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60 popular mental health research paper topics.

Mental Health Research Paper Topics

The best way to write a good mental health research paper is to select a topic that you will enjoy working on. If you are looking for some interesting mental health research paper topics to work on, here is a list of 60 ideas to choose from.

Perfect for students as well as experts these topics have ample scope to experiment, share ideas and arguments on, and find substantial evidence to support your view. Take a look –

Mental Health Topics for Research Paper

When you are writing a paper for a graded assignment, it is important to have some great research paper topics about mental health to pick from. Here are some to consider –

  • Mental traumas from physical injuries and how to help recover
  • Resilience building – why is it important for children?
  • Friendships in men and how they contribute to mental health?
  • The role of parenting in building good mental health in children
  • What is normal emotional health and mental functioning?
  • Anti-depressants and their side effects.
  • Indicators suggesting medication for depression can be stopped
  • Effects of colors on mental health
  • How and why does lack of sleep effect emotional mental health?
  • Effect of exercise on a patient’s mental health
  • Effective methods to boost brain health and emotional quotient as we age
  • Mental health developmental stages in children from birth to 5 years of age
  • Why is play important for mental health in children
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder – what causes it and how to manage?
  • ADHD — how to identify if someone has it?

Critical Analysis Research Paper Topics in Mental Health

For psychology students looking for effective research paper topics mental health offers many arenas for critical analysis. Here are some good topics to pick from –

  • Relevance of Freud in modern day psychiatry
  • Abortion care – the ethics and the procedures to facilitate emotional wellbeing
  • Are women facing more mental health issues than men?
  • Suicide – The reasons, trauma, and dealing with it
  • How does peer pressure change mental wellness and how to deal with it?
  • Effect of child abuse on toddlers’ mental health and resilience
  • Does Obesity affect mental health?
  • Is the damage on mental health caused by sexual abuse permanent?
  • Hormonal imbalances and their effect on women’s mental health
  • How to identify signs of mental illness in a loved one?

Music Therapy Research Paper Topics Mental Health

Music plays a significant role in enhancing mental health. Here are some mental health research paper topics on the role of music therapy in the field of mental health and treatments:

  • Music therapy a complimentary approach to biomedicine
  • Does music therapy facilitate enhanced healing?
  • Efficacy of music therapy for older adults
  • The role of music therapy in rehabilitation of mental health patients
  • Music based interventions and the effects of music therapy
  • Eating disorders and can music therapy help?
  • Can music therapy help with mental health during menopause?
  • Music therapy and its role in PTSD

Mental Health Nursing Research Paper Topics

If you are a nursing student you will certainly find these research paper topics for mental health useful for your assignment –

  • Psychiatric care in adult patients of mental health disorders
  • Non-chemical practices in bipolar disorder
  • Mental health care for patients dealing with alcohol addiction
  • Managing PTSD in armed forces veterans
  • Ethics to deal with psychiatric patients
  • Postpartum depression and how to identify and assist in early stages
  • Identifying the signs and managing patients with eating disorder
  • Mental illnesses common in soldiers returning from war
  • Signs of mental illness that must never be ignored
  • How to manage self-destructive mental health patients?

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Mental Health

Some mental health topics are controversial, but also well scoring if handled well. Take a look at some such topics worth considering –

  • Do natural alternatives to anti-depressants work?
  • Extreme postpartum depression leading to child harming tendencies
  • Infertility and its effects on mental health of the couple
  • Are more women suicidal than men?
  • Effect of teen relationship problems on mental health
  • The relationship between mental health and child abusers
  • Physical abuse in marriage and its effect on mental health
  • Rape and managing the emotional scars for effective healing
  • Self-destructive tendencies in children – causes and cures
  • Is it possible that there are people without conscience?
  • Are video games making children violent and aggressive?
  • Should criminals facing trial be subjected to genetic testing for impulse control?
  • Mental health in teenagers and why they cut themselves
  • Phobias – some of the most common and unusual fears people have
  • Divorce and how it affects the mental health of children
  • Is mental illness genetic
  • Does discovery of being adopted affect mental health of a child?

If you are a college student wondering what is the best way to write a research paper or how to write an effective submission that will get you good grades, you can get in touch with us for writing help. Our team offers fast and cheap assistance with writing papers that are appropriate for your level of education.

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mental health research topics questions

Research Topics & Ideas: Mental Health

100+ Mental Health Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

If you’re just starting out exploring mental health topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of mental health-related research topics and ideas.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Mental Health Topic Ideas

  • Mood disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Psychotic disorders
  • Personality disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance-related disorders

Research topic idea mega list

Mood Disorders

Research in mood disorders can help understand their causes and improve treatment methods. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

  • The impact of genetics on the susceptibility to depression
  • Efficacy of antidepressants vs. cognitive behavioural therapy
  • The role of gut microbiota in mood regulation
  • Cultural variations in the experience and diagnosis of bipolar disorder
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder: Environmental factors and treatment
  • The link between depression and chronic illnesses
  • Exercise as an adjunct treatment for mood disorders
  • Hormonal changes and mood swings in postpartum women
  • Stigma around mood disorders in the workplace
  • Suicidal tendencies among patients with severe mood disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Research topics in this category can potentially explore the triggers, coping mechanisms, or treatment efficacy for anxiety disorders.

  • The relationship between social media and anxiety
  • Exposure therapy effectiveness in treating phobias
  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder in children: Early signs and interventions
  • The role of mindfulness in treating anxiety
  • Genetics and heritability of anxiety disorders
  • The link between anxiety disorders and heart disease
  • Anxiety prevalence in LGBTQ+ communities
  • Caffeine consumption and its impact on anxiety levels
  • The economic cost of untreated anxiety disorders
  • Virtual Reality as a treatment method for anxiety disorders

Psychotic Disorders

Within this space, your research topic could potentially aim to investigate the underlying factors and treatment possibilities for psychotic disorders.

  • Early signs and interventions in adolescent psychosis
  • Brain imaging techniques for diagnosing psychotic disorders
  • The efficacy of antipsychotic medication
  • The role of family history in psychotic disorders
  • Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment of psychotic disorders
  • Co-morbidity of psychotic and mood disorders
  • The relationship between substance abuse and psychotic disorders
  • Art therapy as a treatment for schizophrenia
  • Public perception and stigma around psychotic disorders
  • Hospital vs. community-based care for psychotic disorders

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

Personality Disorders

Research topics within in this area could delve into the identification, management, and social implications of personality disorders.

  • Long-term outcomes of borderline personality disorder
  • Antisocial personality disorder and criminal behaviour
  • The role of early life experiences in developing personality disorders
  • Narcissistic personality disorder in corporate leaders
  • Gender differences in personality disorders
  • Diagnosis challenges for Cluster A personality disorders
  • Emotional intelligence and its role in treating personality disorders
  • Psychotherapy methods for treating personality disorders
  • Personality disorders in the elderly population
  • Stigma and misconceptions about personality disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

Within this space, research topics could focus on the causes, symptoms, or treatment of disorders like OCD and hoarding.

  • OCD and its relationship with anxiety disorders
  • Cognitive mechanisms behind hoarding behaviour
  • Deep Brain Stimulation as a treatment for severe OCD
  • The impact of OCD on academic performance in students
  • Role of family and social networks in treating OCD
  • Alternative treatments for hoarding disorder
  • Childhood onset OCD: Diagnosis and treatment
  • OCD and religious obsessions
  • The impact of OCD on family dynamics
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Causes and treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Research topics in this area could explore the triggers, symptoms, and treatments for PTSD. Here are some thought starters to get you moving.

  • PTSD in military veterans: Coping mechanisms and treatment
  • Childhood trauma and adult onset PTSD
  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficacy
  • Role of emotional support animals in treating PTSD
  • Gender differences in PTSD occurrence and treatment
  • Effectiveness of group therapy for PTSD patients
  • PTSD and substance abuse: A dual diagnosis
  • First responders and rates of PTSD
  • Domestic violence as a cause of PTSD
  • The neurobiology of PTSD

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

This category of mental health aims to better understand disorders like Autism and ADHD and their impact on day-to-day life.

  • Early diagnosis and interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • ADHD medication and its impact on academic performance
  • Parental coping strategies for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Autism and gender: Diagnosis disparities
  • The role of diet in managing ADHD symptoms
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders in the criminal justice system
  • Genetic factors influencing Autism
  • ADHD and its relationship with sleep disorders
  • Educational adaptations for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders and stigma in schools

Eating Disorders

Research topics within this space can explore the psychological, social, and biological aspects of eating disorders.

  • The role of social media in promoting eating disorders
  • Family dynamics and their impact on anorexia
  • Biological basis of binge-eating disorder
  • Treatment outcomes for bulimia nervosa
  • Eating disorders in athletes
  • Media portrayal of body image and its impact
  • Eating disorders and gender: Are men underdiagnosed?
  • Cultural variations in eating disorders
  • The relationship between obesity and eating disorders
  • Eating disorders in the LGBTQ+ community

Substance-Related Disorders

Research topics in this category can focus on addiction mechanisms, treatment options, and social implications.

  • Efficacy of rehabilitation centres for alcohol addiction
  • The role of genetics in substance abuse
  • Substance abuse and its impact on family dynamics
  • Prescription drug abuse among the elderly
  • Legalisation of marijuana and its impact on substance abuse rates
  • Alcoholism and its relationship with liver diseases
  • Opioid crisis: Causes and solutions
  • Substance abuse education in schools: Is it effective?
  • Harm reduction strategies for drug abuse
  • Co-occurring mental health disorders in substance abusers

Research topic evaluator

Choosing A Research Topic

These research topic ideas we’ve covered here serve as thought starters to help you explore different areas within mental health. They are intentionally very broad and open-ended. By engaging with the currently literature in your field of interest, you’ll be able to narrow down your focus to a specific research gap .

It’s important to consider a variety of factors when choosing a topic for your dissertation or thesis . Think about the relevance of the topic, its feasibility , and the resources available to you, including time, data, and academic guidance. Also, consider your own interest and expertise in the subject, as this will sustain you through the research process.

Always consult with your academic advisor to ensure that your chosen topic aligns with academic requirements and offers a meaningful contribution to the field. If you need help choosing a topic, consider our private coaching service.

okurut joseph

Good morning everyone. This are very patent topics for research in neuroscience. Thank you for guidance

Ygs

What if everything is important, original and intresting? as in Neuroscience. I find myself overwhelmd with tens of relveant areas and within each area many optional topics. I ask myself if importance (for example – able to treat people suffering) is more relevant than what intrest me, and on the other hand if what advance me further in my career should not also be a consideration?

MARTHA KALOMO

This information is really helpful and have learnt alot

Pepple Biteegeregha Godfrey

Phd research topics on implementation of mental health policy in Nigeria :the prospects, challenges and way forward.

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207 Mental Health Research Topics For Top Students

Mental Health Research Topics

College and university students pursuing psychology studies must write research papers on mental health in their studies. It is not always an exciting moment for the students since getting quality mental health topics is tedious. However, this article presents expert ideas and writing tips for students in this field. Enjoy!

What Is Mental Health?

It is an integral component of health that deals with the feeling of well-being when one realizes his or her abilities, cope with the pressures of life, and productively work. Mental health also incorporates how humans interact with each other, emote, or think. It is a vital concern of any human life that cannot be neglected.

How To Write Mental Health Research Topics

One should approach the subject of mental health with utmost preciseness. If handled carelessly, cases such as depression, suicide or low self-esteem may occur. That is why students are advised to carefully choose mental health research paper topics for their paper with the mind reader.

To get mental health topics for research paper, you can use the following sources:

  • The WHO website
  • Websites of renowned psychology clinics
  • News reports and headlines.

However, we have a list of writing ideas that you can use for your inspiration. Check them out!

Top Mental Disorders Research Topics

  • Is the psychological treatment of mental disorders working for all?
  • How do substance-use disorders impede the healing process?
  • Discuss the effectiveness of the mental health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP)
  • Are non-specialists in mental health able to manage severe mental disorders?
  • The role of the WHO in curbing and treating mental disorders globally
  • The contribution of coronavirus pandemic to mental disorders
  • How does television contribute to mental disorders among teens?
  • Does religion play a part in propagating mental disorders?
  • How does peer pressure contribute to mental disorders among teens?
  • The role of the guidance and counselling departments in helping victims of mental disorders
  • How to develop integrated and responsive mental health to such disorders
  • Discuss various strategies for promotion and prevention in mental health
  • The role of information systems in mental disorders

Mental Illness Research Questions

  • The role of antidepressant medicines in treating mental illnesses
  • How taxation of alcoholic beverages and their restriction can help in curbing mental illnesses
  • The impact of mental illnesses on the economic development of a country
  • Efficient and cost-effective ways of treating mental illnesses
  • Early childhood interventions to prevent future mental illnesses
  • Why children from single-parent families are prone to mental illnesses
  • Do opportunities for early learning have a role in curbing mental diseases?
  • Life skills programmes that everyone should embrace to fight mental illnesses
  • The role of nutrition and diet in causing mental illness
  • How socio-economic empowerment of women can help promote mental health
  • Practical social support for elderly populations to prevent mental illnesses
  • How to help vulnerable groups against mental illnesses
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health promotional activities in schools

Hot Mental Health Topics For Research

  • Do stress prevention programmes on TV work?
  • The role of anti-discrimination laws and campaigns in promoting mental health
  • Discuss specific psychological and personality factors leading to mental disorders
  • How can biological factors lead to mental problems?
  • How stressful work conditions can stir up mental health disorders
  • Is physical ill-health a pivotal contributor to mental disorders today?
  • Why sexual violence has led many to depression and suicide
  • The role of life experiences in mental illnesses: A case of trauma
  • How family history can lead to mental health problems
  • Can people with mental health problems recover entirely?
  • Why sleeping too much or minor can be an indicator of mental disorders.
  • Why do people with mental health problems pull away from others?
  • Discuss confusion as a sign of mental disorders

Research Topics For Mental Health Counseling

  • Counselling strategies that help victims cope with the stresses of life
  • Is getting professional counselling help becoming too expensive?
  • Mental health counselling for bipolar disorders
  • How psychological counselling affects victims of mental health disorders
  • What issues are students free to share with their guiding and counselling masters?
  • Why are relationship issues the most prevalent among teenagers?
  • Does counselling help in the case of obsessive-compulsive disorders?
  • Is counselling a cure to mental health problems?
  • Why talking therapies are the most effective in dealing with mental disorders
  • How does talking about your experiences help in dealing with the problem?
  • Why most victims approach their counsellors feeling apprehensive and nervous
  • How to make a patient feel comfortable during a counselling session
  • Why counsellors should not push patients to talk about stuff they aren’t ready to share

Mental Health Law Research Topics

  • Discuss the effectiveness of the Americans with Disabilities Act
  • Does the Capacity to Consent to Treatment law push patients to the wall?
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health courts
  • Does forcible medication lead to severe mental health problems?
  • Discuss the institutionalization of mental health facilities
  • Analyze the Consent to Clinical Research using mentally ill patients
  • What rights do mentally sick patients have? Are they effective?
  • Critically analyze proxy decision making for mental disorders
  • Why some Psychiatric Advance directives are punitive
  • Discuss the therapeutic jurisprudence of mental disorders
  • How effective is legal guardianship in the case of mental disorders?
  • Discuss psychology laws & licensing boards in the United States
  • Evaluate state insanity defence laws

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Mental Health

  • Do mentally ill patients have a right to choose whether to go to psychiatric centres or not?
  • Should families take the elderly to mental health institutions?
  • Does the doctor have the right to end the life of a terminally ill mental patient?
  • The use of euthanasia among extreme cases of mental health
  • Are mental disorders a result of curses and witchcraft?
  • Do violent video games make children aggressive and uncontrollable?
  • Should mental institutions be located outside the cities?
  • How often should families visit their relatives who are mentally ill?
  • Why the government should fully support the mentally ill
  • Should mental health clinics use pictures of patients without their consent?
  • Should families pay for the care of mentally ill relatives?
  • Do mentally ill patients have the right to marry or get married?
  • Who determines when to send a patient to a mental health facility?

Mental Health Topics For Discussion

  • The role of drama and music in treating mental health problems
  • Explore new ways of coping with mental health problems in the 21 st century
  • How social media is contributing to various mental health problems
  • Does Yoga and meditation help to treat mental health complications?
  • Is the mental health curriculum for psychology students inclusive enough?
  • Why solving problems as a family can help alleviate mental health disorders
  • Why teachers can either maintain or disrupt the mental state of their students
  • Should patients with mental health issues learn to live with their problems?
  • Why socializing is difficult for patients with mental disorders
  • Are our online psychology clinics effective in handling mental health issues?
  • Discuss why people aged 18-25 are more prone to mental health problems
  • Analyze the growing trend of social stigma in the United States
  • Are all people with mental health disorders violent and dangerous?

