Psychology/Psychiatry
Paradigms and Practice Shifts: A Topical Narrative Review of the Evolving Face of Exposure-Based Treatment for Youth
Exposure therapy is the gold standard treatment for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders in children adolescents and adults. Inhibitory Learning Theory offers a nuanced and advanced perspective on exposure treatment positing that violating threat expectancies is more important than habituation. This paper highlights the effectiveness of inhibitory learning theory-guided exposure procedures for youth with anxiety and OCD chronic pain and eating disorders. A topical review focusing on the theoretical foundations of inhibitory learning theory crucial augmentations of the approach and outcomes with pediatric patients diagnosed with anxiety eating and pain disorders is presented. The literature review indicated that inhibitory learning theory-driven exposure produced beneficent outcomes in the identified populations. Various limitations and future directions were discussed. Limitations notwithstanding inhibitory learning theory-led exposure represents a viable treatment option for pediatric patients with anxiety eating and chronic pain disorders.
Differentiation of Restless Genital Syndrome from Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder: A Case Report
Persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD) presents with a constant unwelcome sensation of genital arousal. Moreover restless genital syndrome (RGS) is one of the restless leg syndrome (RLS) variants.
We aimed to clarify the differences between clinical diagnoses of these two similar conditions. Assessing the circadian pattern of symptoms the simultaneous presence of RLS and restless bladder syndrome exacerbation of symptoms with caffeine use healing with magnesium use and familial history of RLS helped us with the differentiation between PGAD and RGS.
We propose to rule out the diagnosis of RGS in all patients with PGAD symptoms.
Cognitive Rehabilitation For Early-Stage Dementia: A Review
In the primary phases of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia memory impairments and cognitive abnormalities are common. Because of the rising prevalence of dementia among the elderly it is critical to promote healthy habits that can delay the onset of cognitive decline. Cognitive training (CT) and cognitive rehabilitation (CR) are particular treatments aimed to resolve memory and further areas of cognitive working in order to overcome these challenges. These are some of the different kinds of non-pharmacological treatments like reality orientation and skills training programs that can be used to deal with the cognitive and non-cognitive repercussions. The purpose of this review is to assess the efficacy and influence of cognitive training and cognitive rehabilitation in patients who are in their early phases of Alzheimer's disease or vascular dementia. These interventions are geared toward improving the patients' memory in addition to other aspects of their cognitive functioning.
The Association Between Internalized Stigma and Feelings of Loneliness and Quality of Life in Patients with Mental Disorders
Individuals with mental disorders are subject to stigma from society. Some patients accept and internalize this stigma while others suffer from loneliness and reduced quality of life.
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between internalized stigma feelings of loneliness and quality of life in patients with mental disorders.
In 2023 a descriptive study was conducted on 250 patients with psychological disorders who were referred to Sina Hospital (Farshchian) in Hamadan. The patients were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using four questionnaires: demographic information the internalized stigma of mental illness Russell's loneliness scale and the World Health Organization's 26-item quality of life questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests in SPSS-22 software.
There was a significant positive correlation between internal stigma and loneliness (p < 0.001 r = 0.817) and a significant negative correlation between internal stigma and quality of life (p < 0.001 r = -0.777). Additionally loneliness and quality of life had a significant negative correlation (p < 0.001 r = -0.838).
The results generally indicate that approximately half of the patients with internalized stigma experience moderate to severe distress. As internalized stigma increases patients are more likely to experience feelings of loneliness and decrease their quality of life. Therefore it is recommended that measures be taken to reduce internalized stigma in patients with psychiatric disorders to alleviate feelings of loneliness and improve their quality of life.
The Psychological Status of Healthcare Workers of a COVID-19-Free Cancer Hospital during COVID-19 Pandemic in Turkey - A Cross-sectional Study
Identifying the psychosocial effects on healthcare workers is critical in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
In this study we aimed to examine the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers of a cancer hospital in Turkey and to determine its predictors.
The psychosocial effects of the epidemic on hospital staff were evaluated by a psychiatrist through a face-to-face psychiatric interview. A semi-structured questionnaire containing socio-demographic variables and questions about social changes and Symptom Checklist-90 Revised (SCL-90-R) were administered to the hospital staff that agreed to participate in the study.
