NAMI Utah

Science Updates and Resources from the National Institute on Mental Health

NIMH provides updates in the science and research field of mental health. Below are some links to resources, news, and the entire update published my NIMH bi-monthly.

Fact Sheet on Stress: Click HERE

NIMH Video: Embedded in Iraq: Click HERE

Clinical Trials:

The NIMH Genetic Study of Schizophrenia

If you or someone in your family is 18 years old or older and has been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (depressed type), you may be able to participate in a genetic study that looks for genes in families. In order for family members to participate, the person with schizophrenia must be willing and able to participate. Eligible family members participate in an interview and contribute a sample of blood for genetic analysis. If you have schizophrenia, and if possible, your sibling, you may qualify to participate in this study. There is no change in medication involved. The study involves simple cognitive tests and some MRI scans (no radiation). All testing is completed free of charge and there is compensation for each family member's participation in the study. Travel and lodging assistance is also available. Scientists believe that the identification of susceptibility genes is key to understanding the molecular pathways of this disease so that better treatments and preventive methods can be developed in the future. To find out if you qualify or for more information, please call 301-435-8970 (1-888-674-6464) or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

To download the entire update click HERE

Hearts & Minds Tip of the Week

With the weather beginning to heat up and summer right around the corner, take these safety precautions for heat-related illnesses. (The below information is from the CDC)

Getting too hot can make you sick. You can become ill from the heat if your body can't compensate for it and properly cool you off. Heat exposure can even kill you: it caused 8,015 deaths in the United States from 1979 to 2003.

These are the main things affecting your body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather:

  • High humidity. When the humidity is high, sweat won't evaporate as quickly, which keeps your body from releasing heat as fast as it may need to.
  • Personal factors. Age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug and alcohol use can play a role in whether a person can cool off enough in very hot weather.

Here are some facts about which people are at greatest risk for heat-related illness and what protective actions to take to prevent illness or death:

  • People who are at highest risk are the elderly, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases
  • But even young and healthy people can get sick from the heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather.
  • Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. If a home is not air-conditioned, people can reduce their risk for heat-related illness by spending time in public facilities that are air-conditioned.

You can take these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths during hot weather:

  • Stay cool indoors.
  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Replace salt and minerals.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
  • Pace yourself.
  • Use a buddy system.
  • Monitor people at high risk.
  • Adjust to the environment.
  • Do not leave children in cars.
  • Use common sense.

 More Information

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