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60 popular mental health research paper topics.

Mental Health Research Paper Topics

The best way to write a good mental health research paper is to select a topic that you will enjoy working on. If you are looking for some interesting mental health research paper topics to work on, here is a list of 60 ideas to choose from.

Perfect for students as well as experts these topics have ample scope to experiment, share ideas and arguments on, and find substantial evidence to support your view. Take a look –

Mental Health Topics for Research Paper

When you are writing a paper for a graded assignment, it is important to have some great research paper topics about mental health to pick from. Here are some to consider –

  • Mental traumas from physical injuries and how to help recover
  • Resilience building – why is it important for children?
  • Friendships in men and how they contribute to mental health?
  • The role of parenting in building good mental health in children
  • What is normal emotional health and mental functioning?
  • Anti-depressants and their side effects.
  • Indicators suggesting medication for depression can be stopped
  • Effects of colors on mental health
  • How and why does lack of sleep effect emotional mental health?
  • Effect of exercise on a patient’s mental health
  • Effective methods to boost brain health and emotional quotient as we age
  • Mental health developmental stages in children from birth to 5 years of age
  • Why is play important for mental health in children
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder – what causes it and how to manage?
  • ADHD — how to identify if someone has it?

Critical Analysis Research Paper Topics in Mental Health

For psychology students looking for effective research paper topics mental health offers many arenas for critical analysis. Here are some good topics to pick from –

  • Relevance of Freud in modern day psychiatry
  • Abortion care – the ethics and the procedures to facilitate emotional wellbeing
  • Are women facing more mental health issues than men?
  • Suicide – The reasons, trauma, and dealing with it
  • How does peer pressure change mental wellness and how to deal with it?
  • Effect of child abuse on toddlers’ mental health and resilience
  • Does Obesity affect mental health?
  • Is the damage on mental health caused by sexual abuse permanent?
  • Hormonal imbalances and their effect on women’s mental health
  • How to identify signs of mental illness in a loved one?

Music Therapy Research Paper Topics Mental Health

Music plays a significant role in enhancing mental health. Here are some mental health research paper topics on the role of music therapy in the field of mental health and treatments:

  • Music therapy a complimentary approach to biomedicine
  • Does music therapy facilitate enhanced healing?
  • Efficacy of music therapy for older adults
  • The role of music therapy in rehabilitation of mental health patients
  • Music based interventions and the effects of music therapy
  • Eating disorders and can music therapy help?
  • Can music therapy help with mental health during menopause?
  • Music therapy and its role in PTSD

Mental Health Nursing Research Paper Topics

If you are a nursing student you will certainly find these research paper topics for mental health useful for your assignment –

  • Psychiatric care in adult patients of mental health disorders
  • Non-chemical practices in bipolar disorder
  • Mental health care for patients dealing with alcohol addiction
  • Managing PTSD in armed forces veterans
  • Ethics to deal with psychiatric patients
  • Postpartum depression and how to identify and assist in early stages
  • Identifying the signs and managing patients with eating disorder
  • Mental illnesses common in soldiers returning from war
  • Signs of mental illness that must never be ignored
  • How to manage self-destructive mental health patients?

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Mental Health

Some mental health topics are controversial, but also well scoring if handled well. Take a look at some such topics worth considering –

  • Do natural alternatives to anti-depressants work?
  • Extreme postpartum depression leading to child harming tendencies
  • Infertility and its effects on mental health of the couple
  • Are more women suicidal than men?
  • Effect of teen relationship problems on mental health
  • The relationship between mental health and child abusers
  • Physical abuse in marriage and its effect on mental health
  • Rape and managing the emotional scars for effective healing
  • Self-destructive tendencies in children – causes and cures
  • Is it possible that there are people without conscience?
  • Are video games making children violent and aggressive?
  • Should criminals facing trial be subjected to genetic testing for impulse control?
  • Mental health in teenagers and why they cut themselves
  • Phobias – some of the most common and unusual fears people have
  • Divorce and how it affects the mental health of children
  • Is mental illness genetic
  • Does discovery of being adopted affect mental health of a child?

If you are a college student wondering what is the best way to write a research paper or how to write an effective submission that will get you good grades, you can get in touch with us for writing help. Our team offers fast and cheap assistance with writing papers that are appropriate for your level of education.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Mental Health

100+ Mental Health Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

If you’re just starting out exploring mental health topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of mental health-related research topics and ideas.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Mental Health Topic Ideas

  • Mood disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Psychotic disorders
  • Personality disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance-related disorders

Research topic idea mega list

Mood Disorders

Research in mood disorders can help understand their causes and improve treatment methods. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

  • The impact of genetics on the susceptibility to depression
  • Efficacy of antidepressants vs. cognitive behavioural therapy
  • The role of gut microbiota in mood regulation
  • Cultural variations in the experience and diagnosis of bipolar disorder
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder: Environmental factors and treatment
  • The link between depression and chronic illnesses
  • Exercise as an adjunct treatment for mood disorders
  • Hormonal changes and mood swings in postpartum women
  • Stigma around mood disorders in the workplace
  • Suicidal tendencies among patients with severe mood disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Research topics in this category can potentially explore the triggers, coping mechanisms, or treatment efficacy for anxiety disorders.

  • The relationship between social media and anxiety
  • Exposure therapy effectiveness in treating phobias
  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder in children: Early signs and interventions
  • The role of mindfulness in treating anxiety
  • Genetics and heritability of anxiety disorders
  • The link between anxiety disorders and heart disease
  • Anxiety prevalence in LGBTQ+ communities
  • Caffeine consumption and its impact on anxiety levels
  • The economic cost of untreated anxiety disorders
  • Virtual Reality as a treatment method for anxiety disorders

Psychotic Disorders

Within this space, your research topic could potentially aim to investigate the underlying factors and treatment possibilities for psychotic disorders.

  • Early signs and interventions in adolescent psychosis
  • Brain imaging techniques for diagnosing psychotic disorders
  • The efficacy of antipsychotic medication
  • The role of family history in psychotic disorders
  • Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment of psychotic disorders
  • Co-morbidity of psychotic and mood disorders
  • The relationship between substance abuse and psychotic disorders
  • Art therapy as a treatment for schizophrenia
  • Public perception and stigma around psychotic disorders
  • Hospital vs. community-based care for psychotic disorders

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

Personality Disorders

Research topics within in this area could delve into the identification, management, and social implications of personality disorders.

  • Long-term outcomes of borderline personality disorder
  • Antisocial personality disorder and criminal behaviour
  • The role of early life experiences in developing personality disorders
  • Narcissistic personality disorder in corporate leaders
  • Gender differences in personality disorders
  • Diagnosis challenges for Cluster A personality disorders
  • Emotional intelligence and its role in treating personality disorders
  • Psychotherapy methods for treating personality disorders
  • Personality disorders in the elderly population
  • Stigma and misconceptions about personality disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

Within this space, research topics could focus on the causes, symptoms, or treatment of disorders like OCD and hoarding.

  • OCD and its relationship with anxiety disorders
  • Cognitive mechanisms behind hoarding behaviour
  • Deep Brain Stimulation as a treatment for severe OCD
  • The impact of OCD on academic performance in students
  • Role of family and social networks in treating OCD
  • Alternative treatments for hoarding disorder
  • Childhood onset OCD: Diagnosis and treatment
  • OCD and religious obsessions
  • The impact of OCD on family dynamics
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Causes and treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Research topics in this area could explore the triggers, symptoms, and treatments for PTSD. Here are some thought starters to get you moving.

  • PTSD in military veterans: Coping mechanisms and treatment
  • Childhood trauma and adult onset PTSD
  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficacy
  • Role of emotional support animals in treating PTSD
  • Gender differences in PTSD occurrence and treatment
  • Effectiveness of group therapy for PTSD patients
  • PTSD and substance abuse: A dual diagnosis
  • First responders and rates of PTSD
  • Domestic violence as a cause of PTSD
  • The neurobiology of PTSD

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

This category of mental health aims to better understand disorders like Autism and ADHD and their impact on day-to-day life.

  • Early diagnosis and interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • ADHD medication and its impact on academic performance
  • Parental coping strategies for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Autism and gender: Diagnosis disparities
  • The role of diet in managing ADHD symptoms
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders in the criminal justice system
  • Genetic factors influencing Autism
  • ADHD and its relationship with sleep disorders
  • Educational adaptations for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders and stigma in schools

Eating Disorders

Research topics within this space can explore the psychological, social, and biological aspects of eating disorders.

  • The role of social media in promoting eating disorders
  • Family dynamics and their impact on anorexia
  • Biological basis of binge-eating disorder
  • Treatment outcomes for bulimia nervosa
  • Eating disorders in athletes
  • Media portrayal of body image and its impact
  • Eating disorders and gender: Are men underdiagnosed?
  • Cultural variations in eating disorders
  • The relationship between obesity and eating disorders
  • Eating disorders in the LGBTQ+ community

Substance-Related Disorders

Research topics in this category can focus on addiction mechanisms, treatment options, and social implications.

  • Efficacy of rehabilitation centres for alcohol addiction
  • The role of genetics in substance abuse
  • Substance abuse and its impact on family dynamics
  • Prescription drug abuse among the elderly
  • Legalisation of marijuana and its impact on substance abuse rates
  • Alcoholism and its relationship with liver diseases
  • Opioid crisis: Causes and solutions
  • Substance abuse education in schools: Is it effective?
  • Harm reduction strategies for drug abuse
  • Co-occurring mental health disorders in substance abusers

Research topic evaluator

Choosing A Research Topic

These research topic ideas we’ve covered here serve as thought starters to help you explore different areas within mental health. They are intentionally very broad and open-ended. By engaging with the currently literature in your field of interest, you’ll be able to narrow down your focus to a specific research gap .

It’s important to consider a variety of factors when choosing a topic for your dissertation or thesis . Think about the relevance of the topic, its feasibility , and the resources available to you, including time, data, and academic guidance. Also, consider your own interest and expertise in the subject, as this will sustain you through the research process.

Always consult with your academic advisor to ensure that your chosen topic aligns with academic requirements and offers a meaningful contribution to the field. If you need help choosing a topic, consider our private coaching service.

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Good morning everyone. This are very patent topics for research in neuroscience. Thank you for guidance

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What if everything is important, original and intresting? as in Neuroscience. I find myself overwhelmd with tens of relveant areas and within each area many optional topics. I ask myself if importance (for example – able to treat people suffering) is more relevant than what intrest me, and on the other hand if what advance me further in my career should not also be a consideration?

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Research Method

Home » 300+ Mental Health Research Topics

300+ Mental Health Research Topics

Mental Health Research Topics

Mental health is a complex and multi-faceted topic that affects millions of people worldwide. Research into mental health has become increasingly important in recent years, as the global burden of mental illness continues to rise. From identifying risk factors and developing effective treatments, to addressing social and cultural influences, mental health research covers a broad range of topics . In this blog post, we will explore some of the most important and fascinating mental health research topics that are currently being studied by experts in the field.

Mental Health Research Topics

Mental Health Research Topics are as follows:

  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for reducing stress and anxiety
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health outcomes
  • The role of exercise in promoting mental health and well-being
  • The impact of COVID-19 on mental health and well-being
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression and anxiety
  • The impact of sleep deprivation on mental health and cognitive functioning
  • The relationship between diet and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of workplace stress on mental health
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The relationship between substance abuse and mental health outcomes
  • The impact of stigma on mental health treatment-seeking behavior
  • The effectiveness of animal-assisted therapy for improving mental health
  • The impact of environmental factors on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between chronic illness and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of art therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of cultural factors on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between personality traits and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of music therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of trauma on memory and cognitive functioning
  • The relationship between socioeconomic status and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between perfectionism and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of early intervention on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between attachment styles and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of technology on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between resilience and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of family therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of gender on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between creativity and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for treating borderline personality disorder
  • The impact of personality disorders on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and addiction
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for improving cognitive functioning in individuals with mental illness
  • The impact of discrimination on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between emotional intelligence and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of play therapy for treating mental health disorders in children
  • The impact of attachment trauma on relationships in adulthood
  • The relationship between religious or spiritual beliefs and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of chronic pain on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between self-esteem and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for treating trauma-related disorders
  • The impact of parenting style on mental health outcomes in children
  • The relationship between mindfulness and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of equine-assisted therapy for improving mental health.
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and mental illness
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for treating anxiety disorders
  • The role of genetics in the development of mental illness
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression
  • The impact of exercise on mental health
  • The prevalence and causes of burnout among healthcare professionals
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for treating substance abuse disorders
  • The impact of sleep on mental health
  • The relationship between trauma and dissociation
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy for treating phobias
  • The relationship between gut health and mental health
  • The impact of stigma on seeking mental health treatment
  • The relationship between spirituality and mental health
  • The impact of adverse childhood experiences on mental health
  • The relationship between attachment style and mental health
  • The effectiveness of art therapy for treating PTSD
  • The impact of chronic illness on mental health
  • The relationship between personality traits and mental illness
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy for treating depression
  • The relationship between social support and mental health
  • The effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for treating trauma
  • The impact of discrimination on mental health
  • The relationship between parental bonding and mental health
  • The effectiveness of family therapy for treating eating disorders
  • The impact of environmental factors on mental health
  • The relationship between hormonal changes and mental health
  • The effectiveness of equine therapy for treating addiction
  • The impact of trauma on attachment
  • The relationship between exercise addiction and mental health
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of racism on mental health
  • The relationship between animal-assisted therapy and mental health
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating OCD
  • The impact of gender identity on mental health
  • The relationship between social anxiety and substance abuse
  • The effectiveness of emotion-focused therapy for treating relationship issues
  • The impact of social inequality on mental health
  • The relationship between spirituality and substance abuse
  • The effectiveness of schema therapy for treating personality disorders
  • The impact of peer support on mental health
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy for treating depression
  • The impact of poverty on mental health
  • The relationship between sleep disorders and mental health
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for treating addiction
  • The impact of immigration on mental health
  • The relationship between self-esteem and mental health.
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for depression
  • The impact of exercise on mental health outcomes
  • The role of sleep disturbances in the development of psychiatric disorders
  • The effectiveness of pharmacological treatments for bipolar disorder
  • The relationship between alcohol use and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of psychotherapy in treating post-traumatic stress disorder
  • The impact of nutrition on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between chronic pain and mental health
  • The effectiveness of group therapy in treating depression
  • The role of stigma in mental health treatment-seeking behaviors
  • The relationship between trauma exposure and suicidal behavior
  • The effectiveness of telehealth interventions for mental health care
  • The role of attachment styles in the development of mental illness
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for anxiety
  • The impact of work-related stress on mental health
  • The relationship between physical activity and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation in treating schizophrenia
  • The role of family dynamics in the development of mental illness
  • The relationship between childhood adversity and substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy in treating borderline personality
  • The effectiveness of psychoanalytic therapy in treating depression
  • The impact of peer support groups on mental health outcomes
  • The role of spirituality in coping with mental illness
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy in treating anxiety
  • The impact of trauma-informed care on mental health treatment outcomes
  • The relationship between body image and mental health
  • The effectiveness of art therapy in treating PTSD
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of mental illness
  • The relationship between social isolation and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in treating phobias
  • The impact of stigma on mental health among LGBTQ+ individuals
  • The relationship between trauma and eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of emotion regulation interventions in treating borderline personality disorder
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between childhood abuse and dissociative disorders
  • The effectiveness of family-based interventions in treating adolescent depression
  • The relationship between social inequality and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for substance use disorders
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating OCD
  • The relationship between emotional regulation and addiction recovery
  • The impact of trauma-focused therapy on PTSD symptoms in military veterans
  • The relationship between sleep disorders and mood disorders
  • The effectiveness of exercise interventions in treating depression
  • The role of trauma-informed care in treating substance use disorders
  • The relationship between trauma and personality disorders
  • The effectiveness of interpersonal therapy in treating depression
  • The impact of cultural factors on mental health treatment outcomes
  • The relationship between stigma and medication adherence in mental health treatment
  • The effectiveness of behavioral activation interventions in treating depression
  • The role of cognitive biases in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between social support and addiction recovery
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy in addiction recovery
  • The impact of comorbid medical conditions on mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for chronic pain management
  • The role of coping strategies in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between anxiety and substance use disorders
  • The impact of COVID-19 on mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy in treating trauma
  • The role of social support in trauma recovery.
  • The relationship between trauma and depression
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy in treating substance use disorders
  • The impact of adverse childhood experiences on mental health outcomes
  • The role of cultural competence in mental health treatment
  • The relationship between childhood obesity and mental health
  • The effectiveness of art therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of mindfulness on workplace mental health
  • The effectiveness of group therapy in treating substance use disorders
  • The role of spirituality in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between personality disorders and addiction
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of social support on PTSD treatment outcomes
  • The relationship between social anxiety and substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in treating PTSD
  • The role of resilience in mental health recovery
  • The relationship between addiction and trauma in veterans
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation in treating ADHD
  • The impact of parental mental illness on children’s mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and bipolar disorder
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy in treating depression
  • The role of mindfulness in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between borderline personality disorder and substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating eating disorders
  • The impact of workplace bullying on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and self-harm behaviors
  • The effectiveness of family therapy in treating addiction
  • The role of stigma in addiction recovery
  • The effectiveness of schema therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The impact of childhood neglect on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between anxiety and chronic pain
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The role of self-compassion in mental health recovery
  • The relationship between trauma and dissociative disorders
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The impact of adverse work conditions on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between addiction and sleep disorders
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy in treating phobias
  • The role of emotional regulation in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between trauma and addiction in women
  • The impact of childhood bullying on mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The role of resilience in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between ADHD and substance use disorders
  • The impact of social support on eating disorder treatment outcomes
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in treating personality disorders
  • The role of positive psychology in mental health recovery
  • The relationship between trauma and PTSD in children
  • The effectiveness of family-based interventions in treating substance use disorders
  • The relationship between social media use and body image concerns
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for substance use disorders
  • The role of resilience in coping with mental illness
  • The impact of trauma on attachment patterns in adulthood
  • The relationship between childhood neglect and depression
  • The role of emotional intelligence in mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of family therapy for eating disorders
  • The impact of mindfulness on emotion regulation in borderline personality disorder
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and substance use disorders in adulthood
  • The role of social support in preventing suicide
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia
  • The impact of trauma on the development of borderline personality disorder
  • The relationship between childhood bullying and anxiety disorders in adulthood
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for eating disorders
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of personality disorders
  • The impact of family conflict on adolescent mental health
  • The relationship between childhood maltreatment and self-harm behaviors
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for PTSD
  • The role of social support in the treatment of depression
  • The impact of trauma on the development of dissociative identity disorder
  • The relationship between childhood abuse and addiction
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for ADHD
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of OCD
  • The impact of perfectionism on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and schizophrenia
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation for executive functioning deficits in bipolar disorder
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of hoarding disorder
  • The impact of societal expectations on mental health in minority groups
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and borderline personality disorder
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for chronic pain
  • The role of social support in the treatment of substance use disorders
  • The impact of trauma on attachment patterns in childhood
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and depression in adulthood
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for social anxiety disorder
  • The role of emotional regulation in preventing self-harm behaviors
  • The impact of societal stigma on mental health treatment-seeking behaviors
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of interpersonal therapy for depression
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of panic disorder
  • The impact of trauma on the development of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and bipolar disorder
  • The effectiveness of exposure and response prevention for OCD
  • The role of cognitive biases in the treatment of PTSD
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes in LGBTQ+ individuals
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and social anxiety disorder
  • The effectiveness of psychoanalytic therapy for personality disorders
  • The role of emotional regulation in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The impact of childhood trauma on substance use disorders in adulthood
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and anxiety disorders in adulthood
  • The relationship between social media use and body image dissatisfaction
  • The role of childhood attachment in the development of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between social support and PTSD recovery
  • The effectiveness of psychotherapy for treating substance use disorders
  • The impact of trauma exposure on cognitive functioning
  • The relationship between sleep disorders and anxiety
  • The role of childhood adversity in the development of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality exposure therapy for anxiety disorders
  • The impact of racial discrimination on mental health outcomes
  • The role of emotion dysregulation in the development of personality disorders
  • The effectiveness of family-based interventions in treating eating disorders
  • The impact of childhood trauma on self-esteem
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of PTSD
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for treating eating disorders
  • The impact of parental stress on child mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and substance use disorders
  • The role of resilience in the treatment of trauma
  • The effectiveness of motivational interviewing in treating substance use disorders
  • The impact of childhood trauma on physical health outcomes
  • The relationship between anxiety and perfectionism
  • The role of cultural factors in the development of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for trauma
  • The impact of peer victimization on mental health outcomes
  • The role of self-compassion in the treatment of depression
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for OCD
  • The impact of childhood trauma on social relationships
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and psychosis
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of transdiagnostic treatments for anxiety and depression
  • The impact of chronic illness on mental health outcomes
  • The role of self-esteem in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy in treating trauma
  • The impact of maternal depression on child mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and dissociative symptoms
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation in treating eating disorders
  • The impact of adverse childhood experiences on the development of addiction
  • The relationship between anxiety and hoarding behavior
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for chronic pain management
  • The impact of childhood trauma on emotional regulation
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and suicidal behavior
  • The role of mindfulness in the treatment of depression
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for substance use disorders.

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Mental Health Dissertation Topics

Published by Carmen Troy at January 9th, 2023 , Revised On August 16, 2023

Introduction

You probably found your way here looking for mental health topics for your final year research project. Look no further, we have drafted a list of issues, and their research aims to help you when you are brainstorming for dissertation or thesis topics on mental health in 2020.

