COVID’s Psychiatric Threat; Esketamine Called Too Costly

Past or present COVID-19 symptoms were risk factors for development of general psychiatric disorders, as well as for experiencing loneliness. (Psychiatry Research)

Is it “essential” for family members to visit those suffering from dementia? (BBC)

Gum disease was tied to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias — and in particular, vascular dementia. (Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease)

Using satellite imaging, a new study linked more intense artificial light in a teen’s neighborhood to poor sleep, as well as higher rates of mood and anxiety disorders. (JAMA Psychiatry)

Although esketamine nasal spray (Spravato) is effective against severe depression, its price tag is way too high, researchers said. “Esketamine is unlikely to be cost-effective for management of treatment-resistant depression in the United States unless its price falls by more than 40%,” according to a study published online in Psychiatry Services.

British researchers published clinical trial guidance for assessing cognitive impairment in major depressive disorders. (British Journal of Psychiatry Open)

In a survey of caregivers who resided with someone suffering from dementia, nearly a third said there was an accessible firearm in the home. (JAMA Network Open)

Universal Health Services in Georgia will pay $122 million to settle fraud claims related to allegations that the company hospitalized psychiatric patients unnecessarily and was too aggressive with chemical restraints. (Atlanta Journal Constitution)