NIMH: Impaired Brain Activity Underlies Impulsive Behaviors in Women with Bulimia

Women with bulimia nervosa, when compared with healthy women, showed different patterns of brain activity while doing a task that required self-regulation. This abnormality may underlie binge eating and other impulsive behaviors that occur with the eating disorder, according to an article published in the January 2009 issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Science Update: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2009/impaired-brain-activity-underlies

- impulsive-behaviors-in-women-with-bulimia.shtml

NIMH: Study Probes Environment-Triggered Genetic Changes in Schizophrenia—Life’s Hard Knocks Can Leave Marks That Turn Genes On and Off

The first study of its kind to pinpoint environment-triggered genetic changes in schizophrenia has been launched with $9.8 million in funding from NIMH. The five-site study seeks telltale marks in the genome that hold clues to how nurture interacts with nature to produce the illness. These "epigenetic" changes that occur with aging and other environmental influences regulate the turning on and off of the genes we inherit, with pivotal consequences for health. Thus, if one identical twin develops schizophrenia, the other twin is similarly affected in only about half of cases, despite the fact that they share the same genes and the illness is estimated to be 80 to 90 percent heritable. Evidence suggests that epigenetic differences may account for the discrepancy.

Science Update: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2008/study-probes-environment-

triggered- genetic-changes-in-schizophrenia.shtml

NIMH: Consortium Moves Quickly to Study Resilience Following Hurricane Ike

The National Center for Disaster Mental Health Research (NCDMHR), a consortium of research programs funded by NIMH to conduct post-disaster mental health research mobilized this year following hurricane Ike to study the factors that influence resilience after disasters. When hurricane Ike struck Texas in early September 2008, the NCDMHR set in motion its protocol for a study of mental health in the aftermath of the storm. Epidemiologic studies will look at the psychological wellness of participants over time, and the factors that help determine how they fare; these include socioeconomic status, level of trauma, post-disaster stresses and resources, and biologic factors, including genetic differences and stress hormone levels. Research on services will provide information on post-disaster mental health care needs, and will include trials of a brief Internet-based intervention and cognitive behavioral therapy for people experiencing post-disaster distress.

Science Update: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2008/consortium-moves-quickly-to-

study- resilience-following-hurricane-ike.shtml

NIMH Staff Honored for Work on Behalf of Returning Veterans

Several NIMH staff members will be awarded the 2008 Hubert H. Humphrey Award for Service to America for their work in addressing the mental health needs of returning veterans. The “NIMH Team on Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Returning Combat Veterans in the Community” is being recognized for “extraordinary creativity and program efficiency in launching new research initiatives focused on the mental health needs of military service members, veterans and their families.”

Science Update: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2008/nimh-staff-honored-for-work-on

-behalf-of-returning-veterans.shtml

NIMH Grants Focus on Innovative Autism Research

NIMH is committed to reducing the burden of autism and related disorders through research that can lead to methods of prevention, recovery, and cure. To accomplish this goal, the Institute recently funded nine research projects that focus on ASD

Science Update: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2008/nimh-grants-focus-on-innovative

- autism-research.shtml

NIDA Releases a New Research Report on Comorbidity of Addiction and other Mental Illnesses

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) released a research report, Comorbidity: Addiction and Other Mental Illnesses, summarizing the state of the science regarding the complex relationship between substance abuse and other mental disorders.

Press Release: http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jan2009/nida-06.htm

Report: http://www.drugabuse.gov/researchreports/comorbidity/index.html

Drug Abusing Offenders Not Getting Treatment They Need in Criminal Justice System— Treating Inmates Has Proven Public Health, Safety and Economic Benefits

The vast majority of prisoners who could benefit from drug abuse treatment do not receive it, despite two decades of research that demonstrate its effectiveness, according to researchers at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health. In a report published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association, NIDA scientists note that about half of all prisoners (including some sentenced to non-drug-related offenses) are dependent on drugs, yet less than 20 percent of inmates suffering from drug abuse or dependence receive formal treatment.

Press Release: http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jan2009/nida-13.htm

SAMHSA: Nationwide Report Reveals That More Than 1 in Every 10 Adults Experienced Serious Psychological Distress in the Past Year—Report shows that less than half of those with serious psychological distress received mental health services

An estimated 24.3 million people aged 18 years or older experienced serious psychological distress in the past year – and only 44.6 percent of them received any kind of mental health services, according to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Serious psychological distress is an overall indicator of past-year mental health problems such as anxiety and/or mood disorders. The report also highlights significant differences in the levels of serious psychological distress suffered among various demographic groups, as well as considerable differences in the level of mental health services they received.

Press Release: http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/advisories/0901060319.aspx

Report: http://oas.samhsa.gov/2k8/spdtx/spdtx.cfm

National Children’s Study Begins Recruiting Volunteers

The National Institutes of Health announced that the National Children’s Study will begin recruiting volunteers to take part in its comprehensive study of how genes and the environment interact to affect children’s health. The study will track the health and development of more than 100,000 children from before birth through to their 21st birthday.