PhD-qualified writers of our team have developed these topics, so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting a brief research proposal or full dissertation service from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an introduction to the topic, research question , aim and objectives, literature review , and the proposed research methodology to be conducted. Let us know if you need any help in getting started.

Check our dissertation examples to understand how to structure your dissertation .

Latest Mental Health Dissertation Topics for 2023

Review the step-by-step guide on how to write your dissertation here .

  • Topic 1: Assessing the Influence of Parents’ Divorce or Separation on Adolescent Children regarding long-term psychological impact.
  • Topic 2: Investigating the impact of Trauma and Health-related quality of life on a child’s Mental health and self-worth.

Topic 3: Assessing the effect of Psychological training on males suffering from Post-Surgery Anxiety in the UK.

  • Topic 4: Investigating the Relationship between Mental Illness and Suicides- A case study of UK’s Young Adults.

Topic 5: Examining the behaviour of Mental Health Nurses taking care of Schizophrenia Patients in the UK.

Topic 1: an assessment of the influence of parents' divorce or separation on adolescent children in terms of long-term psychological impact..

Research Aim: This study aims to investigate the level of traumas experienced by the children of divorced or separated parents. The principal aim of this study is to explore the long-term psychological impacts of parents’ divorce on the life of children regardless of their gender and age in terms of mental wellbeing, academic performance, and self-worth.

Topic 2: An investigation of the impact of Trauma and Health-related quality of life on the Mental health and Self-worth of a child.

Research Aim: This study aims to assess the long-term impacts of the trauma children face in their early years of life on their overall mental health. Also, numerous studies have emphasized improving the quality of life for children who tend to experience multiple traumas and take them along in adulthood. Therefore, this study also proposed the impacts of traumatic childhood experiences on self-worth, mental health, and vitality of implementing firm intervention before the child reaches adulthood.

Research Aim: Postoperative problems may occur as a result of surgical stress. This study aims to examine different approaches to control post-surgical anxiety and improve patients’ lives in the short and long term, focusing on male patients in the UK. It will also give us an understanding of how psychological training and interventions affect anxiety in male patients and help them overcome this through a systematic review.

Topic 4: Investigating the Relationship between Mental illness and Suicides- A case study of UK's Young Adults.

Research Aim: This study aims to find the relationship between mental illness and suicides and risk factors in the UK. This study will specifically focus on young adults. It will examine different mental disorders and how they have led to suicide and will analyse further studies of people who had died by suicide and find evidence of the presence or absence of mental illness.

Research Aim: Negative behaviours and discrimination have been usually reported as a reason for the inconvenience in the treatment of mentally ill or schizophrenia patients, which negatively impacts the patient’s results. Health care professionals’ attitudes have been regarded as being more negative than the general public, which lowers the outlook for patients suffering from mental illness. This study will examine the behaviour of mental health nurses regarding schizophrenia patients in the UK and also focus on the characteristics associated with nurses’ attitudes.

COVID-19 Mental Health Research Topics

Topic1: impacts of the coronavirus on the mental health of various age groups.

Research Aim: This study will reveal the impacts of coronavirus on the mental health of various age groups

Topic 2: Mental health and psychological resilience during COVID-19

Research Aim: Social distancing has made people isolated and affected their mental health. This study will highlight various measures to overcome the stress and mental health of people during coronavirus.

Topic 3: The mental health of children and families during COVID-19

Research Aim: This study will address the challenging situations faced by children and families during lockdown due to COVID-19. It will also discuss various ways to overcome the fear of disease and stay positive.

Topic 4: Mental wellbeing of patients during the Coronavirus pandemic

Research Aim: This study will focus on the measures taken by the hospital management, government, and families to ensure patients’ mental well-being, especially COVID-19 patients.

Best Mental Health Topics for Your Dissertation in the Year 2021

Topic 1: kids and their relatives with cancer: psychological challenges.

Research Aim: In cancer diagnoses and therapies, children often don’t know what happens. Many have psychosocial problems, including rage, terror, depression, disturbing their sleep, inexpiable guilt, and panic. Therefore, this study is designed to identify and treat the child and its family members’ psychological issues.

Topic 2: Hematopoietic device reaction in ophthalmology patient’s radiation therapy

Research Aim: This research is based on the analysis of hematopoietic devices’ reactions to ophthalmology’s radiation.

Topic 3: Psychological effects of cyberbullying Vs. physical bullying: A counter study

Research Aim: This research will focus on the effects of cyberbullying and physical bullying and their consequences on the victim’s mental health. The most significant part is the counter effects on our society’s environment and human behaviour, particularly youth.

Topic 4: Whether or not predictive processing is a theory of perceptual consciousness?

Research Aim: This research aims to identify: whether or not predictive processing is a theory of perceptual consciousness?

Topic 5: Importance of communication in a relationship

Research Aim: This research aims to address the importance of communication in relationships and the communication gap consequences.

Topic 6: Eating and personality disorders

Research Aim: This research aims to focus on eating and personality disorders

Topic 7: Analysis of teaching, assessment, and evaluation of students and learning differences

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse teaching methods, assessment, and evaluation systems of students and their learning differences

Topic 8: Social and psychological effects of virtual networks

Research Aim: This research aims to study the social and psychological effects of virtual networks

Topic 9: The role of media in provoking aggression

Research Aim: This research aims to address the role of media and in provoking aggression among people

Best Mental Health Topics for Your Dissertation in the Year 2020

Topic 1: what is the impact of social media platforms on the mental wellbeing of adults.

Research Aim: the current study aims to investigate the impact social media platforms tend to have on adults’ mental well-being with a particular focus on the United Kingdom. While many studies have been carried out to gauge the impact of social media platforms on teenagers’ mental well-being, little to no research has been performed to investigate how the health of adults might be affected by the same and how social media platforms like Facebook impact them.

Topic 2: The contemporary practical management approach to treating personality disorders

Research Aim: This research will discuss the contemporary practical management approach for treating personality disorders in mental health patients. In the previous days, much of the personality disorder treatments were based on medicines and drugs. Therefore, this research will address contemporary and practical ways to manage how personality disorders affect the mental state of the individuals who have the disease.

Topic 3: How is Prozac being used in the modern-day to treat self-diagnosed depression?

Research Aim: In the current day and age, besides people suffering from clinical depression, many of the teens and the adults across have started to suffer from self-diagnosed depression. To treat their self-diagnosed depression, individuals take Prozac through all the wrong means, which harms their mental state even more. Therefore, the current study aims to shed light on how Prozac is being used in the modern age and the adverse effects of misinformed use on the patients.

Topic 4: Are women more prone to suffer from mental disorders than men: Comparative analysis

Research Aim: There have been several arguments regarding whether women are more likely to suffer from mental disorders than men. Much of the research carried out provides evidence that women are more prone to suffer from mental disorders. This research study aims to conduct a comparative analysis to determine whether it’s more likely for men or women to suffer from mental disorders and what role biological and societal factors play in determining the trend.

Topic 5: The impact of breakups on the mental health of men?

Research Aim: Several studies have been carried out to discuss how women are affected more by a breakup than men. However, little research material is available in support of the impact the end of a relationship can have on men’s mental health. Therefore, this research study will fill out the gap in research to determine the impact of a breakup on men’s mental health and stability.

Topic 6: A theoretical analysis of the Impact of emotional attachment on mental health?

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the theories developed around emotional attachment to address how emotional attachment can harm individuals’ mental health across the globe. Several theories discuss the role that emotional attachment tends to play in the mind of a healthy being, and how emotional attachment can often negatively affect mental well-being.

Topic 7: How do social media friendships contribute to poor mental health?

Research Aim: This research idea aims to address how social media friendships and networking can often lead to a lack of self-acceptance, self-loathing, self-pity, self-comparison, and depression due to the different mindsets that are present in today’s world.

Topic 8: What role do parents play in ensuring the mental well-being of their children?

Research Aim: It is assumed that parents tend to stop playing a role in ensuring that the mental health and well-being of their children are being maintained after a certain age. Therefore, this study will aim to put forward the idea that even after the children pass the age of 18, activities and their relationship with their parents would always play a role in the way their mental health is being transformed.

Topic 9: A study on the mental health of soldiers returning from Iraq?

Research Aim: This topic idea puts forward the aim that the mental health of soldiers who return from war-struck areas is always a subject of interest, as each of the soldiers carries a mental burden. Therefore, it is vital to understand the soldiers’ mental health returning from Iraq, focusing on what causes their mental health to deteriorate during the war and suggestions of what to do or who to call if they do become unwell.

Topic 10: How the contemporary media practices in the UK are leading to mental health problems?

Research Aim: The media is known to have control and influence over people’s mindsets who are connected to it. Many of the contemporary media practices developed in the UK can negatively impact the mental well-being of individuals, which makes it necessary to analyse how they are contributing to the mental health problems among the UK population.

Topic 11: What is the impact of television advertising on the mental development of children in the UK?

Research Aim: This topic would aim to address how television advertising can negatively impact children’s mental development in the United Kingdom, as it has been observed in many studies that television advertising is detrimental to the mental health of children.

Topic 12: How deteriorating mental health can have an Impact on physical health?

Research Aim: This research aims to address the side-effects of deteriorating mental health on the physical health of individuals in the society, as it is believed that the majority of the physical ailments in the modern-day and age are due to the deteriorating mental health of individuals. The study can address the treatments for many ailments in our society due to deteriorating mental health and well-being.

Topic 13: The relationship between unemployment and mental health

Research Aim: How unemployment relates to concepts, such as a declining economy or lack of social skills and education, has been frequently explored by many researchers in the past. However, not many have discussed the relationship between unemployment and the mental health of unemployed individuals. Therefore, this topic will help address the problems faced by individuals due to unemployment because of the mental blocks they are likely to develop and experience. In the future, it would lead to fewer people being depressed due to unemployment when further research is carried out.

Topic 14: The mental health problems of prisoners in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: While prisoners across the globe are criticised and studied for the negativity that goes on in their mindsets, one would rarely research the mental health problems they tend to develop when they become a prisoner for committing any crime. It is often assumed that it is the life inside the prison walls that impacts the prisoners’ mental health in a way that leads to them committing more crimes. Therefore, this research topic has been developed to study prison’s impact on prisoners’ mental well-being in the United Kingdom to eventually decrease the number of crimes that occur due to the negative environment inside the prisons.

Topic 15: Mental well-being of industry workers in China

Research Aim: While many research studies have been carried out regarding the conditions that the workers in China tend to be exposed to, there is very little supporting evidence regarding the impact such working conditions have on the mindset and mental health of the workers. Therefore, this study aims to address the challenges faced by industry workers in China and the impact that such challenges can have on their mental well-being.

Topic 16: Is the provision of mental health care services in the United Kingdom effective?

Research Aim: Many people have made different assumptions regarding the mental health care services provided across the globe. However, it seems that little to no research has been carried out regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of the provision of mental health care services in the United Kingdom. Therefore, this study aims to put forward research into the mental health care services provided in well-developed countries like the United Kingdom to gauge the awareness and importance of mental health in the region.

Topic 17: What are the mental health problems the minorities in the United Kingdom face?

Research Aim: It is believed that the minorities in the United Kingdom are likely to experience physical abuse, societal abuse and are often exposed to discrimination and unfair acts at the workplace and in their social circle. The study investigates the range of mental problems faced by minorities in the UK, which need to be addressed to have equality, diversity, and harmony.

Topic 18: The impact the Coronavirus has had on the mental health of the Chinese people

Research Aim: The spread of the deadly Coronavirus has led to many deaths in the region of China, and many of those who have been suspected of the virus are being put in isolation and quarantine. Such conditions tend to have hurt the mental health of those who have suffered from the disease and those who have watched people suffer from it. Therefore, the current study aims to address how the Coronavirus has impacted the mental health of the Chinese people.

Topic 19: How to create change in mental health organisations in China?

Research Aim: Research suggests little awareness about mental health in many Asian countries. As mental health problems are on the rise across the globe, it is necessary to change mental health organisations. Therefore, the study aims to discuss how to create change in mental health organisations in the Asian region using China’s example.

Topic 20: Addressing the mental health concerns of the Syrian refugees in the UK

Research Aim: This research project would address the concerns in terms of the refugees’ mental health and well-being, using an example of the Syrian refugees who had been allowed entry into the United Kingdom. This idea aims to put forward the negative effects that migration can have on the refugees and how further research is required to combat such issues not just in the United Kingdom but worldwide.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service!

Important Notes:

As a mental health student looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment on existing mental health theories – i.e., to add value and interest in the topic of your research.

Mental health is vast and interrelated to so many other academic disciplines like civil engineering ,  construction ,  project management , engineering management , healthcare , finance and accounting , artificial intelligence , tourism , physiotherapy , sociology , management , project management , and nursing . That is why it is imperative to create a project management dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic based on your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

While developing a research topic, keeping our advice in mind will allow you to pick one of the best mental health dissertation topics that fulfill your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Please look at some of our sample mental health dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Mental Health Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

  • A Title Page
  • Acknowledgements
  • Declaration
  • Abstract: A summary of the research completed
  • Table of Contents
  • Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
  • Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analysing published and unpublished literature available on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths whilst identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic, and key terms that can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
  • Methodology : The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter which usually includes research design , research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods, and data analysis strategy .
  • Findings and Analysis : Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs, charts, and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
  • Discussion and Conclusion : The researcher presents his interpretation of results in this chapter, and state whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section of the paper is to draw a linkage between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regards to implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
  • References : This should be completed following your University’s requirements
  • Bibliography
  • Appendices : Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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How to find mental health dissertation topics.

To find mental health dissertation topics:

  • Research recent mental health issues.
  • Examine gaps in existing literature.
  • Consider diverse populations or perspectives.
  • Explore treatment approaches or therapies.
  • Look into stigma and societal factors.
  • Select a topic that resonates with you for in-depth study.

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If you are strangled in selecting the right topic for your public relations dissertation, here are a few topics along with their research aims for your guidance.

If you are writing a research paper on criminal psychology, you can discuss any relevant topic. Do psychopaths have an innate or developed nature? Is there a way to help criminals get better?

Choosing a top-notch subject for academic research, such as business intelligence dissertation topics, provides the student with a wide range of cutting-edge research ideas.

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The Top 10 Most Interesting Mental Health Research Topics

In the United States, the majority of people have been diagnosed with at least one mental disorder. Once considered shameful, mental health issues are now being discussed more openly through various online platforms, such as the best mental health podcasts and blogs, which have made information more accessible. As a result, more people are seeking forms of mental healthcare and researchers are learning even more.

While research on mental health has come a long way, there is still a long way to go in destigmatizing mental health conditions and spreading mental health awareness. If you are looking for mental health research paper topics and are struggling to narrow down your list, take a look at the top 10 most interesting mental health research topics to help get you started.

Find your bootcamp match

What makes a strong mental health research topic.

The best way for you to develop a strong mental health research topic is by first having a specific and well-defined area of interest. Your research topic should provide a clear and simple roadmap to help you focus your research paper. Additionally, consider your audience and the topic’s significance within the mental health field. What does it contribute?

Tips for Choosing a Mental Health Research Topic

  • Choose a topic that is interesting to you. You may be writing to share your findings with your peers, but your topic should excite you first and foremost. You will spend a significant amount of time on it, so it should be work you are eager to dive into.
  • Choose a fresh approach. There is an extensive amount of mental health research conducted by mental health professionals. Use your research skills to choose a topic that does more than just restate the same facts and information. Say something that hasn’t been said before.
  • Choose a topic that matters. The topic you choose should make a contribution to all the mental health education and research that already exists. Approach your topic in a way that ensures that it’s of significance within the field.
  • Choose a topic that challenges you. A sure-fire way to find out if your topic meets the criteria of being interesting, fresh, and significant, is if it challenges you. If it’s too easy, then there must be enough research available on it. If it’s too difficult, it’s likely unmanageable.
  • Choose a topic that’s manageable. You should aim to choose a topic that is narrow enough in its focus that it doesn’t overwhelm you. Consider what’s feasible for you to dedicate to the research in terms of resources and time.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

The purpose of a research topic is to let the reader know what specific area of mental health research your paper will focus on. It is the territory upon which your research paper is based. Defining your topic is typically the initial step of any research project.

A research question, on the other hand, narrows down the scope of your research and provides a framework for the study and its objectives. It is based on the research topic and written in the form of a question that the research paper aims to answer. It provides the reader with a clear idea of what’s to be expected from the research.

How to Create Strong Mental Health Research Questions

To create a strong research question, you need to consider what will help guide the direction your research takes. It is an important part of the process and requires strong research methods . A strong research question clearly defines your work’s specific focus and lets your audience know exactly what question you intend to answer through your research.

Top 10 Mental Health Research Paper Topics

1. the effects of social media platforms on the mental well-being of children.

The effects of social media platforms on the mental well-being of children is a research topic that is especially significant and relevant today. This is due to the increasing usage of online social networks by children and adolescents. Evidence shows a correlation between social media usage and increased self-harming behaviors, anxiety, and psychological distress.

2. The Psychology of Gender Identity, Inclusivity, and Diversity

With the conversations surrounding gender and identity in recent times, a research topic on the psychology of gender identity, inclusivity, and diversity is a good option. Our understanding of gender now, in the 21st century, has evolved and gender identity has become non-binary, more inclusive, and more diverse.

3. The Psychological Effects of Social Phobia on Undergraduate Students

Some of the most common mental illnesses in the United States are phobias, so the topic of the psychology and effects of phobias is interesting and relevant to the majority of people. There are various categories of phobias that have been identified by the American Psychiatric Association that you could choose to focus on.

4. Eating Disorders Among Teenagers and Adolescents

Eating disorders among teenagers and adolescents in the United States are prevalent, especially among young women. The statistics surrounding mental health issues show that 10 in 100 young women suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, as well as a preoccupation with food and body dysmorphia.

5. The Correlation Between Childhood Learning Disabilities and Mental Health Problems in Adulthood

When groups of people with learning disorders (LD) were compared with groups that had no known history of LD, a correlation between childhood LD and mental health issues in adulthood was found. This research is important because it helps us to understand how childhood LD increases mental health risks in adulthood and affects emotional development.

6. How Mental Disorder is Glamorized and Sensationalized in Modern Media

Shows and movies centered around the depiction of mental illness have become more popular in recent years. The portrayal of characters with mental illnesses can often be damaging and fail to take into account the complexities of mental disorders, which often leads to stigmatization and discrimination, and a reluctance to seek mental health care.

7. The Relationship Between Self-esteem and Suicide Rates Among Adolescents

A relationship between self-esteem and suicide rates among adolescents has been found when looking into their suicidal tendencies. This is more so the case with any individual who already suffers from a mental health issue. Low self-esteem has been linked to increased levels of depression and suicide ideation, leading to higher chances of suicide attempts among adolescents.

8. Destigmatizing Mental Illness and Mental Disorders

The rates at which people are diagnosed with mental illnesses are high. Even so, their portrayal in the media has resulted in the belief that those who suffer from a mental health issue or live in mental health facilities are dangerous. Conducting research on abnormal psychology topics and destigmatizing mental illness and mental disorders is important for mental health education.

9. Psychological Trauma and the Effects of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Mental health statistics show that most abuse happens in childhood, causing long-lasting psychological trauma. The type of trauma caused by child abuse and childhood sexual abuse affects development in infants and children. It has been linked to higher levels of depression, anxiety, guilt, sexual issues, dissociative patterns, and relationship issues, to name a few.

10. Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Psychological Well-Being

There is no doubt about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and COVID-19 confinement on psychological well-being. The threat to public health, the social and economic stresses, and the various reactions by governments and individuals have all caused unexpected mental health challenges. This has affected behaviors, perceptions, and the ways in which people make decisions.

Other Examples of Mental Health Research Topics and Questions

Mental health research topics.

  • How trauma affects emotional development in children
  • The impact of COVID-19 on college students
  • The mental effects of bullying
  • How the media influences aggression
  • A comparative analysis of the differences in mental health in women and mental health in men

Mental Health Research Questions

  • Are digital therapy sessions as impactful as face-to-face therapy sessions for patients?
  • What are the best methods for effectively using social media to unite and connect all those suffering from a mental health issue in order to reduce their isolation?
  • What causes self-destructive behavior in some children?
  • Can introducing mental health topics in the school curriculum help to create understanding and reduce the stigmatization of mental disorders?
  • What are the most effective methods to improve brain health and emotional intelligence as we go through the aging process?

Choosing the Right Mental Health Research Topic

When choosing the right mental health research question, it is essential to figure out what single issue you want to focus on within the broader topic of mental conditions. The narrower your scope, the easier it will be to conduct thorough and relevant research. Vagueness can lead to information overload and a lack of clear direction.

However, even though it needs to be specific, your research question must also be complex enough to allow you to develop your research. If it’s too narrow in its focus, you won’t give yourself enough room to flesh out your findings as you build on your research. The key is to find the middle ground between the two.

Mental Health Research Topics FAQ

A mental disorder refers to any of the various conditions that affect and alter our behavior, thoughts, and emotions. More than half of Americans get diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their lives. They are common and manageable with the right support. Some mental illnesses are occasional, such as postpartum depression, while others are long-term, such as panic attacks.

Mental health research raises awareness of mental health disorders and promotes mental health care. It provides support and evidence for the effectiveness of mental health services and programs designed for psychiatric patients and those with mental health disorders. The information provided by the research helps us better understand mental illnesses and how best to approach treatment plans.