Mental Health Of New Mothers Research Topics

  • The role of mental disorders in mother-infant bonding
  • How mental health issues could lead to delays in the emotional development of the infant
  • The impact of COVID-19 physical distancing measures on postpartum women
  • Why anxiety and depression are associated with preterm delivery
  • The role of husbands in attending to wives’ postpartum care needs
  • What is the effectiveness of screening for postpartum depression?
  • The role of resilience in dealing with mental issues after delivery
  • Why marginalized women are more prone to postpartum depression
  • Why failure to bond leads to mental disorders among new mothers
  • Discuss how low and middle-income countries contribute to perinatal depression
  • How to prevent the recurrence of postpartum mental disorders in future
  • The role of anti-depression drugs in dealing with depression among new mothers
  • A case study of the various healthcare interventions for perinatal anxiety and mood disorders

What Are The Hot Topics For Mental Health Research Today

  • Discuss why mental health problems may be a result of a character flaw
  • The impact of damaging stereotypes in mental health
  • Why are many people reluctant to speak about their mental health issues?
  • Why the society tends to judge people with mental issues
  • Does alcohol and wasting health help one deal with a mental problem?
  • Discuss the role of bullying in causing mental health disorders among students
  • Why open forums in school and communities can help in curbing mental disorders
  • How to build healthy relationships that can help in solving mental health issues
  • Discuss frustration and lack of understanding in relationships
  • The role of a stable and supportive family in preventing mental disorders
  • How parents can start mental health conversations with their children
  • Analyze the responsibilities of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
  • The role of a positive mind in dealing with psychological problems

Good Research Topics On Refugees Mental Health

  • Why do refugees find themselves under high levels of stress?
  • Discuss the modalities of looking after the mental health of refugees
  • Evaluate the importance of a cultural framework in helping refugees with mental illnesses
  • How refugee camp administrators can help identify mental health disorders among refugees
  • Discuss the implications of dangerous traditional practices
  • The role of the UNHCR in assisting refugees with mental problems
  • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder among refugees
  • Dealing with hopelessness among refugees
  • The prevalence of traumatic experiences in refugee camps
  • Does cognitive-behavioural therapy work for refugees?
  • Discuss the role of policy planning in dealing with refugee-mental health problems
  • Are psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine effective in refugee camps?
  • Practical groups and in‐group therapeutic settings for refugee camps

Adolescent Mental Health Research Topics

  • Discuss why suicide is among the leading causes of death among adolescents
  • The role of acting-out behaviour or substance use in mental issues among adolescents
  • Mental effects of unsafe sexual behaviour among adolescents
  • Psychopharmacologic agents and menstrual dysfunction in adolescents
  • The role of confidentiality in preventive care visits
  • Mental health disorders and impairment among adolescents
  • Why adolescents not in school risk developing mental disorders
  • Does a clinical model work for adolescents with mental illnesses?
  • The role of self-worth and esteem in dealing with adolescent mental disorders
  • How to develop positive relationships with peers
  • Technology and mental ill-health among adolescents
  • How to deal with stigma among adolescents
  • Curriculum that supports young people to stay engaged and motivated

Research Topics For Mental Health And Government

  • Evaluate mental health leadership and governance in the United States
  • Advocacy and partnerships in dealing with mental health
  • Discuss mental health and socio-cultural perspective
  • Management and coordination of mental health policy frameworks
  • Roles and responsibilities of governments in dealing with mental health
  • Monitoring and evaluation of mental health policies
  • What is the essence of a mental health commission?
  • Benefits of mental well-being to the prosperity of a country
  • Necessary reforms to the mental health systems
  • Legal frameworks for dealing with substance use disorders
  • How mental health can impede the development of a country
  • The role of the government in dealing with decaying mental health institutions
  • Inadequate legislation in dealing with mental health problems

Abnormal Psychology Topics

  • What does it mean to display strange behaviour?
  • Role of mental health professionals in dealing with abnormal psychology
  • Discuss the concept of dysfunction in mental illness
  • How does deviance relate to mental illness?
  • Role of culture and social norms
  • The cost of treating abnormal psychology in the US
  • Using aversive treatment in abnormal psychology
  • Importance of psychological debriefing
  • Is addiction a mental disease?
  • Use of memory-dampening drugs
  • Coercive interrogations and psychology

Behavioural Health Issues In Mental Health

  • Detachment from reality
  • Inability to withstand daily problems
  • Conduct disorder among children
  • Role of therapy in behavioural disorders
  • Eating and drinking habits and mental health
  • Addictive behaviour patterns for teenagers in high school
  • Discuss mental implications of gambling and sex addiction
  • Impact of maladaptive behaviours on the society
  • Extreme mood changes
  • Confused thinking
  • Role of friends in behavioural complications
  • Spiritual leaders in helping deal with behavioural issues
  • Suicidal thoughts

Latest Psychology Research Topics

  • Discrimination and prejudice in a society
  • Impact of negative social cognition
  • Role of personal perceptions
  • How attitudes affect mental well-being
  • Effects of cults on cognitive behaviour
  • Marketing and psychology
  • How romance can distort normal cognitive functioning
  • Why people with pro-social behaviour may be less affected
  • Leadership and mental health
  • Discuss how to deal with anti-social personality disorders
  • Coping with phobias in school
  • The role of group therapy
  • Impact of dreams on one’s psychological behaviour

Professional Psychiatry Research Topics

  • The part of false memories
  • Media and stress disorders
  • Impact of gender roles
  • Role of parenting styles
  • Age and psychology
  • The biography of Harry Harlow
  • Career paths in psychology
  • Dissociative disorders
  • Dealing with paranoia
  • Delusions and their remedy
  • A distorted perception of reality
  • Rights of mental caregivers
  • Dealing with a loss
  • Handling a break-up

Consider using our expert research paper writing services for your mental health paper today. Satisfaction is guaranteed!

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150+ Trending Mental Health Research Topics For Students (2023)

Mental Health Research Topics

Mental health is an important part of our well-being, encompassing our emotional, psychological, and social health. In the United States, the importance of addressing mental health has gained recognition, with growing concerns about stress, anxiety, and depression. 

In this blog, we will guide you the meaning of mental health research topics with our 5 useful tips. Moreover, we give you a list of 150+ Mental Health Research Topics in 2023, including qualitative, interesting, and even controversial ones, you’ll find options that suit your interests. From the impact of social media to the intersection of Mental Health with political science and music therapy, we’ve got you covered. 

Stay tuned for more on mental health research topics, and do not forget our bonus tips for selecting the best topics.

What Is Mental Health?

Table of Contents

Mental health is about how we feel and think inside our minds. It’s like taking care of our thoughts and emotions, just like we take care of our bodies. When our mental health is good, we usually feel happy and calm and can handle life’s challenges. But when our mental health is not so good, we might feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed.

What Are Mental Health Research Topics? 

Mental health research topics are subjects that scientists and experts study to learn more about our thoughts and emotions. These topics include things like understanding what causes mental health problems, finding better ways to help people who are struggling, and figuring out how to prevent these issues from happening. Researchers also examine how different treatments, like therapy or medication, can help improve mental health.

These research topics are important because they help us learn more about our minds and how to keep them healthy. By studying these topics, scientists can discover new ways to support people who are facing mental health challenges, making it easier for everyone to lead happier and more balanced lives.

5 Useful Tips For Choosing Mental Health Research Topics

Here are some useful tips for choosing mental health research topics: 

1. Your research will be more focused and impactful.

2. You will be more likely to find funding and support.

3. You will be more likely to publish your research in peer-reviewed journals.

4. You will be more likely to make a huge contribution to the field of mental health research.

5. You will be more likely to enjoy your research experience.

Choosing the right mental health research topic is essential for success. By following the tips above, you can choose a topic that is focused, impactful, and relevant to your interests and expertise.

150+ Mental Health Research Topics In 2023

In this section, we will explore 150+ mental health research topics on different categories: 

Mental Health Research Topics For College Students

College students often face unique mental health challenges. Here are 15 research topics for studying mental health in this demographic:

  • The impact of academic stress on college students’ mental health.
  • Exploring the relationship between sleep patterns and mental well-being among college students.
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of campus mental health services.
  • Investigating the prevalence of substance abuse and its effects on mental health in college students.
  • The role of peer support groups in reducing anxiety and depression among college students.
  • Examining the influence of social media usage on the mental health of college students.
  • The correlation between mental stress and financial stress issues in college students.
  • The value of practicing mindfulness and meditation for college students’ mental health.
  • Getting a better idea of how different cultures affect college students’ mental health.
  • Trying to figure out how mental health and physical movement affect college students.
  •  Investigating the stigma surrounding mental health issues in college environments.
  •  Analyzing the role of academic pressure in the onset of eating disorders among college students.
  •  The effectiveness of online mental health resources and apps for college students.
  •  Examining the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ college students.
  •  The impact of COVID-19 and remote learning on the mental health of college students.

Mental Health Research Topics For High School Students

High school students also encounter unique mental health concerns. Here are 15 research topics for studying mental health in this age group:

  •  The effects of academic pressure on the mental health of high school students.
  •  Investigating the role of family dynamics in the emotional well-being of high school students.
  •  Analyzing the impact of bullying and cyberbullying on the mental health of teenagers.
  •  The relationship between social media use and body image issues in high school students.
  •  Examining the effectiveness of mental health education programs in high schools.
  •  Investigating the prevalence of self-harm and suicidal ideation among high school students.
  •  Analyzing the influence of peer relationships on the mental health of adolescents.
  •  The role of extracurricular activities in promoting positive mental health in high school students.
  •  Exploring the effects of substances abuse on the mental well-being of teenagers.
  •  Investigating the stigma surrounding mental health issues in high schools.
  •  The effects of COVID-19 and remote learning on the mental health of high school students.
  •  Examining the mental health challenges faced by immigrant and refugee high school students.
  •  Analyzing the relationship between sleep patterns and mental health in adolescents.
  •  The effectiveness of art and creative therapies in treating mental health issues in high school students.
  •  Investigating the role of teachers and school counselors in supporting students’ mental health.

Mental Health Research Topics For Nursing Students

Nursing students play a vital role in mental health care. Here are 15 research topics relevant to nursing students:

  •  The impact of nursing education on students’ mental health.
  •  Investigating the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in psychiatric nursing.
  •  Analyzing the role of psychiatric medications in mental health treatment.
  •  The importance of self-care practices for nursing students’ mental well-being.
  •  Exploring the challenges faced by nursing students in caring for patients with severe mental illness.
  •  Investigating the influence of nursing curricula on reducing mental health stigma.
  •  Analyzing the role of clinical placements in preparing nursing students for mental health nursing.
  •  The effects of peer support programs on nursing students’ mental health.
  •  Examining the prevalence of burnout and stress among nursing students.
  • The importance of cultural skills in nursing care for different mental health patients.
  •  Investigating the impact of technology and telehealth on mental health nursing practices.
  •  Analyzing the ethical dilemmas faced by nursing students in mental health care.
  •  Exploring the use of simulation training in psychiatric nursing education.
  •  The effectiveness of mindfulness and stress management programs for nursing students.
  •  Finding out what nursing students think about the healing model in mental health care is the goal of this study.

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Psychology Culture, And Mental Health Research Topics

Psychology and culture intersect in complex ways. Here are 15 research topics in this area:

  •  Cross-cultural variations in the manifestation of mental disorders.
  •  The influence of cultural beliefs on help-seeking behaviors for mental health issues.
  •  Analyzing cultural factors in the diagnosis and treatment of depression.
  • The effect of acculturation on the mental health of newcomers.
  •  Exploring cultural stigma surrounding mental illness in different societies.
  •  Investigating the role of traditional healing practices in mental health care.
  •  Cross-cultural perspectives on the concept of resilience in mental health.
  •  Analyzing cultural variations in the experience of anxiety disorders.
  •  The role of cultural competence in psychotherapy and counseling.
  •  Exploring indigenous perspectives on mental health and well-being.
  •  The impact of globalization on cultural attitudes toward mental health.
  •  Investigating the influence of religion and spirituality on mental health outcomes.
  •  Analyzing cultural differences in the perception and treatment of eating disorders.
  •  The role of cultural identity in coping with trauma and adversity.
  •  Cross-cultural perspectives on the use of psychotropic medications in mental health treatment.

Community Mental Health Research Topics

Community mental health research is crucial for improving public well-being. Here are 15 research topics in this field:

  •  Evaluating the effectiveness of community-based mental health programs.
  •  Investigating the role of peer support networks in community mental health.
  •  Analyzing the impact of housing instability on mental health in urban communities.
  •  Why early intervention programs are so important for avoiding serious mental illness.
  •  Exploring the use of telemedicine in delivering mental health services to underserved communities.
  •  Investigating the integration of mental health care into primary care settings.
  •  Analyzing the effectiveness of crisis intervention teams in community policing.
  •  The role of community art and creative programs in promoting mental well-being.
  •  Examining the mental health challenges faced by homeless populations.
  •  The impact of community outreach and education on reducing mental health stigma.
  •  Investigating the use of community gardens and green spaces for improving mental health.
  •  Analyzing the relationship between neighborhood characteristics and mental health disparities.
  •  Exploring the role of community leaders and advocates in mental health policy.
  •  The effectiveness of community-based substance abuse treatment programs.
  •  Finding out what part social determinants of health play in the mental health of a community.

Global Mental Health Research Topics

Mental health is a global issue with unique challenges. Here are 15 research topics in global mental health:

  •  Analyzing the burden of mental illness on global public health.
  •  Investigating the cultural variations in mental health stigma worldwide.
  •   The impact of arms conflict and displacement on mental well-being.
  •  Exploring the use of teletherapy for improving access to mental health care in low-resource settings.
  •  Analyzing the role of traditional healers in global mental health care.
  •  Investigating the mental health challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers.
  •  The effectiveness of international mental health aid and interventions.
  •  Examining the mental health implications of weather change and natural disasters.
  •  Analyzing the global prevalence and treatment of common mental disorders.
  •  Exploring the intersection of infectious diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS) and mental health.
  •  Mental Health in Urban Environments: Analyzing the unique challenges faced by individuals living in densely populated urban areas.
  •  Mental Health and Digital Technology: Exploring the impact of digital technology on mental well-being across cultures and age groups.
  •  Mental Health in Indigenous Communities: Investigating mental health disparities among indigenous populations and the role of cultural preservation.
  •  Mental Health in the Workplace: Examining workplace-related stressors and policies to support employees’ mental well-being globally.
  •  Youth Mental Health: Studying mental health challenges among children and adolescents, considering factors like education and family dynamics.

Qualitative Mental Health Research Topics

Qualitative research in mental health can provide rich insights into individuals’ experiences and perceptions. Here are 15 qualitative research topics in mental health:

  •  Exploring the lived experiences of individuals with schizophrenia.
  •  Qualitative analysis of the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.
  •  Understanding the coping mechanisms of parents with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
  •  Investigating the narratives of individuals recovering from addiction.
  •  Analyzing the cultural perceptions of depression and its treatment.
  •  Examining the subjective experiences of caregivers of dementia patients.
  •  Discussing the role of spirituality in the recovery process for people with mental illness.
  •  Qualitative assessment of the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on stress reduction.
  •  Investigating the narratives of survivors of suicide attempts.
  •  Understanding the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in mental health care.
  •  Analyzing the perceptions of veterans regarding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment.
  •  Exploring the subjective experiences of individuals with eating disorders.
  •  Qualitative assessment of the role of peer support groups in recovery from substance abuse.
  • Investigating the stigma and barriers faced by individuals with bipolar disorder.
  • Understanding the cultural variations in perceptions of anxiety disorders.

Interesting Mental Health Research Topics

Fascinating mental health topics can engage researchers and readers alike. Here are 15 intriguing research topics in mental health:

  • The impact of virtual reality therapy on anxiety and phobias.
  • Investigating the connection between creativity and mental well-being.
  • Analyzing the role of pet therapy in reducing stress and anxiety.
  • Exploring the effects of nature and green spaces on mental health.
  • The relationship between personality types (e.g., introversion, extroversion) and mental health outcomes.
  • Investigating the benefits of laughter therapy on mood and stress.
  • Analyzing the effects of lucid dreaming on nightmares and trauma.
  • Exploring the mental health benefits of volunteering and altruism.
  • The impact of time-restricted eating on mood and cognitive function.
  • Investigating the use of virtual support groups for individuals with social anxiety.
  • Analyzing the relationship between music and memory in Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Exploring the mental health effects of color psychology and interior design.
  • The role of adventure therapy in enhancing self-esteem and resilience.
  • Investigating the influence of childhood hobbies on adult mental well-being.
  • Analyzing the connection between humor and emotional intelligence in mental health promotion.

