Harvard Mental Health Letter: October 2009

There is growing evidence that the immune system's response to inflammation may be linked to depression. Research is examining whether combining antidepressant medication with an anti-inflammatory may be more effective for certain patients.

Women who experience severe premenstrual symptoms may have a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Antidepressants may relieve these symptoms and, depending on the person, can be taken intermittently instead of daily.   Read More »

Lithium is one of the most effective treatments for bipolar disorder, but long-term lithium use may cause kidney problems. Kidney function of patients should be monitored through regular testing.

A test found that the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor citalopram did not relieve symptoms of repetitive behavior or movement in children with autism spectrum disorders.

An amino acid supplement may be an effective treatment for some people with the compulsive hair-pulling disorder trichotillomania.

To prevent post-traumatic stress disorder, is it helpful to provide psychotherapy to everyone who has been exposed to a significant trauma?