Behavioral health and emotional health are part of a person’s overall mental health since they are all interlinked and each one affects the other. When we speak of mental health, we are referring to behavioral, cognitive, and emotional well-being, which can also affect physical health.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the five main categories of mental illness include dementia, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, feeding and eating disorders, and personality disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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A 2023 study of 93,000 people ages 65 or older found that those who said they had hobbies reported having better health, more happiness, fewer depression symptoms, and higher life satisfaction, compared with those who said they didn't have hobbies.

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Try this: How to change your negative thoughts

Try this: How to change your negative thoughts

People can't control the outside world, but they can control their reactions to it. A technique called cognitive restructuring can help a person change negative thinking and calm stressful reactions. It involves a four-step process, known as "stop, breathe, reflect, choose."

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207 Mental Health Research Topics For Top Students

Mental Health Research Topics

College and university students pursuing psychology studies must write research papers on mental health in their studies. It is not always an exciting moment for the students since getting quality mental health topics is tedious. However, this article presents expert ideas and writing tips for students in this field. Enjoy!

What Is Mental Health?

It is an integral component of health that deals with the feeling of well-being when one realizes his or her abilities, cope with the pressures of life, and productively work. Mental health also incorporates how humans interact with each other, emote, or think. It is a vital concern of any human life that cannot be neglected.

How To Write Mental Health Research Topics

One should approach the subject of mental health with utmost preciseness. If handled carelessly, cases such as depression, suicide or low self-esteem may occur. That is why students are advised to carefully choose mental health research paper topics for their paper with the mind reader. To get mental health topics for research paper, you can use the following sources:

  • The WHO website
  • Websites of renowned psychology clinics
  • News reports and headlines.

However, we have a list of writing ideas that you can use for your inspiration. Check them out!

Top Mental Disorders Research Topics

  • Is the psychological treatment of mental disorders working for all?
  • How do substance-use disorders impede the healing process?
  • Discuss the effectiveness of the mental health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP)
  • Are non-specialists in mental health able to manage severe mental disorders?
  • The role of the WHO in curbing and treating mental disorders globally
  • The contribution of coronavirus pandemic to mental disorders
  • How does television contribute to mental disorders among teens?
  • Does religion play a part in propagating mental disorders?
  • How does peer pressure contribute to mental disorders among teens?
  • The role of the guidance and counselling departments in helping victims of mental disorders
  • How to develop integrated and responsive mental health to such disorders
  • Discuss various strategies for promotion and prevention in mental health
  • The role of information systems in mental disorders

Mental Illness Research Questions

  • The role of antidepressant medicines in treating mental illnesses
  • How taxation of alcoholic beverages and their restriction can help in curbing mental illnesses
  • The impact of mental illnesses on the economic development of a country
  • Efficient and cost-effective ways of treating mental illnesses
  • Early childhood interventions to prevent future mental illnesses
  • Why children from single-parent families are prone to mental illnesses
  • Do opportunities for early learning have a role in curbing mental diseases?
  • Life skills programmes that everyone should embrace to fight mental illnesses
  • The role of nutrition and diet in causing mental illness
  • How socio-economic empowerment of women can help promote mental health
  • Practical social support for elderly populations to prevent mental illnesses
  • How to help vulnerable groups against mental illnesses
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health promotional activities in schools

Hot Mental Health Topics For Research

  • Do stress prevention programmes on TV work?
  • The role of anti-discrimination laws and campaigns in promoting mental health
  • Discuss specific psychological and personality factors leading to mental disorders
  • How can biological factors lead to mental problems?
  • How stressful work conditions can stir up mental health disorders
  • Is physical ill-health a pivotal contributor to mental disorders today?
  • Why sexual violence has led many to depression and suicide
  • The role of life experiences in mental illnesses: A case of trauma
  • How family history can lead to mental health problems
  • Can people with mental health problems recover entirely?
  • Why sleeping too much or minor can be an indicator of mental disorders.
  • Why do people with mental health problems pull away from others?
  • Discuss confusion as a sign of mental disorders

Research Topics For Mental Health Counseling

  • Counselling strategies that help victims cope with the stresses of life
  • Is getting professional counselling help becoming too expensive?
  • Mental health counselling for bipolar disorders
  • How psychological counselling affects victims of mental health disorders
  • What issues are students free to share with their guiding and counselling masters?
  • Why are relationship issues the most prevalent among teenagers?
  • Does counselling help in the case of obsessive-compulsive disorders?
  • Is counselling a cure to mental health problems?
  • Why talking therapies are the most effective in dealing with mental disorders
  • How does talking about your experiences help in dealing with the problem?
  • Why most victims approach their counsellors feeling apprehensive and nervous
  • How to make a patient feel comfortable during a counselling session
  • Why counsellors should not push patients to talk about stuff they aren’t ready to share

Mental Health Law Research Topics

  • Discuss the effectiveness of the Americans with Disabilities Act
  • Does the Capacity to Consent to Treatment law push patients to the wall?
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health courts
  • Does forcible medication lead to severe mental health problems?
  • Discuss the institutionalization of mental health facilities
  • Analyze the Consent to Clinical Research using mentally ill patients
  • What rights do mentally sick patients have? Are they effective?
  • Critically analyze proxy decision making for mental disorders
  • Why some Psychiatric Advance directives are punitive
  • Discuss the therapeutic jurisprudence of mental disorders
  • How effective is legal guardianship in the case of mental disorders?
  • Discuss psychology laws & licensing boards in the United States
  • Evaluate state insanity defence laws

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Mental Health

  • Do mentally ill patients have a right to choose whether to go to psychiatric centres or not?
  • Should families take the elderly to mental health institutions?
  • Does the doctor have the right to end the life of a terminally ill mental patient?
  • The use of euthanasia among extreme cases of mental health
  • Are mental disorders a result of curses and witchcraft?
  • Do violent video games make children aggressive and uncontrollable?
  • Should mental institutions be located outside the cities?
  • How often should families visit their relatives who are mentally ill?
  • Why the government should fully support the mentally ill
  • Should mental health clinics use pictures of patients without their consent?
  • Should families pay for the care of mentally ill relatives?
  • Do mentally ill patients have the right to marry or get married?
  • Who determines when to send a patient to a mental health facility?

Mental Health Topics For Discussion

  • The role of drama and music in treating mental health problems
  • Explore new ways of coping with mental health problems in the 21 st century
  • How social media is contributing to various mental health problems
  • Does Yoga and meditation help to treat mental health complications?
  • Is the mental health curriculum for psychology students inclusive enough?
  • Why solving problems as a family can help alleviate mental health disorders
  • Why teachers can either maintain or disrupt the mental state of their students
  • Should patients with mental health issues learn to live with their problems?
  • Why socializing is difficult for patients with mental disorders
  • Are our online psychology clinics effective in handling mental health issues?
  • Discuss why people aged 18-25 are more prone to mental health problems
  • Analyze the growing trend of social stigma in the United States
  • Are all people with mental health disorders violent and dangerous?

Mental Health Of New Mothers Research Topics

  • The role of mental disorders in mother-infant bonding
  • How mental health issues could lead to delays in the emotional development of the infant
  • The impact of COVID-19 physical distancing measures on postpartum women
  • Why anxiety and depression are associated with preterm delivery
  • The role of husbands in attending to wives’ postpartum care needs
  • What is the effectiveness of screening for postpartum depression?
  • The role of resilience in dealing with mental issues after delivery
  • Why marginalized women are more prone to postpartum depression
  • Why failure to bond leads to mental disorders among new mothers
  • Discuss how low and middle-income countries contribute to perinatal depression
  • How to prevent the recurrence of postpartum mental disorders in future
  • The role of anti-depression drugs in dealing with depression among new mothers
  • A case study of the various healthcare interventions for perinatal anxiety and mood disorders

What Are The Hot Topics For Mental Health Research Today

  • Discuss why mental health problems may be a result of a character flaw
  • The impact of damaging stereotypes in mental health
  • Why are many people reluctant to speak about their mental health issues?
  • Why the society tends to judge people with mental issues
  • Does alcohol and wasting health help one deal with a mental problem?
  • Discuss the role of bullying in causing mental health disorders among students
  • Why open forums in school and communities can help in curbing mental disorders
  • How to build healthy relationships that can help in solving mental health issues
  • Discuss frustration and lack of understanding in relationships
  • The role of a stable and supportive family in preventing mental disorders
  • How parents can start mental health conversations with their children
  • Analyze the responsibilities of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
  • The role of a positive mind in dealing with psychological problems

Good Research Topics On Refugees Mental Health

  • Why do refugees find themselves under high levels of stress?
  • Discuss the modalities of looking after the mental health of refugees
  • Evaluate the importance of a cultural framework in helping refugees with mental illnesses
  • How refugee camp administrators can help identify mental health disorders among refugees
  • Discuss the implications of dangerous traditional practices
  • The role of the UNHCR in assisting refugees with mental problems
  • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder among refugees
  • Dealing with hopelessness among refugees
  • The prevalence of traumatic experiences in refugee camps
  • Does cognitive-behavioural therapy work for refugees?
  • Discuss the role of policy planning in dealing with refugee-mental health problems
  • Are psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine effective in refugee camps?
  • Practical groups and in‐group therapeutic settings for refugee camps

Adolescent Mental Health Research Topics

  • Discuss why suicide is among the leading causes of death among adolescents
  • The role of acting-out behaviour or substance use in mental issues among adolescents
  • Mental effects of unsafe sexual behaviour among adolescents
  • Psychopharmacologic agents and menstrual dysfunction in adolescents
  • The role of confidentiality in preventive care visits
  • Mental health disorders and impairment among adolescents
  • Why adolescents not in school risk developing mental disorders
  • Does a clinical model work for adolescents with mental illnesses?
  • The role of self-worth and esteem in dealing with adolescent mental disorders
  • How to develop positive relationships with peers
  • Technology and mental ill-health among adolescents
  • How to deal with stigma among adolescents
  • Curriculum that supports young people to stay engaged and motivated

Research Topics For Mental Health And Government

  • Evaluate mental health leadership and governance in the United States
  • Advocacy and partnerships in dealing with mental health
  • Discuss mental health and socio-cultural perspective
  • Management and coordination of mental health policy frameworks
  • Roles and responsibilities of governments in dealing with mental health
  • Monitoring and evaluation of mental health policies
  • What is the essence of a mental health commission?
  • Benefits of mental well-being to the prosperity of a country
  • Necessary reforms to the mental health systems
  • Legal frameworks for dealing with substance use disorders
  • How mental health can impede the development of a country
  • The role of the government in dealing with decaying mental health institutions
  • Inadequate legislation in dealing with mental health problems

Abnormal Psychology Topics

  • What does it mean to display strange behaviour?
  • Role of mental health professionals in dealing with abnormal psychology
  • Discuss the concept of dysfunction in mental illness
  • How does deviance relate to mental illness?
  • Role of culture and social norms
  • The cost of treating abnormal psychology in the US
  • Using aversive treatment in abnormal psychology
  • Importance of psychological debriefing
  • Is addiction a mental disease?
  • Use of memory-dampening drugs
  • Coercive interrogations and psychology

Behavioural Health Issues In Mental Health

  • Detachment from reality
  • Inability to withstand daily problems
  • Conduct disorder among children
  • Role of therapy in behavioural disorders
  • Eating and drinking habits and mental health
  • Addictive behaviour patterns for teenagers in high school
  • Discuss mental implications of gambling and sex addiction
  • Impact of maladaptive behaviours on the society
  • Extreme mood changes
  • Confused thinking
  • Role of friends in behavioural complications
  • Spiritual leaders in helping deal with behavioural issues
  • Suicidal thoughts

Latest Psychology Research Topics

  • Discrimination and prejudice in a society
  • Impact of negative social cognition
  • Role of personal perceptions
  • How attitudes affect mental well-being
  • Effects of cults on cognitive behaviour
  • Marketing and psychology
  • How romance can distort normal cognitive functioning
  • Why people with pro-social behaviour may be less affected
  • Leadership and mental health
  • Discuss how to deal with anti-social personality disorders
  • Coping with phobias in school
  • The role of group therapy
  • Impact of dreams on one’s psychological behaviour

Professional Psychiatry Research Topics

  • The part of false memories
  • Media and stress disorders
  • Impact of gender roles
  • Role of parenting styles
  • Age and psychology
  • The biography of Harry Harlow
  • Career paths in psychology
  • Dissociative disorders
  • Dealing with paranoia
  • Delusions and their remedy
  • A distorted perception of reality
  • Rights of mental caregivers
  • Dealing with a loss
  • Handling a break-up

Consider using our expert research paper writing services for your mental health paper today. Satisfaction is guaranteed!

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50+ Topics of Psychology Research

How to Find Psychology Research Topics for Your Student Paper

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

research paper topics mental health

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

research paper topics mental health

Are you searching for a great topic for your psychology paper ? Sometimes it seems like coming up with topics of psychology research is more challenging than the actual research and writing. Fortunately, there are plenty of great places to find inspiration and the following list contains just a few ideas to help get you started.

Finding a solid topic is one of the most important steps when writing any type of paper. It can be particularly important when you are writing a psychology research paper or essay. Psychology is such a broad topic, so you want to find a topic that allows you to adequately cover the subject without becoming overwhelmed with information.

In some cases, such as in a general psychology class, you might have the option to select any topic from within psychology's broad reach. Other instances, such as in an  abnormal psychology  course, might require you to write your paper on a specific subject such as a psychological disorder.

As you begin your search for a topic for your psychology paper, it is first important to consider the guidelines established by your instructor.

Topics of Psychology Research Within Specific Branches

The key to selecting a good topic for your psychology paper is to select something that is narrow enough to allow you to really focus on the subject, but not so narrow that it is difficult to find sources or information to write about.

One approach is to narrow your focus down to a subject within a specific branch of psychology. For example, you might start by deciding that you want to write a paper on some sort of social psychology topic. Next, you might narrow your focus down to how persuasion can be used to influence behavior.

Other social psychology topics you might consider include:

  • Prejudice and discrimination (i.e., homophobia, sexism, racism)
  • Social cognition
  • Person perception
  • Social control and cults
  • Persuasion , propaganda, and marketing
  • Attraction, romance, and love
  • Nonverbal communication
  • Prosocial behavior

Psychology Research Topics Involving a Disorder or Type of Therapy

Exploring a psychological disorder or a specific treatment modality can also be a good topic for a psychology paper. Some potential abnormal psychology topics include specific psychological disorders or particular treatment modalities, including:

  • Eating disorders
  • Borderline personality disorder
  • Seasonal affective disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Antisocial personality disorder
  • Profile a  type of therapy  (i.e., cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy, psychoanalytic therapy)

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Cognition

Some of the possible topics you might explore in this area include thinking, language, intelligence, and decision-making. Other ideas might include:

  • False memories
  • Speech disorders
  • Problem-solving

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Human Development

In this area, you might opt to focus on issues pertinent to  early childhood  such as language development, social learning, or childhood attachment or you might instead opt to concentrate on issues that affect older adults such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Some other topics you might consider include:

  • Language acquisition
  • Media violence and children
  • Learning disabilities
  • Gender roles
  • Child abuse
  • Prenatal development
  • Parenting styles
  • Aspects of the aging process

Do a Critique of Publications Involving Psychology Research Topics

One option is to consider writing a critique paper of a published psychology book or academic journal article. For example, you might write a critical analysis of Sigmund Freud's Interpretation of Dreams or you might evaluate a more recent book such as Philip Zimbardo's  The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil .

Professional and academic journals are also great places to find materials for a critique paper. Browse through the collection at your university library to find titles devoted to the subject that you are most interested in, then look through recent articles until you find one that grabs your attention.

Topics of Psychology Research Related to Famous Experiments

There have been many fascinating and groundbreaking experiments throughout the history of psychology, providing ample material for students looking for an interesting term paper topic. In your paper, you might choose to summarize the experiment, analyze the ethics of the research, or evaluate the implications of the study. Possible experiments that you might consider include:

  • The Milgram Obedience Experiment
  • The Stanford Prison Experiment
  • The Little Albert Experiment
  • Pavlov's Conditioning Experiments
  • The Asch Conformity Experiment
  • Harlow's Rhesus Monkey Experiments

Topics of Psychology Research About Historical Figures

One of the simplest ways to find a great topic is to choose an interesting person in the  history of psychology  and write a paper about them. Your paper might focus on many different elements of the individual's life, such as their biography, professional history, theories, or influence on psychology.

While this type of paper may be historical in nature, there is no need for this assignment to be dry or boring. Psychology is full of fascinating figures rife with intriguing stories and anecdotes. Consider such famous individuals as Sigmund Freud, B.F. Skinner, Harry Harlow, or one of the many other  eminent psychologists .

Psychology Research Topics About a Specific Career

​Another possible topic, depending on the course in which you are enrolled, is to write about specific career paths within the  field of psychology . This type of paper is especially appropriate if you are exploring different subtopics or considering which area interests you the most.

In your paper, you might opt to explore the typical duties of a psychologist, how much people working in these fields typically earn, and the different employment options that are available.

Topics of Psychology Research Involving Case Studies

One potentially interesting idea is to write a  psychology case study  of a particular individual or group of people. In this type of paper, you will provide an in-depth analysis of your subject, including a thorough biography.

Generally, you will also assess the person, often using a major psychological theory such as  Piaget's stages of cognitive development  or  Erikson's eight-stage theory of human development . It is also important to note that your paper doesn't necessarily have to be about someone you know personally.

In fact, many professors encourage students to write case studies on historical figures or fictional characters from books, television programs, or films.

Psychology Research Topics Involving Literature Reviews

Another possibility that would work well for a number of psychology courses is to do a literature review of a specific topic within psychology. A literature review involves finding a variety of sources on a particular subject, then summarizing and reporting on what these sources have to say about the topic.

Literature reviews are generally found in the  introduction  of journal articles and other  psychology papers , but this type of analysis also works well for a full-scale psychology term paper.

Topics of Psychology Research Based on Your Own Study or Experiment

Many psychology courses require students to design an actual psychological study or perform some type of experiment. In some cases, students simply devise the study and then imagine the possible results that might occur. In other situations, you may actually have the opportunity to collect data, analyze your findings, and write up your results.

Finding a topic for your study can be difficult, but there are plenty of great ways to come up with intriguing ideas. Start by considering your own interests as well as subjects you have studied in the past.

Online sources, newspaper articles, books , journal articles, and even your own class textbook are all great places to start searching for topics for your experiments and psychology term papers. Before you begin, learn more about  how to conduct a psychology experiment .

A Word From Verywell

After looking at this brief list of possible topics for psychology papers, it is easy to see that psychology is a very broad and diverse subject. While this variety makes it possible to find a topic that really catches your interest, it can sometimes make it very difficult for some students to select a good topic.

If you are still stumped by your assignment, ask your instructor for suggestions and consider a few from this list for inspiration.

  • Hockenbury, SE & Nolan, SA. Psychology. New York: Worth Publishers; 2014.
  • Santrock, JW. A Topical Approach to Lifespan Development. New York: McGraw-Hill Education; 2016.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Thesis Helpers

research paper topics mental health

Find the best tips and advice to improve your writing. Or, have a top expert write your paper.

230 Current Mental Health Research Topics For Top Dissertation

mental health research topics

Mental health characterizes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It involves the taking of multiple approaches to care for these different areas.

Medical news today notes that our mental health determines how we handle stress, relate to other people, and make healthy and articulate choices.

Mental health research is fast becoming one of the most researched areas in health. With this, so many research works can be chosen from this field. Therefore, as a student writing your essay on mental health, you must conduct extensive research for sufficient information.

Structure Of Mental Health Research Paper Or Essay

Students often have ample information on the chosen mental health nursing research topics, but the challenge they often encounter is properly arranging these topics to communicate knowledge effectively. We’ve prepared a mental illness research paper outline to improve your research paper.

  • Abstract. Your abstract provides a summary of the area your topic will be based on and what the aim and objectives of this topic focus are. Your abstract is like a door that leads to your research, so you need to make it interesting and informative.
  • Introduction. The introduction is the foremost part of your research paper or essay. Your introduction should always be straightforward, touching across all the relevant information that will be further pieced out subsequently.
  • Body. This is the actual content of your research paper or essay. In the body, you are expected to assemble all the various subtitles related and relevant to your topic of interest. All your opinions, findings, research methodology, and discussions will be contained in the body. To create a rich, high quality research paper or essay, the body of your writing must examine relevant data.
  • Conclusion. Your conclusion is the part where you are expected to summarise your arguments, thereby restating your thesis. By doing this, you’re bringing everything you’ve examined into consciousness again to remind your readers of the main issues and how it has been developed in the course of your writing.
  • Reference List. In the course of your essay, you must have used different sources. As you go along, you should therefore ensure that you keep notes of the books, journals, articles you have read, ensuring that the reference style goes with what your university and college recommend for your class. This way, you’ll stick with what your school dictates as the reference style and be praised by your teachers or professors at the end of the school year. Your references also have to be current.

By using this structure your thesis or dissertation will be way more clear.