Twenty-three percent of the subjects had threshold values for the Global Severity Index in SCL-90-R. The most common symptoms were obsessions and depressive symptoms (42% and 36.5% respectively). Being young being a woman being single worsening economic situation high education level history of past psychiatric disorders isolation and/or quarantine history lack of personal protective equipment separation from the family fear of infecting a family member or cancer patient were determined as risk factors.
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant psychosocial impact on healthcare workers highlighting the need for appropriate strategies to understand and mitigate these effects.
Factors Affecting Psychological Health in the COVID-19 Pandemic
Global mental health has been put at risk by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic both directly and indirectly through disruptive social shifts and neuropsychiatric repercussions of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Despite a little rise in self-reported mental health issues there has not been an increase in the population's rates of mental disorders self-harm or suicide that could be measured objectively. Demographic factors such as sex age and profession have emerged as key determinants with women younger individuals and frontline workers facing elevated risks. In this review we have addressed the key considerations that have impacted the mental well-being of the populace during COVID-19. A comprehensive literature search on the SCOPUS and PubMed databases was used to find the current research studies on the COVID-19 outbreak relevant to mental health. According to preliminary research self-reported stress (8%) and symptoms of worry and depression (16–28%) have been prevalent psychological responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and they may have been linked to sleep disruption. This risk has been reported to be moderated by several individual and systemic factors. Acute and post-acute neuropsychiatric consequences of COVID-19 have also been identified with a significant prevalence of fatigue cognitive decline and anxiety and depression symptoms even months after infection. Coping with challenges such as social distancing economic instability and altered routines has posed significant mental health concerns. Access to mental health resources and robust social support systems has however played pivotal roles in addressing these challenges. The review has underscored the urgent need for comprehensive mental health interventions addressing social determinants ensuring equitable access to healthcare and recognizing the enduring effects of the pandemic.
Cross-talk between Peptide Neurotransmitters and their Role in Homeostasis of Brain, Behavior, and Immunity
The bidirectional communication among the different peptide neurotransmitters and their receptors influences brain immunity and behavior. Among the peptide neurotransmitters Glutamate is the primary excitatory while; gamma-aminobutyrate (γ-GABA) is the inhibitory neurotransmitter. Glutamatergic/GABAergic imbalances are seen in many neurological and autoimmune disorders. With an aim to understand more deeply the intricacies of glutamate/GABA homeostasis we provide a critical review of glutamate glycine and GABA peptide neurotransmitters and their role in the brain behavior and immunity. Another aspect of maintaining this homeostasis has its origin in the gut-brain-axis which influences mood and behavior via the bidirectional biochemical exchange network between central (CNS) and enteric nervous system (ENS). This present review also provides evidence of the cross-talk between glutamate glycine and GABA along the microbiota-gut-brain axis thus any variations in this axis bear the consequences of the pathological condition. Drugs like alcohol Benzodiazepines (Barbiturates) and neurosteroids inhibit the excitatory action of glutamate leading to an overall increase of glutamate/GABA ratio that causes relaxation of nerves. However these drugs are misused and abused among drug addicts and now their commercial production is either banned or downsized and heavily monitored. Because only a limited number of drug molecules are considered in pharmaceutics and clinics as antidepressants it is essential to focus on alternate peptide modulator analogues which are safe eco-friendly and can be used as drugs to relieve stress and anxiety. In this review we present a synopsis of the studies on synthetic GABAergic agonists or GABA modulators that can be targeted for future therapeutics and clinics.
Investigating the Effect of Ginger as an Adjunctive Treatment along with SSRIs to Reduce Anxiety in Patients with GAD: A Clinical Trial Study
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by exaggerated anxiety without any apparent cause of concern. The primary treatment of this disorder is usually SSRIs which have many digestive side effects and do not provide complete treatment for the patient. The use of non-pharmacological methods may help reduce these complications. Therefore the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of ginger as an adjunctive therapy along with SSRIs to reduce anxiety in patients with GAD.
