Much research has gone into finding a genetic link between schizophrenia and diabetes as schizophrenics are at four times the risk for Type 2 diabetes. The search will continue as a new study published online ahead of print in Trends in Microbiology has found no link with the PPARG gene. 
Researchers from Utah State University and John Hopkins University have collaborated and conducted a study which appears to demonstrate that a close relationship between a dementia suffer and their caregiver can impede the acceleration of the disease.
New official government figures reveal that as many as seventeen people are being admitted to hospital accident and emergency departments every week as a result of taking cocaine. According to UN figures the UK has the largest usage of cocaine in Europe, with an estimated million people inhaling the drug. The price of cocaine has fallen and doctors say this could increase usage and in turn increase the likelihood of accidental overdoses.
Finnish researchers have conducted a study into drugs used for schizophrenia. Their findings indicate that an older drug, the antipsychotic drug Clozapine may be safer than newer drugs despite its side effects. The research published in The Lancet maintains that newer drugs are a higher cause of premature death.
Statistics released by the Department of Health reveal that suicides rates in England are at an all time low in England. The Care Services Minister Phil Hope announced the publication of the annual report on suicide prevention which draws on data from 2007. He also announced the imminent publication of a new strategy for mental health: New Horizons which will "will focus on promoting positive mental health and wellbeing"
A report by The Future Vision Coalition, a group formed from members of charities, Local Government and Adult Social Services, aims to influence Government policy on mental health. A Future Vision for Mental Health addresses four key areas for reform.
An amino acid supplement could be the answer in helping people with the impulse disorder Trichotillomania. This supplement has already had promising results with people who suffer with obsessive compulsive disorders. The 12 week trial involved fifty patients either taking the pill or a placebo; with a 56% improvement in those taking the supplement. The findings have been published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.
Data from 91 studies involving nearly 8000 people was analysed by researchers from Illinois and Florida Universities giving new insights in people's attitudes to information that conflicts with their own beliefs. The study published in the journal Psychological Bulletin reflected that while people still often ignore views which contradict their own, there are occasions when a person will prefer to investigate other opinions.
There has been much research supporting the theory that psychosis or schizophrenia prevalence is increased by cannabis usage. In a new online study in advance of publication in the journal Schizophrenia Research, UK scientists at Keele University refute this with findings following a systematic review.
Three new studies have opened up the possibilty of new treatments for bipolar disorder, commonly known as manic depression, and schizophrenia. The research, reported in the journal Nature, identified similar genetic causes for both illnesses. However the scientists involved have stated that the break through does not mean cures for either condition have been identified.