Characteristics Of Mental Health Essay

How do you recognize a good essay? How do you know that everyone will welcome your contributions to the mental health essays? It would help if you considered these tips:

  • Clear Grammar. In other words, your diction must be grand yet easily understood. If it’s difficult for one to efficiently and thoroughly grasp your work, it’s not great work, and the essay’s purpose could be jeopardized. It would help if you communicated in simple language.
  • Conciseness. Conciseness is simply communicating in as few words as possible. As the soul of communication, brevity makes your words last longer in the minds of readers. To achieve this, erase superfluous or elaborative words, be pointed in your writing, and make your sentences too passive.
  • Depth and Arguments. Your arguments must be intellectually in depth and high level. With different mental health topics to write about, you need to explore a topic whose arguments you can profoundly develop. With this, you’ll be able to turn the ideas into something exciting and engaging. To create a good essay or an engaging one, this is something your readers look forward to.
  • Clear Structure. You must structure your work to relate well with your mental illness research topics. This is the only way to make your readers follow your thoughts without stress. Thus, your essay or paper must have an introduction, a body, the conclusion, and a reference list.

This brief guide should help you have an idea of what a professor is looking for. And now here is a helpful list of topics to consider when writing your bachelor thesis or about mental health in general:

Research Questions About Mental Health

Since the subject, mental health is quite vast and includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, below are some of the best mental health research questions that allow the student to focus on a particular field of research.

  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of delivering mental health care virtually?
  • Can mental health conditions limit how a person engages with technology?
  • How can physicians maximize the combination of existing treatment options with virtual mental health procedures?
  • Have virtual interventions been proven safe?
  • What are the measures put in place to ensure that mental health platforms are safe?
  • What different effects will the adoption of virtual meetups have on the patients’ appointment time?
  • Are virtual therapies as effective as physical therapies?
  • Can one ascertain total satisfaction from standard elements of therapy through virtual meetups?
  • Does virtual interaction create better avenues for minorities as compared to traditional interface?
  • Can the different virtual platforms be used to reach out to people with mental health problems effectively?
  • Does obesity affect mental health?
  • What are the possible symptoms of mental illness in family members?
  • At what point do people with mental illness become destructive?
  • What are the causes of anorexia?
  • Why does a person with mental illness begin to cut themselves?
  • How easily can one treat post-traumatic stress?
  • Does childbirth lead to depression?
  • Are mental illnesses more prevalent in men or women?
  • Is ADHD a mental illness?
  • What are the causes of ADHD in young adults?
  • Are mental illnesses prevalent in survivors of war?
  • Can OCD be termed a mental illness?
  • How can one tell when a person begins to develop obsessive-compulsive disorder?
  • Are movies, games, etc., some of the leading causes of depression in young adults?
  • How can one quickly ascertain if they’re mentally ill or not?
  • What are the side effects of drug abuse on mental health?
  • A study into medically proven ways of curing ADHD.
  • The impacts of ADHD on Young adults.
  • A study of the mental effects of excessive consumption of Marijuana
  • How ADHD and autism affect young people in the 21st century.
  • The mental challenges of living with learning disabilities.

Mental Health Research Paper Topics

Mental health is the psychological and emotional part of human health. Good mental health suggests good cognitive, behavioral, and emotional wellbeing. The following mental health research topics will provide multiple avenues for students to base their research topics on:

  • The relationship between depression and weight loss
  • The rise of eating disorders in teenagers and adolescents
  • The glamorization of mental illness in modern media
  • Why is it still somewhat taboo to speak openly about mental health?
  • The lasting psychological trauma of rape
  • PTSD in modern-day youth
  • How positive portrayals of mental illness in movies have helped destigmatize it
  • Violence in video games and violence in real life: is there a link between the two?
  • The effects of victim-blaming on rape victims
  • Is mental illness hereditary?
  • why mental health education is relevant in our society
  • ADHD in adults: regular, or a problem?
  • Harmful misconceptions about OCD
  • The relationship between physical health and mental wellness
  • Is postpartum depression a modern illness?
  • Why is a bipolar disorder more than a mood swing disorder
  • The relationship between childhood bullying and self-esteem issues in adults
  • Is mental illness more prevalent in men or women?
  • Advances in mental health education and research in the last decade
  • Living with mental health in the age of social media
  • Mental health and Nollywood: a study of mental illness portrayal in Nollywood
  • Mental health and social media: how social media has helped to destigmatize mental illness
  • Why schools should have functioning guidance counselors for students and teachers
  • The importance of including mental health topics in the school curriculum
  • The need to create safe spaces for people living with mental health issues.

Mental Health Topics To Write About

Your mental health deals with several health disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and personality disorders. In case your mental health research topics are based on the categorical aspects of mental health, the following are research topics on mental health that you can write about:

  • What is mental health?
  • Destigmatizing mental health discussions
  • Mental health education in Nigerian societies
  • Can exposure to violent games and movies cause people to become killers?
  • Are sociopaths born or made?
  • The importance of self-affirmation to goal achievement
  • Why therapy isn’t only for the mentally ill
  • Why you have to love yourself to be able to receive love from others
  • Living with social anxiety
  • Overcoming low self-esteem
  • Why OCD is not just about an obsession with keeping things clean
  • How self-loathing makes us self-destructive
  • The benefits of mental health support groups
  • How to handle bullying when your child is the aggressor
  • Why do we need time for ourselves
  • Is your friend group toxic?
  • On low self-esteem and managing relationships
  • Why it’s insensitive to refer to the mentally ill as crazy
  • Why do we sometimes feel unloved?
  • Why it is helpful to have supportive friends and family when going through a hard time
  • Medically proven ways to deal with a constant depressive episode
  • Why depression pills should be regulated
  • Why everyone needs access to pills to relax anxiety
  • The importance of antidepressants to neurotics
  • How to successfully manage the challenges of living with mental health challenges

Mental Illness Research Paper Topics

Mental illness is a range of mental conditions that affect the mind, how we think, our behaviors. If you’ve been looking for the best mental illness research paper topics, your search stops here. Find below mental illness topics to help with your research:

  • The difference between depression and sadness
  • Similarities between bipolar disorder
  • Treating mental disorders using medication: a study on the pros and cons
  • The effects of postpartum depression on family members
  • The relationship between bullying and eating disorders
  • Common misconceptions about mental illness
  • Mental illness in the media: positive influence or harmful perpetuation of stereotypes?
  • A study on serial killers: how their childhoods shaped who they became
  • Self-esteem issues as a trigger for eating disorders
  • A study on the compulsive nature of kleptomania
  • A study on how movies shape our perception of mental illness
  • Identifying signs and symptoms of sociopathy in children
  • A study on the relationship between paranoia and impulsive actions
  • The relationship between suicide and low self-esteem
  • Genetics and mental illness: a study on mental illness in three generations of family members
  • A study on how past traumatic events shape our present
  • Why eating disorders are mental disorders
  • The portrayal of mental illness in the media in the past fifty years
  • Improvements in mental illness diagnosis and treatment in the past century
  • Examining the effects of mental illness on the lives of teenagers: a qualitative study
  • Examining the impacts of antidepressants in curbing depression
  • A study into the root cause of mental health challenges in young adults
  • Investigating the causes of mental illness in 80+ adults
  • The lingering cases of mental health challenges in older people
  • The need for the free accessibility of mental health facilities by students.

Research Topics In Psychiatry

Psychiatry is a vast field of study in medicine. Any psychiatry topics must make the research journey more straightforward. That said, the following are interesting topics in psychiatry:

  • Defects of tobacco addiction on the human brain
  • Treating schizophrenia: most effective ways
  • ADHD: more prevalent in adults than children?
  • Perfectionism and OCD: Where do we draw the line?
  • Why we should look out for symptoms of depression
  • How has the raid of COVID-19 affected the mental health of people?
  • What are the factors that provoke depression?
  • Bipolar disorders as symptoms of mental illness
  • What is the potency of talk therapy in relating to suicidal patients
  • Anxiety disorder: symptoms and remedies
  • Practical measures in overcoming alcohol abuse in men
  • Depression: cyberbullying as a tool for enhancing depressive tendencies in young adults
  • The adverse effect of antidepressants on brain activities
  • Genetics: A yardstick for determining mental health illness
  • Lack of sleep as a tool for building anxiety
  • Stress as a buildup for depression
  • Side effects of psychiatric treatments on older people
  • The effects of COVID-19 on brain activity
  • Preventing the excessive usage of sedatives in young adults
  • Aging as a measure of depression
  • Treating mental illness: Applying classical soul music as a means in the 21st century
  • Child mental disorders: curbing unhealthy family relationships
  • Postpartum depression is the leading cause of mental illness amongst women
  • A study on the distinction between Bipolar I and Bipolar II
  • The need for the destigmatization of psychiatric patients

Research Topics In Mental Health Nursing

Mental health nursing is a highly essential field of study that should be considered:

  • The challenges involved in psychiatric nursing care
  • Mental health risks involved in working with psychiatric patients
  • Merits and demerits of mental health nursing careers
  • Self-discipline in psychiatry nursing fields
  • Nursing ethics: what a nurse should know
  • Approaches to nursing theories
  • Talk therapy in nursing fields
  • Dealing with exposed trauma: a typical nursing experience
  • Psychiatry nursing: a walk in the park?
  • Limitation of responsibilities by nurses on psychiatric patients
  • The essence of skilled nurses in clinical psychology
  • Effective patients’ recovery: the roles of nurses in present-day psychiatry
  • Practical application of nursing experience in psychiatry wards
  • Forbidden practices in nursing homes
  • Is psychiatry nursing predominantly a woman’s job?
  • Promoting nursing staff shortage in health sectors
  • Evaluating anti stigmatization by nurses in psychiatric wards
  • Damning effects of psychiatric nursing on nurses
  • Mental health illness: are nurses exempted?
  • Nursing practices applied in treating children and adults
  • Helpful ways mental health nurses administer care to patients
  • Ways care for mental health patients can be improved in the hospitals
  • Effective ways of caring for mental health patients
  • Why mental health nursing should be a specialized healthcare role
  • Importance of mental health nursing
  • Why mental health nursing should be prioritized as a specialist role

Critical Analysis Research Paper Topics In Mental Health

The following are some critically analyzed paper topics in mental health that will make your research more accessible and give more depth to your essay.

  • Problems related to physical and mental health issues in men and women
  • Supporting children’s mental health in the 21st century
  • Bipolar disorder problem as a mental health challenge
  • Mental health and eating disorders
  • A mental health project: a research methodology on curbing mental illnesses
  • Connecting poverty and mental health problems
  • Mental health counseling: a way in the wilderness
  • Mental health administration: a necessity in present-day lives
  • Mental health and spirituality
  • Effects of marijuana on mental health
  • The critical role of school psychology in the mental health movement
  • Code of ethics for mental health professions worldwide
  • Mental health counselors: professionalism in workplaces
  • Mental health benefits in the employee benefits packages
  • Eliminating stigmatization in mental health diagnoses
  • Community mental health as a tool for curbing disorders
  • Mental health counselor: a much-needed remedy
  • Mental health issues in the criminal justice system
  • Refugees and their mental health
  • Medical ethics in mental health care
  • Child’s mental health and depression in adulthood: a qualitative study
  • Transitions in late life: a typical study of mental health concerns
  • Mental health nursing: health and illness
  • Mental health specialist jobs and career
  • Mental health: screening and assessment of nursing personnel
  • The role of female mental health in socio-cultural conditions
  • Schizophrenia: a dominant mental health disorder
  • Mental health practice model for public institutions
  • Mental health: research methodologies issues
  • Mental health strategies at the workplace

Good Research Questions About Mental Health

Good research questions must be willing to provide concise and thorough answers. Over time, researchers have generated questions that border on mental health that have proven highly effective.

  • Should the use of antidepressants be accessible to children?
  • Why do people need access to mental health care?
  • What is the importance of prioritizing mental health care?
  • Is self-care the same as mental health care?
  • Is there a correlation between self-care and mental health care?
  • How to prioritize mental health
  • The study of the growing mental health challenge amongst young adults
  • Growth of depression in third-world countries
  • The effects of poverty on mental health
  • A study on the effects of mental health education on the treatment of the mentally ill
  • Institutionalized bullying in schools and its effects on students’ mental health
  • The importance of mother’s mental health in the aftermath of childbirth
  • Addressing mental health problems in children below the age of ten
  • The effects of sudden environmental changes on childrens’ mental health
  • The focus on mental health in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic
  • Harmful effects of social media on the mental health of Nigerian youth
  • Fostering mental health discourse among males
  • Trolling and cancel culture and their effects on the mental health of their victims
  • The benefits of mental health apps in the lives of individuals
  • Measures to promote mental health awareness in religious spheres

Mental Illness Thesis Ideas

By nature, there are several mental illness thesis ideas you can explore. The following are proven great thesis ideas that concern mental health.

  • Addressing inadequate measures to combat mental illness in Nigerian societies
  • A study on the marginalization of the mentally ill in the society
  • Mental illness stigma and seeking help: how mental health stigma affects
  • The effects of mental illness stigma in people’s seeking of treatment
  • Embracing mental illness discourse in schools and the workplace
  • Why mental illness is an illness and not a figment of the imagination
  • The relationship between mental illness and violence
  • The relationship between childhood abuse and mental illness
  • The benefits of support systems to the mentally ill
  • Mental illness and the perpetuation of gun violence among youth in the united states
  • A study of mental illness portrayals in Nigerian media
  • Mental illness portrayals in Nigerian media: harmful or beneficial?
  • A study on the harmful effects of certain medications on mental disorders
  • Tackling common misconceptions about mental disorders among members of the older generation
  • Advancements in mental illness treatment methods
  • Breakthroughs in mental illness research in the 50s and 60s
  • A study on ethically questionable mental health research experiments in the last 50 years
  • Living with mental illness in the age of toxic internet culture
  • The increase in cases of depression and anxiety in youths between the early 2000s and late 2010s
  • Mental illness and criminality: a study on the relationship between the two
  • Drug abuse: a study on how college students engage in drugs
  • A study of the nicotine content of harmful drugs
  • A critical study of the early stage of mental illness in patients.

Need Help With Your Thesis?

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Mental Health Research During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Focuses and Trends

Yaodong liang.

1 Law School, Changsha University, Changsha, China

2 Department of Psychology, University of Toronto St. George, Toronto, ON, Canada

3 Centre for Mental Health and Education, Central South University, Changsha, China

Associated Data

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly influenced the world. In wave after wave, many countries suffered from the pandemic, which caused social instability, hindered global growth, and harmed mental health. Although research has been published on various mental health issues during the pandemic, some profound effects on mental health are difficult to observe and study thoroughly in the short term. The impact of the pandemic on mental health is still at a nascent stage of research. Based on the existing literature, we used bibliometric tools to conduct an overall analysis of mental health research during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Researchers from universities, hospitals, communities, and medical institutions around the world used questionnaire surveys, telephone-based surveys, online surveys, cross-sectional surveys, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and systematic umbrella reviews as their research methods. Papers from the three academic databases, Web of Science (WOS), ProQuest Academic Database (ProQuest), and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), were included. Their previous research results were systematically collected, sorted, and translated and CiteSpace 5.1 and VOSviewers 1.6.13 were used to conduct a bibliometric analysis of them.

Authors with papers in this field are generally from the USA, the People's Republic of China, the UK, South Korea, Singapore, and Australia. Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University are the top three institutions in terms of the production of research papers on the subject. The University of Toronto, Columbia University, and the University of Melbourne played an important role in the research of mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic. The numbers of related research papers in the USA and China are significantly larger than those in the other countries, while co-occurrence centrality indexes in Germany, Italy, England, and Canada may be higher.

We found that the most mentioned keywords in the study of mental health research during the COVID-19 pandemic can be divided into three categories: keywords that represent specific groups of people, that describe influences and symptoms, and that are related to public health policies. The most-cited issues were about medical staff, isolation, psychological symptoms, telehealth, social media, and loneliness. Protection of the youth and health workers and telemedicine research are expected to gain importance in the future.

Introduction

Although the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic will be recorded in human medical history and in socio-economic history, various psychological consequences regarding mental health among populations cannot be ignored, including stress, anxiety, depression, frustration, insomnia, and so on. Researchers from universities, hospitals, communities, and medical institutions worldwide have been focusing on mental health problems during the pandemic. They have used questionnaire surveys, telephone-based surveys, online surveys, cross-sectional surveys, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, and systematic umbrella reviews to investigate mental health problems during the pandemic. Two years after the outbreak of the COVID-19, the pandemic has gradually subsided in some countries, while others have adopted a strategy of coexisting with the virus. If more deadly mutant strains do not appear in the future, it is very likely that the pandemic will not climax again. It is pertinent to summarize and study mental health research during the pandemic, because many psychological problems have arisen as a result, and there has been significant interest in research on such issues in the previous two years.

As an effective quantitative analysis method, bibliometrics can be used not only to assess the quality and quantity of published papers, but also to explore research focuses and trends, the distribution of authors and institutions, the impact of publications, journals, and different countries regarding research contributions to the theme. Due to the rapid growth in research in this area, there are now over 1,000 academic papers, and accordingly, it would appear necessary to investigate important, valid, and meaningful information from large databases to guide scientific research. The authors used CiteSpace and VOSviewers to determine the focuses and trends in this regard.

Data Analysis and Visualization

The authors searched the Web of Science (WOS), ProQuest Academic Database (ProQuest), and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) to extract publications related to mental health and COVID-19. Their previous research results were systematically collected, sorted, and translated, and CiteSpace 5.1 and VOSviewers 1.6.13 were used to conduct a bibliometric analysis of them.

Data Source and Search Strategy

Our team selected 1,226 papers from 2019 to 2022 using three combinations of keywords, mental health and COVID-19, mental health and new coronavirus, and mental health and novel coronavirus, from the three academic paper databases, WOS, ProQuest, and CNKI. Two explanations are necessary here, the first is about the keywords and the second is about the databases. (1) The reason we used new or novel coronavirus as keywords was that the name COVID-19 has not been determined about 2 years ago. In order not to miss relevant research results, we also included these synonyms as keywords for the search. (2) Among the three databases, WOS and ProQuest, in which most of the English-language papers were published, are well-known to scholars all around the world. However, the CNKI database is not as popular as WOS or ProQuest given that most of the papers in CNKI were published in Chinese. We chose to use the CNKI data for the following three reasons: first, China was the most affected country during the COVID-19 outbreak and Chinese academic journals published significant research on mental health. Second, CNKI is the largest Chinese academic database. Third, after the outbreak, the Chinese government's virus clearance policy has been implemented and continues to date. Strict control has helped suppress the spread of the virus, but has also likely had mental health implications, given the severe reduction in social interactions. Therefore, we think that the Chinese database is appropriate and useful in this study.

About 50% of the articles were from the WOS, about 10% of the articles from ProQuest, and about 40% from CNKI. Basic information such as title, author, institution, country, abstract, keywords, methods, results, and conclusions of all articles, if not in English, are translated into English and analyzed using SiteSpaceII and VOSviewers. Since the keywords include COVID-19 and mental health, synonyms such as novel coronavirus and psychological distress spontaneously appeared while searching. Words that are closely related to the subject, such as public health, quarantine, and insomnia, were most frequently mentioned.

Most articles were published during the period from February 2020 to July 2022, including those pre-published online from April to July, and only one article that had been published in 2019 was included. Judging from the line chart above, since the volume of COVID-19 and mental health-related articles had already risen two times in June 2020 and June 2021 and then remained low until now, it is high time to conclude a previous study on COVID-19 and mental health, to sort out the foci of those studies, and to analyze and predict future trends ( Figure 1 ).

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The volume of COVID-19 and mental health-related articles in 2020–2022.

Scholars from around the world have contributed to the study of mental health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. The top 10 countries with the largest quantum of publications related to mental health during COVID-19 are the USA, People's Republic of China, England, Canada, Australia, India, Italy, Japan, Iran, and Germany. Wide and active participation of several countries has laid a solid foundation for its future development. Universities, hospitals, communities, and medical institutions around the world have conducted sample surveys of patients, students, community residents, medical workers, and other sample populations of considerable sample sizes since the outbreak. Survey and research methods include questionnaire survey, telephone-based survey, online survey, cross-sectional survey, systematic review and meta-analyses, and systematic umbrella review ( Table 1 ).

Top 20 countries.

Most papers are from the USA, the People's Republic of China, England, Australia, Canada, India, Italy, Iran, Japan, and Germany. Judging from the country or region co-occurrence graph, England and Canada are in the center of this graph, with India, Poland, Denmark, Spain, South Korea, Portugal, Italy, and Canada around them. England, Australia, Canada, Japan, Brazil, India, Iran, and Germany have done significant research work in this field. In addition, the number of related research papers in the USA and China is significantly larger than that in all other countries ( Figure 2 ).

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Country or region co-occurrence.

In Table 2 , we can see that most names of the top 20 authors are Asian names, and they are mainly from China. Six of them published more than 10 articles by the end of 2021. In the extended ranking, we find that the authors who have published a large number of papers are generally from the USA, China, the UK, South Korea, Singapore, and Australia. The authors Griffiths MD, Cheung T, Xiang Y, Lin C, Wang Y, and Zhang L were very active in this field of study.

Top 20 authors.

In the abovementioned graphs, we can see six groups of related authors. The VOSviewer was used to describe the partnership between them. Though six colors were used to separate these groups, there were still lines connecting the groups to represent the partnership between them. We can take Cheung T and Xiang Y as the center of the largest group. Another group with Griffiths MD and Lin C as its center was also significant ( Figures 3 , ​ ,4 4 ).

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Author co-occurrence.

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Author co-occurrence groups.

