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Publications

Neuroimaging and Mental Illness: A Window Into the Brain
Researchers use brain scans to study brain development in healthy people and people with illnesses. This publication answers frequently asked questions about what brain scans can and cannot do related to diagnosing mental illnesses.
Date: 2009
Treatment of Children with Mental Illness
Answers to frequently asked questions about the treatment of mental disorders in children.
Date: 2009

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Science News

NIH Encourages Depressed Moms to Seek Treatment for Themselves
November 13, 2009 • Science Update
Numerous studies have suggested that depression runs in families. Children of depressed parents are 2–3 times as likely to develop depression as compared to children who do not have a family history of the disorder. Other studies have shown that remission of depression in mothers is associated with improvements in psychiatric symptoms in their children. Despite all signs encouraging mothers to prioritize their own mental health, many suffer from untreated depression while managing treatment for their children’s emotional or behavioral problems.
Recovery Act Grant Aims to Teach Kids with Autism How to Better Express Themselves
November 12, 2009 • Science Update
Most children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) seem to have trouble engaging in everyday social interactions. They may seem to have no reaction to other people or may respond atypically when others show anger or affection. Their own facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language may not match what they are saying, making it difficult for others to respond appropriately. Such barriers to communication can isolate children with ASD from their peers.
Major NIMH Research Project to Test Approaches to Altering the Course of Schizophrenia
July 21, 2009 • Press Release
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is launching a large-scale research project to explore whether using early and aggressive treatment, individually targeted and integrating a variety of different therapeutic approaches, will reduce the symptoms and prevent the gradual deterioration of functioning that is characteristic of chronic schizophrenia.
New NIMH Video Describes Depression, Importance of Treatment
June 02, 2009 • Science Update
A new 4-minute video from the National Institute of Mental Health provides an overview for the general public on the symptoms, impact, and treatment of depression. The video is available for viewing by individuals or can be used by community groups or in health care offices to inform viewers about depression and its consequences, and the critical importance of seeking treatment.
Citalopram No Better Than Placebo Treatment for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
June 01, 2009 • Press Release
Citalopram, a medication commonly prescribed to children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), was no more effective than a placebo at reducing repetitive behaviors, according to researchers funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and other NIH institutes. The study was published in the June 2009 issue of Archives of General Psychiatry.

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Meeting Summaries

Using Electrophysiological Methods to Understand Neural Mechanisms of, and Treatment Effects in, Mental Illness in Children and Adolescents
September 10, 2009 – September 11, 2009
Bethesda, Maryland
This workshop examined the use of EEG/MEG to understand brain mechanisms of mental disorders in children and adolescents. Participants discussed the advantages of these methods, the limitations, and future directions.

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Director’s Updates

NIMH Perspective on Diagnosing and Treating Bipolar Disorder in Children
September 03, 2007
A recently published research paper (September 2007, Archives of General Psychiatry) reported a 40-fold increase in the rate of diagnosing bipolar disorder in youth over the past decade.
New Director for Division of Adult Translational Research and Treatment Development Joins NIMH
August 10, 2007
Following a competitive, nationwide search, Wayne K. Goodman, M.D., joined NIMH in July 2007 as Director, Division of Adult Translational Research and Treatment Development (DATR).
NIMH Names Director for Division of Pediatric Translational Research and Treatment Development
May 02, 2007
Molly Oliveri, Ph.D., was recently selected to be Director of the Division of Pediatric Translational Research and Treatment Development (DPTR), after a competitive, nationwide search.
Antidepressant Medications for Children and Adolescents: Information for Parents and Caregivers
February 02, 2005
Depression is a serious disorder that can cause significant problems in mood, thinking, and behavior at home, in school, and with peers. It is estimated that major depressive disorder (MDD) affects about 5 percent of adolescents.

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