Behavioral Health

University of Pennsylvania research findings published in JAMA: "Antidepressants were more effective than a placebo only for patients with very severe depression, who made up 40% of trial participants but, according to a recent survey cited in DeRubeis' paper, represent fewer than 30% of depressed people who seek treatment in the real world."

Among the research in collaborative care, the most comprehensive work has been done by Wayne Katon, MD, and Jürgen Unützer, MD, both of the University of Washington. Under the latter's collaborative care model, participants had fewer suicidal thoughts, higher recovery rates and improved function, and more depression-free days compared to typical primary care treatment. In addition, Unützer's research has shown potential overall health care savings of $3,300 per individual over a four-year period compared to individuals in usual primary care treatment.

Andrew Lipsitt and parents "Marcie and Eric Lipsitt of Franklin -- are featured in an HBO documentary scheduled to air Wednesday (1/6/10) that sheds light on how families cope with a diagnosis of pediatric bipolar disorder"

mutations in gene known as DISC1 may lead to "brain alterations" causing schizophrenia, depression and bipolar disorder

www.CheckYourDrinking.net reduces alcohol consumption in a sample of problem drinkers by 30%

Texas Youth Commission is discharging fewer teens for failure to make progress with mental health issues

Discusses an Archives of General Psychiatry study on polypharmacy (drug combos, mutliple medications)