Press Release: http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jan2009/nichd-13.htm

CDC: Childhood Trauma Linked to Risk for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

A study conducted by researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Emory University School of Medicine has identified childhood trauma as a significant risk factor for the development of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The results of the study, published in Archives of General Psychiatry, confirm that childhood trauma (sexual abuse and emotional maltreatment) is associated with a six-fold increased risk for CFS. The study also found that low levels of cortisol, a hallmark biological feature of CFS, are associated with childhood trauma. Cortisol is frequently referred to as the "stress hormone" and diminished levels result in abnormal responses to stress.

Press Release: http://www.cdc.gov/news/2009/01/cfs_childhood/

NIH releases first Biennial Report of the Director Dr. Raynard S. Kington, acting director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), announced the publication of the first Biennial Report of the Director, a document that provides an integrated portrait of NIH research activities. The report makes it easier for Congress, advocates and patient groups, and the general public to understand the many programs within the agency. The report contains an assessment of the state of biomedical and behavioral research organized by disease category, investigative approach, or resource.

http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jan2009/od-13.htm

New on the NIDA Website

Latest NIDA NewsScan Available

The January 12th issue of NewsScan, a summary of NIDA sponsored research is now available online.

http://www.drugabuse.gov/newsroom/09/NS-01.html

Latest NIDA Notes Available

NIDA Notes covers drug abuse research in the areas of treatment and prevention, epidemiology, neuroscience, behavioral science, health services, and AIDS. The publication reports on research; identifies resources; and promotes communication among clinicians, researchers, administrators, policymakers, and the public.

http://www.drugabuse.gov/NIDA_Notes/NNIndex.html

NIA: Talking With Your Older Patient: A Clinician's Handbook

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) has released this comprehensive publication designed to enhance health care providers' communication with older patients. The overall aim is to introduce and/or reinforce communication skills essential in caring for older patients and their families. It suggests practical tips, techniques, and approaches to help with diagnosis, promote treatment adherence, make more efficient use of clinicians' time, and increase patient and provider satisfaction.

http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/Publications/ClinicianHB

New SAMHSA Resources

Latest SAMHSA News Available

The November/December issue of SAMHSA News focuses on new parity law.

http://www.samhsa.gov/samhsaNewsletter/default.aspx

Latest Dialogue Available

The Dialogue newsletter is an arena for professionals in the disaster behavioral health field to share information, resources, trends, solutions to problems, and accomplishments. This latest issue features how to manage communications and media relations during a disaster.

http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/dtac/dialogue/Issue2_08.asp

Marijuana Use and Perceived Risk of Use among Adolescents: 2002 to 2007

This short report based on data from SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use & Health that provides trends in both adolescent’s marijuana use from 2002 to 2007 and of rates of their perceived great risk from smoking marijuana at least once a month. It found that adolescents who perceived great risk from smoking marijuana once a month were much less likely to have used marijuana in the past month than those who perceived moderate to no risk.

http://oas.samhsa.gov/2k8/MJrisks/MJrisks.cfm

D.ED: Model Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Programs Book Available

The third updated edition of Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention on College Campuses: Model Programs, published by U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools, is now available.

http://highereducationcenter.org/files/product/model.pdf

DOJ: Publication Addresses Prisoner Reentry Collaborations

The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Bureau of Justice Assistance has released Reentry Partnerships: A Guide for States & Faith-Based and Community Organizations which provides recommendations on how state government officials and community-based service providers can help individuals released from prisons and jails each year to successfully rejoin their communities and families.

http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/pdf/CSG_Reentry_Partnership.pdf

SAMHSA: 2009 Science and Service Awards Will Honor Implementation of Evidence-Based Mental Health and Substance Abuse Interventions

SAMHSA has issued a call for applications for its 2009 Science and Service Awards, a national program that recognizes community-based organizations and coalitions that have shown exemplary implementation of evidence-based mental health and substance abuse interventions. Awards will be made in each of the five categories: substance abuse prevention, treatment of substance abuse and recovery support services, mental health promotion, treatment of mental illness and recovery support services, and co-occurring disorders. Application Deadline: February 27, 2009

http://www.samhsa.gov/scienceandservice/

NIH: Reporters and Editors are Invited to Apply for 2009 "Medicine in the Media" Course

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is pleased to present this eighth annual free training opportunity to help develop journalists' ability to critically evaluate and report on medical research. The course curriculum builds on the best of prior years' offerings to create an intensive learning experience with hands-on application. The course examines the challenges and opportunities inherent in communicating the results of medical research to the public. Stressing an evidence-based approach and re-examining intuitive beliefs about medicine, the course will prepare participants for the crucial task of evaluating research findings including statistics, selecting stories that hold meaningful messages for the public, and placing them in the appropriate context. Deadline: January 30th, 2009, 5:00 p.m. EST