The top five institutions are Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Columbia University, and the University of Toronto. Meanwhile, the top five institutions in centrality are the University of Macau, the University of Melbourne, Columbia University, Wuhan University, and the University of Toronto. It is worth mentioning that Huazhong University of Science and Technology and Wuhan University are located in the city of Wuhan, one of the areas most affected by the virus through the outbreak. The society and economy of the city temporarily stagnated at the time, and its medical system was once paralyzed. Eventually, Wuhan City's medical system was fully recovered. The University of Toronto, Columbia University, and the University of Melbourne have played an important role in the research of mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic ( Table 3 and Figure 5 ).

Top 20 institutions.

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Institutions' co-occurrence.

As can be seen in Figure 6 , Huazhong University of Science and Technology has led Chinese universities and research institutions, such as Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Peking University, in conducting research on COVID-19 and mental health. Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Fudan University, and the University of Melbourne acted as bridges, connecting famous universities and research institutions in Europe, America, and other countries in the world, such as Kings College London and Harvard Medical School, to jointly study issues in this field. In particular, they conduct joint research, directly or indirectly, through Hong Kong Polytechnic University, which display the important communication and joint role of Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

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Keyword clustering.

Judging from Table 4 , the most mentioned keywords, in addition to COVID-19 and mental health, can be roughly divided into three categories: (1) keywords representing specific groups of people, such as adolescents, young adults, doctors, nurses, medical staff, and healthcare workers; (2) keywords describing influences and symptoms, such as isolation, loneliness, anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia; and (3) keywords related to public health policies, such as lockdown, social distancing, telehealth, telemedicine, and quarantine.

Keyword clustering I.

In Graph 7, we can judge that COVID-19, mental health, pandemic, and coronavirus are represented by larger red dots as their centrality indexes are naturally higher. In this bibliometric network map, other keywords emerged next to them and together formed this visualization bibliometric network. Occupational and sociodemographic characteristics are clustered together, while symptoms of mental health problems are clustered next to them. Specific groups of people and their typical symptoms and causes occupy certain areas on the map. For example, typical symptoms of university students and the possible causes of these symptoms are grouped together on the map. Similarly, quarantine policy and its influence are also classified in certain areas. In addition, research methods and solutions appeared sporadically on this map.

Table 5 shows eight groups of core keywords separated from keyword clustering I. Each of these groups contains three keywords, which proves that these keywords appear at the same time in a considerable part of the research, and are more closely related. Keyword ClusteringII cannot only present the outline of existing mental health research in academia, but also highlights the focus of research. In addition, SiteSpaceII and VOSviewers also gave us some clues about the research trends and further development.

Keyword clustering II.

Research Focuses

Medical staff.

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health problems among populations, especially medical staff, patients with COVID-19, chronic disease patients, and isolated people. Doctors, nurses, and other medical staff have significantly higher rates of insomnia than other populations ( 1 ). The researchers obtained the relevant demographic data through the WeChat questionnaire survey. Questions in the questionnaire are related to insomnia, depression, anxiety, and stress-related symptoms during the pandemic. Their research found that, since the outbreak, more than one-third of the medical staff suffered from symptoms of insomnia. Psychological intervention measures were necessary for those people ( 2 ). Research within medical institutions shows that the psychological pressure of medical staff in isolation wards was greater, but had also attracted greater attention from hospital administrators. The concern of hospital managers alleviated the pressure of medical staff to a certain extent. Further, concern for the public also reduced their psychological burden. In terms of anxiety about infection and fatigue factors, the research results showed that the psychological burden of nurses was heavier than that of doctors. Healthcare workers who lived with their own children showed more obvious fatigue and anxiety, which might be due to the fear of their children becoming infected. In terms of workload and work motivation, medical staff who have been working for more than 20 years have a heavier workload, but they can still maintain their enthusiasm to fight against the pandemic ( 3 ). Another survey showed that 73.4% of healthcare workers, mainly physicians, nurses, and auxiliary staff, reported post-traumatic stress symptoms during outbreaks, with symptoms persisting for up to 3 years in 10–40% of the cases. Depressive symptoms were reported in 27.5–50.7%, insomnia symptoms in 34–36.1%, and severe anxiety symptoms in 45% ( 4 ). A subgroup analysis revealed gender and occupational differences, with female health care practitioners and nurses exhibiting higher rates of affective symptoms compared to men and medical staff, respectively ( 5 ).

As a result, depressive symptoms (21%) and anxiety symptoms (19%) are higher during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous epidemiological data. About 16% of the subjects suffered from severe clinical insomnia during the lockdown. The pandemic and lockdown seemed to be particularly stressful for younger adults who were under 35 years old, women, people out of work, or those with low incomes ( 6 ). In the fight against the pandemic, China adopted measures to restrict population aggregation, such as the blockade of pandemic areas, individual patient isolation, and restrictions on the movement of people in non-pandemic areas. These measures effectively prevented the spread of the pandemic. At the same time, the use of health codes, grid-like community management, and the operational efficiency of infectious disease information networks have greatly improved. However, quarantine has also brought with it a number of problems, such as increasing psychological pressure on the population, affecting the daily lives of families, and hindering social and economic development ( 7 ). A large sample size study with wide coverage published in 2021 showed that young people quarantined at home in different provinces had different rates of anxiety and depression due to different severity of pandemic situations in different regions. The risk of anxiety and depression was statistically significantly higher in girls than in boys. The rate of anxiety and depression was affected by factors, such as gender, age, and area, as well as the existence of COVID-19 cases in the surrounding area ( 8 ).

Psychological Symptoms

The impact of the aforementioned isolation measures on mental health is only part of the impact of the COVID-19 on mental health. Psychological symptoms brought about by the pandemic have also been systematically sorted out by scholars. These studies show two clues. First, certain people have special psychological symptoms; second, psychological symptoms in different countries of the world are roughly the same. Several factors were associated with a higher risk of psychiatric symptoms or low psychological wellbeing, including female gender and poor self-related health ( 9 ). Relatively, severe symptoms of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, psychological distress, and stress were reported in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic in China, Spain, Italy, Iran, the USA, Turkey, Nepal, and Denmark. Risk factors associated with measures of distress include female gender, younger age group, the presence of chronic or psychiatric illnesses, unemployment, student status, and frequent exposure to social media or news concerning COVID-19. The pandemic is associated with significant levels of psychological distress that, in many cases, will meet the threshold for clinical relevance. Mitigating the hazardous effects of COVID-19 on mental health is an international public health priority ( 1 ). Infectious disease pandemics often cause some people to act irrationally. The results of a survey based on psychological symptoms and irrational behaviors have drawn some conclusions. First, the vast majority of people remain in good physical and mental health, but some exhibit irrational behaviors. Second, women, elderly people, and those with confirmed cases showed more physical and mental symptoms and irrational behaviors. Finally, paradoxically, people with high education levels showed more mental symptoms, but fewer irrational behaviors ( 10 ).

Telemedicine

Just as the pandemic has enabled the rapid development of online education, the prospects of telemedicine are also favored by experts, observers, and investors. However, there are two restrictive aspects, namely, telemedicine equipment and telemedicine human resources. The application of 5G communication technology, telemedicine equipment, remote monitoring equipment, remote physical sign monitoring equipment, and medical artificial intelligence triage equipment all need to be urgently developed and improved. Jiangsu, a province in China, is a model province of the national project called “Internet + Medical and Health.” During the pandemic, the telemedicine by public hospitals in Jiangsu Province helped improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment, alleviating the pressure of offline diagnosis and treatment, and reducing the risk of cross-infection. Subsequently, medical staff were fully supportive of telemedicine. However, there was a shortage of medical staff in fever clinics, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and psychiatrists that provided telemedicine services, and they lacked corresponding incentive mechanisms ( 11 ). Effective mitigation strategies to improve mental health were developed by public health management experts. To control the rapid spread of COVID-19 and manage the crisis better, both developed and developing countries have been improving the efficiency of their health system by replacing a proportion of face-to-face clinical encounters with telemedicine solutions ( 12 ).

Social Media

There were rumors in various kinds of media during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we can regard rumors as a disturbing error for psychological measurement, if they are not strictly controlled, their impact on people's mental health and behavior cannot be ignored. A study focusing on the spread of WeChat rumors has explored the psychological perception mechanism of audiences affected by rumor spreading in emergency situations. The study has significant results in the following terms: the form characteristics of the rumors in COVID-19, the ranking of susceptible age groups, the degree of dependence of the test subject on certain media and its psychological impact, and the follow-up behavior of the test subjects related to psychological variables ( 2 ). In 2021, another interesting study based on the data of TikTok videos released by three mainstream media in China showed that they inevitably caused some psychological trauma to the public. However, from the perspective of overall emotional orientation, short-format videos with positive reporting emotional tendencies had an advantage in attracting likes from TikTok users. Positive government responses to pandemic information were very important, and those responses could be recognized and praised by most social media users. Some of the TikTok videos, such as The Plasma of a Recovered Patient Cured 11 Other ICU Patients, The First COVID-19 Test Kit Passed Inspection, and A Frenchman Named Fred gave up Returning to Home to Join China's Anti-COVID-19 Battle, are extremely popular among social media users. Most social media users have been providing spiritual sustenance for people in the pandemic ( 13 ). When a public health crisis occurs, social media plays an important role in increasing public vigilance, helping the public identify rumors, and boosting public morale.

University Students and Loneliness

A study that assessed the adverse impact on the mental health of university students has drawn some conclusions. First, the severity of the outbreak has an indirect effect on negative emotions by affecting sleep quality. Second, a possible mitigation strategy to improve mental health includes ensuring suitable amounts of daily physical activity and deep sleep. Third, the pandemic has reduced people's aggressiveness, probably by making people realize the fragility and preciousness of life ( 14 ). Another research focused on social networks and mental health compared two cohorts of Swiss undergraduate students who were experiencing the crisis, and made an additional comparison with an earlier cohort who did not experience the pandemic. The researchers found that interaction and co-study networks had become sparser, and more students were studying alone. Stressors shifted from fear of missing out on social life to concern about health, family, friends, and their future ( 15 ). Young adults, women, people with lower education or lower income, the economically inactive, people living alone, and urban residents were at greater risk of being lonely during the pandemic. Being a student emerged as a higher than usual risk factor for loneliness during the lockdown ( 16 ). A study to explore the relationship between loneliness and stress among undergraduates in North America showed that the loneliness and stress among college students increased. On one hand, stress plays a key role in the deterioration of college students' mental health; on the other hand, reducing the loneliness of college students is expected to reduce the negative impact of stress on college students' mental health ( 17 ).

Research Trends

Due to the limited training sample of academic papers at present, it is difficult to predict the outcomes accurately. Though we cannot exactly predict the hot issues in the future, we can sort out some possible research trends in this field by analyzing existing research approaches. Psychological symptoms that affected people's mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic will be discovered further, especially those that probably continued to affect people's mental health even after the pandemic is controlled.

Studies on mild psychological symptoms, such as mild insomnia and anxiety, tend to decrease slowly, and in the case of severe problems caused by the pandemic, or severe psychological symptoms, such as clinical insomnia, depression, bipolar disorder, the corresponding in-depth research will continue. The impact of a global pandemic on the mental health of the global population must be profound and worthy of study. Due to the rapid development of COVID-19, many famous universities and research institutions have not had enough time to collect sufficient data and relevant research materials. The different effects on populations in different countries with different pandemic prevention policies are not yet fully displayed.

Regardless of how research on mental health develops, the COVID-19 pandemic has indeed brought us some new insights. As mentioned in many articles on mental health interventions for adolescents and college students, the mental health of specific populations and the development of telemedicine all deserve continued academic attention. Mental health intervention for adolescents and college students is a means to consider and prepare for the future. To ensure responsible and accountable behavior for future generations, we should all pay attention to the research and application of this method. Caring for specific groups of people, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers, and studying how to protect them in a global pandemic is a topic that global academia must study in the future, or we will lose protection the next time the virus sweeps the world. In addition, telemedicine is the trend in the future, and face-to-face diagnosis and treatment will undoubtedly increase the risk of cross-infection during the pandemic. Therefore, the development of telemedicine is an important way to avoid contact between the patients. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the research and development of telemedicine.

Limitations

(1) Though we have selected three databases for analysis, there are still some databases that may be related to this field that are not covered in this study. (2) Since COVID-19-related research was started just 2 years ago, the results of the bibliometric analysis may vary after adding new data. (3) The citation frequency of articles is influenced by the time of publication, thus previously published articles should be cited more frequently than new ones. (4) Bibliometric data change over time, and different conclusions may be drawn over time. Therefore, this study should be updated in the future.

Conclusions

The most mentioned keywords, in addition to COVID-19 and mental health, can be roughly divided into three categories: keywords representing specific groups of people, keywords describing influences and symptoms, and keywords related to public health policies. The most mentioned issues were about medical staff, quarantine, psychological symptoms, telemedicine, social media, and loneliness. Mild psychological symptoms, such as insomnia, depression, and anxiety, tend to decrease slowly, while severe ones, such as severe clinical insomnia, depression, and bipolar disorder, are yet to be discovered. The importance of studies on the protection of youth medical staff and telemedicine studies will become even more significant in the future. While physical health is threatened by the pandemic, human mental health also suffers. Judging from the current situation of pandemic prevention and control, if severe prevention and control measures are taken, the impact of COVID-19 on the health of the social population is controllable; if a strategy of coexistence with the virus is adopted, as long as a new deadly mutation of COVID-19 does not emerge, the outcomes can be controllable. However, the impact of the pandemic on human mental health is not easy to predict. In addition to the abovementioned papers on mental health, the author also noted that some papers focused on neuromedicine pointed out that the virus might have some damage to the normal working mechanism of the human nervous system, but these studies are outside the scope of mental health research, at least for now. This study aims to summarize the observations, analysis, and research of scholars on mental health during the pandemic from 2020 to early 2022, with a view to provide more clues for future researchers. We hope that more researchers will build on our research to discover new research areas and new questions to help more countries, groups, and individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Data Availability Statement

Author contributions.

YL was responsible for the concept and design, drafting this article, and bibliometric analysis. YL, LS, and XT were responsible for the revision and data collection. All authors contributed to this article and approved the submitted version.

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher's Note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the study participants for their time and effort.

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Mental health research paper topics

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Mental health research topics are becoming increasingly important in our society today. With the rise of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is essential for students to understand the causes and effects of these conditions. Researching mental health can help us prevent and treat these illnesses before it's not too late.

That's why our paper writers curated this list compiling mental health research paper topics and ideas spanning various aspects. From psychological disorders to the role of society in mental health and therapeutic strategies, we covered 250 top mental health topics to write about. So, if you’re looking for help on starting your next mental health project, this list will provide you with the best ideas.

What Are Mental Health Research Topics?

Mental health research topics focus on understanding the causes, effects, and treatment of mental illnesses. It is important for students to explore these topics as they can help us understand how psychological disorders develop. This, in turn, allows us to optimize our treatment strategies. Researching mental health can also help us form healthier habits and lifestyles that promote positive mental health.

Characteristics of Good Mental Health Research Topics

How well you understand the theme characteristics can either make or break your research project. That's why, before you choose any mental health research topic, it is important to consider the features that make it good. Make sure your research topic about mental health meets the criteria listed below:

  • Relevant Give preference to topic ideas that are relevant to the current trends in society.
  • Interesting Find a topic you can approach from various angles while maintaining your engagement in research.
  • Feasible Ensure that the idea can be researched in a reasonable amount of time.
  • Original Try to pick between original mental health research questions and take a unique approach when investigating a certain aspect.
  • Accessible Make sure you have access to enough resources and data to complete your research.

How to Choose a Mental Health Research Topic?

Narrowing down your choices can be an intimidating process. To make it easier for you, we’ve rendered some secrets that will help you select the right research topic about mental health:

  • Brainstorm Try to come up with as many ideas as possible by writing them out on paper or creating a mind map.
  • Analyze your ideas Once you have a list of mental health project ideas, analyze each one and decide which ones are more appropriate for your research.
  • Explore further Certain topics may require extra research before settling on them. Make sure to look for relevant studies and determine whether you have enough time to run your research.
  • Seek consultation Sometimes you may just miss out something important. Discuss your ideas with your peers, professors, or online research paper writers to get constructive feedback.
  • Refine After getting input from others, polish your research topic idea further before committing to it.

Hopefully, these tips  will help you select the best research topics on mental health and start your exploration on the right note. Let’s now move forward to the actual ideas.

List of Mental Health Research Paper Topics

Below you will find a unique collection of hot mental health research paper topics. Designed to inspire students, budding researchers, and knowledge seekers, this list of ideas will surely be helpful.

  • The impact of socioeconomic status on mental health conditions.
  • Exploring the role of social media in mental illness.
  • Analyze how trauma affects mental health.
  • Investigating stress management strategies for anxiety disorders.
  • Impact of sleep disorders on mental health.
  • Art therapy: A non-traditional approach to emotional health.
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health.
  • The role of genetics in mental health disorders.
  • Understanding the psychology of eating disorders.
  • The interplay of physical activity and mental health.
  • The psychological impact of chronic diseases.
  • Internet addiction and its psychological implications.
  • Comparative analysis of Western and Eastern mental health practices.
  • Suicide prevention strategies in youth.
  • The role of AI and technology in emotional health care.
  • A closer look at post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • The intersection of mental health and homelessness.
  • The efficacy of animal-assisted therapy in emotional wellbeing.
  • The role of culture in mental health treatment.
  • Exploring the link between mental illness and substance abuse.

Good Mental Health Research Topics

Below we’ve put together a list of good research topics about mental health worth your attention. Take a look and you may find the perfect topic to inspire your next project:

  • Nature vs. Nurture: The origins of emotional wellbeing disturbance.
  • Effectiveness of virtual therapy in treating depression.
  • Investigating anxiety management strategies through mindfulness.
  • Understanding the psychological effects of online harassment.
  • The growing mental health crisis in young adults.
  • Exploring the influence of family relationships on mental health.
  • Investigating the role of exercise in reducing stress.
  • How climate change influences emotional wellness.
  • Assessing the role of financial stress in psychological illness.
  • Examining the need for improving healthcare systems related to mental health.
  • The Influence of social media on teenage mental health.
  • Exploring the connection between mental illness and addiction.
  • Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in treating anxiety.
  • The impact of social isolation on mental wellness.
  • Understanding the impacts of racism on emotional wellbeing.

Interesting Mental Health Research Topics

Sometimes all you need is a spark of inspiration. If that’s the case for you, then take a look at these captivating topics about mental health:

  • Exploring the impacts of divorce on mental health.
  • Examining the role of good nutrition in emotional wellbeing.
  • An analysis of the impact of unemployment on mental illness.
  • Impact of taxation policies on emotional wellness.
  • Analyzing the role of online support groups in mental health care.
  • Investigating the stigma of mental health in universities.
  • The need for better communication strategies in treating psychological illness.
  • Analyze the impact of occupational stress on mental wellbeing.
  • Examine how social exclusion affects emotional wellness.
  • The growing need for mental health education in schools.
  • Understanding the importance of parental support for emotional stability.
  • The role of financial literacy in reducing psychological distress.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of aromatherapy for stress relief.
  • Analyzing the use of peer counseling in mental health care.
  • Exploring new technologies for mental health diagnosis.

Unique Mental Health Research Topics

Ready for something more authentic? Take a look at these research paper topics about mental health and give them your best shot:

  • Examining the need for gender-sensitive mental health care.
  • Exploring the impacts of physical disability on emotional wellbeing.
  • The use of digital technology for mental health awareness.
  • Analyzing the impact of video gaming on psychological health.
  • Exploring the efficacy of yoga and meditation in treating depression.
  • The importance of early identification and treatment of mental illness.
  • Examining the need for mental health support among LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Are alternative therapies effective in treating distress?
  • Exploring the links between pet ownership and emotional stability.
  • Use of music therapy in treating anxiety disorders.
  • Exploring the psychological effects of noise pollution.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of online forums in emotional health therapy.
  • Examining the impacts of aging on mental health.
  • How does cognitive restructuring benefit emotional wellbeing?
  • The role of herbal remedies in managing psychological distress.

Best Mental Health Research Topics

Are you looking for the very best mental health topics for research papers or projects? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at these amazing ideas to get inspired:

  • The need for social acceptance in treating psychological disorders.
  • How do friendships help in managing stress?
  • How can virtual reality be used in mental health care?
  • How does religion impact psychological well being?
  • How economic policies affect psychological stability?
  • Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on global mental health.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder in military personnel.
  • Cyberbullying and its effect on adolescent peace of mind.
  • Benefits and challenges of teletherapy in emotional stability recovery.
  • Understanding and managing self-harm behaviors.
  • Examining the need for mental health support at the workplace.
  • Exploring the relationship between sleep deprivation and mental health.
  • Negative impact of toxic relationships on emotional wellness.
  • Importance of creating a supportive environment for psychological well being.
  • Benefits of self-care for emotional wellness.

Controversial Mental Health Research Topics

The mental health research topics below are sure to spark some debate. If you’re browsing for debatable argumentative paper topics or project on mental health, take a look at these themes:

  • Investigating the role of propaganda in creating mental health stigmas.
  • Exploring the impact of false news and its influence on mental wellbeing.
  • The need for mental health awareness campaigns in the media.
  • Medical marijuana and emotional stability: beneficial or harmful?
  • Forced hospitalization in psychiatry: necessity or violation of rights?
  • Is suicide representation in media preventive or harmful?
  • The "Anti-Vax" Movement's impact on public mental health.
  • The use of electroconvulsive therapy in modern psychiatry.
  • Does ADHD overdiagnosis contribute to misunderstood child behavior?
  • Are personality disorders just extreme versions of normal personality traits?
  • Is there a connection between mental health and gun control laws?
  • The validity of self-diagnosis in mental health: empowering or harmful?
  • Controversy over the DSM-5's expanding definition of mental illness.
  • How does political instability affect emotional wellbeing?
  • Investigating the effectiveness of government policies in mental health care.

