Harvard Health Content API

Involuntary outpatient commitment laws exist in most states, but enforcement varies. Two studies on the issue produced contrasting results.

Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism are caused more by genes than by environment. An area of research is focusing on the influence of spontaneous mutations in DNA called copy number variation.

Diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children has risen dramatically in recent years. It is difficult to diagnose because symptoms often overlap with other disorders, particularly ADHD.

Studies of medications and supplements aiming to treat or reverse Alzheimer’s disease have been unsuccessful. Drug therapy combining the available Alzheimer’s medications, and maintaining physical and mental fitness, appears to be the best option for now.

Researchers used a series of tests to evaluate people’s perception of their own intelligence and how it may change according to how adaptable they believe themselves to be.

A sincere and effective apology acknowledges the wrong and takes responsibility for it without making excuses. A genuine apology can be an important first step toward rebuilding a personal or professional relationship.

Japanese researchers used brain scans to demonstrate that social discomfort and physical pain stimulate the same areas of the brain.

Researchers found that homeowners facing foreclosure have to bear a heavy psychological burden and, not surprisingly, have a higher incidence of symptoms of depression.

Concern about antidepressants increasing the risk of suicide in children could have the unintended effect that children suffering from depression may not receive needed treatment.