Social Media On Mental Health Research Topics

Social media’s impact on mental health is a timely and relevant research area. Here are 15 research topics on this subject:

  • Analyzing the relationship between social media use and feelings of loneliness.
  • Investigating the effects of cyberbullying on adolescent mental health.
  • The influence of social media comparison on body image dissatisfaction.
  • Exploring the role of social media in the dissemination of mental health information.
  • Analyzing the impact of social media detoxes on well-being.
  • Investigating the link between excessive screen time and sleep disturbances.
  • The effects of online support communities on mental health recovery.
  • Exploring the role of influencer culture in shaping mental health perceptions.
  • Analyzing the relationship between social media activism and mental well-being.
  • Investigating the impact of “FOMO” (Fear of Missing Out) on anxiety levels.
  • The role of social media in spreading wrong information about mental health.
  • Exploring the effects of targeted advertising on mental health outcomes.
  • Analyzing the relationship between online gaming and addictive behaviors.
  • Investigating the influence of social media on political polarization and mental health.
  • The role of social media in fostering a sense of community among marginalized groups with mental health issues.

Cool Mental Health Research Topics

Cool mental health topics can pique interest and lead to innovative research. Here are some cool research topics in mental health:

  • Investigating the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances for mental health treatment.
  • Analyzing the impact of virtual reality gaming on managing stress and anxiety.
  • Exploring the use of artificial intelligence and chatbots in mental health counseling.
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness apps and wearable devices in promoting mental well-being.
  • Investigating the role of gut microbiota in mood and mental health.
  • Analyzing the use of neurofeedback technology for improving attention and focus in ADHD.
  • Exploring the benefits of equine-assisted therapy for individuals with PTSD .
  • The potential of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for treating depression.
  • Investigating the use of art therapy and virtual art galleries for mental health support.
  • Analyzing the impact of music and sound therapy on sleep quality and anxiety.
  • Exploring the use of scent and aroma therapy in mood regulation.
  • The role of biofeedback and wearable sensors in managing panic disorders.
  • Investigating the mental health benefits of urban gardening and green rooftops.
  • Analyzing the use of brain-computer interfaces in enhancing emotional regulation.
  • Exploring the connection between outdoor adventure activities and resilience in mental health recovery.

mental health research topics questions


1. Choose a research topic according to your interest ,expertise, and career goals.
2. Make sure the topic is feasible and can be completed within the given time and resources.
3. Choose a topic that will make a meaningful contribution to the mental health field.
4. Consider the ethical implications of your research and ensure that it protects the rights and well-being of 5. participants.
5. Select a topic that is original and innovative and not simply a rehash of existing research.

Understanding what mental health is and exploring various mental health research topics is crucial in addressing the challenges individuals face today. Choosing the right topic involves considering your audience and interests, as highlighted in our five tips. With 150+ mental health research topics for 2023, we have provided options for college, high school, and nursing students and those interested in psychology, culture, and global perspectives. 

Moreover, qualitative and intriguing topics offer diverse avenues for exploration while acknowledging the impact of social media on mental health is essential. Remember our bonus tips when selecting your mental health research topic – prioritize relevance and impact to make a meaningful contribution to this vital field.

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300+ Mental Health Research Topics

Mental Health Research Topics

Mental health is a complex and multi-faceted topic that affects millions of people worldwide. Research into mental health has become increasingly important in recent years, as the global burden of mental illness continues to rise. From identifying risk factors and developing effective treatments, to addressing social and cultural influences, mental health research covers a broad range of topics . In this blog post, we will explore some of the most important and fascinating mental health research topics that are currently being studied by experts in the field.

Mental Health Research Topics

Mental Health Research Topics are as follows:

  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for reducing stress and anxiety
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health outcomes
  • The role of exercise in promoting mental health and well-being
  • The impact of COVID-19 on mental health and well-being
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression and anxiety
  • The impact of sleep deprivation on mental health and cognitive functioning
  • The relationship between diet and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of workplace stress on mental health
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The relationship between substance abuse and mental health outcomes
  • The impact of stigma on mental health treatment-seeking behavior
  • The effectiveness of animal-assisted therapy for improving mental health
  • The impact of environmental factors on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between chronic illness and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of art therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of cultural factors on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between personality traits and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of music therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of trauma on memory and cognitive functioning
  • The relationship between socioeconomic status and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between perfectionism and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of early intervention on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between attachment styles and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of technology on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between resilience and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of family therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of gender on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between creativity and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for treating borderline personality disorder
  • The impact of personality disorders on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and addiction
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy for improving cognitive functioning in individuals with mental illness
  • The impact of discrimination on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between emotional intelligence and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of play therapy for treating mental health disorders in children
  • The impact of attachment trauma on relationships in adulthood
  • The relationship between religious or spiritual beliefs and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy for treating mental health disorders
  • The impact of chronic pain on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between self-esteem and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for treating trauma-related disorders
  • The impact of parenting style on mental health outcomes in children
  • The relationship between mindfulness and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of equine-assisted therapy for improving mental health.
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and mental illness
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for treating anxiety disorders
  • The role of genetics in the development of mental illness
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression
  • The impact of exercise on mental health
  • The prevalence and causes of burnout among healthcare professionals
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for treating substance abuse disorders
  • The impact of sleep on mental health
  • The relationship between trauma and dissociation
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy for treating phobias
  • The relationship between gut health and mental health
  • The impact of stigma on seeking mental health treatment
  • The relationship between spirituality and mental health
  • The impact of adverse childhood experiences on mental health
  • The relationship between attachment style and mental health
  • The effectiveness of art therapy for treating PTSD
  • The impact of chronic illness on mental health
  • The relationship between personality traits and mental illness
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy for treating depression
  • The relationship between social support and mental health
  • The effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for treating trauma
  • The impact of discrimination on mental health
  • The relationship between parental bonding and mental health
  • The effectiveness of family therapy for treating eating disorders
  • The impact of environmental factors on mental health
  • The relationship between hormonal changes and mental health
  • The effectiveness of equine therapy for treating addiction
  • The impact of trauma on attachment
  • The relationship between exercise addiction and mental health
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of racism on mental health
  • The relationship between animal-assisted therapy and mental health
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for treating OCD
  • The impact of gender identity on mental health
  • The relationship between social anxiety and substance abuse
  • The effectiveness of emotion-focused therapy for treating relationship issues
  • The impact of social inequality on mental health
  • The relationship between spirituality and substance abuse
  • The effectiveness of schema therapy for treating personality disorders
  • The impact of peer support on mental health
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy for treating depression
  • The impact of poverty on mental health
  • The relationship between sleep disorders and mental health
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for treating addiction
  • The impact of immigration on mental health
  • The relationship between self-esteem and mental health.
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for depression
  • The impact of exercise on mental health outcomes
  • The role of sleep disturbances in the development of psychiatric disorders
  • The effectiveness of pharmacological treatments for bipolar disorder
  • The relationship between alcohol use and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of psychotherapy in treating post-traumatic stress disorder
  • The impact of nutrition on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between chronic pain and mental health
  • The effectiveness of group therapy in treating depression
  • The role of stigma in mental health treatment-seeking behaviors
  • The relationship between trauma exposure and suicidal behavior
  • The effectiveness of telehealth interventions for mental health care
  • The role of attachment styles in the development of mental illness
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for anxiety
  • The impact of work-related stress on mental health
  • The relationship between physical activity and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation in treating schizophrenia
  • The role of family dynamics in the development of mental illness
  • The relationship between childhood adversity and substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy in treating borderline personality
  • The effectiveness of psychoanalytic therapy in treating depression
  • The impact of peer support groups on mental health outcomes
  • The role of spirituality in coping with mental illness
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy in treating anxiety
  • The impact of trauma-informed care on mental health treatment outcomes
  • The relationship between body image and mental health
  • The effectiveness of art therapy in treating PTSD
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of mental illness
  • The relationship between social isolation and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in treating phobias
  • The impact of stigma on mental health among LGBTQ+ individuals
  • The relationship between trauma and eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of emotion regulation interventions in treating borderline personality disorder
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between childhood abuse and dissociative disorders
  • The effectiveness of family-based interventions in treating adolescent depression
  • The relationship between social inequality and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for substance use disorders
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating OCD
  • The relationship between emotional regulation and addiction recovery
  • The impact of trauma-focused therapy on PTSD symptoms in military veterans
  • The relationship between sleep disorders and mood disorders
  • The effectiveness of exercise interventions in treating depression
  • The role of trauma-informed care in treating substance use disorders
  • The relationship between trauma and personality disorders
  • The effectiveness of interpersonal therapy in treating depression
  • The impact of cultural factors on mental health treatment outcomes
  • The relationship between stigma and medication adherence in mental health treatment
  • The effectiveness of behavioral activation interventions in treating depression
  • The role of cognitive biases in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between social support and addiction recovery
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy in addiction recovery
  • The impact of comorbid medical conditions on mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for chronic pain management
  • The role of coping strategies in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between anxiety and substance use disorders
  • The impact of COVID-19 on mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy in treating trauma
  • The role of social support in trauma recovery.
  • The relationship between trauma and depression
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy in treating substance use disorders
  • The impact of adverse childhood experiences on mental health outcomes
  • The role of cultural competence in mental health treatment
  • The relationship between childhood obesity and mental health
  • The effectiveness of art therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of mindfulness on workplace mental health
  • The effectiveness of group therapy in treating substance use disorders
  • The role of spirituality in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between personality disorders and addiction
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy in treating anxiety disorders
  • The impact of social support on PTSD treatment outcomes
  • The relationship between social anxiety and substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in treating PTSD
  • The role of resilience in mental health recovery
  • The relationship between addiction and trauma in veterans
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation in treating ADHD
  • The impact of parental mental illness on children’s mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and bipolar disorder
  • The effectiveness of narrative therapy in treating depression
  • The role of mindfulness in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between borderline personality disorder and substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating eating disorders
  • The impact of workplace bullying on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and self-harm behaviors
  • The effectiveness of family therapy in treating addiction
  • The role of stigma in addiction recovery
  • The effectiveness of schema therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The impact of childhood neglect on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between anxiety and chronic pain
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The role of self-compassion in mental health recovery
  • The relationship between trauma and dissociative disorders
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The impact of adverse work conditions on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between addiction and sleep disorders
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy in treating phobias
  • The role of emotional regulation in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between trauma and addiction in women
  • The impact of childhood bullying on mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating personality disorders
  • The role of resilience in addiction recovery
  • The relationship between ADHD and substance use disorders
  • The impact of social support on eating disorder treatment outcomes
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in treating personality disorders
  • The role of positive psychology in mental health recovery
  • The relationship between trauma and PTSD in children
  • The effectiveness of family-based interventions in treating substance use disorders
  • The relationship between social media use and body image concerns
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for substance use disorders
  • The role of resilience in coping with mental illness
  • The impact of trauma on attachment patterns in adulthood
  • The relationship between childhood neglect and depression
  • The role of emotional intelligence in mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of family therapy for eating disorders
  • The impact of mindfulness on emotion regulation in borderline personality disorder
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and substance use disorders in adulthood
  • The role of social support in preventing suicide
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia
  • The impact of trauma on the development of borderline personality disorder
  • The relationship between childhood bullying and anxiety disorders in adulthood
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for eating disorders
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of personality disorders
  • The impact of family conflict on adolescent mental health
  • The relationship between childhood maltreatment and self-harm behaviors
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for PTSD
  • The role of social support in the treatment of depression
  • The impact of trauma on the development of dissociative identity disorder
  • The relationship between childhood abuse and addiction
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for ADHD
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of OCD
  • The impact of perfectionism on mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and schizophrenia
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation for executive functioning deficits in bipolar disorder
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of hoarding disorder
  • The impact of societal expectations on mental health in minority groups
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and borderline personality disorder
  • The effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for chronic pain
  • The role of social support in the treatment of substance use disorders
  • The impact of trauma on attachment patterns in childhood
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and depression in adulthood
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for social anxiety disorder
  • The role of emotional regulation in preventing self-harm behaviors
  • The impact of societal stigma on mental health treatment-seeking behaviors
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of interpersonal therapy for depression
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of panic disorder
  • The impact of trauma on the development of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and bipolar disorder
  • The effectiveness of exposure and response prevention for OCD
  • The role of cognitive biases in the treatment of PTSD
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes in LGBTQ+ individuals
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and social anxiety disorder
  • The effectiveness of psychoanalytic therapy for personality disorders
  • The role of emotional regulation in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The impact of childhood trauma on substance use disorders in adulthood
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and anxiety disorders in adulthood
  • The relationship between social media use and body image dissatisfaction
  • The role of childhood attachment in the development of anxiety disorders
  • The relationship between social support and PTSD recovery
  • The effectiveness of psychotherapy for treating substance use disorders
  • The impact of trauma exposure on cognitive functioning
  • The relationship between sleep disorders and anxiety
  • The role of childhood adversity in the development of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality exposure therapy for anxiety disorders
  • The impact of racial discrimination on mental health outcomes
  • The role of emotion dysregulation in the development of personality disorders
  • The effectiveness of family-based interventions in treating eating disorders
  • The impact of childhood trauma on self-esteem
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of PTSD
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy for treating eating disorders
  • The impact of parental stress on child mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between childhood ADHD and substance use disorders
  • The role of resilience in the treatment of trauma
  • The effectiveness of motivational interviewing in treating substance use disorders
  • The impact of childhood trauma on physical health outcomes
  • The relationship between anxiety and perfectionism
  • The role of cultural factors in the development of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for trauma
  • The impact of peer victimization on mental health outcomes
  • The role of self-compassion in the treatment of depression
  • The effectiveness of exposure therapy for OCD
  • The impact of childhood trauma on social relationships
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and psychosis
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of transdiagnostic treatments for anxiety and depression
  • The impact of chronic illness on mental health outcomes
  • The role of self-esteem in the treatment of anxiety disorders
  • The effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy in treating trauma
  • The impact of maternal depression on child mental health outcomes
  • The relationship between trauma and dissociative symptoms
  • The role of attachment styles in the treatment of eating disorders
  • The effectiveness of cognitive remediation in treating eating disorders
  • The impact of adverse childhood experiences on the development of addiction
  • The relationship between anxiety and hoarding behavior
  • The role of cognitive biases in the development of substance use disorders
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for chronic pain management
  • The impact of childhood trauma on emotional regulation
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and suicidal behavior
  • The role of mindfulness in the treatment of depression
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for substance use disorders.

About the author

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Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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The Top 10 Most Interesting Mental Health Research Topics

In the United States, the majority of people have been diagnosed with at least one mental disorder. Once considered shameful, mental health issues are now being discussed more openly through various online platforms, such as the best mental health podcasts and blogs, which have made information more accessible. As a result, more people are seeking forms of mental healthcare and researchers are learning even more.

While research on mental health has come a long way, there is still a long way to go in destigmatizing mental health conditions and spreading mental health awareness. If you are looking for mental health research paper topics and are struggling to narrow down your list, take a look at the top 10 most interesting mental health research topics to help get you started.

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What makes a strong mental health research topic.

The best way for you to develop a strong mental health research topic is by first having a specific and well-defined area of interest. Your research topic should provide a clear and simple roadmap to help you focus your research paper. Additionally, consider your audience and the topic’s significance within the mental health field. What does it contribute?

Tips for Choosing a Mental Health Research Topic

  • Choose a topic that is interesting to you. You may be writing to share your findings with your peers, but your topic should excite you first and foremost. You will spend a significant amount of time on it, so it should be work you are eager to dive into.
  • Choose a fresh approach. There is an extensive amount of mental health research conducted by mental health professionals. Use your research skills to choose a topic that does more than just restate the same facts and information. Say something that hasn’t been said before.
  • Choose a topic that matters. The topic you choose should make a contribution to all the mental health education and research that already exists. Approach your topic in a way that ensures that it’s of significance within the field.
  • Choose a topic that challenges you. A sure-fire way to find out if your topic meets the criteria of being interesting, fresh, and significant, is if it challenges you. If it’s too easy, then there must be enough research available on it. If it’s too difficult, it’s likely unmanageable.
  • Choose a topic that’s manageable. You should aim to choose a topic that is narrow enough in its focus that it doesn’t overwhelm you. Consider what’s feasible for you to dedicate to the research in terms of resources and time.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

The purpose of a research topic is to let the reader know what specific area of mental health research your paper will focus on. It is the territory upon which your research paper is based. Defining your topic is typically the initial step of any research project.

