MedBlog

Brain; Mental Health

Breakthroughs in depression research lead to more effective treatments

For many years, patients had to endure a trial-and-error process that often mismatched them with antidepressants. But through the power of UT Southwestern's research, doctors can use a blood test, brain imaging, and artificial intelligence to provide effective and biologically backed treatment for depression.

Madhukar Trivedi, M.D.

December 9, 2020

COVID; Mental Health

The psychiatrist will see you now (by virtual visit)

Telepsychiatry can increase mental health care access long after the pandemic ends. Kenneth Dekleva, M.D., discusses its benefits and what the future may hold.

Kenneth Dekleva, M.D.

September 23, 2020

COVID; Your Pregnancy Matters

Pregnancy, anxiety, and the pandemic: 4 ways to manage symptoms

Anxiety among pregnant patients has doubled during the pandemic. Consider these 4 ways to manage symptoms before, during, and after pregnancy.

Robyn Horsager-Boehrer, M.D.

July 14, 2020

COVID; Mental Health

COVID-19 and substance abuse: How to HALT stress drinking, drug use

Physical isolation may lead to increased drinking at home – which carries mental health costs. Get tips to spot warning signs in yourself and others, plus see how COVID-19 is changing the future of treatment.

Adriane Dela Cruz, M.D., Ph.D.

April 15, 2020

COVID; Mental Health

COVID-19 distress: Managing your mental health in a pandemic

For the 500 million people worldwide who are already struggling with depression and anxiety disorders, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic can feel downright paralyzing because our brains are designed around predictability and structure. There are some practical, common sense and clinical solutions to manage the distress.

Ahmad Raza, M.D., Ph.D.

March 23, 2020

Mental Health; Prevention

7 ways to cope with holiday stress

Whether you’re dealing with financial worries, family dynamics, or health concerns, it’s important to keep your holiday stress levels under control. Licensed social worker Rita Smith offers seven easy but effective ways to navigate the pressures of the season in today’s MedBlog.

November 27, 2019

Brain; Mental Health

Mindful meditation can reduce stress, risk of cardiovascular disease

An integrative approach to health includes not only good nutrition, adequate exercise and sleep, but also engaging in positive relationships and stress management. The last six decades have brought forth extensive evidence that meditation and the mind-body connection can have tangible effects on your health.

August 15, 2019

Brain; Mental Health

Debunked! 4 myths about electroconvulsive therapy for depression

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression, though misinformation abounds online. In this MedBlog, Kala Bailey, M.D., debunks ECT myths and describes an exciting new research study. Learn more.

Kala Bailey, M.D.

July 25, 2019

Your Pregnancy Matters

SADFACES: Diagnosing depression and anxiety during pregnancy

Fatigue and appetite changes are considered “normal” side effects of pregnancy – but these symptoms can also be signs of depression. In this week’s #YourPregnancyMatters blog, find out why we screen patients twice with the SADFACES survey and why physical and cognitive symptoms matter.

Shivani Patel, M.D.

June 4, 2019

Brain; Mental Health

Anticholinergic drugs: A potential link to dementia

A new study suggests that certain anticholinergic drugs commonly prescribed for depression, Parkinson’s disease, and bladder conditions might increase the risk for dementia in patients who took the medications long-term.

Molly Camp, M.D.

March 28, 2019