Research Questions About Mental Health

Mental health research questions are key in helping you focus on the right topics when writing a dissertation or any other capstone project. Here are a few examples to get started:

  • How do parenting styles affect children’s emotional stability?
  • How does a positive self-image contribute to mental health resilience?
  • Can a supportive community significantly mitigate the symptoms of mental disorders?
  • Is there a correlation between high academic pressure and mental health disorders in students?
  • How can workplace policies be improved to better support employee wellbeing?
  • How does exposure to nature influence mental well-being?
  • How do personal belief systems and religion influence attitudes towards psychiatric disorders?
  • Can implementing a regular digital detox improve the state of mind?
  • How do life-changing events, such as migration or job loss, impact our emotional health?
  • What role do hormones play in mood disorders?
  • What are the psychological effects of long-term unemployment?
  • How does grief affect mental health, and how can it be managed effectively?
  • How does living in an urban vs. rural environment impact emotional health?
  • How do microaggressions in daily life contribute to stress and mental health disorders?
  • What is the impact of gender identity and sexual orientation on emotional wellbeing?

>> View more: Medical Research Paper Topics

Mental Health Research Topic Ideas for Students

Covering a broad spectrum of themes, our list aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the multidimensional aspects of mental health. These mental health topics for students can foster critical thinking and bring about scholarly conversations.

Mental Health Research Topics for High School

Hover over these interesting mental health research topics for high school students to find a fitting idea.

  • The influence of social media on teen mental health.
  • How does school environment influence a student's state of mind?
  • The role of peer pressure in psychiatric issues among teens.
  • The psychological impact of body image and self-esteem issues.
  • Mental health implications of academic stress and burnout.
  • The role of counseling in schools for mental health support.
  • Understanding eating disorders in adolescence.
  • The impact of parental emotional stability on adolescents.
  • What are the most effective ways of reducing student stress and anxiety?
  • Can social media platforms be used to promote positive mental health messages?
  • How can parents identify childhood depression and anxiety in their children?
  • Enhancing social and emotional skills in high school students.
  • Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques for high school students.
  • How does physical activity impact mental health in teenagers?

Mental Health Research Topics for College Students

Take a look at this collection of research paper topics on mental health for college students to find the one that suits your needs.

  • The impact of chronic stress on physical and psychological health.
  • Addressing mental illness stigma among university students.
  • What are the most effective methods for reducing anxiety in college students?
  • Examining the effectiveness of psychotherapeutic interventions for mental health disorders.
  • Risk factors and triggers that contribute to depression in higher education settings.
  • Exploring the relationship between academic performance and psychological health.
  • The influence of online communication on student’s emotional wellbeing.
  • How can university professors promote mental health awareness among their students?
  • Benefits of cognitive behavior therapy for college students.
  • What are the most effective ways to prevent suicidal ideation in college students?
  • Role-playing games as a therapeutic approach to emotional disorders.
  • Intersectional approaches to mental health: gender, race and ethnicity.
  • The link between drug and alcohol abuse and psychiatric disorder.
  • Does cultural awareness influence the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders?
  • Investigating the role of technology in deteriorating mental health among young people.

Mental Health Research Topics and Ideas Worth Considering

Here, you'll find worthy research paper ideas on mental health focusing on different aspects. From understanding how our minds and bodies connect, to looking at the impact of society, and even studying new therapies, we've got a range of mental health research ideas for you.

Mental Illness Research Paper Topics

This selection covers an array of mental illness ideas focusing on various disorders, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options. They are ideal for students and researchers looking to broaden their knowledge.

  • How complex is dissociative identity disorder and what factors contribute to its development?
  • What role does trauma play in the development of borderline personality disorder?
  • What are the implications of long-term antidepressant use in major depressive disorder?
  • How do psychiatric service dogs impact the management of post-traumatic stress disorder?
  • Which psychotherapeutic approaches are effective in managing schizophrenia?
  • Does eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) effectively treat trauma?
  • How does family therapy contribute to the management of anorexia nervosa?
  • What are the neuroscientific insights into bipolar disorder?
  • How do socioeconomic factors influence major depressive disorder?
  • What are the mechanisms behind selective mutism in children?
  • To what extent does genetics contribute to autism spectrum disorder?
  • Psychodynamics of narcissistic personality disorder.
  • Implications of stigma in the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia.
  • Is there a link between childhood abuse and dissociative disorders that warrants exploration?
  • What impact does neurofeedback training have on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Research Topics on Mental Health Counseling

This collection of research topics for mental health focuses on the various aspects of counseling, from psychological theories to practical approaches.

  • How important is cultural sensitivity in therapy and its impact on treatment outcomes?
  • What ethical dilemmas arise in therapy, particularly concerning privacy and confidentiality?
  • What is the role of positive psychology in therapeutic practices and its impact on well-being?
  • Does therapists' mental health influence the outcomes of their clients?
  • What are the methods and benefits of group therapy?
  • Can cognitive behavioral therapy effectively manage panic disorders?
  • Why is self-care important for therapists and how does it impact their work?
  • How does counselor bias affect mental health therapy outcomes?
  • The use of dialectical behavior therapy in addressing emotional instability.
  • How does play therapy support children's mental health?
  • What are the unique challenges in providing therapy for veterans with PTSD?
  • Can family systems therapy serve as a panacea for family-related issues?
  • How effective is grief counseling in helping individuals cope with bereavement?
  • What is the power of storytelling in emotional health care and its impact?
  • How effective is solution-focused brief therapy in achieving quick emotional recovery?

Young Mothers Mental Health Research Topics

This selection of research ideas about mental health covers how young mothers navigate the physical, psychological and social changes.

  • What are the unique mental health challenges faced by teenage mothers?
  • How does postpartum depression impact parenting and mother-child bond?
  • The effects of poverty on young maternal mental health.
  • Examining the effects of early adolescent pregnancy on social relationships.
  • What coping strategies can be used to address stress among young mothers?
  • Can breastfeeding serve as a protective factor against postpartum depression?
  • The correlation between exercise and mental health among young mothers.
  • What role do support networks play in assisting young mothers to access mental health services?
  • How does becoming a mother affect the identity of teenage girls?
  • Exploring the link between single parenthood and adolescent mental health.
  • What psychological interventions are effective in improving the mental health of young mothers?
  • What role does childcare play in supporting mental wellbeing among young mothers
  • Investigating the link between socioeconomic status and maternal depression among teenage mothers.
  • What role does health education play in improving the mental health of young mothers?
  • Are there any long-term effects of postpartum depression on child development?

Research Topics in Mental Health Nursing

Are you looking for good research topics on mental health nursing? Don't miss out on these ideas. Below you will find an idea or two in this direction.

  • How does nurse-patient relationships impact mental health recovery?
  • What is the role of psychiatric nurses in de-escalating crisis situations?
  • Ethical dilemmas faced by mental health nurses.
  • Stress and burnout among mental health nurses: Causes and coping strategies.
  • Are mental health nursing interventions effective for patients with PTSD?
  • Psychiatric nurses' role in managing patients with dual diagnosis.
  • Enhancing communication skills in mental health nursing.
  • Mental health nursing practices in pediatric care.
  • The role of nurses in suicide prevention and postvention.
  • Challenges in providing culturally sensitive care in mental health nursing.
  • The impact of mental health nurses in reducing hospital readmission rates.
  • The integration of telepsychiatry into nursing practice.
  • Training needs and professional development for nurses.
  • The efficacy of trauma-informed care in nursing.
  • Transition challenges for mental health nurses from inpatient to community care.

>> Read more: Nursing Research Topics

Mental Health Law Research Topics

Are you searching for some interesting research topics in mental health law? Here are a few ideas that could help you narrow down your focus.

  • The implications of involuntary commitment laws on civil rights.
  • Should mental health treatment be legally mandated for those deemed dangerous?
  • What are the legal safeguards when interpreting informed consent in psychiatric hospitals?
  • How can legal systems address violence risk assessment and management?
  • Exploring the ethical dilemmas behind forced medication in a psychiatric hospital.
  • Should involuntary commitment laws be amended to include substance use disorders?
  • What role does the Mental Health Act play in safeguarding the rights of patients?
  • Can therapeutic jurisprudence provide a viable solution for mental health law reform?
  • The implications of the Mental Capacity Act on decision-making and autonomy.
  • Analysis of consent capacity assessments in mental health law.
  • The role of civil commitment laws in improving access to treatment and care.
  • Mental health law provisions for those with chronic or terminal illnesses.
  • How does criminal justice reform help reduce the number of mentally ill inmates?
  • What are the legal considerations for ensuring patient confidentiality in mental health?
  • Does the Mental Health Act adequately protect the rights of young adults?

>> Read more: Legal Research Paper Topics

Mental Health Research Topics on Behavioral Issues

If you're browsing for mental health topics to research behavioral issues, here are a few titles that could help get you started.

  • The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.
  • Exploring the link between impulsivity and depression.
  • How does stress-coping impact emotion regulation abilities?
  • Examining the impact of cognitive distortions on behavioral responses.
  • The role of metacognition in addressing anxiety and depression.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of anger management interventions.
  • The impact of social media on self-esteem and behavior.
  • How can parents encourage healthy coping strategies in children?
  • Examining the role of reward systems for enhancing motivation.
  • How do family dynamics influence behavior problems?
  • The implications of trauma on behavior and emotion regulation.
  • Exploring the link between sleep habits and behavior problems.
  • Can mindfulness be an effective tool to reduce aggressive behavior?
  • What strategies can be used to manage impulsivity?
  • Can virtual reality serve as a cognitive-behavioral therapy tool?

Extra Mental Health Research Topics

The following list features unique research topic ideas on mental health that are less explored but equally important. Whether you're seasoned or a beginner in mental health research, these ideas are sure to spark engaging conversations and deepen your understanding. So, let's dive in and explore these intriguing aspects in this direction together.

Psychiatry Research Topics

The collection below spotlights a wide range of subjects, from understanding psychiatric disorders to exploring advanced treatment methods. It's an excellent resource for anyone interested in diving deeper into this intriguing medical specialty. Get ready to immerse yourself in these psychiatric research topics and contribute to the field.

  • The effects of combining psychotherapy with medication for the treatment of depression.
  • Exploring the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating bipolar disorder.
  • What role do genetics play in the development of schizophrenia?
  • Examining the long-term impact of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
  • The use of psychedelic drugs in the treatment of mental illness.
  • Can mindfulness be an effective tool for treating anxiety?
  • The efficacy of virtual reality (VR) therapy in treating phobias.
  • What role do diet and nutrition play in managing psychiatric disorders?
  • The use of telepsychiatry to improve access to care.
  • How do brain activity and behavior interact in psychiatric disorders?
  • Exploring the role of technology in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.
  • What is the role of childcare in supporting mental wellbeing among young mothers?
  • How does early childhood development influence mental health later in life?
  • The importance of social connectedness for psychological well being.
  • Exploring how cultural beliefs and practices influence mental health.

>> Read more: Psychology Research Paper Topics

Research Topics on Mental Disorder

This list of research topics regarding mental health disorders provides an exciting opportunity to explore the underlying causes, symptoms, and treatments for a wide range of psychological issues. Let's take a closer look at these compelling research topics in mental health.

  • What are the risk factors and warning signs of bipolar disorder?
  • How can family therapy be used to support children with autism?
  • Exploring differences in diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia between men and women.
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
  • Examining the impact of trauma on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • What role do environmental factors play in determining vulnerability to depression?
  • Neuroimaging research on schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.
  • Can virtual reality (VR) therapy be used to treat anxiety disorders?
  • Identifying the most effective psychotherapeutic approaches for treating borderline personality disorder.
  • Analysis of the role of medication in treating eating disorders.
  • The effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in managing gambling addiction.
  • Exploring the use of music therapy for symptoms of psychosis.
  • What are the best practices for supporting individuals with dissociative identity disorder?
  • What role does lifestyle play in managing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
  • The potential of exercise and nutrition in preventing dementia.

Bottom Line on Research Topics About Mental Health

We did our best to provide you with exciting mental health research topics. No matter which topic you choose, make sure it resonates with your interests and provides new insights. Once you select a fitting idea, make sure to check how to write a research paper to nail your task.

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Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Research Paper Topics

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This page provides a comprehensive list of psychiatric-mental health nursing research paper topics , which serves as a crucial resource for nursing students assigned to write research papers. The field of psychiatric-mental health nursing is vast, encompassing a wide variety of topics related to mental health care. This extensive list has been carefully curated to include a diverse range of topics divided into ten distinct categories, making it easier for students to find a subject of interest and relevance to their studies. In addition to the list of topics, the page also includes a detailed article discussing the significance of psychiatric-mental health nursing and the various aspects it covers. Additionally, the page offers information on iResearchNet’s writing services, providing an opportunity for students to order custom-written research papers if needed. Ultimately, this page serves as a one-stop resource for students, aiding them in selecting a topic, understanding the importance of psychiatric-mental health nursing, and, if necessary, ordering a custom research paper.

100 Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Research Paper Topics

The field of psychiatric-mental health nursing is incredibly diverse, providing a wide range of research opportunities. Understanding the various aspects of psychiatric-mental health nursing is crucial for providing comprehensive care to patients with mental health issues. This section provides a comprehensive list of psychiatric-mental health nursing research paper topics, categorized into ten different areas of focus. These topics are carefully selected to cover the most pertinent issues and trends in the field, encouraging students to explore and contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

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Understanding Mental Health Disorders

  • The role of genetic factors in the development of schizophrenia.
  • The impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health.
  • The relationship between anxiety disorders and cardiovascular diseases.
  • The link between depression and chronic pain.
  • The effect of sleep disorders on mental health.
  • The role of nutrition in managing mental health disorders.
  • The impact of substance abuse on mental health.
  • The relationship between personality disorders and criminal behavior.
  • The role of social support in managing bipolar disorder.
  • The impact of post-traumatic stress disorder on quality of life.

Psychopharmacology in Mental Health Nursing

  • The effectiveness of antidepressants in managing major depressive disorder.
  • The side effects of antipsychotic medications.
  • The role of mood stabilizers in managing bipolar disorder.
  • The impact of benzodiazepines on cognitive function.
  • The effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in managing anxiety disorders.
  • The role of psychostimulants in managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • The impact of medication adherence on treatment outcomes in schizophrenia.
  • The role of pharmacogenomics in personalized treatment of mental health disorders.
  • The effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy in treatment-resistant depression.
  • The impact of polypharmacy on treatment outcomes in elderly patients with mental health disorders.

Therapeutic Communication in Mental Health Nursing

  • The impact of therapeutic communication on patient outcomes in mental health care.
  • The role of non-verbal communication in building therapeutic relationships with patients.
  • The effectiveness of motivational interviewing in substance abuse treatment.
  • The impact of active listening on patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment.
  • The role of empathy in mental health nursing.
  • The effectiveness of group therapy in managing social anxiety disorder.
  • The impact of family therapy on the mental health of adolescents.
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in managing depression.
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy in managing borderline personality disorder.
  • The impact of psychoeducation on the management of schizophrenia.

Mental Health Promotion and Prevention

  • The role of school-based mental health programs in preventing adolescent depression.
  • The effectiveness of community-based mental health promotion programs.
  • The impact of workplace mental health promotion programs on employee well-being.
  • The role of physical activity in preventing mental health disorders.
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction in preventing anxiety and depression.
  • The impact of social support on the prevention of mental health disorders.
  • The role of early intervention programs in preventing the development of psychosis.
  • The effectiveness of suicide prevention programs in reducing suicide rates.
  • The impact of anti-stigma campaigns on public attitudes towards mental health.
  • The role of primary care providers in mental health promotion and prevention.

Legal and Ethical Issues in Mental Health Nursing

  • The impact of involuntary hospitalization on the mental health of patients.
  • The role of advanced directives in mental health care.
  • The effectiveness of mental health courts in reducing recidivism rates.
  • The impact of confidentiality breaches on the therapeutic relationship.
  • The role of informed consent in mental health care.
  • The effectiveness of restraint and seclusion in managing aggressive behavior.
  • The impact of medication refusal on treatment outcomes.
  • The role of ethics committees in resolving ethical dilemmas in mental health care.
  • The effectiveness of de-escalation techniques in managing aggressive behavior.
  • The impact of legal and ethical issues on the role of the mental health nurse.

Mental Health Nursing Across the Lifespan

  • The impact of developmental stages on the mental health of individuals.
  • The role of mental health nursing in the care of children and adolescents.
  • The effectiveness of mental health interventions for older adults.
  • The impact of life transitions on mental health.
  • The role of mental health nursing in the care of pregnant and postpartum women.
  • The effectiveness of mental health interventions for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
  • The impact of aging on mental health.
  • The role of mental health nursing in the care of individuals with dementia.
  • The effectiveness of mental health interventions for adolescents with eating disorders.
  • The impact of end-of-life care on the mental health of patients and their families.

Cultural Competence in Mental Health Nursing

  • The impact of cultural competence on patient satisfaction and outcomes in mental health care.
  • The role of cultural competence in building therapeutic relationships with patients from diverse backgrounds.
  • The effectiveness of culturally tailored interventions in managing mental health disorders.
  • The impact of language barriers on access to mental health care.
  • The role of cultural competence in the assessment and diagnosis of mental health disorders.
  • The effectiveness of cultural competence training for mental health professionals.
  • The impact of cultural beliefs and practices on mental health.
  • The role of cultural competence in the prevention of mental health disorders.
  • The effectiveness of culturally adapted cognitive-behavioral therapy in managing depression.
  • The impact of cultural competence on the delivery of mental health services to immigrant and refugee populations.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing in Various Settings

  • The role of mental health nursing in primary care settings.
  • The effectiveness of mental health nursing interventions in acute care settings.
  • The impact of mental health nursing on patient outcomes in long-term care settings.
  • The role of mental health nursing in community mental health services.
  • The effectiveness of mental health nursing interventions in correctional facilities.
  • The impact of mental health nursing on patient outcomes in home health care.
  • The role of mental health nursing in school-based mental health services.
  • The effectiveness of mental health nursing interventions in emergency departments.
  • The impact of mental health nursing on patient outcomes in psychiatric hospitals.
  • The role of mental health nursing in substance abuse treatment centers.

Technological Advances in Mental Health Nursing

  • The impact of telepsychiatry on access to mental health care in rural areas.
  • The role of electronic health records in improving the quality of mental health care.
  • The effectiveness of online support groups in managing mental health disorders.
  • The impact of mobile applications on medication adherence in patients with mental health disorders.
  • The role of virtual reality in the treatment of phobias.
  • The effectiveness of online cognitive-behavioral therapy in managing anxiety disorders.
  • The impact of teletherapy on patient satisfaction and outcomes in mental health care.
  • The role of technology in enhancing communication between mental health professionals and patients.
  • The effectiveness of online psychoeducation in the management of bipolar disorder.
  • The impact of technology on the role of the mental health nurse.

Emerging Trends in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing

  • The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of healthcare workers.
  • The role of psychiatric-mental health nurses in addressing the opioid crisis.
  • The effectiveness of trauma-informed care in managing post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • The impact of the integration of mental health and primary care services on patient outcomes.
  • The role of psychiatric-mental health nurses in addressing the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ populations.
  • The effectiveness of peer support in the management of mental health disorders.
  • The impact of climate change on mental health.
  • The role of psychiatric-mental health nurses in addressing the mental health needs of immigrant and refugee populations.
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in managing stress and burnout among mental health professionals.
  • The impact of social media on mental health.

The psychiatric-mental health nursing field offers a vast array of research opportunities, as evident from the extensive list of topics provided above. These topics encompass various aspects of mental health care, from understanding mental health disorders to exploring the ethical and legal considerations in psychiatric-mental health nursing. It is crucial for students and professionals in the field to engage in research to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and improvement of mental health care. This list of psychiatric-mental health nursing research paper topics serves as a starting point for students to explore and contribute to this vital field of nursing.

The Range of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Research Paper Topics

Psychiatric-mental health nursing is a specialized field of nursing that is dedicated to promoting mental health through the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders and conditions. This field of nursing is incredibly important, as mental health disorders are prevalent and can have a significant impact on individuals’ overall health and well-being. According to the World Health Organization, approximately one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. This staggering statistic underscores the critical need for skilled psychiatric-mental health nurses who can provide comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals with mental health needs.

The significance of psychiatric-mental health nursing is multifaceted. First and foremost, psychiatric-mental health nurses play a crucial role in providing care and support to individuals with mental health disorders. They are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking help for mental health issues and play a key role in the assessment and diagnosis of mental health disorders. Psychiatric-mental health nurses also develop and implement treatment plans, provide psychoeducation to patients and their families, and offer support and counseling. Additionally, they play a vital role in crisis intervention and the management of acute mental health episodes.

Furthermore, psychiatric-mental health nurses also play a critical role in promoting mental health and preventing mental health disorders. They work in a variety of settings, including community mental health centers, schools, and primary care clinics, where they provide mental health education and promote strategies for maintaining good mental health. Additionally, psychiatric-mental health nurses often work in interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, to provide comprehensive care to individuals with mental health needs.

