and physical health.
Construction industry 'must address root causes' of worker mental
According to the CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training report: In 2021, 15.4% of workers said they had anxiety or depression, based on medication or symptoms. Among them, 84.3% didn't seek help from a mental health professional in the previous 12 months.
The Crucial Connection Between Climate Change and Mental Health
SAINT LUCIA, Sep 25 (IPS) - Climate change is driving a mental health crisis and accelerating eco-anxiety. Dr. Emma Lawrance is leading Climate Cares, Imperial College London, a centre dedicated to research on climate change in mental health. The researcher spoke to IPS about the need to address this growing concern."Young people today are growing up with enormous uncertainty about their future.

Research Topics Ideas: Mental Health

Overview: Mental Health Topic Ideas

Mood Disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Psychotic Disorders

Personality Disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Eating Disorders

Substance-Related Disorders

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How To Choose A Research Topic: 5 Key Criteria

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