Peer support has UPSIDES for global mental health

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The UPSIDES trial demonstrates that peer support is effective across diverse global contexts, from high-income to low-income countries. While overall social inclusion scores didn’t reach significance, participants showed reduced isolation and increased empowerment and hope. This landmark study proves peer support can be successfully adapted to different cultural settings while maintaining core recovery-oriented principles.

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From menstruation to menopause: how sex-steroids shape women’s mental health across the life course

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Sex and gender differences in mental health are real; the mechanisms are under-explored. This review pulls together evidence on sex-steroids, brain development, neuroinflammation, and the social world to show where practice and policy must catch up.

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Spotting the storm before it breaks: mapping the prodrome of severe mental illness

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People with severe mental illness often face years of poor health before diagnosis. A new study uses machine learning and clinical notes to map the early warning networks of symptoms that could help us intervene earlier.

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Ketamine, depression and childhood trauma: new evidence from a community study

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Can ketamine help people with treatment-resistant depression, regardless of childhood trauma history? This new study suggests that trauma load and severity may not influence treatment outcomes.

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Widening the lens on delusions: a global meta-analysis shows our scales miss many common themes

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This big meta-analysis pooled 155 studies from 37 countries and found many more delusional themes than standard assessment tools capture. Clinicians should watch for “non-classical” content, and researchers should widen how we measure delusions.

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The Lancet Commission on self-harm: a global call for compassionate, culturally informed care

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Self-harm is a global public health issue, yet it remains under-recognised and poorly addressed. A landmark Lancet Commission reframes self-harm as a complex behaviour shaped by culture, society, and inequality—and sets out 12 key recommendations for change.

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Therapy through the lens of autism: what helps autistic adults feel safe and supported?

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What makes therapy feel safe and effective for autistic adults? This new qualitative study sheds light on the adjustments that matter most.

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Prescribing in borderline personality disorder: Evidence, relationships, and the realities of practice

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No drugs are officially approved for borderline personality disorder, yet prescribing is widespread. This systematic review explores why clinicians prescribe, the pressures they face, and what it means for patient care.

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Who gets included in psychedelics research? A systematic review of ethnoracial representation

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Despite psychedelics’ roots in Indigenous and minoritised communities, clinical trials overwhelmingly centre White participants. This review highlights the consequences and asks how research can change.

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Psychedelics and Queerness: Do we have a meaningful voice?

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Despite psychedelics’ deep ties with queer culture, research often excludes queer voices. This recent scoping review highlights gaps and shows how inclusive, intersectional methods can transform the field.

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