Various aspects of psychiatric-mental health nursing offer a wide range of psychiatric-mental health nursing research paper topics. One critical area of focus is mental health assessment. This involves the evaluation of an individual’s mental health status through the use of various assessment tools and techniques. Research in this area might explore the validity and reliability of different mental health assessment tools, the impact of cultural differences on mental health assessment, or the development of new assessment tools and techniques.

Another important aspect of psychiatric-mental health nursing is treatment and intervention strategies. This encompasses a wide range of approaches, from psychopharmacology to psychotherapy to lifestyle interventions. Psychiatric-mental health nursing research paper topics in this area might include the effectiveness of different treatment approaches for specific mental health disorders, the impact of treatment adherence on treatment outcomes, or the development of new intervention strategies.

The role of the psychiatric-mental health nurse is another crucial aspect of this field. Psychiatric-mental health nurses have a unique set of skills and competencies that enable them to provide comprehensive care to individuals with mental health needs. Research topics in this area might explore the impact of nurse-patient relationships on treatment outcomes, the role of psychiatric-mental health nurses in interdisciplinary teams, or the development of new competencies and skills for psychiatric-mental health nurses.

In addition to these areas, there are many other aspects of psychiatric-mental health nursing that offer a wealth of research opportunities. For example, legal and ethical issues in psychiatric-mental health nursing, the role of technology in mental health care, and the mental health needs of specific populations, such as the elderly, children, or individuals with co-occurring disorders, are all important areas of focus.

Overall, the field of psychiatric-mental health nursing offers a wide range of research opportunities. From mental health assessment to treatment and intervention strategies to the role of the psychiatric-mental health nurse, there are numerous psychiatric-mental health nursing research paper topics to explore. Engaging in research in this field is crucial for the advancement of knowledge and the improvement of mental health care for individuals around the world.

In conclusion, psychiatric-mental health nursing is a vital field that plays a crucial role in promoting mental health and providing care and support to individuals with mental health needs. The various aspects of psychiatric-mental health nursing offer a wide range of psychiatric-mental health nursing research paper topics, from mental health assessment to treatment and intervention strategies to the role of the psychiatric-mental health nurse. Engaging in research in this field is essential for advancing knowledge and improving mental health care worldwide.

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Submitting a high-quality research paper is crucial for your academic success. It demonstrates your understanding of the subject matter, your ability to conduct thorough research, and your skill in organizing and presenting information in a clear and coherent manner. A well-crafted research paper can significantly impact your final grade and your future career prospects in the field of psychiatric-mental health nursing. Don’t take chances with your academic and professional future. Trust iResearchNet to provide you with the top-quality research paper you need to succeed.

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Trending mental health topics and research findings 2022

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The year 2022 is coming to an end, and what a great year it has been. And as we look back, there have been many discussions and discoveries in the world of mental health that we should ideally get up to speed with. Whether you are a teen, middle-aged or older adult, healthy or unhealthy, being aware of these mental health discussions can help you position yourself for a healthier future.

In this article, we highlight some recent mental health topics of 2022 that are relevant to everyone, whether you’re battling a mental health condition, trying to stay healthy, or looking to offer better mental health care to your patients.

Mental health topics for discussion

Below are some current mental health topics that are receiving a lot of attention and research:

1.      The impact of social media and technology on mental health

There is growing concern about the impact of social media and technology on mental health, particularly among young people. Research is being conducted on how technology may alleviate and contribute to issues such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation.

Click to learn more:

Social Media and Teen Mental Health

Social media may help teens cope with stress

Social Media Breaks May be Incredibly Beneficial to Mental Health

2.      The role of genetics in mental health

There is increasing evidence that genetics can play a role in the development of mental health conditions. Researchers are working to understand the specific genes and developmental variations that may be involved in mental health conditions and how these can be used to develop better treatments.

Schizophrenia treatment: symptoms linked with an overactive brain

Clues to Treating Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder Discovered

How Brain Cell Development Influences Risk of Psychiatric Disorders

3.      The use of technology in mental health treatment

There is growing interest in the use of technology to deliver mental health treatment, including teletherapy and the use of apps to manage mental health symptoms. Researchers are studying the effectiveness of these approaches and how they can be used to reach more people in need of mental health care.

Telehealth Keeps Mental Health Patients on the Road to Recovery

Digital Solutions Effective for Reducing Signs of Depression

4.      The impact of trauma and adversity on mental health

Researchers are studying how trauma and adversity, including exposure to violence, abuse, or other traumatic events, can affect mental health. This research is helping to inform the development of better treatments for people who have experienced trauma.

Childhood trauma can triple one's risk of mental illness

Trauma may lead to anxiety and other mental disorders

Sibling Bullying and Mental Health

5.      The intersection of mental health and physical health

There is growing recognition of the close connection between physical and mental health. Researchers are studying the ways in which physical health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, can affect mental health and vice versa.

The Link between Chronic Diseases and Mental Health

The Connection Between Heart Disease and Psychiatric Disorders

Serious mental illnesses increase heart disease risks at younger ages

Depression in Cancer Patients: Where Cancer and Depression Meet

Risk of Death Increases in Patients with both Cardiovascular and Psychiatric Diseases

Type 2 Diabetes and Mental Health: The Link

Body Image Related to Mental Health in Teens

6.      Non-opioid treatment for pain

There is growing research on how to treat pain without opioids, knowing the addictive effect the drug has on some patients. Most interestingly, sound itself can suppress pain, and researchers have discovered how it works. Perhaps, they can tap into the knowledge to develop better and safer treatments for pain.

Sound can suppress pain: new research shows how

Non-addictive pain medicine: non-opioid treatment for pain

Satu H. Woodland, PMHCNS-BC, APRN

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Physical Culture for Mental Health

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A research agenda for mental health in sub-Saharan Africa

  • Tholene Sodi   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-7592-5145 1 ,
  • Melanie Abas 2 ,
  • Mohammed Abdulaziz 3 ,
  • Action Amos 4 , 5 ,
  • Rochelle A. Burgess 6 , 7 ,
  • Charlotte Hanlon   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-7937-3226 8 , 9 ,
  • Adelard Kakunze 3 ,
  • Lily Kpobi   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-7074-5804 10 ,
  • Crick Lund 8 , 11 ,
  • Kibachio J. Mwangi 12 ,
  • Victoria Mutiso 13 ,
  • Charlene Sunkel 14 ,
  • Peter Yaro   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6977-6550 15 &
  • Louise Arseneault 16  

Nature Medicine ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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As with other parts of the world, African countries are dealing with the repercussions of rising rates of mental health conditions , especially among young people 1 . Countries in sub-Saharan Africa have limited financial resources to address these challenges while facing other pressing priorities such as food insecurity and malnutrition, rapid urbanization, infectious disease outbreaks and prolonged conflicts 2 . Mental health research continues to be underfunded and mental health services are a neglected aspect of healthcare throughout the continent.

A 2-day workshop was initiated jointly by the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) and the UK Academy of Medical Sciences (AMS) to explore the development of a strategic research agenda in this area, with a focus on life course and multisectoral approaches to mental health research and interventions. This event brought together mental health researchers, policymakers, implementers and people with lived experience of mental health conditions from many parts of Africa and beyond. This initiative was rooted in two previous international meetings addressing sustainable development and social determinants of mental health in low- and middle-income countries.

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COVID-10 Mental Disorders Collaborators. Lancet 398 , 1700–1712 (2021).

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United Nations. The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2022 https://bit.ly/494Zs3o (2022).

Chibanda, D. et al. Lancet Psychiatry 8 , 553–555 (2021).

Article   PubMed   Google Scholar  

MacDougall, A. G. et al. Int. J. Ment. Health 51 , 32–60 (2022).

Africa CDC. Non-Communicable Diseases, Injuries Prevention and Control, and Mental Health Promotion Strategy (2022–2026) https://bit.ly/3wecfla (2022).

The Academy of Medical Sciences. Advancing Multisectoral and Life-Course Approaches in Mental Health Research: Workshop Report https://bit.ly/42p9nOB (2022).

Lund, C. et al. Lancet Psychiatry 5 , 357–369 (2018).

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Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful to the Academy of Science of South Africa and the UK Academy of Medical Sciences for organizing the workshop.

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SAMRC-DSI/NRF-UL Research Chair in Mental Health and Society, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, South Africa

Tholene Sodi

Health Services and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK

Melanie Abas

Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Mohammed Abdulaziz & Adelard Kakunze

Pan African Network of Persons with Psychosocial Disabilities Uganda, Kampala, Uganda

Action Amos

Centre for Clinical Brain Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK

UCL Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK

Rochelle A. Burgess

Department of Social Work, Community Development, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK

Charlotte Hanlon & Crick Lund

Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Charlotte Hanlon

Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana

Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa

World Health Organization South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa

Kibachio J. Mwangi

Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya

Victoria Mutiso

Global Mental Health Peer Network, Paarl, South Africa

Charlene Sunkel

BasicNeeds-Ghana, Tamale, Ghana

Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK

Louise Arseneault

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Sodi, T., Abas, M., Abdulaziz, M. et al. A research agenda for mental health in sub-Saharan Africa. Nat Med (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-023-02779-6

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What New Love Does to Your Brain

Roses are red, violets are blue. Romance can really mess with you.

An illustration of two heads facing each other; flowers grow out of the heads and they join together in the middle.

By Dana G. Smith

New love can consume our thoughts, supercharge our emotions and, on occasion, cause us to act out of character.

“People pine for love, they live for love, they kill for love and they die for love,” said Helen Fisher, a senior research fellow at the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University. “It’s one of the most powerful brain systems the human animal has ever evolved.”

Scientists have studied what is happening in our brains when we are in those early, heady days of infatuation, and whether it can actually alter how we think and what we do. Their findings suggest that song lyrics and dramatic plotlines don’t overstate it: New love can mess with our heads.

Experts define “romantic love” as a connection deeper than lust, but distinct from the attachment associated with a long-term partnership. In a few of the small studies that have examined this googly-eyed state, researchers put people in the early stages of a romantic relationship (typically less than a year) in M.R.I. scanners to see what was happening in their brains while they looked at pictures of their paramours. They found that the participants showed increased activity in areas of the brain that are rich in the neurochemical dopamine and control feelings of wanting and desire. These regions are also activated by drugs like cocaine, leading some experts to liken love to a sort of “ natural addiction .”

Studies on prairie voles (yes, you read that right) back up these findings. The rodents are one of the few mammal species that mate for life, so researchers sometimes use them as a scientific model for human partnerships. Studies show that when these animals pair up, the brain’s reward system is similarly activated, triggering the release of dopamine.

“Romantic love does not emanate from your cerebral cortex, where you do your thinking; it does not emanate from the brain regions in the middle of your head, linked with the limbic areas, linked with emotions,” said Dr. Fisher, who conducted one of the first human studies on the topic and, along with her role at the Kinsey Institute, is the chief science adviser to Match.com. “It’s based in the brain regions linked with drive, with focus, with motivation.”

This type of dopamine activity may explain why, in the early stages of love, you have the irresistible urge to be with your beloved constantly — what the addiction literature calls “craving.” Indeed, preliminary research conducted by Sandra Langeslag, an associate professor in behavioral neuroscience at the University of Missouri, St. Louis, suggests that some people crave their lover like they crave a drug.

In one of the few studies to directly compare love and addiction, which is still ongoing and has not yet been published, Dr. Langeslag showed 10 people who vaped nicotine either pictures of their lover or pictures of other people vaping (a classic experiment used to invoke craving). The participants ranked their desire to be with their partner higher than their desire to vape.

Other research by Dr. Langeslag’s lab looked at the single-mindedness of love — of being unable to think about anything besides your paramour. In a series of small studies on people in the throes of new love, Dr. Langeslag found that participants reported thinking about the object of their desire roughly 65 percent of their waking hours and said they had trouble focusing on unrelated topics. However, when people were prompted with information related to their beloved, they showed increased attention and had enhanced memory .

There is also some evidence that love can render people oblivious to a new partner’s faults — the “love is blind” phenomenon. Lucy Brown, a professor of neuroscience at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, found that when some study participants were shown pictures of their lover early in a relationship, they had less activity in a part of the prefrontal cortex that is important for decision-making and evaluating others. The findings suggest that we might “suspend negative judgments of the person we’re in love with,” she said.

If love can alter our motivation and attention, perhaps it’s no surprise that people sometimes go to extremes when they’re in its thrall. But giving into your obsession with your lover isn’t necessarily “irrational” behavior, at least from an evolutionary perspective, Dr. Langeslag said.

Scientists believe humans evolved to have these types of responses — which seem to be consistent across age, gender and culture — because bonding and mating are essential for the survival of the species.

“Romantic love is a drive,” Dr. Fisher said. “It’s a basic mating drive that evolved millions of years ago to send your DNA onto tomorrow. And it can overlook just about anything.”

Dana G. Smith is a Times reporter covering personal health, particularly aging and brain health. More about Dana G. Smith

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This paper is in the following e-collection/theme issue:

Published on 19.2.2024 in Vol 11 (2024)

HealthySMS Text Messaging System Adjunct to Adolescent Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the Context of COVID-19 (Let’s Text!): Pilot Feasibility and Acceptability Study

Authors of this article:

Author Orcid Image

Original Paper

  • Lauren M Haack 1 , PhD   ; 
  • Courtney C Armstrong 1 , BSc   ; 
  • Kate Travis 1 , MD   ; 
  • Adrian Aguilera 1, 2 , PhD   ; 
  • Sabrina M Darrow 1 , PhD  

1 Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States

2 School of Social Welfare, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States

Corresponding Author:

Lauren M Haack, PhD

Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

University of California San Francisco

675 18th Street

San Francisco, CA, 94107

United States

Phone: 1 415 502 8060

Email: [email protected]

Background: The widespread occurrence and devastating impact of adolescent depression warrant health service research focused on feasible and acceptable digital health tools to supplement evidence-based intervention (EBI) efforts, particularly in the context of shelter-in-place guidelines disrupting youth socialization and service use in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the promise of SMS text message interventions to enhance EBI engagement, our team developed the HealthySMS system as an adjunct to one of the most empirically supported interventions for adolescent depression: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group services. The system sends daily SMS text messages requesting responses assessing mood, thoughts, and activities; weekly attendance reminder messages; daily tips about adherence (eg, a prompt for activity completion); and personalized responses based on participants’ texts.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of HealthySMS in a real-world setting and explore potential mechanisms of change in EBI engagement, before evaluating the system’s impact on adolescents’ group CBT engagement and, ultimately, depression outcomes.

Methods: Over the course of 2020, we invited all 20 adolescents receiving CBT group services for depression at an outpatient psychiatry clinic to enroll in our HealthySMS study; ultimately, 17 (85%) adolescents agreed to participate. We tracked participant initiation and engagement with the HealthySMS system as well as the content of SMS text message responses to HealthySMS. We also invited each participant to engage in a semistructured interview to gather additional qualitative inputs on the system.

Results: All (n=17, 100%) research participants invited agreed to receive HealthySMS messages, and 94% (16/17) of the participants maintained use during the first month without opting out. We uncovered meaningful qualitative themes regarding the feasibility and acceptability of HealthySMS, as well as its potential impact on EBI engagement.

Conclusions: Taken together, the results of this pilot study suggest that HealthySMS adjunct to adolescent CBT group depression services is feasible and acceptable, as evidenced by high rates of HealthySMS initiation and low rates of dropout, as well as meaningful themes uncovered from participants’ qualitative feedback. In addition, the findings provide evidence regarding iterative improvements to the HealthySMS system and research protocol, as well as potential mechanisms of change for enhanced EBI engagement and, ultimately, adolescent depression outcomes, which can be used in future effectiveness research.

Introduction

Depression is a major public health concern for adolescents [ 1 - 3 ]; it is a risk factor for mental health problems that occur in adults, medical illnesses, disability, substance abuse, and suicide [ 2 - 6 ]. Evidence-based efforts to improve adolescent depression and related risks became more imperative during the COVID-19 pandemic owing to concerns about adolescents’ mental health deterioration in the context of shelter-in-place (SIP) guidelines causing substantial educational and social disruptions [ 7 - 10 ]. Further, most in-person services were halted during the implementation of SIP guidelines, rapidly necessitating a transition to telehealth and digital health (dHealth) supports [ 7 , 11 - 14 ]. In response, the need for pilot feasibility and acceptability testing of dHealth tools targeting adolescent depression in real-world settings became glaringly apparent. Such efforts would provide an essential first step toward testing the effectiveness of dHealth tools for adolescent depression. The impact of this work would extend beyond the initial COVID-19 SIP context, given that research suggests that many systems will and should continue using telehealth and dHealth supports in the foreseeable future [ 13 , 15 , 16 ], which may be particularly beneficial in reducing disparities for historically marginalized populations [ 15 ].

Evidence-Based Intervention for Adolescents With Depression

There are several effective evidence-based interventions (EBIs) for adolescent depression [ 17 - 19 ]. The most well-supported psychosocial approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT [ 18 , 19 ]), which targets unhelpful thinking patterns and the avoidance of goal-directed and social activities, which are characteristic of depression [ 20 - 22 ]. CBT can be effectively delivered via a group format [ 23 ], demonstrating efficacy similar to that of individual CBT in decreasing depression in a more cost-effective modality [ 24 ]. CBT can also be delivered electronically (electronic CBT [eCBT]), enhancing accessibility by eliminating the requirement for patients to travel for in-person services [ 25 - 29 ]. The potential benefits of electronically delivered EBIs became increasingly evident in the context of the implementation SIP guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic, which prohibited many individuals from receiving in-person mental health treatment. Importantly, our society may experience future SIP guidelines during COVID-19 surges, safety lockdowns, or natural disasters in response to climate change. Fortunately, recent research supports the effectiveness and efficacy of eCBT in decreasing depression [ 25 - 29 ].

Despite the promising efficacy research supporting CBT as an EBI for adolescent depression, the effect sizes are heterogeneous and low, demonstrating room for improvement [ 23 , 30 ]. Optimal treatment of adolescent depression requires patient engagement, including the initiation of treatment after referral, the attendance of sessions, the completion of homework between sessions, and the continued engagement in treatment (ie, getting the whole “dose” of treatment [ 31 ]). Thus, poor initiation, poor adherence, and treatment dropout are barriers to effective services in real-world settings and are known to mediate treatment outcome [ 31 ]. A meta-analysis of EBIs concluded that the average treatment dropout rate is approximately 29% and that patients with depression are at a higher risk for dropout [ 32 ]. Treatment dropout appears particularly pronounced among youths and in web-based mental health interventions; therefore, efforts to enhance engagement with eCBT among youth populations are especially called for [ 33 ].

SMS Text Message Interventions as Automated dHealth Supports Aiming to Enhance EBI Engagement

There is a strong scientific premise and public health call to develop and evaluate dHealth supports adjunct to EBIs that are easy to implement, efficient, and sustainable. Using SMS text messages is a promising approach aiming to enhance adolescent EBI engagement by making use of a tool that is readily available and widely used by adolescents. The use of mobile phones is ubiquitous among adolescents, and SMS text messages are used at high rates. As of 2015, more than 85% of adolescents across races and ethnicities had access to a cell phone, and 90% of them used cell phones to send SMS text messages [ 34 ]. In fact, two-thirds of adolescents reported that they are more likely to use their cell phones to text rather than talk to friends, and a typical adolescent in the United States sends ≥30 SMS text messages each day [ 34 ]. Importantly, in mobile health (mHealth) research, youths report high satisfaction and readily engage with technology [ 35 - 37 ]. In addition, digital technology allows for the automation of SMS text messages; thus, an SMS text message intervention leveraging automation should not add to providers’ burden, making it a more sustainable and efficient services intervention.

SMS text messaging interventions have several advantages over other forms of dHealth interventions, such as app-based and website-based interventions, and are particularly well suited to improve engagement. SMS text messages allow for a more equitable delivery of care, given that they can reach anyone with a phone and do not rely on smartphone ownership or internet access, which are affected by socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic disparities [ 38 ]. In addition, although dHealth interventions have demonstrated promise, web-based and mobile app–based interventions are subject to more difficulties with engagement, such as problems with adherence and dropout [ 26 , 39 ].

Some dHealth SMS text message interventions were designed as stand-alone supports (eg, those in the works of Aguilera et al [ 40 ] and Bendsten et al [ 41 ]; MacDougall et al [ 42 ] conducted a scoping review of SMS text message–delivered adolescent mental health interventions); however, there may be unique benefits to SMS text message interventions designed to supplement EBIs and enhance treatment engagement. There are many effective examples of adjunctive SMS text message interventions for disease management and health behavior change (eg, smoking cessation and diabetes management [ 43 ]), including SMS text message interventions for adolescents [ 44 ]. In the emerging literature on SMS text message interventions, adolescents generally react favorably and show good compliance [ 35 , 42 , 45 , 46 ]. Pilot research on integrating SMS text messages into individual CBT has also demonstrated encouraging results [ 47 ].

Given the promise of SMS text message interventions to enhance EBI engagement, our team developed the HealthySMS system as an adjunct to group CBT depression services. HealthySMS sends customized SMS text messages to participants, inquiring about mood as well as reminding them to attend CBT and practice strategies learned during group treatment. For safety, adolescent SMS text message responses are monitored for keywords or phrases that could indicate whether someone is expressing suicide risk; providers are sent immediate alerts if the system is triggered by an adolescent SMS text message response with these keywords or phrases. Safety keyword triggers are important features of any automated dHealth system implemented in real-world settings to keep participants safe and providers informed; in addition, this feature may be particularly helpful during the implementation of SIP guidelines, given the probable decrease in adolescent safety monitoring from other settings, such as schools. The addition of HealthySMS to CBT for adults with depression in a public sector treatment setting was associated with an increased number of sessions attended and a longer duration of treatment [ 48 ]. The mood ratings sent by adults through HealthySMS also predicted attendance [ 49 ]. Thus, adding HealthySMS to EBIs for adolescent depression may be a promising change to existing services, targeting increased engagement and, ultimately, improving outcomes.