In this double-blind controlled clinical trial study a total of 80 patients with GAD were randomly assigned into two groups. For the intervention group at the same time as SSRI drug two 500-mg ginger capsules were used daily while in the control group two starch capsules were used daily as a placebo along with SSRI. Data collection tools were Hamilton's anxiety questionnaire and a gastrointestinal symptom severity scale. Data were collected before the intervention and after the 12-week intervention.
There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of average anxiety and severity of digestive symptoms before the intervention (p > 0.05) but there was a significant difference between the groups after the intervention (p < 0.05). Also the average scores of anxiety and severity of gastrointestinal symptoms in the intervention group increased significantly from the beginning of the intervention to the follow-up (intragroup difference) (p < 0.05).
The results of the study showed that the use of ginger along with SSRIs reduced anxiety and released the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with GAD. In addition in this study it was found that ginger along with SSRIs can have beneficial effects on indigestion diarrhea and nausea in patients with GAD. However these findings require more extensive research.
IRCT20201108049306N1.
The Experience of Parents When they Find Out that their Child has Autism: A Phenomenological Study
Mothers as vital and important individuals in their children's lives experience various struggles emotions and experiences in relation to their child's autism diagnosis. This study aims to provide an in-depth understanding of mothers' experiences in dealing with the diagnosis of autism in their child using a phenomenological approach.
In this study a qualitative phenomenological approach was used and purposeful sampling was employed until data saturation was achieved. The participants were selected from mothers who sought their children's participation in rehabilitation classes at the Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Center in Hamedan Iran. Unstructured interviews were conducted as the method of data collection. The descriptive method of Colaizzi was utilized for analyzing the obtained data.
Twelve participants took part in this study. The average age of the participants was 35.16 years. The analysis of mothers' lived experiences in dealing with their child's autism diagnosis using a descriptive phenomenological approach revealed four main themes: fear of the child's future worry about social harassment emergence of emotional shock and fear of trouble.
The results of this study demonstrated that concern for the child's future worry about social harm experiencing emotional shock and fear of being trapped were the major challenges faced by mothers upon learning about their child's positive autism diagnosis. Therefore professionals policymakers and regulatory organizations should pay attention to the issues raised in parents' experiences in order to provide appropriate healthcare services for children with autism and their families.
Predictors of Relapse in Women after Substance Use Treatment: A Cross-sectional Study in the West of Iran
Many individuals undergo drug addiction treatment relapse after treatment. Additionally a few studies have focused on the unique challenges faced by women in addiction recovery. Therefore we aimed to identify predictors of relapse among women who have undergone drug addiction treatment to develop a more effective intervention program tailored to their needs.
The present cross-sectional study evaluated 320 addicted women from Lorestan province Iran in 2020 who had used illegal substances. Convenience sampling was used to select participants from outpatient addiction treatment centers triangular clinics and rehabilitation centers. Demographic characteristics drug use patterns and risk factors for addiction were recorded. Predictors of relapse were evaluated using a negative binomial regression model.
The study included women with a mean age of 34.78±9.31 years who had a history of drug addiction relapse. Around 43.44% of the women were married and 36.88% lived with their husbands. Methamphetamine opium and heroin were the commonly used drugs. The study found that women with primary school education had a higher rate of relapse (IRR: 1.71 p = 0.01) and women with husbands being substance users (IRR: 1.34 p = 0.014) history of imprisonment (IRR: 1.51 p = 0.002) smoking (IRR: 1.91 p < 0.001) and alcohol consumption (IRR: 1.49 p = 0.005) were also associated with a higher rate of relapse.
In conclusion this study found that women with primary school education husbands being substance users history of imprisonment smoking and alcohol consumption behavior had a higher rate of relapse. By addressing the identified predictors of relapse such programs can improve the success rate of addiction treatment and promote long-term recovery among women. In addition this study highlights that addiction relapse is not necessarily caused by a single factor and several different personal and environmental factors can influence this issue.
The Secure Therapeutic Effects of Recently Developed Antipsychotic Drugs and Updated Neural Networks in Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are treated in most cases with antipsychotic drugs of the second generation. These drugs block dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors i.e. D2 and 5-HT2A receptors and cause different adverse effects for example movement disturbances of the extrapyramidal system and adverse effects of vital parameters and of the heart. These drugs treat positive symptoms in schizophrenia and to a lesser extent negative symptoms. This review presents the development of newer antipsychotic drugs.
