Mental Health

OpenAI data shows million weekly suicide talks with ChatGPT

OpenAI has released data indicating that over a million users discuss suicide with ChatGPT each week. The company is addressing these interactions by improving its AI's responses to mental health issues. This comes amid lawsuits and warnings about protecting vulnerable users.

Evolution of human intelligence linked to mental illness vulnerability

Researchers have traced genetic variants in the human genome to reveal that advances in cognitive abilities around 500,000 years ago were soon followed by mutations increasing susceptibility to psychiatric disorders. This suggests a trade-off in brain evolution. The study, published in Cerebral Cortex, analyzed 33,000 genetic variants to build an evolutionary timeline of brain-related traits.

Skin conditions linked to worse outcomes in early psychosis

Researchers have discovered that individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis who also have skin issues face higher risks of depression and suicidal thoughts. The finding, presented at the ECNP meeting in Amsterdam, suggests dermatological symptoms could serve as early warning signs for poorer mental health outcomes. This connection may stem from shared developmental origins between the skin and brain.

Scientists identify specific brain cells linked to depression

Researchers at McGill University and the Douglas Institute have pinpointed two types of brain cells altered in people with depression. Using advanced genomic analysis on post-mortem brain tissue, they found genetic disruptions in excitatory neurons and microglia. The findings, published in Nature Genetics, could lead to more targeted treatments for the condition affecting over 264 million people worldwide.

Ukrainian crypto trader Konstantin Galich found dead after market crash

October 13, 2025 Iniulat ng AI

Prominent Ukrainian crypto trader Konstantin Galich, known as Kostya Kudo, was found dead in his Lamborghini on October 11, 2025, amid a severe cryptocurrency market downturn. Authorities suspect suicide but have launched a homicide investigation. His death underscores the emotional toll on traders during volatile periods.

Genes influencing cannabis use identified in genome study

Researchers from UC San Diego and 23andMe have discovered genetic links to cannabis use behaviors, connecting them to over 100 health traits. The study, published on October 13, 2025, in Molecular Psychiatry, highlights two key genes and could inform prevention of cannabis use disorder. It analyzed data from nearly 132,000 participants to explore early-stage risks.

Ketogenic diet protects young rats from prenatal stress effects

Researchers in Italy have found that a ketogenic diet can shield young rats from the long-term mental and behavioral impacts of prenatal stress. The high-fat, low-carbohydrate regimen, administered after weaning, improved sociability and reduced stress-related issues in the offspring of stressed mothers. These findings, presented at the ECNP conference in Amsterdam, suggest potential early dietary interventions, though human trials are needed.

Different depression types tied to distinct physical health risks

New research shows that atypical depression increases diabetes risk, while melancholic depression heightens chances of heart disease. The findings, from a seven-year study of nearly 6,000 adults, highlight the need for tailored mental and physical health approaches. Presented at the ECNP Congress in Amsterdam, the work underscores biological differences in depression subtypes.

OpenAI plans erotic chats for verified adults starting December

October 16, 2025 Iniulat ng AI

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced that verified adult users will soon be able to engage in erotic conversations with ChatGPT. The change, set for December, includes age verification and new tools to detect mental distress. This follows a history of adjusting content restrictions amid safety concerns.