A research question, on the other hand, narrows down the scope of your research and provides a framework for the study and its objectives. It is based on the research topic and written in the form of a question that the research paper aims to answer. It provides the reader with a clear idea of what’s to be expected from the research.

How to Create Strong Mental Health Research Questions

To create a strong research question, you need to consider what will help guide the direction your research takes. It is an important part of the process and requires strong research methods . A strong research question clearly defines your work’s specific focus and lets your audience know exactly what question you intend to answer through your research.

Top 10 Mental Health Research Paper Topics

1. the effects of social media platforms on the mental well-being of children.

The effects of social media platforms on the mental well-being of children is a research topic that is especially significant and relevant today. This is due to the increasing usage of online social networks by children and adolescents. Evidence shows a correlation between social media usage and increased self-harming behaviors, anxiety, and psychological distress.

2. The Psychology of Gender Identity, Inclusivity, and Diversity

With the conversations surrounding gender and identity in recent times, a research topic on the psychology of gender identity, inclusivity, and diversity is a good option. Our understanding of gender now, in the 21st century, has evolved and gender identity has become non-binary, more inclusive, and more diverse.

3. The Psychological Effects of Social Phobia on Undergraduate Students

Some of the most common mental illnesses in the United States are phobias, so the topic of the psychology and effects of phobias is interesting and relevant to the majority of people. There are various categories of phobias that have been identified by the American Psychiatric Association that you could choose to focus on.

4. Eating Disorders Among Teenagers and Adolescents

Eating disorders among teenagers and adolescents in the United States are prevalent, especially among young women. The statistics surrounding mental health issues show that 10 in 100 young women suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, as well as a preoccupation with food and body dysmorphia.

5. The Correlation Between Childhood Learning Disabilities and Mental Health Problems in Adulthood

When groups of people with learning disorders (LD) were compared with groups that had no known history of LD, a correlation between childhood LD and mental health issues in adulthood was found. This research is important because it helps us to understand how childhood LD increases mental health risks in adulthood and affects emotional development.

6. How Mental Disorder is Glamorized and Sensationalized in Modern Media

Shows and movies centered around the depiction of mental illness have become more popular in recent years. The portrayal of characters with mental illnesses can often be damaging and fail to take into account the complexities of mental disorders, which often leads to stigmatization and discrimination, and a reluctance to seek mental health care.

7. The Relationship Between Self-esteem and Suicide Rates Among Adolescents

A relationship between self-esteem and suicide rates among adolescents has been found when looking into their suicidal tendencies. This is more so the case with any individual who already suffers from a mental health issue. Low self-esteem has been linked to increased levels of depression and suicide ideation, leading to higher chances of suicide attempts among adolescents.

8. Destigmatizing Mental Illness and Mental Disorders

The rates at which people are diagnosed with mental illnesses are high. Even so, their portrayal in the media has resulted in the belief that those who suffer from a mental health issue or live in mental health facilities are dangerous. Conducting research on abnormal psychology topics and destigmatizing mental illness and mental disorders is important for mental health education.

9. Psychological Trauma and the Effects of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Mental health statistics show that most abuse happens in childhood, causing long-lasting psychological trauma. The type of trauma caused by child abuse and childhood sexual abuse affects development in infants and children. It has been linked to higher levels of depression, anxiety, guilt, sexual issues, dissociative patterns, and relationship issues, to name a few.

10. Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Psychological Well-Being

There is no doubt about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and COVID-19 confinement on psychological well-being. The threat to public health, the social and economic stresses, and the various reactions by governments and individuals have all caused unexpected mental health challenges. This has affected behaviors, perceptions, and the ways in which people make decisions.

Other Examples of Mental Health Research Topics and Questions

Mental health research topics.

  • How trauma affects emotional development in children
  • The impact of COVID-19 on college students
  • The mental effects of bullying
  • How the media influences aggression
  • A comparative analysis of the differences in mental health in women and mental health in men

Mental Health Research Questions

  • Are digital therapy sessions as impactful as face-to-face therapy sessions for patients?
  • What are the best methods for effectively using social media to unite and connect all those suffering from a mental health issue in order to reduce their isolation?
  • What causes self-destructive behavior in some children?
  • Can introducing mental health topics in the school curriculum help to create understanding and reduce the stigmatization of mental disorders?
  • What are the most effective methods to improve brain health and emotional intelligence as we go through the aging process?

Choosing the Right Mental Health Research Topic

When choosing the right mental health research question, it is essential to figure out what single issue you want to focus on within the broader topic of mental conditions. The narrower your scope, the easier it will be to conduct thorough and relevant research. Vagueness can lead to information overload and a lack of clear direction.

However, even though it needs to be specific, your research question must also be complex enough to allow you to develop your research. If it’s too narrow in its focus, you won’t give yourself enough room to flesh out your findings as you build on your research. The key is to find the middle ground between the two.

Mental Health Research Topics FAQ

A mental disorder refers to any of the various conditions that affect and alter our behavior, thoughts, and emotions. More than half of Americans get diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their lives. They are common and manageable with the right support. Some mental illnesses are occasional, such as postpartum depression, while others are long-term, such as panic attacks.

Mental health research raises awareness of mental health disorders and promotes mental health care. It provides support and evidence for the effectiveness of mental health services and programs designed for psychiatric patients and those with mental health disorders. The information provided by the research helps us better understand mental illnesses and how best to approach treatment plans.

Behavioral health and emotional health are part of a person’s overall mental health since they are all interlinked and each one affects the other. When we speak of mental health, we are referring to behavioral, cognitive, and emotional well-being, which can also affect physical health.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the five main categories of mental illness include dementia, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, feeding and eating disorders, and personality disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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Mental Health Research Paper Topics

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Exploring the wide array of mental health research paper topics can be an enriching experience for students studying health sciences. This subject matter is not only relevant but is also critically important in today’s context, given the rising prevalence of mental health issues in society. In this guide, we will navigate through a comprehensive list of potential topics, categorized into ten major areas of mental health. Additionally, this page provides expert advice on how to choose and delve into these topics effectively, as well as guidance on constructing a well-written mental health research paper. As a supplementary service, we also present iResearchNet’s professional writing offerings. iResearchNet specializes in providing students with high-quality, custom-written research papers on any topic of their choice. With a potent combination of expert degree-holding writers, meticulous research, and adherence to the highest standards of academic integrity, iResearchNet offers unparalleled support to students aiming to excel in their academic endeavors.

100 Mental Health Research Paper Topics

Embarking on the exploration of mental health research paper topics presents an incredible opportunity to delve into diverse areas of study and reveal intriguing insights. From understanding the human psyche to unraveling the intricate workings of various mental disorders, this domain offers a wide array of research avenues. In this section, we present a comprehensive list of 100 mental health research paper topics, neatly organized into ten major categories. This catalog is designed to cater to different interests, offer fresh perspectives, and stimulate thought-provoking discussions.

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  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The psychological effects of bullying
  • Role of personality traits in mental health
  • Nature vs. nurture debate in psychology
  • Psychological effects of long-term stress
  • The role of psychology in pain management
  • The impact of sleep disorders on mental health
  • Effects of meditation on mental health
  • The psychology of decision-making
  • Understanding cognitive biases
  • Impact of parenting styles on children’s mental health
  • Childhood trauma and its long-term effects
  • Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • The role of school environments in child mental health
  • Adolescent depression: Causes and effects
  • The impact of divorce on children
  • Childhood Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Eating disorders in adolescents
  • Impact of physical activity on children’s mental health
  • Childhood anxiety disorders
  • Impacts of work stress on mental health
  • Understanding Bipolar Disorder
  • Adult PTSD and its management
  • Role of exercise in mental health maintenance
  • The link between adult obesity and mental health
  • Alcoholism and its mental health implications
  • Understanding Schizophrenia
  • Mental health impacts of sexual assault
  • The effect of childlessness on mental health
  • The role of religion and spirituality in mental health
  • Mental health issues in aging population
  • Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Role of family in elder mental health
  • Depression in the elderly
  • Cognitive decline in aging: Prevention and management
  • The impact of retirement on mental health
  • Mental health effects of elder abuse
  • The role of social interactions in elder mental health
  • Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
  • Dementia and mental health
  • Global mental health policies: A comparative analysis
  • Role of mental health legislation in patient rights
  • Impact of health insurance policies on mental health services
  • Mental health in prisons: Policy implications
  • The impact of mental health stigma on policy making
  • Mental health policies in schools
  • Workplace mental health policies
  • Mental health parity laws
  • Policy implications of mental health in homelessness
  • Impact of COVID-19 on mental health policies
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in mental health
  • Role of medication in mental health treatment
  • Efficacy of group therapy in mental health
  • Role of art therapy in mental health treatment
  • Understanding Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
  • The role of lifestyle changes in mental health treatment
  • Psychodynamic therapy in mental health
  • The use of virtual reality in mental health treatment
  • Mindfulness-based therapies in mental health
  • Role of family therapy in mental health treatment
  • Understanding personality disorders
  • The psychopathology of addiction
  • Eating disorders: Causes, impacts, and treatments
  • Psychopathology of self-harm behaviors
  • Understanding anxiety disorders
  • The psychopathology of suicidal behavior
  • Psychopathology of mood disorders
  • Understanding obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • The psychopathology of paranoia and delusional disorders
  • Impact of traumatic experiences on psychopathology
  • Impact of job satisfaction on mental health
  • Role of organizational culture in employee mental health
  • Mental health implications of job burnout
  • The role of work-life balance in mental health
  • Understanding the concept of ‘Blue Monday’
  • Mental health implications of remote work
  • The role of employee assistance programs in mental health
  • Mental health effects of workplace harassment
  • Impact of job insecurity on mental health
  • The role of workplace wellness programs in mental health
  • Cross-cultural perspectives on mental health
  • The impact of cultural stigma on mental health outcomes
  • Cultural variations in mental health treatments
  • Understanding mental health in indigenous populations
  • Mental health impacts of acculturation
  • The role of cultural competence in mental health services
  • Culture-bound syndromes
  • Impact of cultural beliefs on mental health
  • Role of language in mental health contexts
  • Cross-cultural communication in mental health care
  • Role of schools in mental health education
  • Impact of mental health literacy on outcomes
  • The role of media in mental health education
  • Mental health promotion in communities
  • Importance of mental health education in medical curricula
  • The role of peer educators in mental health promotion
  • Impact of stigma reduction campaigns on mental health
  • The role of mental health first aid
  • The use of technology in mental health education
  • Mental health education for parents

As we culminate this extensive list of mental health research paper topics, it is essential to remember that each topic presents a unique chance to broaden our understanding of mental health and contribute to this important field. As aspiring health science students, you have the power to make a difference in enhancing mental health awareness and outcomes. As you traverse this exciting journey, always remember that research is not merely a pursuit of knowledge, but a powerful tool for instigating change. Embrace the opportunity with curiosity, passion, and determination, and let your research pave the way for a mentally healthier world.

Choosing Mental Health Research Paper Topics

Choosing a compelling and relevant mental health research paper topic is crucial for creating a meaningful and impactful study. To assist you in this process, we have gathered expert advice from professionals in the field of mental health research. Consider the following ten tips to guide you in selecting an engaging and significant topic for your research:

  • Identify Current Mental Health Issues : Stay updated on the latest developments and trends in mental health research. Explore current issues, emerging challenges, and unanswered questions within the field. This will help you select a topic that is relevant, timely, and has the potential for making a meaningful contribution.
  • Reflect on Personal Interests : Consider your own passions and interests within the broad field of mental health. Reflect on the areas that resonate with you the most. Researching a topic that you are genuinely interested in will fuel your motivation and dedication throughout the research process.
  • Consult Academic Journals and Publications : Explore reputable academic journals and publications dedicated to mental health research. Reading articles and studies within your area of interest will provide insights into existing research gaps, ongoing debates, and potential areas for further exploration.
  • Analyze Existing Literature : Conduct a thorough literature review to identify key themes, theories, and research findings in your chosen area of mental health. Understanding the current body of knowledge will help you narrow down your research focus and identify research gaps that need to be addressed.
  • Consider the Population of Interest : Mental health research encompasses various populations, such as children, adolescents, adults, or specific demographic groups. Consider the population you want to focus on and explore their unique mental health challenges, interventions, or outcomes.
  • Examine Cultural and Social Factors : Mental health is influenced by cultural and social factors. Investigate how cultural norms, societal expectations, or environmental contexts impact mental health outcomes. Understanding these factors will add depth and richness to your research.
  • Think Interdisciplinary : Mental health is a multidisciplinary field that intersects with psychology, sociology, neuroscience, public health, and more. Consider integrating perspectives from other disciplines to gain a comprehensive understanding of mental health issues and approaches to addressing them.
  • Explore Innovative Interventions and Technologies : Investigate novel interventions, therapies, or technologies that are emerging in the field of mental health. Exploring innovative approaches can lead to exciting research opportunities and contribute to advancements in mental health care.
  • Address Stigmatized or Understudied Topics : Mental health encompasses a wide range of conditions and experiences, some of which may be stigmatized or underrepresented in research. Consider topics that address the mental health needs of marginalized populations or shed light on less-discussed mental health conditions.
  • Seek Guidance and Collaboration : Consult with your professors, mentors, or peers who specialize in mental health research. Seek their guidance in selecting a research topic and consider opportunities for collaboration. Collaborative research can provide valuable insights and support throughout the research process.

By incorporating these expert tips into your topic selection process, you can choose a mental health research paper topic that is not only academically rigorous but also personally meaningful. Remember to strike a balance between your interests, the existing body of knowledge, and the potential for making a significant impact in the field of mental health research. With a well-chosen topic, you will embark on a rewarding research journey that contributes to the understanding and well-being of individuals with mental health concerns.

How to Write a Mental Health Research Paper

Writing a mental health research paper requires careful planning, critical thinking, and effective communication of your findings. To help you navigate this process successfully, we have compiled ten essential tips to guide you in crafting a well-structured and impactful paper:

  • Define Your Research Question : Begin by clearly defining your research question or objective. This will serve as the foundation for your paper, guiding your literature review, methodology, and analysis.
  • Conduct a Thorough Literature Review : Familiarize yourself with existing research and theories related to your topic through a comprehensive literature review. This will help you identify gaps in the literature, build on existing knowledge, and situate your research within the broader context of mental health.
  • Select an Appropriate Methodology : Choose a research methodology that aligns with your research question and objectives. Consider whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method approaches are best suited for your study. Justify your choice and outline your methodology clearly.
  • Ethical Considerations : Ensure that your research adheres to ethical guidelines and protects the rights and well-being of participants. Obtain necessary approvals from ethical review boards and maintain confidentiality and anonymity when reporting your findings.
  • Collect and Analyze Data : Collect data using appropriate methods, whether through surveys, interviews, observations, or existing datasets. Analyze your data using sound statistical techniques or qualitative analysis methods, depending on your research design.
  • Structure Your Paper : Organize your mental health research paper into sections, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Use headings and subheadings to clearly delineate each section and guide the reader through your paper.
  • Craft a Compelling Introduction : Begin your paper with an engaging introduction that captures the reader’s attention and provides the necessary background information. Clearly state your research question, the significance of your study, and the gaps you aim to address.
  • Interpret Your Findings : In the results section, present your findings objectively and concisely. Use tables, graphs, or figures to enhance clarity and provide a comprehensive overview of your results. Interpret your findings in light of your research question and existing literature.
  • Engage in a Thoughtful Discussion : In the discussion section, critically analyze and interpret your results, discussing their implications for theory, practice, and future research. Compare your findings with previous studies and identify areas of agreement or divergence.
  • Conclude with Key Takeaways : Summarize your main findings, restate the significance of your study, and discuss potential avenues for further research. Highlight the contributions your research makes to the field of mental health and offer practical implications for mental health professionals or policymakers.

Additional Tips:

  • Use clear and concise language, avoiding jargon whenever possible. Define any technical terms or acronyms for clarity.
  • Properly cite all sources using a recognized citation style, such as APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard, to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism.
  • Seek feedback from professors, mentors, or peers to refine your writing and ensure the clarity and coherence of your paper.
  • Revise and edit your paper multiple times to polish your arguments, improve sentence structure, and eliminate grammatical errors.