References were taken from PubMed after using the following keywords: schizophrenia schizoaffective disorder antipsychotic drug neurotransmitter and neuropeptide. Among these newer antipsychotic drugs are cariprazine brexipiprazole and lumateperone which exert a partial agonistic effect at D2 and 5-HT2A receptors pimavanserin a 5-HT2A receptor antagonist which treats negative symptoms in schizophrenia as an add-on therapy olanzapine combined with samidorphan which reduces weight gain and M4 or M1 receptor agonists for example xanomeline with an antipsychotic effect combined with trospium an anticholinergic drug. Neural networks were updated in order to deduce the antipsychotic mechanism of action of newer antipsychotic drugs especially xanomeline.
The newer antipsychotic drugs cariprazine brexipiprazole and lumateperone show antipsychotic antimanic and anti-depressive effects however the efficacy on psychotic symptoms in long-term treatment has not yet been examined. Pimavanserin reduces negative symptoms in schizophrenia as an additional pharmacotherapy to treat this disorder. Olanzapine combined with samidorphan exerts good antipsychotic effects and reduces weight gain. The new antipsychotic drug xanomeline the antipsychotic effect of which is quite different from the antidopaminergic effect treats positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia. Its mechanism of action was deduced from the neural networks presented. The long-term efficacy should still be examined.
This review is focused on newer antipsychotic drugs. The long-term efficacy of cariprazine brexipiprazole and lumateperone in the treatment of schizophrenia should be examined furthermore. Neural networks in the brain areas involved in schizophrenia should be examined and updated furthermore. Newer antipsychotic drugs for example xanomeline an M4 or M1 receptor agonist which has been combined with trospium an anticholinergic drug the mechanism of action of which can be derived from the neural network suggested in this review.
A Study on Psychological Impact of Working From Home of Employees during COVID-19 Pandemic- a Cross Sectional Study
With the sudden onset of COVID-19 many organisations introduced a mandatory relocation of workforce from their workplace to their homes bringing in a work from home policy for their employees. The purpose of the study is to examine the positive and negative impact on quality of life of teleworking thereby assessing the prevalence of psychological distress of employees working in COVID-19.
A cross sectional study was conducted on Indian - representative survey of self-reported data through an online questionnaire of work from home employees and their responses were analysed using SPSS software.
The study findings revealed that out of 2943 total respondents to the questionnaires 18.9% and 20.2% had agreed and strongly agreed respectively to the statement that work from home was a chance to break old habits and change routine. The mean positive affect score among those affected with COVID was 20.82 ± 3.71 and for those not affected with COVID was 21.12 ± 3.71.
The results indicate age disparities in mental distress perceived adversities highlighted the discrepancies differed by the area of residence and those affected by the corona virus.
Auto-aggressive Behavior as a Medical and Social Problem of Our Time: Definitions, Concepts, and Retrospective of Research by Russian Authors, Narrative Review
The study of autoaggression is one of the main areas of research work in psychiatry suicidology and psychology. Suicidal behavior remains one of the most dangerous forms of autoaggressive behavior. In recent years both in Russia and around the world there has been an increased interest in the problem of non-suicidal injuries. This review aims to analyze summarize and present definitions of autoaggression suicidal behavior and self-harm that are relevant among Russian authors as well as present long-term results of dissertation research by Russian authors on this topic. A non-systematic narrative review is presented. In the first section a search was made for Russian-language and English-language sources in the databases: ELibrary.ru PubMed and the “google scholar” search system. Articles were searched by keywords: Self-Injurious Behavior Suicide Suicidal Ideation Suicide Attempted autoaggression self-harm and adolescents. In the second section a search and analysis of dissertation research by Russian authors from 2000 to 2020 are carried out using the database of the Russian State Library. On this topic a total of 86 papers were found of which 66 theses directly study these issues 8 theses have information on this topic in the results and conclusions and 12 theses were excluded from the results as not relevant. The story is arranged in chronological order from oldest to newest. Abstracts of dissertations are used for citation. The behavior of an autoaggressive nature self-injurious behavior and non-suicidal self-harm is currently a phenomenon that is widespread among adolescents. Currently NSSI is an urgent problem of mental health among adolescents.
