Suicides Hit Record High; Research Death Investigation; $43M ADHD Settlement

The U.S. suicide rate reached an all-time high during 2022, CDC data show. (Reuters)

In a randomized trial, more patients on oral antidepressants who took a single intravenous dose of esketamine had at least a 50% reduction in depression severity compared with those who received midazolam instead. (JAMA Network Open)

Federal regulators have suspended clinical research at the New York Psychiatric Institute to investigate the suicide of a study participant. (New York Times)

Linked with depression and anxiety, shift work should be considered an occupational hazard, according to researchers in JAMA Network Open, who said that the development of public health interventions that promote healthy lifestyles aimed at improving the mental health of these workers are urgently needed.

Two new validated tools may help non-clinicians rapidly diagnose opioid and stimulant use disorders. (Psychiatric Research & Clinical Practice)

The Texas Attorney General’s office announced a $42.7 million settlement with Baxter and Takeda over allegations that clinicians were paid to recommend the companies’ attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) drug lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse).

A joint statement issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Emergency Physicians, and the Emergency Nurses Association warns that emergency departments are flooded with children who have psychiatric emergencies. (Pediatrics)

The American Psychiatric Association launched a new initiative, Mental Health Care Works, that focuses on empowering individuals to take the first step to address their mental health.

Mental health services at senior centers used stealth mental health techniques to reach older Americans with loneliness, anxiety, and substance abuse. (NPR)

Kids are returning to school soon, yet ADHD medications are still in a shortage. (New York Times)