By following these tips, you can confidently navigate the process of writing a mental health research paper. Remember to maintain a logical flow, support your arguments with evidence, and engage in critical analysis to contribute to the understanding and advancement of mental health research.

iResearchNet’s Custom Writing Services

At iResearchNet, we understand the unique challenges that students face when writing a mental health research paper. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive writing services that cater specifically to the needs of health sciences students like you. Here are thirteen features that set us apart and ensure your research paper’s success:

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers : Our team of writers consists of highly qualified professionals with advanced degrees in mental health and related fields. They have the expertise and knowledge necessary to tackle complex research topics and produce high-quality papers.
  • Custom Written Works : We believe in originality and customization. Each mental health research paper we deliver is custom-written from scratch to meet your specific requirements and adhere to your instructions. We guarantee plagiarism-free and unique content.
  • In-Depth Research : Our writers conduct thorough and in-depth research on your chosen mental health topic to ensure the accuracy, relevance, and comprehensiveness of your paper. They have access to a vast array of scholarly resources and stay updated on the latest research in the field.
  • Custom Formatting : We understand the importance of following specific formatting styles. Whether you require APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard formatting, our writers are well-versed in these styles and will ensure that your paper meets the required standards.
  • Top Quality Assurance : We have a stringent quality assurance process in place to guarantee the highest standards of excellence. Our dedicated team of editors and proofreaders carefully review each mental health research paper for grammar, clarity, coherence, and adherence to academic standards.
  • Customized Solutions : We recognize that every mental health research paper is unique. Our services are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that we address your research question, objectives, and desired outcomes. We work closely with you to customize our approach and deliver a paper that aligns with your academic goals.
  • Flexible Pricing : We understand the financial constraints that students face. Our pricing options are designed to be flexible and affordable while maintaining the quality of our services. We offer competitive rates and transparent pricing, ensuring that you receive value for your investment.
  • Short Deadlines : We are equipped to handle urgent requests and short deadlines. If you require your mental health research paper in a tight timeframe, we can accommodate deadlines as short as three hours without compromising on quality or accuracy.
  • Timely Delivery : We recognize the importance of meeting deadlines. Our writers and support staff are committed to delivering your mental health research paper on time, allowing you sufficient time for review and any necessary revisions.
  • 24/7 Support : We provide round-the-clock customer support to address any inquiries, concerns, or issues you may have. Our dedicated support team is available to assist you at any stage of the writing process, ensuring a seamless and positive experience.
  • Absolute Privacy : We prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of our clients. Rest assured that any personal information shared with us will be handled with the utmost care and will remain strictly confidential.
  • Easy Order Tracking : Our user-friendly platform allows you to easily track the progress of your mental health research paper. You can communicate directly with your assigned writer, exchange messages, provide additional instructions, and stay informed about the status of your order.
  • Money Back Guarantee : We are confident in the quality of our services. In the rare event that you are not satisfied with the final product, we offer a money-back guarantee to ensure your complete satisfaction and peace of mind.

With iResearchNet’s writing services, you can trust that your mental health research paper is in capable hands. Our team of experts is dedicated to delivering custom-written papers that meet your academic requirements and exceed your expectations. Let us be your partner in achieving excellence in your mental health research endeavors.

Unlock Your Research Potential with iResearchNet

Are you a health sciences student working on a mental health research paper and seeking professional assistance to elevate your work? Look no further. iResearchNet is your trusted partner in achieving success in your academic journey. We understand the complexities and challenges you face in conducting rigorous research and producing a compelling paper. Our comprehensive writing services are tailored specifically to your needs, offering you the expertise and support required to excel in your mental health research.

By choosing iResearchNet, you gain access to a team of highly qualified writers who specialize in mental health and related disciplines. Our writers possess extensive knowledge and experience in the field, ensuring that your research paper is crafted with precision, accuracy, and a deep understanding of the subject matter. We are committed to delivering custom-written papers that reflect your unique research objectives and contribute to the advancement of mental health knowledge.

With iResearchNet, you can expect a seamless and enriching experience throughout your research journey. Our user-friendly platform enables you to easily communicate with your assigned writer, providing an opportunity for collaboration and ensuring that your paper is tailored to your specific requirements. Our dedicated customer support team is available 24/7 to address any inquiries or concerns you may have, providing you with the guidance and assistance you need at every step.

At iResearchNet, we take pride in our commitment to excellence. We strive to exceed your expectations by delivering high-quality, custom-written mental health research papers that showcase your academic prowess. Our writers conduct in-depth research, adhere to strict academic standards, and ensure that your paper is free from plagiarism. We offer timely delivery, flexible pricing options, and a money-back guarantee to provide you with peace of mind.

Choose iResearchNet as your trusted partner in your mental health research journey. Our writing services will empower you to produce a research paper that stands out, contributes to the field of mental health, and earns you the recognition you deserve. Take the next step towards academic success and unlock your research potential by placing your trust in iResearchNet. Together, let’s make a difference in the field of mental health research.

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mental health research topics questions

Mental Health Research Topics

mental health research topics questions

Recently, mental health has become an increasingly prevalent and critical topic of discussion. From the stresses of work and school to the challenges of maintaining relationships and navigating societal pressures, individuals are facing a myriad of mental health concerns. 

In this article, we dive into the complexities of mental health topics, ranging from anxiety and depression to coping mechanisms and seeking professional help. By shedding light on these issues and offering insights into understanding, managing, and supporting mental well-being, we aim to empower individuals to prioritize their mental health and foster a culture of openness and compassion surrounding mental health discussions. If your schedule is too hectic, simply say, ‘ write my essay ,’ and our experts will help you relieve the workload.

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200 Mental Health Research Paper Topics

In this section, we explore various mental health topics, providing insights, strategies, and resources to support individuals on their journey towards mental wellness.

Good Research Topics About Mental Health

  • Social media's impact on teen mental health.
  • Coping with stress in college.
  • Exercise and mental well-being.
  • Work stress management techniques.
  • Family support and depression.
  • Mental health stigma in rural areas.
  • Mindfulness for PTSD.
  • Diet's effect on mental health.
  • LGBTQ+ youth mental health.
  • Burnout among healthcare workers.
  • Early experiences and adult mental health.
  • Sleep quality and mood disorders.
  • Culture and mental illness.
  • Suicide prevention in teens.
  • Tech use and mental well-being.
  • Online therapy effectiveness.
  • Psychology of long-term unemployment.
  • Chronic illness and mental health.
  • Peer support for addiction recovery.
  • Elderly mental health in nursing homes.

Mental Health Research Topics for High School Students

  • Social media's impact on teen self-esteem.
  • Stress management during exams.
  • Peer pressure and mental health.
  • Mindfulness for teen anxiety.
  • Bullying's mental health effects.
  • Academic pressure and depression.
  • Sleep's role in teen mental health.
  • Gender differences in seeking help.
  • Extracurriculars and mental health.
  • Teenage mental health stigma.
  • Family dynamics and teen mental health.
  • Social support for teens.
  • Cultural attitudes on teen mental health.
  • Building resilience in adolescents.
  • Exercise and mood in teens.
  • Screen time and mental health.
  • Peer-led mental health initiatives.
  • Eating disorders in high schoolers.
  • Substance abuse and mental health.
  • School mental health programs.

Mental Health Research Topics for College Students

  • Academic stress and mental health.
  • Social media's impact on college students.
  • Campus mental health services effectiveness.
  • Sleep quality and mental well-being.
  • Depression and anxiety prevalence.
  • Financial stress and mental health.
  • Coping with homesickness in college.
  • Identity exploration and mental health.
  • Substance use and college mental health.
  • International students' mental health needs.
  • Perfectionism and mental health.
  • Tech use and psychological well-being.
  • Stigma around mental health help-seeking.
  • Peer support on campus.
  • Relationships and mental health.
  • Academic pressure, sleep, and mental health.
  • Mental health of student-athletes.
  • Cultural identity and mental health.
  • Social isolation among students.
  • Stress management workshops' impact.

Sociology Research Topics on Mental Health

  • Societal stigma and mental illness.
  • Socioeconomic status and mental health access.
  • Cultural perspectives on mental health.
  • Gender differences in mental health treatment.
  • Family influence on mental health attitudes.
  • Social constructions of mental illness.
  • Mental health in marginalized communities.
  • Social support and well-being.
  • Race, gender, and mental health.
  • Policies addressing mental health needs.
  • Media portrayal of mental illness.
  • Community-based mental health initiatives.
  • Urbanization and mental health challenges.
  • Loneliness and mental well-being.
  • Religion, spirituality, and mental health.
  • Employment status and mental health.
  • Education's role in mental health.
  • Social determinants of mental well-being.
  • Mental health in the criminal justice system.
  • Peer support for stigma reduction.

Mental Health Research Topics for Nursing Students

  • Nurses' role in mental health awareness.
  • Anxiety disorder nursing interventions.
  • Combatting mental health stigma in nursing.
  • Trauma-informed care in psychiatric nursing.
  • Therapeutic communication's impact in mental health.
  • Medication management in psychiatric nursing.
  • Suicide risk assessment and interventions.
  • Self-care for mental health nurses.
  • Holistic approaches in mental health nursing.
  • Cultural competence in mental health care.
  • Nursing interventions for mood disorders.
  • Family support in mental health nursing.
  • Adolescent mental health nursing.
  • Evidence-based practices in psychiatric nursing.
  • Nursing care for schizophrenia patients.
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration in mental health care.
  • Substance use disorder nursing support.
  • Challenges and rewards of psychiatric nursing.
  • Crisis intervention in mental health nursing.
  • Ethical considerations in mental health care.

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Mental Illness Topics for Research Paper

  • Genetics and environment in schizophrenia.
  • Neurotransmitters in depression treatment.
  • Neurobiology of anxiety disorders.
  • Childhood trauma and borderline personality disorder.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy for OCD.
  • Early intervention for psychosis.
  • Substance abuse and mood disorders.
  • Culture and eating disorder treatment.
  • Neurodevelopmental pathways in autism.
  • Inflammation in bipolar disorder.
  • Social determinants of mental illness.
  • Stigma and mental health treatment.
  • Peer support for schizophrenia.
  • Sleep disturbances and psychiatric disorders.
  • Social media and body image issues.
  • Stress, trauma, and cognition.
  • Epigenetics and anxiety disorders.
  • Art therapy for mood disorders.
  • Gut microbiota and mental health.

Adolescent Mental Health Research Topics

  • Social media and adolescent mental health.
  • Bullying's impact on teens.
  • Adolescent depression prevalence and risks.
  • Academic pressure and teen anxiety.
  • Substance use among adolescents.
  • Gender identity and teen mental health.
  • Peer relationships and well-being.
  • Mindfulness for adolescent stress reduction.
  • Trauma's effect on teen mental health.
  • Stigma around teen mental health.
  • Sleep patterns and teen mental well-being.
  • Culture and adolescent mental illness.
  • Socioeconomic status and mental health services access.
  • Technology use and teen mental well-being.
  • Suicide prevention strategies for teens.
  • Peer pressure and mental health risks.
  • Resilience-building in at-risk teens.
  • School-based mental health interventions.

Social Justice Research Topics Around Mental Health

  • Mental health disparities in marginalized groups.
  • Racism and mental health outcomes.
  • Access to mental health care for underserved communities.
  • Cultural competence in treatment.
  • Combatting stigma in diverse populations.
  • LGBTQ+ mental health rights.
  • Intersectionality in mental health.
  • Indigenous mental health and decolonization efforts.
  • Advocating for equitable mental health policies.
  • Environmental justice and mental well-being.
  • Trauma-informed care in justice systems.
  • Refugee and immigrant mental health challenges.
  • Disability justice and mental health inclusion.
  • Gender equity in mental health services.
  • Ethics in global mental health initiatives.
  • Mental health impact of incarceration.
  • Community-based mental health support.
  • Anti-oppressive practices in mental health care.
  • Ensuring justice in psychiatric care.

Mental Health Counseling Research Topics

  • Online counseling effectiveness.
  • Technology integration in counseling.
  • Cultural competence in therapy.
  • Group therapy outcomes.
  • Burnout prevention for counselors.
  • Rapport and therapeutic success.
  • Expressive arts therapy in counseling.
  • Teletherapy benefits and challenges.
  • Trauma-informed counseling effectiveness.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy outcomes.
  • Spirituality in counseling.
  • Mindfulness techniques in therapy.
  • Counselor training impact.
  • Narrative therapy effectiveness.
  • Cultural humility in counseling.
  • Animal-assisted therapy in counseling.
  • Family systems theory application.
  • Solution-focused brief therapy outcomes.
  • Counselor self-disclosure impact.
  • Ethical considerations in counseling.

Mental Health Research Topics on Behavioral Issues

  • Childhood trauma and adult behavioral issues.
  • Parenting styles and child behavior.
  • Peer influence on adolescent behavior.
  • Substance abuse and behavioral disorders.
  • ADHD and conduct disorder.
  • Aggression reduction interventions.
  • Genetics and behavioral issues.
  • Early intervention for behavioral problems.
  • Media violence and child aggression.
  • Screen time and adolescent behavior.
  • Socioeconomic status and behavioral disorders.
  • School environments and behavior.
  • Sleep disturbances and behavior.
  • Trauma-informed care impact.
  • Mindfulness for disruptive behavior.
  • Nutrition and child behavior.
  • Attachment theory and behavior.
  • Adverse childhood experiences and behavior.
  • Technology addiction and behavior.
  • Family therapy for behavioral problems.

If you haven’t decided which medical career path to choose, we suggest pursuing a healthcare management degree .

Mental Health Research Topic Checklist

Determining if your mental health research topic is great involves assessing several key aspects:

  • Relevance: Is it timely and aligned with current mental health issues?
  • Significance: Does it address important questions or challenges?
  • Originality: Does it offer new insights or perspectives?
  • Feasibility: Can it be researched effectively, given available resources?
  • Interest: Are you genuinely passionate about the topic?
  • Impact: Will it advance knowledge, inform practice, or influence policy?
  • Clarity : Is the research question clear and well-defined?

mental health research topics

By the way, we have discovered the best mental health app , which can be a source of inspiration for your research.

How to Choose Research Topics About Mental Health

Choosing research topics about mental health involves a thoughtful process. Here are some steps to guide you:

  • Identify your interests

Start by reflecting on your interests within the broad field of mental health. What topics resonate with you personally or professionally? Consider areas you are passionate about or curious to learn more about.

  • Review existing literature

Conduct a literature review to explore current research in mental health. Identify gaps, controversies, or areas where further investigation is needed. Look for topics that have sufficient existing research but still offer room for new insights or perspectives.

  • Consider societal relevance

Think about the societal relevance and impact of potential research topics. Consider issues that are timely, pressing, or have practical implications for individuals, communities, or policymakers.

  • Assess feasibility

Evaluate the feasibility of researching each topic. Consider factors such as access to data, resources, ethical considerations, and your expertise or skills. Choose a topic that you can realistically investigate within the constraints of your research context.

Final Thought

Studying mental health in college is important because it helps students learn how our minds work and handle our mental well-being. It also teaches us to understand and support others who may be going through tough times. 

By studying mental health, students can gain insights into the different factors that affect our mental well-being, like biology, emotions, relationships, and environment. To become a medical aid professional, you should also learn about the healthcare consultant requirements . 

Need a Good Mental Health Research Topic?

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  • Research Projects | Centre for Global Mental Health . (n.d.). Centre for Global Mental Health. https://www.centreforglobalmentalhealth.org/research-projects  
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Mental health research paper topics

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Mental health research topics are becoming increasingly important in our society today. With the rise of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is essential for students to understand the causes and effects of these conditions. Researching mental health can help us prevent and treat these illnesses before it's not too late.

That's why our paper writers curated this list compiling mental health research paper topics and ideas spanning various aspects. From psychological disorders to the role of society in mental health and therapeutic strategies, we covered 250 top mental health topics to write about. So, if you’re looking for help on starting your next mental health project, this list will provide you with the best ideas.

What Are Mental Health Research Topics?

Mental health research topics focus on understanding the causes, effects, and treatment of mental illnesses. It is important for students to explore these topics as they can help us understand how psychological disorders develop. This, in turn, allows us to optimize our treatment strategies. Researching mental health can also help us form healthier habits and lifestyles that promote positive mental health.

