While insomnia can be a symptom of psychiatric disorders, sleep problems can also contribute to the onset and worsening of problems such as depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.
New research at Columbia University Irving Medical Center shows equine therapy can jump-start the healing process for veterans who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“Loneliness is a route to depressive symptoms," says Dr. Philip R. Muskin. "In anybody, but certainly in older people, the more socially interactive you are, the less likely you are to be depressed.”
"We are somewhat more willing to talk about our emotional state," said Dr. Philip Muskin. "That's not true across the board, but I think there somewhat less stigma than there was 40 or 50 years ago."
Ketamine, a compound initially used as an anesthetic, holds exciting promise as a newer alternative to more traditional treatment approaches for depression.
Dr. Michael Grunebaum thinks the drug should no longer be relegated to a last-line treatment. “It makes sense that it move up in the treatment algorithm in E.R.s and inpatient units,” he said.
“The people who need the care aren’t the ones getting it,” Dr. Mark Olfson said. “Almost a third of people who reported severe psychological distress are not getting mental health care.”