A Columbia study aims find out which treatments work best to alleviate major depressive disorder and improve quality of life for individuals with breast cancer.
The best way to support women’s mental health is to implement policies that improve access to health care systems, family leave, food security, and housing, Dr. Elizabeth Fitelson said.
"We need better drugs and new drugs, not just the psychedelics and the ketamine, but new allotted treatments that are more effective," said Dr. David Hellerstein.
"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.”
"There's a mismatch between those with the greatest need who may not be getting mental health care they need and a growing number who are getting treatments they may not need," says Dr Mark Olfson.
“The finding that 1/3 of students from multiple countries screened positive for at least one of six mental health disorders represents a key global mental health issue," said Dr. Randy P. Auerbach.