The Mismatch between Adult Smokers’ Abstinence Expectancies and Experiences at Outpatient Facilities: An Exploratory Study
Smokers’ expectancies about abstinence that is the effects that smokers anticipate when they attempt to quit smoking remain understudied. The aim of the present study was to examine the relation between smoking abstinence expectations and subjective experience over time among individuals in smoking cessation treatment.
A total of 215 adult smokers seeking treatment at two Italian third-level outpatient facilities were assessed at baseline and three-time points after the quit day (QD): 7 days and 1 and 3 months. The following self-report instruments were administered: the Smoking Abstinence Expectancies Questionnaire (SAEQ) as a baseline measure of expectancies before quitting; the SAEQ-past for assessing the actual occurrence of symptoms that were expected; the Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Scale as a measure of withdrawal symptoms post-quitting.
One and 3 months after the QD participants reported fewer negative abstinence symptoms than expected except for somatic symptoms and fewer positive consequences than expected. A mismatch between smoking abstinence expectations and actual post-quitting experiences was found thus expectancies were violated.
The present findings confirm the need to assess both abstinence expectancies and actual post-quitting experiences. Future studies should examine tailored interventions aimed at educating smokers about expectancies and post-quitting experiences.
Juggle Between Work, Home, and Stress; A Qualitative Analysis Using Nvivo-12 on Working Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic
India and other parts of the world have witnessed a health emergency due to COVID-19 that immensely affected the globe. These infectious diseases changed the lives of people and the condition of working women worsened due to the responsibility of work home children family house etc. altogether simultaneously. In a patriarchal society like India where women are considered as ‘nurturing sex’ where domestic chores and care giving responsibilities are shouldered on women the juggle between work and home elevated the work demand and heightened the level of stress. Based on the background discussed above this research is an attempt to address the condition of working women the juggling between work and home elevated stress work pressure amid COVID-19.
The world has been struggling with the greatest health crisis for the last two and a half years affecting everyone’s life especially working women. The condition of working women has worsened by bearing the heap of responsibilities of work home children family house etc. which undoubtedly results in stress frustration and anger affecting women’s physical and mental health. This paper is to study the condition of working women who are juggling between work and home amid this COVID-19 pandemic.
For conducting the comprehensive study a questionnaire was designed which consisted of 14 questions excluding the demographic information namely Name Age Gender Profession Experience etc. Questionnaires were floated to 60 working women under different job profiles. Convenience Sampling was used to collect the data. Out of a sample of 60 50 women recorded their responses via Google Sheets and 38 questionnaires were finally used for analysis. The authors have utilized qualitative data analysis techniques to address the issue with the help of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software NVIVO. For analyzing the qualitative data NVIVO 12 was used by applying three tools Word Cloud Analysis thematic analysis and sentiments analysis.
The findings of the study show that working women are facing continuous challenges and are under stress due to multiple roles responsibilities and work demands since the onset of COVID-19. It is supported by Word Cloud Analysis thematic analysis and sentiment analysis.
The outbreak of this COVID-19 pandemic and its exceptional impact on lives has generated an array of challenges in everyone’s life but it shattered the lives of working women. The objective of this research is to unearth the stress in working women’s life amid COVID-19 due to the juggling between personal and professional life simultaneously. Results show that amid COVID-19 working women are under stress due to familial responsibility household chores work demands caregiving etc. all simultaneously without any breather. This societal stereotype lays high pressure and exceptions on working women leading to stress affecting the personal well-being and health of the woman.
Pharmacotherapy of Psychological Disorders Using Psychedelic Drugs: A Treatise for Psychiatrists
Psychedelics are currently being examined once more as potential remedies for untreatable biological illnesses after decades of research problems. They are frequently regarded to be physically safe and do not frequently lead to dependency or addiction. The use of psychedelic substances in the treatment of mental illness and the adoption of the Substance Act of 1970 has classified psychedelic drugs as Schedule I. The major objective of this review is to highlight the prospective use of specific psychedelic medicines such as psilocybin LSD MDMA and ayahuasca in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions such as treatment-resistant depression post-traumatic traumatic stress end-of-life anxiety and substance misuse disorders. As documented from both animal and human studies in addition there will be a study of the effectiveness and safety. The body of research suggests that psychedelics may one day offer revolutionary treatments for mental diseases contrary to conventional therapy. However given their distinctive histories and a high potential for abuse with widespread distribution more care and effort must be given to protect their use as efficient medical treatments instead of drugs of abuse.
