Exercise is good for your mental health. But is it that simple? New research suggests it is not just how much you move, but why, how, and where you do it that really matters. More: https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/exercise-context-mental-health/

Over one million children were referred to mental health services in England last year, the highest number on record. More than 60,000 have been waiting over two years for treatment. https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/more-than-one-million-children-referred-to-mental-health-services-in-england/

After a decade on MQ's Science Council, Professor Andrew McIntosh is stepping down. He reflects on how data science has transformed mental health research, and what he'd tell researchers starting out. Read his reflections: https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/10-years-on-mq-science-council/

When does gaming become a problem? A large review suggests around 6% of young adults worldwide experience Internet Gaming Disorder, a type of addiction, with difficulties often persisting into early and mid-adulthood https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/internet-gaming-disorder-is-not-just-a-teen-issue/

The challenges faced by parents can ripple through generations. Research reveals that children whose parents endured trauma in their youth may struggle with depression and anxiety in their teenage years. https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/why-deprivation-may-be-more-damaging-than-trauma-in-childhood/

Everyone knows what Ozempic does for weight loss. But a study of nearly 100,000 people just uncovered something researchers weren't fully expecting, and it has nothing to do with the number on the scale. More: https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/could-weight-loss-drugs-also-benefit-mental-health/

New research shows that adults with ADHD who recognise and use their strengths report better wellbeing, higher quality of life, and fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/new-study-shows-how-recognising-strengths-can-improve-mental-health-in-adults-with-adhd/

How do you build joy during tough times? Researchers found that daily micro-acts, like expressing appreciation, had the biggest benefits for those facing financial or social disadvantage. Learn more: https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/small-daily-habits-improve-mental-health/

Can a Chatbot Be a Lifeline for Kids’ Mental Health?** As AI transforms our lives, experts are diving into how these digital allies can support young minds in therapy. Could this be a game-changer, or does it raise red flags? https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/can-a-chatbot-be-a-childs-therapist/

Why does bad news seem impossible to ignore? Our brains are wired to pay attention to potential threats, but today, it can keep us glued to a constant stream of negative headlines. https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/why-negative-news-grabs-our-attention-and-what-it-means-for-our-mental-health/

Apply now for up to £250,000 of funding through MQ's Schizophrenia Research Fellowships. Expressions of interest are open now until the 12th of August 2026. The fellowship is open to global applicants with 3–7 years of postdoctoral experience. Find out more👇 www.mqmentalhealth.org/schizophreni...

Psychosis is often misunderstood, which leads to stigma & delays in people getting the support they need. This is why we are shining a light on psychosis this #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek and why research matters. Find out more facts about psychosis👇 www.mqmentalhealth.org/mental-healt...

Psychosis is not a diagnosis in itself, but a set of symptoms that can affect how someone thinks, perceives the world and understands what is real. Psychosis is still widely misunderstood. That's why research and evidence‑based information matter. Learn more: www.mqmentalhealth.org/mental-healt...

MQ researchers have already found a way to reduce the risk of psychosis developing over the life course. More research can help us to get better at recognising early signs, act earlier, and personalise interventions. You can support research like this. 4/5

MQ researchers in Uganda are working on evidence-based improvements to services for psychosis and other serious mental illnesses. Research helps strengthen care pathways and reduce inequalities, so more people can access effective, evidence-based support when they need it. 3/5

MQ researchers have developed a treatment using Virtual Reality for psychosis. We need more research like this that leads to better interventions and more personalised approaches, so people affected by psychosis and schizophrenia can get the right help sooner. 2/5

Psychosis can be widely misunderstood. Research is how we replace stigma and guesswork with better evidence, better care, and better outcomes. At MQ, we fund the studies that help us understand psychosis and improve support. Learn more about some of our research👇 🧵1/5

Got a mental health research idea that could become an app? If so you might like to join the 1-day workshop from MQ and DATAMIND. From Idea to App: Design, Develop and Deploy Mental Health Tech 22nd April - London - £25 More info & secure your space here 👇 www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/early-care...

Calling all Data Science researchers working in Mental health. Don't miss the next MQ & DATAMIND workshop for early career researchers and meeting. These events are where experts share their knowledge and the latest developments to help accelerate learning. www.mqmentalhealth.org/get-involved...

This research also supports a step‑by‑step screening approach, starting with a low‑cost questionnaire, then adding simple biological tests for those who need it. This approach could transform early intervention for adolescent mental health, and help people to live happier, healthier lives. 4/5

Nearly half of adolescents rated high‑risk using this tool developed depression within 3 years whilst none of the teens rated low‑risk went on to develop depression. Being identified as high risk isn't a diagnosis, but it could help people to get support before they develop symptoms. 3/5

The IDEA study shows that combining life experiences & biological markers in an assessment tool can significantly improve the identification of young people who are at high risk of developing depression later on. Spotting those at risk earlier could mean people get support before symptoms begin.

Adolescent depression is hard to predict and too often support comes after symptoms appear. But what if we could predict which young people were at the highest risk of developing depression in later life? New research from @kingscollegelondon.bsky.social has developed a tool to do just that. 🧵1/5

We recently spoke with Rebecca Etkin, one of our brilliant MQ Fellows and an Associate Research Scientist at the @yaleschoolofmed.bsky.social about her work in youth anxiety disorders. Read the interview to find out what it's like being an #MQFellow 👉 www.mqmentalhealth.org/interview-re...

Are you a researcher in the USA or Canada exploring how to help people with trauma, PTSD & other mental health conditions? Could your study incorporate EMDR therapy? MQ Fellowships are worth up to $332,500 and applications are open now. Find out more here: www.mqmentalhealth.org/our-work/res...

MQ will soon be accepting expressions of interest for the 2026 Fellows award. If you are a mental health researcher, 3-7 years post doc and looking to establish your research independence then learn more here 👇 www.mqmentalhealth.org/our-work/res... #WithoutResearchItsJustGuesswork

🚨 Calling all mental health researchers! 🚨 Are you 3–7 years post-PhD and ready to take the next step in your research career? Sign up for the free webinar on the 15th of September at 2pm BST to find out how you can apply for an MQ Fellowship. Register here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/2026-mq-fe...

However if screen time is replacing social isolation, rumination or other negative activities then it will likely have a more positive impact. More study is needed to understand how individual traits and vulnerabilities can shape how digital experiences affect young people. 3/4

Internet use & screen time can be both beneficial & harmful to children's mental health. If it involves exposure to harmful content or interactions, replaces healthy activities such as exercise, in-person socialising or sleep, then it will have a negative impact. 2/4

Did you know that screen time, and time spent online, doesn't directly translate to mental health outcomes in children? The experiences had, & the activities screen time is replacing, have more impact than the amount of time spent looking at a screen. 🧵 1/4