In the News

Using stem cell-based technology to create living models of human brain development, researchers for the first time succeeded in modeling the process through which specialized cells in the neural tube guide axons crossing from one side of the emerging spinal cord to the other, establishing bilateral connectivity. Sergiu Pasca, the Kenneth T. Norris, Jr. Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Bonnie Uytengsu and Family Director of the Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, is featured.

"Wellbeing on the Farm" teaches evidence-based strategies for managing stress and regulating emotions, helping students navigate the challenges of college and beyond. Co-taught by Shashank Joshi, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences (and, by courtesy, of pediatrics and of education), and Oula Khoury, clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, the course goes beyond simply helping students cope with stress -- it teaches skills and strategies they need to truly thrive at Stanford and beyond.

In this episode of Stanford CME's Women's Health series, Mira Zein, clinical associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, discusses the impact of hormonal fluctuations on insomnia throughout a woman’s life.

Nolan Williams, MD, an immensely creative and forward-thinking physician-scientist who pioneered fast-acting treatments for severe mental health conditions, including rapid transcranial magnetic brain stimulation for depression and ibogaine therapy for PTSD, died on October 8th. Williams had a relentless drive to provide better options, and more hope, to patients struggling with mental illness.

Video game addictions can severely disrupt teens’ sleep, schoolwork and social lives, but there is help available at places like the Youth Recovery Clinic at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. Bradley Zicherman, clinical associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, is interviewed.

Rigid gender norms are taking a serious toll on boys’ and men’s mental health, prompting psychologists to promote healthier masculinities rooted in emotional connection, authenticity, and resilience. Ethan Hoffman, clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, provides comment.