Mental Health

New books about addiction, autism and the mysteries of other people’s minds

Too often school assessments heighten anxiety and hinder learning. New research shows how to reverse the trend

Children with anxiety disorders can wallop their worries—and get back their life—by being encouraged to do just what they fear most. One doctor details how he helps his young patients

Ronald Crystal, chair of the Department of Genetic Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College, replies

The breakup may be painful, but most kids adjust well over time

Data about the true risks of suicide and aggression for children and teens taking these drugs have been suppressed

Free, imaginative play is crucial for normal social, emotional and cognitive development. It makes us better adjusted, smarter and less stressed

Letters about Scientific American MIND’s Jan/Feb 2016 issue

Fish oil, vitamin D and other nutrients appear to raise the potency of medication

Trials of mindfulness to improve mental health selectively report positive results

The finding gives researchers insight into dopamine beta-hydroxylase, an enzyme that balances the activity of two key brain-signaling molecules

But questions about the role of brain chemistry in depression may prevent findings from spurring drug development