Department of Psychiatry

October 15, 2020

Study explores nicotine patch to treat late-life depression

Backed by nearly $5 million in funding, researchers from Vanderbilt University Medical Center are testing to see whether transdermal nicotine patches can improve mood, forgetfulness and attentiveness in adults over 60 with a diagnosis of depression.

By Kelsey Herbers
October 1, 2020

Pinpointing brain changes in psychosis

Specific regions of the thalamus — a central brain region — are smaller in adults with psychotic disorders and youth at risk for psychotic disorders and are associated with cognitive impairment.

By Leigh MacMillan
June 23, 2020

A connection to schizophrenia

The insula, a small region of the brain involved in diverse brain functions had widespread dysconnectivity in schizophrenia, Vanderbilt researchers found.

By Bill Snyder
May 21, 2020

Survey links employees with mental health resources

In alignment with May being Mental Health Awareness Month, Vanderbilt Behavioral Health and the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences are offering employees an additional way to receive support for their mental health.

By Kelsey Herbers
Improving social competence in adults with autism is the goal of an upcoming study using the SENSE Theatre program. (photo taken before social distancing.)
April 22, 2020

Study seeks to improve social competence in adults with autism

Researchers from VUMC are investigating whether participation in a specially designed theatre program can improve social competence in adults with autism.

By Kelsey Herbers
April 8, 2020

Self-care crucial for providers during pandemic

High levels of stress and anxiety can be debilitating, especially for health care providers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. But there are ways they can protect themselves and their ability to provide the best and most compassionate care.

By Bill Snyder
March 23, 2020

Report sheds light on U.S. behavioral health crisis

A growing need for behavioral health services compounded by limited access to care has created a health crisis in the United States, according to a report issued by leaders of academic health centers across the country.
By Kelsey Herbers
February 13, 2020

VUMC-led study set to explore risk factors for depression recurrence

VUMC researchers are conducting a five-year multisite trial to explore potential methods for predicting which patients may have a worse course of depression or are most vulnerable to recurrent episodes.
By Kelsey Herbers
February 12, 2020

Study seeks link between menopause, Alzheimer’s

Beginning this month, researchers from VUMC and the University of Vermont are launching a study to examine whether cognitive changes that occur at menopause for some women are related to an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease.
By Kelsey Herbers
January 15, 2020

VUMC study to use artificial intelligence to explore suicide risk

Investigators will use computational methods to shed light on suicidal ideation and its relationship to attempted suicide, predict suicidal ideation and suicide attempt using routine electronic health records (EHRs) and explore the genetic underpinnings of both.
By Paul Govern
January 15, 2020

Study sheds light on link between cannabis, anxiety and stress

A molecule produced by the brain that activates the same receptors as marijuana is protective against stress by reducing anxiety-causing connections between two brain regions.
By Kelsey Herbers
December 20, 2019

Reversing stress-related anxiety

Inhibiting COX-2 — an enzyme associated with inflammation — could provide a novel therapeutic approach for stress-related psychiatric disorders.
By VUMC News and Communications
December 18, 2019

Portraits honor education, science, medicine pioneers

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine honored two pioneers for their historic contributions to education, science and medicine during a formal portrait unveiling at Langford Auditorium this week.
By Kathy Whitney
1 2 3 4 5 … 9