An Evidence-Based Comprehensive Review of Laughter Therapy in Depression Management
Depression is a widespread mental health challenge necessitating diverse therapeutic approaches. Emerging research suggests that laughter may offer a valuable adjunctive intervention for individuals grappling with depressive symptoms. This review systematically investigates the multifaceted relationship between laughter and depression elucidating the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic benefits. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases including PubMed PsycINFO Scopus and Google Scholar. Keywords used in the search included “laughter therapy” “humor” “depression” “mental health” and “psychological well-being.” The search was limited to articles published in English and included both peer-reviewed journal articles and relevant gray literature. Relevant data were extracted from each study including the study design sample size participant characteristics type of laughter intervention duration and frequency of the intervention outcome measures and key findings. The extracted data were organized into tables to facilitate comparison across studies. By synthesizing findings from clinical studies neuroscience research and anecdotal evidence this review examines the physiological psychological and social dimensions of laughter's impact on depression. Special attention is given to neurochemical pathways stress modulation cognitive restructuring and social dynamics. The physiological effects of laughter on depression encompass neurochemical regulation (endorphins serotonin dopamine) stress reduction and immune system modulation. Psychologically laughter contributes to cognitive reframing enhanced coping mechanisms and mood regulation. Socially it strengthens social bonds mitigates social isolation and fosters a positive social environment. In conclusion this review synthesizes current knowledge on the healing potential of laughter in mitigating depression providing a holistic understanding of its multifaceted impact. The findings underscore the importance of integrating laughter-based interventions into mental health care practices and highlight avenues for future research and clinical applications in the realm of depression treatment.
Correlation between Cognitive Impairment and Peripheral Biomarkers - Significance of Phosphorylated Tau and Amyloid-β in Alzheimer’s Disease: A New Insight
The correlation between elevated levels of amyloid-β and phosphorylated tau (p-tau) protein and AD is widely recognized. A rise in pTau and amyloid-β levels aids in separating AD from other neurodegenerative conditions. In this study we have assessed the correlation between cognitive impairment and peripheral biomarkers tau and amyloid-β levels in AD patients with mild Alzheimer's disease in order to develop protein-based markers in a more useful way. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay has been used to determine the levels of tau and p-tau in the serum of the different groups and it has revealed their levels to be noticeably greater in AD compared to mild AD and even higher compared to elderly controls. Based on the cutoff levels for tau p-tau and amyloid-β in patients with AD and mild AD having high sensitivity and specificity which have been described in numerous studies by respective International Research Groups (with the greatest number of pieces of available evidence) the plasma concentration of these proteins can be used as a diagnostic indicator for AD and mild AD. These levels may also offer a practical guide to their implementation in the clinical routine.
The Current Status of Sociopolitical and Legal Issues Faced by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Questioning Youth
Background: Adolescents today have unprecedented and uninterrupted access to news and current events through broadcast and social media. Lesbian gay bisexual transgender queer and questioning (LGBTQ) adolescents may be especially cognizant of media and public discourse pertaining to law and policy changes affecting the legal rights of their communities. The minority stress framework explains how sociopolitical discourse impacts mental health among sexual and gender minority youths. Objectives: This paper identifies and describes contemporary sociopolitical and legal issues that may impact LGBTQ adolescents’ mental health. Methods: Authors describe the minority stress framework as applied to gender and sexual identity and explore key sociopolitical and legal topics relevant to LGBTQ adolescents including employment; medical care bans; health insurance coverage; conversion therapy; religious exemptions in health care; housing rights; and rights in schools and school districts including participation in sports. Results: LGBTQ youth experience rejection prejudice and discrimination directly through adverse legislative or administrative action and more pervasively through the dominant cultural beliefs and sociopolitical messaging that such developments manifest. Conclusion: Mental health clinicians who are aware of legal issues and sociopolitical debate pertinent to LGBTQ rights are better prepared to address their significant impact on LGBTQ adolescents’ mental health.