Characteristics of Good Mental Health Research Topics

How well you understand the theme characteristics can either make or break your research project. That's why, before you choose any mental health research topic, it is important to consider the features that make it good. Make sure your research topic about mental health meets the criteria listed below:

  • Relevant Give preference to topic ideas that are relevant to the current trends in society.
  • Interesting Find a topic you can approach from various angles while maintaining your engagement in research.
  • Feasible Ensure that the idea can be researched in a reasonable amount of time.
  • Original Try to pick between original mental health research questions and take a unique approach when investigating a certain aspect.
  • Accessible Make sure you have access to enough resources and data to complete your research.

How to Choose a Mental Health Research Topic?

Narrowing down your choices can be an intimidating process. To make it easier for you, we’ve rendered some secrets that will help you select the right research topic about mental health:

  • Brainstorm Try to come up with as many ideas as possible by writing them out on paper or creating a mind map.
  • Analyze your ideas Once you have a list of mental health project ideas, analyze each one and decide which ones are more appropriate for your research.
  • Explore further Certain topics may require extra research before settling on them. Make sure to look for relevant studies and determine whether you have enough time to run your research.
  • Seek consultation Sometimes you may just miss out something important. Discuss your ideas with your peers, professors, or online research paper writers to get constructive feedback.
  • Refine After getting input from others, polish your research topic idea further before committing to it.

Hopefully, these tips  will help you select the best research topics on mental health and start your exploration on the right note. Let’s now move forward to the actual ideas.

List of Mental Health Research Paper Topics

Below you will find a unique collection of hot mental health research paper topics. Designed to inspire students, budding researchers, and knowledge seekers, this list of ideas will surely be helpful.

  • The impact of socioeconomic status on mental health conditions.
  • Exploring the role of social media in mental illness.
  • Analyze how trauma affects mental health.
  • Investigating stress management strategies for anxiety disorders.
  • Impact of sleep disorders on mental health.
  • Art therapy: A non-traditional approach to emotional health.
  • The relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health.
  • The role of genetics in mental health disorders.
  • Understanding the psychology of eating disorders.
  • The interplay of physical activity and mental health.
  • The psychological impact of chronic diseases.
  • Internet addiction and its psychological implications.
  • Comparative analysis of Western and Eastern mental health practices.
  • Suicide prevention strategies in youth.
  • The role of AI and technology in emotional health care.
  • A closer look at post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • The intersection of mental health and homelessness.
  • The efficacy of animal-assisted therapy in emotional wellbeing.
  • The role of culture in mental health treatment.
  • Exploring the link between mental illness and substance abuse.

Good Mental Health Research Topics

Below we’ve put together a list of good research topics about mental health worth your attention. Take a look and you may find the perfect topic to inspire your next project:

  • Nature vs. Nurture: The origins of emotional wellbeing disturbance.
  • Effectiveness of virtual therapy in treating depression.
  • Investigating anxiety management strategies through mindfulness.
  • Understanding the psychological effects of online harassment.
  • The growing mental health crisis in young adults.
  • Exploring the influence of family relationships on mental health.
  • Investigating the role of exercise in reducing stress.
  • How climate change influences emotional wellness.
  • Assessing the role of financial stress in psychological illness.
  • Examining the need for improving healthcare systems related to mental health.
  • The Influence of social media on teenage mental health.
  • Exploring the connection between mental illness and addiction.
  • Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in treating anxiety.
  • The impact of social isolation on mental wellness.
  • Understanding the impacts of racism on emotional wellbeing.

Interesting Mental Health Research Topics

Sometimes all you need is a spark of inspiration. If that’s the case for you, then take a look at these captivating topics about mental health:

  • Exploring the impacts of divorce on mental health.
  • Examining the role of good nutrition in emotional wellbeing.
  • An analysis of the impact of unemployment on mental illness.
  • Impact of taxation policies on emotional wellness.
  • Analyzing the role of online support groups in mental health care.
  • Investigating the stigma of mental health in universities.
  • The need for better communication strategies in treating psychological illness.
  • Analyze the impact of occupational stress on mental wellbeing.
  • Examine how social exclusion affects emotional wellness.
  • The growing need for mental health education in schools.
  • Understanding the importance of parental support for emotional stability.
  • The role of financial literacy in reducing psychological distress.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of aromatherapy for stress relief.
  • Analyzing the use of peer counseling in mental health care.
  • Exploring new technologies for mental health diagnosis.

Unique Mental Health Research Topics

Ready for something more authentic? Take a look at these research paper topics about mental health and give them your best shot:

  • Examining the need for gender-sensitive mental health care.
  • Exploring the impacts of physical disability on emotional wellbeing.
  • The use of digital technology for mental health awareness.
  • Analyzing the impact of video gaming on psychological health.
  • Exploring the efficacy of yoga and meditation in treating depression.
  • The importance of early identification and treatment of mental illness.
  • Examining the need for mental health support among LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Are alternative therapies effective in treating distress?
  • Exploring the links between pet ownership and emotional stability.
  • Use of music therapy in treating anxiety disorders.
  • Exploring the psychological effects of noise pollution.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of online forums in emotional health therapy.
  • Examining the impacts of aging on mental health.
  • How does cognitive restructuring benefit emotional wellbeing?
  • The role of herbal remedies in managing psychological distress.

Best Mental Health Research Topics

Are you looking for the very best mental health topics for research papers or projects? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at these amazing ideas to get inspired:

  • The need for social acceptance in treating psychological disorders.
  • How do friendships help in managing stress?
  • How can virtual reality be used in mental health care?
  • How does religion impact psychological well being?
  • How economic policies affect psychological stability?
  • Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on global mental health.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder in military personnel.
  • Cyberbullying and its effect on adolescent peace of mind.
  • Benefits and challenges of teletherapy in emotional stability recovery.
  • Understanding and managing self-harm behaviors.
  • Examining the need for mental health support at the workplace.
  • Exploring the relationship between sleep deprivation and mental health.
  • Negative impact of toxic relationships on emotional wellness.
  • Importance of creating a supportive environment for psychological well being.
  • Benefits of self-care for emotional wellness.

Controversial Mental Health Research Topics

The mental health research topics below are sure to spark some debate. If you’re browsing for debatable argumentative paper topics or project on mental health, take a look at these themes:

  • Investigating the role of propaganda in creating mental health stigmas.
  • Exploring the impact of false news and its influence on mental wellbeing.
  • The need for mental health awareness campaigns in the media.
  • Medical marijuana and emotional stability: beneficial or harmful?
  • Forced hospitalization in psychiatry: necessity or violation of rights?
  • Is suicide representation in media preventive or harmful?
  • The "Anti-Vax" Movement's impact on public mental health.
  • The use of electroconvulsive therapy in modern psychiatry.
  • Does ADHD overdiagnosis contribute to misunderstood child behavior?
  • Are personality disorders just extreme versions of normal personality traits?
  • Is there a connection between mental health and gun control laws?
  • The validity of self-diagnosis in mental health: empowering or harmful?
  • Controversy over the DSM-5's expanding definition of mental illness.
  • How does political instability affect emotional wellbeing?
  • Investigating the effectiveness of government policies in mental health care.

Research Questions About Mental Health

Mental health research questions are key in helping you focus on the right topics when writing a dissertation or any other capstone project. Here are a few examples to get started:

  • How do parenting styles affect children’s emotional stability?
  • How does a positive self-image contribute to mental health resilience?
  • Can a supportive community significantly mitigate the symptoms of mental disorders?
  • Is there a correlation between high academic pressure and mental health disorders in students?
  • How can workplace policies be improved to better support employee wellbeing?
  • How does exposure to nature influence mental well-being?
  • How do personal belief systems and religion influence attitudes towards psychiatric disorders?
  • Can implementing a regular digital detox improve the state of mind?
  • How do life-changing events, such as migration or job loss, impact our emotional health?
  • What role do hormones play in mood disorders?
  • What are the psychological effects of long-term unemployment?
  • How does grief affect mental health, and how can it be managed effectively?
  • How does living in an urban vs. rural environment impact emotional health?
  • How do microaggressions in daily life contribute to stress and mental health disorders?
  • What is the impact of gender identity and sexual orientation on emotional wellbeing?

>> View more: Medical Research Paper Topics

Mental Health Research Topic Ideas for Students

Covering a broad spectrum of themes, our list aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the multidimensional aspects of mental health. These mental health topics for students can foster critical thinking and bring about scholarly conversations.

Mental Health Research Topics for High School

Hover over these interesting mental health research topics for high school students to find a fitting idea.

  • The influence of social media on teen mental health.
  • How does school environment influence a student's state of mind?
  • The role of peer pressure in psychiatric issues among teens.
  • The psychological impact of body image and self-esteem issues.
  • Mental health implications of academic stress and burnout.
  • The role of counseling in schools for mental health support.
  • Understanding eating disorders in adolescence.
  • The impact of parental emotional stability on adolescents.
  • What are the most effective ways of reducing student stress and anxiety?
  • Can social media platforms be used to promote positive mental health messages?
  • How can parents identify childhood depression and anxiety in their children?
  • Enhancing social and emotional skills in high school students.
  • Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques for high school students.
  • How does physical activity impact mental health in teenagers?

Mental Health Research Topics for College Students

Take a look at this collection of research paper topics on mental health for college students to find the one that suits your needs.

  • The impact of chronic stress on physical and psychological health.
  • Addressing mental illness stigma among university students.
  • What are the most effective methods for reducing anxiety in college students?
  • Examining the effectiveness of psychotherapeutic interventions for mental health disorders.
  • Risk factors and triggers that contribute to depression in higher education settings.
  • Exploring the relationship between academic performance and psychological health.
  • The influence of online communication on student’s emotional wellbeing.
  • How can university professors promote mental health awareness among their students?
  • Benefits of cognitive behavior therapy for college students.
  • What are the most effective ways to prevent suicidal ideation in college students?
  • Role-playing games as a therapeutic approach to emotional disorders.
  • Intersectional approaches to mental health: gender, race and ethnicity.
  • The link between drug and alcohol abuse and psychiatric disorder.
  • Does cultural awareness influence the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders?
  • Investigating the role of technology in deteriorating mental health among young people.

Mental Health Research Topics and Ideas Worth Considering

Here, you'll find worthy research paper ideas on mental health focusing on different aspects. From understanding how our minds and bodies connect, to looking at the impact of society, and even studying new therapies, we've got a range of mental health research ideas for you.

Mental Illness Research Paper Topics

This selection covers an array of mental illness ideas focusing on various disorders, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options. They are ideal for students and researchers looking to broaden their knowledge.

  • How complex is dissociative identity disorder and what factors contribute to its development?
  • What role does trauma play in the development of borderline personality disorder?
  • What are the implications of long-term antidepressant use in major depressive disorder?
  • How do psychiatric service dogs impact the management of post-traumatic stress disorder?
  • Which psychotherapeutic approaches are effective in managing schizophrenia?
  • Does eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) effectively treat trauma?
  • How does family therapy contribute to the management of anorexia nervosa?
  • What are the neuroscientific insights into bipolar disorder?
  • How do socioeconomic factors influence major depressive disorder?
  • What are the mechanisms behind selective mutism in children?
  • To what extent does genetics contribute to autism spectrum disorder?
  • Psychodynamics of narcissistic personality disorder.
  • Implications of stigma in the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia.
  • Is there a link between childhood abuse and dissociative disorders that warrants exploration?
  • What impact does neurofeedback training have on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Research Topics on Mental Health Counseling

This collection of research topics for mental health focuses on the various aspects of counseling, from psychological theories to practical approaches.

  • How important is cultural sensitivity in therapy and its impact on treatment outcomes?
  • What ethical dilemmas arise in therapy, particularly concerning privacy and confidentiality?
  • What is the role of positive psychology in therapeutic practices and its impact on well-being?
  • Does therapists' mental health influence the outcomes of their clients?
  • What are the methods and benefits of group therapy?
  • Can cognitive behavioral therapy effectively manage panic disorders?
  • Why is self-care important for therapists and how does it impact their work?
  • How does counselor bias affect mental health therapy outcomes?
  • The use of dialectical behavior therapy in addressing emotional instability.
  • How does play therapy support children's mental health?
  • What are the unique challenges in providing therapy for veterans with PTSD?
  • Can family systems therapy serve as a panacea for family-related issues?
  • How effective is grief counseling in helping individuals cope with bereavement?
  • What is the power of storytelling in emotional health care and its impact?
  • How effective is solution-focused brief therapy in achieving quick emotional recovery?

Young Mothers Mental Health Research Topics

This selection of research ideas about mental health covers how young mothers navigate the physical, psychological and social changes.

  • What are the unique mental health challenges faced by teenage mothers?
  • How does postpartum depression impact parenting and mother-child bond?
  • The effects of poverty on young maternal mental health.
  • Examining the effects of early adolescent pregnancy on social relationships.
  • What coping strategies can be used to address stress among young mothers?
  • Can breastfeeding serve as a protective factor against postpartum depression?
  • The correlation between exercise and mental health among young mothers.
  • What role do support networks play in assisting young mothers to access mental health services?
  • How does becoming a mother affect the identity of teenage girls?
  • Exploring the link between single parenthood and adolescent mental health.
  • What psychological interventions are effective in improving the mental health of young mothers?
  • What role does childcare play in supporting mental wellbeing among young mothers
  • Investigating the link between socioeconomic status and maternal depression among teenage mothers.
  • What role does health education play in improving the mental health of young mothers?
  • Are there any long-term effects of postpartum depression on child development?

Research Topics in Mental Health Nursing

Are you looking for good research topics on mental health nursing? Don't miss out on these ideas. Below you will find an idea or two in this direction.

  • How does nurse-patient relationships impact mental health recovery?
  • What is the role of psychiatric nurses in de-escalating crisis situations?
  • Ethical dilemmas faced by mental health nurses.
  • Stress and burnout among mental health nurses: Causes and coping strategies.
  • Are mental health nursing interventions effective for patients with PTSD?
  • Psychiatric nurses' role in managing patients with dual diagnosis.
  • Enhancing communication skills in mental health nursing.
  • Mental health nursing practices in pediatric care.
  • The role of nurses in suicide prevention and postvention.
  • Challenges in providing culturally sensitive care in mental health nursing.
  • The impact of mental health nurses in reducing hospital readmission rates.
  • The integration of telepsychiatry into nursing practice.
  • Training needs and professional development for nurses.
  • The efficacy of trauma-informed care in nursing.
  • Transition challenges for mental health nurses from inpatient to community care.

>> Read more: Nursing Research Topics

Mental Health Law Research Topics

Are you searching for some interesting research topics in mental health law? Here are a few ideas that could help you narrow down your focus.

  • The implications of involuntary commitment laws on civil rights.
  • Should mental health treatment be legally mandated for those deemed dangerous?
  • What are the legal safeguards when interpreting informed consent in psychiatric hospitals?
  • How can legal systems address violence risk assessment and management?
  • Exploring the ethical dilemmas behind forced medication in a psychiatric hospital.
  • Should involuntary commitment laws be amended to include substance use disorders?
  • What role does the Mental Health Act play in safeguarding the rights of patients?
  • Can therapeutic jurisprudence provide a viable solution for mental health law reform?
  • The implications of the Mental Capacity Act on decision-making and autonomy.
  • Analysis of consent capacity assessments in mental health law.
  • The role of civil commitment laws in improving access to treatment and care.
  • Mental health law provisions for those with chronic or terminal illnesses.
  • How does criminal justice reform help reduce the number of mentally ill inmates?
  • What are the legal considerations for ensuring patient confidentiality in mental health?
  • Does the Mental Health Act adequately protect the rights of young adults?

>> Read more: Legal Research Paper Topics

Mental Health Research Topics on Behavioral Issues

If you're browsing for mental health topics to research behavioral issues, here are a few titles that could help get you started.

  • The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.
  • Exploring the link between impulsivity and depression.
  • How does stress-coping impact emotion regulation abilities?
  • Examining the impact of cognitive distortions on behavioral responses.
  • The role of metacognition in addressing anxiety and depression.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of anger management interventions.
  • The impact of social media on self-esteem and behavior.
  • How can parents encourage healthy coping strategies in children?
  • Examining the role of reward systems for enhancing motivation.
  • How do family dynamics influence behavior problems?
  • The implications of trauma on behavior and emotion regulation.
  • Exploring the link between sleep habits and behavior problems.
  • Can mindfulness be an effective tool to reduce aggressive behavior?
  • What strategies can be used to manage impulsivity?
  • Can virtual reality serve as a cognitive-behavioral therapy tool?

Extra Mental Health Research Topics

The following list features unique research topic ideas on mental health that are less explored but equally important. Whether you're seasoned or a beginner in mental health research, these ideas are sure to spark engaging conversations and deepen your understanding. So, let's dive in and explore these intriguing aspects in this direction together.