As a first step in the process of implementing and evaluating the HealthySMS system adjunct to the most evidence-based treatment for adolescent depression (ie, CBT), we conducted a feasibility pilot study in an outpatient clinic embedded within an academic medical center’s department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences. Our primary objectives were to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of HealthySMS in a real-world setting and explore potential mechanisms of change in EBI engagement, before evaluating the system’s impact on adolescents’ group CBT engagement and, ultimately, depression outcomes. We also aimed to monitor the HealthySMS safety keyword alert triggers and provider responses to inform system and research protocol adjustments before future HealthySMS research. This multiphase design featuring a preliminary feasibility pilot to inform decisions about future effectiveness testing is aligned with the Medical Research Council framework [ 50 , 51 ], which has been prolifically used in mental health and dHealth intervention research. We predicted the following hypotheses:

  • Hypothesis 1: most adolescents invited to use HealthySMS (ie, ≥75%) would initiate and maintain use without opting out during their group CBT experience.
  • Hypothesis 2: adolescents enrolled in HealthySMS would display high rates of engagement with the SMS text message system (ie, ≥50% response rate).
  • Hypothesis 3: our team would uncover meaningful qualitative themes from participants’ SMS text message responses and semistructured interviews about the feasibility and acceptability of HealthySMS to inform iterative system and research protocol improvements supporting future HealthySMS effectiveness research.
  • Hypothesis 4: our team would uncover meaningful qualitative themes from participants’ SMS text message responses and semistructured interviews about the potential impact of HealthySMS on EBI engagement to inform decisions on which mechanisms of change to evaluate in future HealthySMS effectiveness research.

Participants

Participants were adolescents aged 13 to 18 years. They were recruited from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Child and Adolescent Services clinic between December 2019 and September 2020. Adolescents were eligible to participate if they were enrolled in the clinic’s group CBT for depression running from January 2020 to September 2020.

Of the 20 eligible adolescents who started the group CBT for depression, 17 (85%) agreed to participate in the study. Participant characteristics are listed in Table 1 . Briefly, the average age of the participants was 15.4 (SD 1.5) years, and most participants (15/17, 88%) were diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Most participants (12/17, 71%) had engaged in prior mental health care. Moreover, 18% (3/17) of the participants had a history of at least 1 suicide attempt, with most participants (11/17, 65%) reporting suicidal ideation in the past year. A little more than half (9/17, 53%) of the participants engaged in concurrent individual therapy, family therapy, or a combination.

a Response options are not mutually exclusive.

b IOP: intensive outpatient treatment.

c PHP: partial hospitalization program.

d SI: suicidal ideation.

e NSSI: nonsuicidal self-injury.

f IEP: individualized education plan.

g ADHD: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

h CBT: cognitive behavioral therapy.

Of note, our research protocol did not make any changes to how the real-world clinic provided services. Adolescents were not incentivized to start treatment, attend sessions, or complete their homework; they only were incentivized for completing additional research tasks (see below). Adolescents in the clinic could be engaged in individual therapy, family therapy, or both while attending group treatment.

Ethical Considerations

All study procedures were approved by the UCSF Institutional Review Board (reference number 255820). When participants were minors (ie, age <18 years), their parent or legal guardian completed informed consent and they completed assent procedures; 18-year-old participants completed informed consent procedures. As part of these procedures, participants (and their parents or legal guardians, if applicable) were informed that their information would be kept private and housed on a secure UCSF server only accessible to the study team; they were informed that participants would be compensated with a US $30 gift card for attending the interview).

CBT Group Intervention

The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression Group for Adolescents (CBT-D) consists of three 4-week modules on thoughts, activities, and people (ie, 12 group sessions in total). It is based on the Building Recovery by Improving Goals, Habits, and Thoughts (BRIGHT) group CBT manual for depression for adults developed by Miranda et al [ 52 ], which was subsequently adapted for adolescents with a diagnosis of major depression or persistent depressive disorder. The thought module involves cognitive interventions with a focus on awareness of helpful and harmful thoughts, the activity module focuses on pleasant activities and behavioral activation, and the people module encourages group members to improve relationships and evaluate the impact of positive and negative social relationships on mood. The sessions are structured with an initial homework check-in followed by a didactic discussion on the covered topic, an interactive discussion led by 2 group providers, and the setting of homework goals related to skill use. In this study, the first 7 group sessions were held in person; the remainder were held via the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act–compliant Zoom (Zoom Video Communications, Inc) platform after SIP orders were implemented in March 2020.

The HealthySMS System

We used the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act–compliant, web-based texting platform called HealthySMS, developed by our team member (AA), to send and receive SMS text messages, administer weekly surveys, and track attendance. HealthySMS sent four types of automated SMS text messages to participants: (1) daily mood prompts asking participants to rate their mood and reflect on their mood, thoughts, and behavior (“[First name], what is your mood right now on a scale of 1 to 9 (9 being best)? Please respond with a number and a message about what you are doing or thinking”); (2) personalized and reinforcing responses to 20% of participants’ mood ratings (ie, encouraging the participants to engage in behavioral activation in response to a low mood rating and reinforcing the participants in response to a high mood rating); (3) daily reminders about the concepts and skills learned during the corresponding CBT module for that month; and (4) weekly reminders to attend and come prepared to CBT sent the day before the group session. The participants could opt out of receiving SMS text messages at any point by texting “stop.”

Our clinical research team oriented adolescent participants to the HealthySMS system. We also oriented providers to the SMS text messages and HealthySMS web-based provider dashboard, which visualizes client responses to the SMS text messages, including graphs of mood ratings. HealthySMS monitors participants’ SMS text message responses and alerts providers to words and phrases that may correspond to suicidal behaviors (eg, “die,” “kill,” and “cut”), and providers were trained on how to respond to these alerts in alignment with existing clinic policies and procedures.

Participants’ Demographics and Clinical History

The participants were asked to complete a demographic survey before beginning group CBT. CBT-D providers recorded psychiatric diagnoses and treatment history information for each participant, including other therapy or medication management services, based on their evaluation and review of the medical record.

HealthySMS Engagement

We tracked the number of participants who were invited to receive HealthySMS messages, as well as those who agreed to initiate receipt of HealthySMS messages. We also tracked the number of participants who texted “stop” to opt out of SMS text messages before ending participation in the group, as well as how long each participant received the SMS text messages before opting out. We measured engagement with the HealthySMS messages by tracking the number of mood ratings that participants texted in response to mood rating request messages.

HealthySMS Safety Keyword Triggers

We tracked the number and content of participant SMS text message responses that were flagged for the risk of suicide ( Multimedia Appendix 1 provides the trigger words). We also kept observation notes about the provider responses.

Qualitative Feedback

We collected qualitative feedback in several ways. We tracked responses to our monthly SMS text message prompts to participants asking, “What is the most positive part of receiving these text messages?” and “What do you not like about receiving the text messages?” We also invited all adolescent participants to share feedback in a semistructured interview after their CBT-D completion with an incentive of US $30 Amazon gift card. The interviews were moderated by a member of our clinical research team who followed a semistructured guide containing the study objectives to explain, questions to pose, and prompts to use when needed. Specifically, we explained that researchers hoped to obtain information about mHealth interventions such as HealthySMS and group CBT services for depression. Next, we asked for general feedback about the HealthySMS system and then specifically asked about different aspects of HealthySMS, such as the mood prompts, responses to mood ratings, and group reminders. We also showed participants a list of the HealthySMS texts and asked for feedback on their impact, content, and phrasing. Textbox 1 lists the interview questions and prompts. Each interview lasted between 19 and 45 (mean 32, SD 8.8) minutes, with the length depending on the amount of details provided by the respondents.

How did you like the LET’S TEXT! message program overall?

  • Was there anything that made it difficult for you to receive the messages? For example, how did you like: the timing of the messages, the amount of messages, the phrasing of messages?
  • Was there anything that made it difficult for you to respond to the messages? For example, how did you like: the timing of the messages, the amount of messages, the phrasing of messages?
  • Is there anything about it you would suggest we change?

How did you like the LET’S TEXT! Mood Prompts and Responses? (after general feedback was given, participants were shown the list of printed texts for specific feedback on this question)

  • What did you think worked well?
  • What was difficult or did not go well?
  • Is there anything you would change?
  • Did these messages change your mood, thoughts, or behavior?

How did you like the LET’S TEXT! Skill Practice Reminders? (after general feedback was given, participants were shown the list of printed texts for specific feedback on this question)

  • For example, did you need more/less help with any of the skills; was the purpose of the reminders clear; -were the messages too few/many; were the reminders relevant to your goals; were they phrased appropriately?

How did you like the LET’S TEXT! Group Reminders?

Some teens find...

  • ...it easier to participate if they feel: comfortable, respected, and understood by the group members and group leader attached to the messages. How was your relationship with the group and group leader and did that affect your experience with the text messages?
  • ...that the messages help them become more active. Do you think your activity completion was impacted by the text messages?
  • ...the messages help them go to group and participate more often and/or effectively. How was your group engagement and did that change with the text messages?
  • ...the messages are reinforcing and help them practice the group skills more often and/or effectively. How was your practice of the group skills and did that change with the text messages?

Is there ANYTHING ELSE you would like to share that we haven’t asked you?

Data Analytic Plan

We analyzed quantitative data on participant characteristics, HealthySMS engagement, and safety keyword triggers using descriptive statistics in SPSS (IBM Corp). We calculated the SMS text message response rates by dividing the number of responses by the number of SMS text messages received for mood ratings.

We analyzed the qualitative data in a multistep process using thematic analysis principles [ 53 ]. First, we developed a hierarchical coding system based on recurrent concepts that we uncovered when conducting the qualitative interviews and in consideration of the related theoretical literature. Next, members of our research team reviewed the qualitative message content and interview transcriptions to collaboratively refine recurrent themes while iteratively updating the coding system. Our team selected exemplary quotes for each theme.

Hypothesis 1

Our first hypothesis was that most of the adolescents (ie, >75%) invited to HealthySMS would initiate and maintain use. All participants who agreed to the research study (n=17, 100%) opted to enroll in the HealthySMS system and initiate the receipt of messages upon starting CBT-D; 94% (16/17) of the participants maintained use during the CBT-D group experience. Only 1 (6%) participant opted out of the SMS text messages by texting “stop” 30 days after initiation.

Hypothesis 2

Our second hypothesis was that adolescents enrolled in HealthySMS would display high rates of engagement with the SMS text message system (ie, ≥75% response rate). As shown in Table 2 , the HealthySMS response rate varied among participants. The average response rate to daily mood ratings was 61%, with a range of 0.00 to 1.77 responses per message. Of the 17 participants, only 1 (6%) participant did not respond to any of the SMS text messages prompting mood ratings, and 2 (12%) participants responded multiple times to several prompts (indicated by a response proportion >1). Most participants (10/17, 59%) responded to >50% of the daily mood rating prompts.

a N/A: not applicable.

Hypothesis 3

Our third hypothesis was that we would uncover meaningful qualitative themes from participants’ SMS text message responses and semistructured interviews about the feasibility and acceptability of HealthySMS. We posited that meaningful themes would be beneficial in informing iterative system and research protocol improvements supporting future HealthySMS effectiveness research. When examining the context of participants’ SMS text message responses to our monthly message prompts and semistructured interviews asking for feedback, we identified themes and exemplary quotes regarding the feasibility and acceptability of HealthySMS ( Tables 3 - 5 ).

Hypothesis 4

Our final hypothesis was that we would uncover meaningful qualitative themes from participants’ SMS text message responses and semistructured interviews about the potential impact of HealthySMS on EBI engagement. We posited that meaningful themes would be beneficial in informing decisions on which mechanisms of change to evaluate in future HealthySMS effectiveness research. When examining the context of participants’ SMS text message responses to our monthly message prompts and semistructured interviews asking for feedback, we identified themes and exemplary quotes regarding the potential impact of HealthySMS on EBI engagement ( Table 5 ).

Safety During the HealthySMS Intervention

A secondary aim of our pilot study was to monitor the HealthySMS safety keyword alert triggers and provider responses to inform system and research protocol adjustments before future HealthySMS research. During the study period, 76 (7.58%) of the 1002 total SMS text messages sent by participants alerted providers to potential suicide risk throughout our flagged keyword system. When examining the content of participants’ SMS text message responses that were flagged for risk of suicide, only 2 (3%) of these 76 messages were determined to contain true risk-related content (eg, texts about wanting to hurt oneself or die by suicide). In one case, the notified provider determined that the text may be an indication that the participant was about to self-harm, and they followed the clinic’s safety protocol; no indication that harm occurred was received, and the participant continued attending the group sessions and engaging in the study. In the second case, the notified provider determined that the text did not represent an increase in risk and addressed the client’s worry about the future in their following session.

Principal Findings

The results of this feasibility pilot study demonstrate that the use of HealthySMS adjunct to adolescent group CBT depression services (CBT-D) appears feasible and acceptable, as evidenced by high rates of HealthySMS initiation and low rates of dropout, as well as meaningful themes uncovered from participants’ qualitative feedback. Importantly, the findings also provide evidence regarding iterative improvements to the HealthySMS system and research protocol, as well as potential mechanisms of change for enhanced EBI engagement and, ultimately, adolescent depression outcomes, which can be used in future effectiveness research. It is compelling that the results of this study were obtained in the context of ongoing clinical services at a real-world outpatient clinic experiencing a transition to telehealth services amidst the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and that the research protocol did not alter the clinical service procedures in any way, such as by incentivizing adolescents to attend the group sessions. Furthermore, it should be noted that we were able to implement this intervention in a safe manner during at a time when an increasing number of youths were at a risk for suicide; the 2 instances of HealthySMS alerts indicating risk were managed via clinical procedures, and no adverse outcomes occurred to any participant during the study.

HealthySMS Feasibility and Acceptability

As predicted, adolescents enrolled in and maintained the use of HealthySMS at high rates; in fact, no adolescent who agreed to the research study declined initiation of HealthySMS, and only 1 (6%) of the 17 enrolled adolescents opted out after a month of use. HealthySMS response rate was slightly lower than predicted but, of note, varied among participants. Some adolescents had very low response rates (ie, n=1, 6% never responded to any messages), and some adolescents had high response rates (ie, n=1, 6% responded multiple times to most prompts). Overall, most adolescents responded more than half of the time to daily mood rating prompts (ie, response rates averaging >60%). Qualitative feedback suggested that quick and short messages, as well as midday versus early or late message timing, may be the most feasible to respond to. In addition, some adolescents shared that they were motivated to respond by the “interactive” nature of the mood rating texts, which triggered responses 20% of the time. We received feedback that the number of HealthySMS messages and reminders felt appropriate for some participants; however, we received other feedback indicating a preference for less frequent messages and reminders. A future direction to explore is whether personalizing the message and reminder timing and frequency (eg, by requesting participants to share their preferences in the initial survey and monthly feedback prompts to adapt the system to allow for differences by preference) may increase response rates. Interestingly, some adolescents also sent SMS text messages back to the skill reminder messages (ie, response rates averaging 12%), although there were no explicit requests for responses. Adding explicit response requests to skill reminder messages may be another way to explore the potential benefits of HealthySMS.

Regarding the HealthySMS safety triggers, the system appeared to appropriately monitor risk. Throughout the 10 months of the study, 76 (7.58%) of the 1002 total messages sent by participants during the study period triggered provider alerts via flagged keywords (eg, cut, kill, and die; listed in Multimedia Appendix 1 ). We added words to the system for the current trial after consulting with data from the adolescent crisis text line. Importantly, only 2 of the alerts in this study indicated a potential suicide risk and required clinical follow-up. Providers complied with the established clinical policies and procedures, and no known adverse outcomes occurred among participants throughout the study. In fact, the vast majority of alerts were false positives (eg, “I just got my haircut,” “I went for a bikeride over the bridge,” and “my throat hurts”). One of the most sensitive keywords appeared to be “end,” given that it is a frequently used word and is included in many words (eg, “almost the end of the day” and “FaceTime with friend”). This information can be used to iteratively improve the HealthySMS system to balance the need to detect safety concerns with high sensitivity while trying to avoid false positives and, therefore, reducing providers’ burden in reviewing the alerted SMS text messages, such as by programming keyword alerts to trigger only when the word “end” by itself is sent and not when it is included in other words, such as “friend.” It will be important for future HealthySMS efforts to consider how future HealthySMS research designed to evaluate the appropriateness of the safety keyword triggers and subsequent provider responses to prevent self-harming behaviors would be beneficial.

Potential Impact on EBI Engagement to Be Evaluated in Future Effectiveness Research

When asked about the utility of HealthySMS, we received input providing initial evidence that the system may indeed enhance EBI engagement. Our identified themes may be used to inform decisions on which mechanisms of change to evaluate in future HealthySMS effectiveness research designed to measure the impact of the system on EBI engagement and, ultimately, adolescent depression outcomes. To begin, most adolescents gave feedback that group reminder texts may have increased their likelihood to attend and meaningfully participate in the group sessions, although one of the participants felt that the group reminder texts were intrusive and did not impact engagement in the group sessions. Variation in responses again highlighted that a personalized SMS text messaging system would be ideal for accommodating individual needs and desires.

Qualitative responses also suggest that the HealthySMS skill messages provided beneficial reminders and motivation for some adolescents to engage in CBT strategies, including behavioral activation and helpful thinking. Some participants did suggest that we sync skill messages with the content being delivered each week (rather than with each module, as is the current setup) to optimize relevance. Although weekly agendas are generally known from the beginning, given the CBT-D format in this study, group providers may adjust agendas to meet the needs of the current group members. Thus, personalizing the timing and content of messages and syncing messages more precisely to weekly content would likely be perceived as helpful by participants but would need to be weighed against the feasibility of such measures, which could increase providers’ burden.

We were also interested in the impact of HealthySMS on the interpersonal connection of the adolescents in the current trial, given the reports of adults in our team’s prior trial of HealthySMS that participants felt cared for and supported by the messages, as well as closer to the CBT group (sources removed for masked review). We received feedback suggesting that HealthySMS may help some adolescents feel more connected to the group leader and other members, as well as validated and supported even with the knowledge that it is a “bot” responding. One of the providers shared that a participant felt that HealthySMS was like a “friend.” Feedback from participant interviews indicated that this sense of connection was especially true when they received the responses to their mood rating texts, which were aligned with how they rated their mood (ie, different responses were sent for high, medium, or low mood ratings).

Limitations and Future Directions

Our study has several limitations that should be acknowledged and addressed in future work. First, our pilot study investigating the feasibility and acceptability of HealthySMS in a real-world treatment setting was not designed to evaluate the system’s role in improving the ultimate target of adolescent depression. To accomplish this, future effectiveness research building on the lessons learned and iteratively updated deliverables (ie, the HealthySMS system and research protocol) from this study is warranted. Specifically, although we were able to explore the potential impact of HealthySMS on EBI engagement in participants’ qualitative feedback, we did not have the data or sample size required to quantitatively evaluate this construct. In addition, our decision to conduct this pilot study in a real-world setting without making changes to existing clinical procedures created several potentially confounding variables among participants, such as the number of other EBI services engaged in adjunct to CBT-D. Subsequent studies fully powered to detect mechanisms of change as well as control for potential covariates to EBI engagement and outcomes using a control group are called for. Finally, this pilot study took place in the initial months of SIP enforcement owing to the COVID-19 pandemic; thus, it is not known how well our findings will generalize beyond this context.

Conclusions

Our pilot study suggests that HealthySMS adjunct to the most evidence-based treatment for adolescent depression (ie, CBT) is feasible and acceptable, warranting future effectiveness research evaluating the system’s impact on adolescent EBI engagement and subsequent depression outcomes. As SMS text messaging is cheap and uses technology already in the hands of most adolescents, it is well suited to be added to existing clinical services. Feedback from the participants in our studies suggested that mHealth may be particularly helpful during times of SIP enforcement, given the limited ability for adolescents to engage in activities, social interactions, in-person mental health treatment, and safety monitoring by adults in their lives (eg, teachers and providers). However, it is possible that SMS text message systems are beneficial adjuncts to EBIs in all contexts, given their potential to increase the likelihood and effectiveness of service participation, enhance feelings of connectedness and validation, and encourage skill use in-between sessions. Continued service research on the implementation and effectiveness of mHealth tools has the potential to improve mental health services for a population experiencing drastic increases in depression and suicide risk: adolescents.

Conflicts of Interest

AA is the owner of the HealthySMS program license and has licensed it to other researchers for use in their studies. He was not paid for the license for this study.

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Abbreviations

Edited by J Torous; submitted 24.05.23; peer-reviewed by N Dippel, P Watson; comments to author 27.07.23; revised version received 19.12.23; accepted 11.01.24; published 19.02.24.

©Lauren M Haack, Courtney C Armstrong, Kate Travis, Adrian Aguilera, Sabrina M Darrow. Originally published in JMIR Mental Health (https://mental.jmir.org), 19.02.2024.

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work, first published in JMIR Mental Health, is properly cited. The complete bibliographic information, a link to the original publication on https://mental.jmir.org/, as well as this copyright and license information must be included.

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