Press Release: http://www.nih.gov/news/health/dec2008/omar-15.htm

Apply at: http://medmediacourse.nih.gov

CMHS Consumer/Survivor Regional Meeting

February 11, 2009, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania The SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) leads national efforts to improve prevention and mental health services for all Americans. As part of its efforts, CMHS is convening a Region III Consumer/Survivor Meeting to: 1) identify the needs, issues and concerns of people with mental illnesses (also known as consumers, survivors and clients); 2) gather input and suggestions for CMHS activities; and 3) facilitate networking to foster mental health systems transformations.

http://conference.afyainc.com/1055342/

2009 National Leadership Summit on Eliminating Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Health

February 25–27, 2009, National Harbor, MD The 2009 National Leadership Summit on Eliminating Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Health, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is built around the five core NPA objectives, which are: (1) Increased awareness of health disparities; (2) Strengthened leadership at all levels; (3) Improved patient-provider communication; (4) Improved cultural and linguistic competency; and (5) Improved coordination and utilization of research and evaluation outcomes.

http://www.omhrc.gov/npasummit2009/

Integrating Services, Integrating Research for Co-Occurring Conditions: A Need for New Views and Action

Washington, DC, March 2-3, 2009 This multidisciplinary scientific conference, with support from NIDA, NIMH, and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, effort seeks to (1) develop a collaborative research agenda to improve behavioral health services delivery to people across the life span, and (2) engage and partner researchers and other key stakeholders such as consumers, family members, providers, policy makers and communities to contribute to and implement this agenda. An additional goal is to create 'new' research teams comprised of people from different arenas who have not worked together previously. This conference provides a unique venue for behavioral health services researchers – from drug abuse, alcohol use and mental health fields – to come together to tackle a shared dilemma.

http://bhsr.fmhi.usf.edu/

NIMH Solicits Applications for Army Suicide Study

NIMH has issued a request for applications (RFA) for a Collaborative Study of Suicidality and Mental Health in the U.S. Army. The funding opportunity will be in the form of a cooperative agreement with NIMH, and allows for up to five years or $50 million in total costs. The RFA is an outgrowth of a recently signed memorandum of agreement between NIMH and the U.S. Army in which the Army will fund the multi-year study on suicide and suicidal behavior among soldiers, across all phases of Army service. It will be the largest single study on the subject of suicide that NIMH has ever undertaken. The project aims to strengthen the Army’s efforts to reduce suicide among its soldiers by identifying risk and protective factors for suicidal thinking and behavior. The study’s findings will also inform our understanding of suicide in the U.S. population overall, and may lead to more effective interventions for both soldiers and civilians. Letters of Intent are due March 3, 2009. Applications are due April 3, 2009.

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/director/updates/2009/nimh-solicits-applications-for-army-

suicide- study.shtml

U.S. ED'S OSDFS Announces Grants for the Integration of Schools and Mental Health Systems

The U.S. Department of Education’s (ED) Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools (OSDFS) is seeking applications under its Grants for the Integration of Schools and Mental Health Systems grant competition. These grants will provide funds for the development of innovative approaches designed to increase student access to high-quality mental health care by linking school systems and local mental health care systems. Applications are due February 23, 2009.

http://www.ed.gov/programs/mentalhealth/applicant.html

U.S. ED's OSDFS Announces Safe Schools/Healthy Students Initiative Grant Competition

The Safe Schools/Healthy Students program is supported by the U.S. Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and Justice. The program supports the implementation and enhancement of integrated, comprehensive community-wide plans that create safe and drug-free schools and promote healthy childhood development. Eligible applicants are local educational agencies only. Applications are due March 4, 2009.

http://www.ed.gov/programs/dvpsafeschools/applicant.html

HRSA: Telehealth Network Grant Program

https://grants.hrsa.gov/webExternal/SFO.asp?ID=52A7B2CF-1213-4FBD-9E72-

B5820C031562

OJJDP: Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws Discretionary Program

http://www.ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/funding/FundingDetail.asp?fi=114

OJJDP: Gang Prevention Coordination Assistance Program

http://www.ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/funding/FundingDetail.asp?fi=116

OJJDP: Family Drug Court Training and Technical Assistance Program

http://www.ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/funding/FundingDetail.asp?fi=112

OJJDP: National Mentoring Programs

http://www.ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/funding/FundingDetail.asp?fi=111

USDA Distance Learning & Telemedicine Grant Program

http://www.usda.gov/rus/telecom/dlt/dlt.htm

PAs and RFAs to share with scientific advisors. Information about NIH funding at

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/oer.htm

Selected NIH Program Announcements (PAs)

[Full listing of NIH PAs at http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/index.html ]

Collaborative R34s for Pilot Studies of Innovative Treatments in Mental Disorders

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-09-075.html

Probes for Microimaging The Nervous System (SBIR [R43/R44])

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-09-062.html

Selected NIH Request for Applications (RFAs)

[Full listing of NIH RFAs at http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/index.html ]

Development and Translation of Medical Technologies that Reduce Health Disparities (SBIR [R43/R44])

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-EB-09-001.html