Psychiatry Research Topics

The collection below spotlights a wide range of subjects, from understanding psychiatric disorders to exploring advanced treatment methods. It's an excellent resource for anyone interested in diving deeper into this intriguing medical specialty. Get ready to immerse yourself in these psychiatric research topics and contribute to the field.

  • The effects of combining psychotherapy with medication for the treatment of depression.
  • Exploring the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating bipolar disorder.
  • What role do genetics play in the development of schizophrenia?
  • Examining the long-term impact of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
  • The use of psychedelic drugs in the treatment of mental illness.
  • Can mindfulness be an effective tool for treating anxiety?
  • The efficacy of virtual reality (VR) therapy in treating phobias.
  • What role do diet and nutrition play in managing psychiatric disorders?
  • The use of telepsychiatry to improve access to care.
  • How do brain activity and behavior interact in psychiatric disorders?
  • Exploring the role of technology in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.
  • What is the role of childcare in supporting mental wellbeing among young mothers?
  • How does early childhood development influence mental health later in life?
  • The importance of social connectedness for psychological well being.
  • Exploring how cultural beliefs and practices influence mental health.

>> Read more: Psychology Research Paper Topics

Research Topics on Mental Disorder

This list of research topics regarding mental health disorders provides an exciting opportunity to explore the underlying causes, symptoms, and treatments for a wide range of psychological issues. Let's take a closer look at these compelling research topics in mental health.

  • What are the risk factors and warning signs of bipolar disorder?
  • How can family therapy be used to support children with autism?
  • Exploring differences in diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia between men and women.
  • The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
  • Examining the impact of trauma on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • What role do environmental factors play in determining vulnerability to depression?
  • Neuroimaging research on schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.
  • Can virtual reality (VR) therapy be used to treat anxiety disorders?
  • Identifying the most effective psychotherapeutic approaches for treating borderline personality disorder.
  • Analysis of the role of medication in treating eating disorders.
  • The effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in managing gambling addiction.
  • Exploring the use of music therapy for symptoms of psychosis.
  • What are the best practices for supporting individuals with dissociative identity disorder?
  • What role does lifestyle play in managing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
  • The potential of exercise and nutrition in preventing dementia.

Bottom Line on Research Topics About Mental Health

We did our best to provide you with exciting mental health research topics. No matter which topic you choose, make sure it resonates with your interests and provides new insights. Once you select a fitting idea, make sure to check how to write a research paper to nail your task.

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Key questions: research priorities for student mental health

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Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neurosciences, King's College London, UK

Michael Priestley

School of Education, Durham University, UK

Alyson L. Dodd

Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, UK

Emma Broglia

School of Psychology, University of Sheffield, UK

Dan Robotham

The McPin Foundation, UK

Katie Tyrrell

Research Directorate, University of Suffolk, UK

Marta Ortega Vega

Maudsley Learning, South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK

Nicola C. Byrom

Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neurosciences, King's College London, UK

Associated Data

The fully anonymised data that support the findings of this study are available online from figshare at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.15124908 .

The high prevalence of mental distress among university students is gaining academic, policy and public attention. As the volume of research into student mental health increases, it is important to involve students to ensure that the evidence produced can translate into meaningful improvements.

For the first time, we consult UK students about their research priorities on student mental health.

This priority setting exercise involved current UK university students who were asked to submit three research questions relating to student mental health. Responses were aggregated into themes through content analysis and considered in the context of existing research. Students were involved throughout the project, including inception, design, recruitment, analysis and dissemination.

UK university students ( N = 385) submitted 991 questions, categorised into seven themes: epidemiology, causes and risk factors, academic factors and work–life balance, sense of belonging, intervention and services, mental health literacy and consequences. Across themes, respondents highlighted the importance of understanding the experience of minority groups.

Conclusions

Students are interested in understanding the causes and consequences of poor mental health at university, across academic and social domains. They would like to improve staff and students’ knowledge about mental health, and have access to evidence-based support. Future research should take a broad lens to evaluate interventions; considering how services are designed and delivered, and investigating institutional and behavioural barriers to accessibility, including how this varies across different groups within the student population.

In the context of increasing prevalence of youth and young adult mental health problems, 1 , 2 including university students, 3 concern about mental health in the university setting is mounting and gaining media and public attention. 4 Increasing demand for services on campus has been observed internationally. 2 , 3 However, current approaches lack a solid evidence base, 5 , 6 and students have voiced concerns that existing services do not meet their needs. 7 In the UK, representatives of university leadership and students are urging the sector to adopt a whole-institution approach. 8 , 9 However, questions about how to achieve this remain unanswered. Eliciting student perspectives and experiences has been highlighted as an enabling strategy for the sector to develop effective and targeted initiatives attuned to diverse student needs and situated within a whole-university approach. 9 As research efforts mount, 10 it is important to involve students to ensure that work in this field translates into meaningful improvements attuned to students’ lived experiences. 11 This project set out to consult students in the UK on their priorities for future research into student mental health. Our aim is to ensure that the student voice is influential in shaping the direction of future research.

Lived experience involvement

The project was initiated through the UK Research and Innovation funded Student Mental Health Research Network (SMaRteN), with a steering group developed from the SMaRteN leadership team. The group recruited diverse stakeholders, including students (both with and without lived experience of mental health difficulties at university), clinical psychologists, tutors and academic researchers. Co-creation was central to this project. This is distinguished from student consultation and participation, by the active involvement of students as equal stakeholders, 12 reciprocally sharing knowledge and networks as part of a strengths and asset-based approach. 13 Students were operating in a ‘peer researcher’ context, and worked with academic researchers to design the methodology, recruit a diverse student sample, analyse data and write up the findings. Several student peer researchers are authors on this paper.

Participants

All procedures contributing to this work comply with the ethical standards of the relevant national and institutional committees on human experimentation and with the Helsinki Declaration of 1975, as revised in 2008. All procedures involving human participants were approved by the university ethics board (approval number LRS-19/20-14288). All participants were provided with information about the study and the opportunity to contact the researchers to ask questions before providing informed consent through an online form.

Our sample included 385 UK university students, who responded to advertisements publicised by SMaRteN and the student mental health charity, Student Minds. Advertisements were circulated through newsletters, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We did not provide any monetary incentive for participation. Adverts and the study information sheet reminded participants that the survey would provide an opportunity to help shape the future of research in this area, with SMaRteN funding being allocated to address the top priority questions.

Our sample was primarily under 25 years old ( n  = 285, 74%) and mostly comprised women ( n  = 251, 65%). Our sample included UK domiciled ( n  = 279, 72%) and international ( n  = 106, 28%) students and was 72% White, 15% Asian and 6% Black. A substantial minority of respondents identified as a sexual or romantic minority ( n  = 118, 31%) and/or reported having a disability ( n  = 95, 25%). Students represented all years and levels of study (undergraduate, 66%; taught postgraduate, 17%; postgraduate research, 15%), and represented most subject areas (see Table 1 ).

Sample representation across academic areas, compared with UK representation, as reported in Higher Education Statistics Agency data

Academic areaOur sample (%)UK university students (%)
Medicine and dentistry93
Subjects allied to medicine912
Biological sciences2210
Veterinary science<1
Agriculture and related subjects11
Physical sciences64
Mathematical sciences32
Computer science105
Engineering and technology27
Architecture, building and planning2
Total sciences6246
Social studies1210
Law34
Business and administrative studies315
Mass communications and documentation52
Languages54
Historical and philosophical studies73
Creative arts and design48
Education46
Total non-sciences3854

Data collection was carried out via an online survey hosted on Qualtrics (Seattle, WA, USA; see https://www.qualtrics.com/uk/ ) between October 2019 and February 2020. The survey was designed to be as short and simple as possible to make participation as easy. Respondents submitted up to three questions in response to the prompt: ‘In terms of student mental health, what do you think are the priority issues for researchers to explore?’. There was no word limit for the respondents’ submissions. After submitting questions, respondents were asked to complete demographic details.

Data analysis

The objective of our analysis was to understand respondents’ recommendations for future research and categorise these to create a shortlist of research priorities. We sought to capture student recommendations without passing judgement regarding the value of the research topic or whether the question had already been addressed.

A team of 26 students were involved in analysing the data, supported by experienced researchers. The student team were recruited through SMaRteN from universities across the UK. Selection focused on bringing together a diverse team. SMaRteN hosted a 2-day workshop, covering expenses to bring students together for training and co-creation activities.

To facilitate reflexivity, 14 we followed an iterative approach, with themes developed and refined through consultation with all members of the team. This improves the reliability of analysis, minimising biases arising from individual researchers’ preconceptions. As respondents were invited to provide single sentence questions, without explaining their rationale, it was important not to overanalyse the data. In this context, content analysis was appropriate. As summarised in Fig. 1 , we followed four steps of content analysis, embedding the principles of co-creation in each step. 15

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Object name is S2056472422000618_fig1.jpg

Content analysis process.

In stage 1, codes were generated inductively, working with the questions provided rather than bringing in any preconceived ideas of the research questions that might be important. This approach was adopted to ensure we think carefully about the questions students were asking, as opposed to trying to fit their questions into the existing research framework. This process was completed independently by members of the steering group, before in-depth discussion, through which a single list of codes was agreed. 14

At stage 2, students checked that all aspects of the content had been covered by revisiting the original questions, determining what should be included and excluded, and developing more detailed codes. 15 For example, although the initial list of codes had included ‘academic pressure’, student analysis here clarified that this should include all questions related academic grades, success, workload, deadline and course-specific challenges.

In stage 3, the lead researcher (N.C.B.) worked iteratively with small groups of students to create categories around the codes, with the goal of reducing the categories without losing the content of units. 16 Returning to the example of academic pressure, we identified parallels between the questions that had been grouped into this code and questions relating to the university extenuating/mitigating circumstances process. Students agreed it was hard to consider the impact of extenuating circumstances without considering these in the wider context of academic culture and assessment practice. Further, most questions relating to work–life balance focused on managing workload, and hence had clear relationship to the questions grouped under academic pressure. As such, we reduced the number of categories by grouping questions together into the category of ‘academic factors’. This process was continuously appraised to ensure categories were internally homogenous and externally heterogenous. 17 For instance, although the questions around academic pressure and extenuating circumstances align, questions relating to academics’ appreciation for the pressure students experienced aligned more clearly with other questions about mental health literacy and academics’ understanding of mental health. In the final stage, categories were checked, named and described.

Across the analysis, although we primarily followed a manifest analysis, describing respondents’ questions as they were presented, at times a more latent approach was necessary to interpret questions that were phrased less clearly. 13 For example, the question ‘What is the effect of workload on students’ mental health?’ can be simply described as asking about student workload, and thus grouped with other questions around workload and academic pressure. In contrast, we received a question reading ‘the amount of work?’. We chose to retain this question and place it within the category of ‘academic factors and work–life balance’. However, here we have assumed the respondent is referring to the work students have to do, rather than the amount of work universities might have to put in to improve student mental health.

In total, 991 questions were submitted and arranged into seven categories. In Table 2 , these categories are set out in descending order of frequency based on the number of questions asked in that category. We discuss each of these categories below.

Summary of key priorities in context of existing research

Research priority (number of questions asked)Current evidenceDirection for future research
Intervention and services (  = 224)Short-term embedded counselling at university shows clinical efficacy. Limited evidence suggests non-clinical interventions may be effectiveHow effective and accessible are university mental health services for a diverse student population?
How effective is a whole-university approach to mental health?
What is the impact of collaboration between universities and the NHS [National Health Service]?
Are non-clinical interventions, e.g. yoga and exercise, beneficial to the student population?
Academic factors and work–life balance (  = 121)Student workload contributes to stress. Changes to university curricula and pedagogy can have beneficial consequences for student well-beingWhat are the consequences of making curricula and pedagogy changes, which are mindful of student mental health and well-being, across different types of degrees?
Mental health literacy (  = 114)Programmes to improve mental health literacy may be effective in student populations.
Academics are under increased pressure to support student mental health, but many find it challenging to understand their role and the best response
What approaches to mental health literacy programmes are most effective and accessible to students?
How can academic staff be supported to recognise and help students with mental health difficulties?
Causes and risk factors (  = 107)Multiple individual risk factors have been associated with poor mental health among studentsCan we identify relative risk and protective factors associated with mental health difficulties?
Sense of belonging (  = 97)Loneliness, which has negative consequences for mental health, is associated with transition to adulthood and away from the family homeIn what way, and for what reasons, do students experience loneliness and how can it be prevented?
How are students from minority groups affected by loneliness and structural exclusion?
Epidemiology (  = 68)Prevalence estimates of mental health problems are 20–40%, and have been increasing in recent yearsHow does prevalence for mental health problems vary between students, considering institution, year of study, academic discipline and minority groups?
Consequences (  = 26)Mental health affects education achievement at universityDo mental health difficulties among students have long-term implications for social and career development?

Intervention and services

The efficacy of existing services (including counselling, workshops and drop-in services) was raised, including whether these services meet the needs of a diverse student population. Respondents suggested the potential effects of a broad range of specific and sometimes novel interventions, including physical activity, yoga, mindfulness, social activities and events, and sleeping pods on campus. Questions considered cost-efficacy as well as how to increase funding.

Respondents questioned the appropriate balance between preventative work and responsive treatment, and how university support services should be designed to meet needs ranging from well-being through to complex and enduring mental health problems: ‘How can the support for student well-being versus chronic/severe mental illness be differentiated and acknowledged as separate issues?’

Respondents identified a need to clarify where the boundaries of responsibility between the National Health Service (NHS) and university services should lie and how these services should be better integrated, especially with the split between home and term-time addresses: ‘What is the role of universities in treating, preventing, helping with mental health? Where do they fit in with the NHS, charities and family/social structures?’ Questions asked whether there is adequate provision of professional mental health support for students, whether this is suitably accessible and what steps can be taken to improve availability and accessibility.

Academic factors and work–life balance

Respondents queried how academic pressure, including challenging content, high workload and a pressure to succeed, contribute to mental health problems. This pressure also included how academic success affects self-worth and how to overcome feelings of shame or embarrassment when struggling academically. Pressure was raised in relation to postgraduate students, with a focus on the relationship between mental health, performance and output. Respondents asked what steps can be taken to help those studying at university to cope with pressure: ‘How can students’ resilience and coping be increased so they are best equipped to deal with HE [higher education] study?’

Participants questions indicated that methods of assessment at university may affect mental health and asked whether changes to assessment design could reduce negative effects. Respondents were interested in examinations versus coursework, as well as how deadlines affect stress. A few questions considered the accessibility and efficacy of university extenuating circumstances: ‘Are universities able/willing to make the more flexible adjustments needed for students with long-term mental health conditions to engage?’

University teaching, including module organisation and structure, number of contact hours and online versus in-person teaching, were raised as potentially affecting mental health. Teaching style changes between school and university were also flagged as possibly problematic: ‘I feel like a lot of people are struggling with the first year. How can we make the gap between uni and high school smaller?’ These questions were raised by students across academic disciplines. Healthcare students uniquely also questioned how placements affect mental health.

Respondents asked about the challenge of time management and maintaining balance in their lives. Questions considered how to balance academic work with a social life and part-time job, and postulated whether trying to achieve this places strain on relationships and well-being. Although there were comparatively few questions relating to balance, students involved in the analysis requested that this theme be highlighted because of its relevance and importance.

Mental health literacy

Questions included whether, and in what ways, a culture of increased awareness, education and conversation would affect student mental health: ‘How is the growing awareness of mental health impacting student's mental health?’ Students were concerned about to identify mental health problems in themselves and their peers, and asked for more knowledge about how to respond to and help someone struggling with mental health problems. The importance of providing support to those who are helping friends with mental health problems was also highlighted. Students wanted knowledge of self-help strategies, and questioned how best to manage and cope with their own mental health problems at university: ‘What steps can students take to minimise their risk of adverse mental health issues?’ This theme also included whether students know what support and advice is available at university, and how they can access it, including how comfortable people feel reaching out for support, the role of stigma and shame, and how to encourage help-seeking behaviour.

Academic staff also play a part in creating a culture around mental health, and so respondents were interested in their mental health literacy and suggested providing resources, training programmes or policy implementation to help staff recognise and support students with mental health problems. Some questions considered whether students feel they are treated as individuals or in a more depersonalised and anonymous manner, and what impact this has on student mental health: ‘Would students suffering with poor mental health be able to work better with more consideration from teachers?’

