mental health

The science of emotional, cognitive, and social well-being, including disorders and resilience.

Articles about mental health

Genetics
DNA Signals Predict Depression Risk

DNA Signals Predict Depression Risk
A massive new genetics study ties hundreds of tiny DNA differences to major depressive disorder, improving risk estimates and pointing to brain cell targets — but genetics alone w…
Science
How Warmth Rewires the Brain

How Warmth Rewires the Brain
New neuroscience links the warmth of a hug and skin-to-skin contact to the brain’s interoceptive circuits, emotional regulation and a stronger sense of body ownership — with impli…
Science
What Money Buys in Retirement

What Money Buys in Retirement
A roundup of research from HRS, RAND, Boston College and insurers shows money helps — but only so far. Guaranteed income, a written plan, zero debt and strong relationships matter…
Science
Single Gene Linked to Mental Illness

Single Gene Linked to Mental Illness
Researchers report that loss-of-function variants in the GRIN2A gene can directly produce early-onset psychiatric illness, challenging the idea that major mental disorders are alw…