Causes and risk factors

Identifying potential risk and protective factors for poor mental health was highlighted: ‘Which students are most at risk of poor mental health/well-being and why? And most likely to have good mental health and why – protective factors?’ Respondents posed questions about underlying reasons, triggers or drivers for problems, with some assuming that university has a negative impact on mental health: ‘What is causing mental illness at university, and is it a systemic problem?’ Specific possible contributing factors included student finances, living arrangements, drug and alcohol use, unhealthy lifestyles and concerns for future career prospects. Questions about living arrangements considered the impact of living away from home, transitioning between home and term-time addresses, communal versus solitary living and how living in halls of residence affects mental health. Respondents queried how a sense of belonging and academic factors, including the challenge of finding a work–life balance, might contribute to mental health problems. These questions have not been included here because there was sufficient interest to create independent categories.

Sense of belonging

Respondents wanted to know whether all students feel valued, included and appreciated within their university community, and how to improve this: ‘How can students feel more ‘at home’ and comfortable in their universities?’ Loneliness and isolation were raised, particularly the reasons why students are lonely, how this affects mental health and what can be done to reduce it. Respondents questioned how to make meaningful connections, and why students may feel alone despite being surrounded by people. Respondents considered how student social life affects mental health, including the role of societies and sports groups as well as negative experiences such as peer pressure, elitism and bullying.

Questions considered these problems from the perspective of minority or vulnerable groups, with issues surrounding loneliness being raised specifically for international, mature and commuter students. Respondents queried whether the university environment is inclusive for neurodiverse, minority ethnic, LGBTQ+, working class and disabled students, and how a lack of representation may accentuate loneliness. Victimisation and discrimination, including racism and sexual assault, were identified as potentially contributing to mental health problems at university: ‘How safe do you feel on your campus? Specifically, relevant for minoritized groups, i.e. BAME, LGBTQ, non-neurotypical students, etc. and women’.

Epidemiology

Questions falling into this category considered the prevalence of mental health problems among university students, including identifying the most common conditions, how the incidence of these problems is changing in universities and how prevalence differs between students and non-students. Many questions revealed underlying presumptions that student mental health is declining, and that students are more vulnerable to mental health problems than their peers: ‘Why has the prevalence of mental health problems in university students increased?’ They also questioned when mental health problems develop, whether this is before or after coming to university and how the move to university changes peoples’ experiences.

Consequences

A small number of questions asked about the consequences of mental health problems at university, and particularly the impact on academic achievement and social life. Respondents asked about drop-out rates in relation to mental health, and consequences for career development. Respondents were interested in the prognosis for those who struggle with mental health problems at university, including rates of recovery.

The aim of this co-creation project was to identify the mental health research priorities of university students and enable the student voice to shape the direction of future research. Our study identified seven key areas for future research. Many themes overlapped, reflecting the interconnectedness of different facets of student life. As summarised in Table 2 , we have positioned the students’ priorities in the context of the existing research, which is often small scale and narrowly focused, with limited consideration of racial, ethnic and sexual minorities. The project was undertaken before the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in substantial disruption to students’ lives and rapid changes to university practices, and highlights the long-term challenges facing student mental health. It is important that student priorities are considered as the higher education sector transitions to a post-pandemic world.

Although the data available suggest that short-term embedded counselling at university is clinically effective, 18 evaluation of the efficacy of university mental health services has been minimal. 19 There has been limited evaluation of interventions and services as part of a whole-university approach, 5 , 6 and to our knowledge, no published evaluation of the impact of collaboration between universities and the NHS. Although there has been some consideration of non-clinical interventions such as yoga and exercise, most studies are of poor quality, and it is not possible to rank which interventions work best, where and for whom. 6 Future studies must take a broader lens to evaluate interventions for students, especially how they are designed, delivered and made accessible, and should employ robust evaluation of service efficacy. In line with student priorities, it is vital that future research considers the efficacy of services for the diverse student population.

International research indicates that student workload is a major factor contributing to stress and can result in prolonged study times or drop-out. 20 , 21 However, despite growing research interest in a ‘whole of curriculum approach’, knowledge about how to support student mental health through curricula and pedagogy is lacking. Preliminary evidence from the USA demonstrated that a multidimensional curricula intervention involving reduction in contact time, a change in grading system, collaborative and practical learning initiatives, and an embedded resilience and mindfulness intervention, resulted in significant decreases in depressive and anxiety symptoms among medical students, with corresponding increases in quality of life, group cohesion, student satisfaction and examination scores. 22 This suggests that there is a promising way forward that could be adopted in the UK context across different types of degrees, in keeping with the many student questions on this topic.

Mental health literacy is defined as ‘knowledge and belief about mental disorders which aid their recognition, management or prevention’. 23 Within this, understanding how to look after your own mental health and support peers is fundamental. 24 Preliminary research has demonstrated potential efficacy and acceptability of peer support programmes 25 and programmes to improve student mental health literacy among students. 26 However, further research is needed to evaluate these more thoroughly and compare different approaches. Academics are under increased pressure to support student mental health, but many find it challenging to understand their role and the best response. 27 Research findings around mental health literacy are varied, with some studies identifying knowledge gaps 28 and others noting good levels of literacy among students and staff. 29 Exploring how staff and students can support themselves and others with mental health difficulties is an important priority for future research.

Research has only focused on whether a specific factor, in isolation, is relevant to mental health. For example, there is strong evidence of relationships between mental health problems and financial stress, 30 , 31 drug and alcohol consumption, 32 , 33 isolation and loneliness, 34 and sleep disruption 35 , 36 among students, as well as experiences of adverse events before and during university. 37 Although studies have increasingly explored the link between factors such as accommodation environments, 38 , 39 and physical activity 40 and student mental health, investigating general and comparative risk, protective and causal factors associated with mental health problems among students remains a high priority.

The repeated use of the word ‘loneliness’ within submitted questions was striking. There are strong links between loneliness and mental health problems, 41 and loneliness is particularly associated with the transition from adolescence to adulthood. 42 Loneliness appears to be accentuated by the significant upheaval in social networks that occurs when young adults leave the family home. 43 Research focusing on loneliness and student and postgraduate mental health is developing, 34 , 44 but studies to establish how student friendship groups form, how and why students experience loneliness at university and how student loneliness can be prevented should continue, particularly with student input. The COVID-19 pandemic caused further disruption to students’ social networks, with public concern for students missing the university experience. 45 , 46 It will be important for research exploring the impact of COVID-19 to recognise that challenges around sense of belonging on the university campus predate the pandemic.

A sense of belonging is unique to the individual. As recognised by the students in our study, it is vital for issue of belonging and loneliness to be investigated among minority groups. Although there is a substantive body of research on attainment gaps for students from minority ethnic backgrounds in UK higher education, 47 there are evidence gaps related to how structural exclusion affects mental health. 48

Existing evidence suggests 20–40% of university students are likely to meet criteria for mental health problems, and prevalence rates have been increasing over recent years. 2 , 3 Analysis of large population data-sets provides conflicting evidence about the relative prevalence of mental health problems between university students and peers not in higher education. 2 , 49 With notable exceptions, 50 , 51 there has been limited work within the UK identifying how mental health problems might vary across years of study, academic disciplines and universities, although this has been explored extensively within the USA. 21 Current data around the prevalence of mental health problems for minority student groups also remains limited.

In line with student priorities, future research must provide more precise estimates of the prevalence of student mental health problems, and identify how these vary across the student population. This will have important implications for service planning and provision. Given many students have pre-existing beliefs regarding prevalence and trends of mental health problems at university, clear communication of existing data and future findings is imperative.

In keeping with students’ concerns, research suggests mental health does affect educational achievement at university. 52 – 54 However longitudinal studies assessing long-term consequences across a wider breadth of domains, including social life and future career development, are lacking.

Strengths and limitations

Student involvement in every stage of the study increased the likelihood that the project would be responsive to students’ needs and research priorities. Our sample was broadly representative of the student population, although it overrepresented women, underrepresented undergraduate students and overrepresented students studying sciences, primarily because of a large representation of students studying medicine and dentistry, biological sciences (including psychology) and computer science (see Table 1 ). Given the widespread underrepresentation of men in research into student mental health, it will remain important for future research to develop specific strategies to consult and engage male students in research design. As a self-selective sample, it is important to recognise that the voices of students who care passionately about student mental health are likely to have been overrepresented in this project.

In conclusion, this project identifies seven key priorities for future research into student mental health from the perspective of UK university students. Students’ questions are mostly unmet in the existing literature, with less research into the mental health of racial, ethnic and sexual minority student communities. Research is needed in each of these seven areas, and Table 2 highlights key questions to be answered. However, three areas stand out as particularly important. ‘Interventions and services’ was the largest category of questions. This is also an area where there are research gaps. We do not need more research evaluating whether one-to-one clinical interventions are effective. Rather, research needs to assess the whole-university approach, understand the range of needs across a diverse student population and consider the broad student experience of services, from initial help-seeking through identifying appropriate support, triaging, waiting lists and using the service. In contrast to the attention students have given to academic factors, the research in this area is sparce. We need robust, large-scale evaluations of the impact of curricula and pedagogy on student mental health. Finally, there is a stark gap between student interest and research exploring sense of belonging. Future research must address the university social experience, to enhance our understanding of how this relates to student mental health and how it might be leveraged to improve mental health.

Our results have important implications for future funding to ensure research produces knowledge that is useful, relevant and meaningful to diverse student populations, as well as ensuring that knowledge can be translated into positive and practical changes within the higher education sector.

Data availability

Acknowledgements.

The research was supported by the project steering group and the SMaRteN student team, including Oskar Kaleta, Aleks Saunders, Connor Gayle, Kwan Lui Cheng, Joshua Melwani, Eadie Simons, Sania Deshpande, Lesley Turner, Elizabeth James, Isabel De Castro, Megan Lawrence, Kirellos Miseih, Paulina Pawlak, Samuel Chu, Andrea Prisecaru, Keerthi Ramesh, Wangjingyi Liao, Reihannah Mahmoud, Emily Wielezynski, Chloe Casey, Nuvera Mukaty, Anusha Ramji, Oliver Anderson, Anna Ambwene, Ka Wai Li, Elizabeta Farys and Kristyana Taneva.

Author contributions

K.S. contributed to data analysis and interpretation, including checking, naming and describing categories from students’ questions, and contributed to the write-up and editing of the final paper. M.P. contributed to the design/procedure as a student in the steering group, by recruiting students to submit key questions, through analysing/thematising submitted questions and in editing the manuscript. A.L.D. contributed to the initial design of the priority setting exercise, supported student recruitment and made critical revisions to several drafts of the manuscript. E.B. advised in her role on the SMaRteN leadership team and contributed to the preparation of this manuscript. T.W. contributed to the design of the priority setting exercise, advised on the analysis and contributed to the writing up of the manuscript. D.R. helped to develop and support the priority setting exercise, helped with analysis and suggested comments on the final paper. K.T. contributed to the conceptualisation and development of study materials, project administration and writing (reviewing and editing) of the manuscript. M.O.V. contributed as a steering group member for the research, reviewing initial responses and providing feedback on themes. N.C.B. is Principal Investigator, and therefore took the lead on designing and implementing the priority setting exercise, analysing data and writing the manuscript. All authors had access to the data, and K.S., M.P., D.R. and N.C.B. in particular can verify the underlying data. All authors approved the final manuscript.

This project was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (grant number ES/S00324X/1) awarded to N.C.B., A.L.D., E.B., T.W. and D.R. The funder had no involvement in the design, implementation or dissemination of this study.

Declaration of interest

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Research Topics

Five research topics exploring the science of mental health.

mental health research topics questions

Mental wellbeing is increasingly recognized as an essential aspect of our overall health. It supports our ability to handle challenges, build strong relationships, and live more fulfilling lives. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of mental health by acknowledging it as a fundamental human right.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, we highlight the remarkable work of scientists driving open research that helps everyone achieve better mental health.

Here are five Research Topics that study themes including how we adapt to a changing world, the impact of loneliness on our wellbeing, and the connection between our diet and mental health.

All articles are openly available to view and download.

1 | Community Series in Mental Health Promotion and Protection, volume II

40.300 views | 16 articles

There is no health without mental health. Thus, this Research Topic collects ideas and research related to strategies that promote mental health across all disciplines. The goal is to raise awareness about mental health promotion and protection to ensure its incorporation in national mental health policies.

This topic is of relevance given the mental health crisis being experienced across the world right now. A reality that has prompted the WHO to declare that health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing.

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2 | Dietary and Metabolic Approaches for Mental Health Conditions

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There is a clear consensus that the quality, quantity, and even timing of our human feeding patterns directly impact how brains function. But despite the epidemiological and mechanistic links between mental health and diet-related diseases, these two are often perceived as separate medical issues.

Even more urgent, public health messaging and clinical treatments for mental health conditions place relatively little emphasis on formulating nutrition to ease the underlying drivers of mental health conditions.

3 | Comparing Mental Health Cross-Culturally

94.000 views | 15 articles

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The definition and understanding of mental health remain to be refined, partially because of a lack of cross-cultural perspectives on mental health. Also, due to the rapid internationalization taking place in the world today, a culturally aware understanding of, and interventions for mental health problems are essential.

4 | Adaption to Change and Coping Strategies: New Resources for Mental Health

85.000 views | 29 articles

In this Research Topic, scientists study a wider range of variables involved in change and adaptation. They examine changes of any type or magnitude whenever the lack of adaptive response diminishes our development and well-being.

Today’s society is characterized by change, and sometimes, the constant changes are difficult to assimilate. This may be why feelings of frustration and defenselessness appear in the face of the impossibility of responding adequately to the requirements of a changing society.

Therefore, society must develop an updated notion of the processes inherent to changing developmental environments, personal skills, resources, and strategies. This know-how is crucial for achieving and maintaining balanced mental health.

5 | Mental Health Equity

29.900 views | 10 articles

The goal of this Research Topic is to move beyond a synthesis of what is already known about mental health in the context of health equity. Rather, the focus here is on transformative solutions, recommendations, and applied research that have real world implications on policy, practice, and future scholarship.

Attention in the field to upstream factors and the role of social and structural determinants of health in influencing health outcomes, combined with an influx of innovation –particularly the digitalization of healthcare—presents a unique opportunity to solve pressing issues in mental health through a health equity lens.

The topic is opportune because factors such as structural racism and climate change have disproportionately negatively impacted marginalized communities across the world, including Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and transition-age youth and young adults. As a result, existing disparities in mental health have exacerbated.

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7 Depression Research Paper Topic Ideas

In psychology classes, it's common for students to write a depression research paper. Researching depression may be beneficial if you have a personal interest in this topic and want to learn more, or if you're simply passionate about this mental health issue. However, since depression is a very complex subject, it offers many possible topics to focus on, which may leave you wondering where to begin.

If this is how you feel, here are a few research titles about depression to help inspire your topic choice. You can use these suggestions as actual research titles about depression, or you can use them to lead you to other more in-depth topics that you can look into further for your depression research paper.

What Is Depression?

Everyone experiences times when they feel a little bit blue or sad. This is a normal part of being human. Depression, however, is a medical condition that is quite different from everyday moodiness.

Your depression research paper may explore the basics, or it might delve deeper into the  definition of clinical depression  or the  difference between clinical depression and sadness .

What Research Says About the Psychology of Depression

Studies suggest that there are biological, psychological, and social aspects to depression, giving you many different areas to consider for your research title about depression.

Types of Depression

There are several different types of depression  that are dependent on how an individual's depression symptoms manifest themselves. Depression symptoms may vary in severity or in what is causing them. For instance, major depressive disorder (MDD) may have no identifiable cause, while postpartum depression is typically linked to pregnancy and childbirth.

Depressive symptoms may also be part of an illness called bipolar disorder. This includes fluctuations between depressive episodes and a state of extreme elation called mania. Bipolar disorder is a topic that offers many research opportunities, from its definition and its causes to associated risks, symptoms, and treatment.

Causes of Depression

The possible causes of depression are many and not yet well understood. However, it most likely results from an interplay of genetic vulnerability  and environmental factors. Your depression research paper could explore one or more of these causes and reference the latest research on the topic.

For instance, how does an imbalance in brain chemistry or poor nutrition relate to depression? Is there a relationship between the stressful, busier lives of today's society and the rise of depression? How can grief or a major medical condition lead to overwhelming sadness and depression?

Who Is at Risk for Depression?

This is a good research question about depression as certain risk factors may make a person more prone to developing this mental health condition, such as a family history of depression, adverse childhood experiences, stress , illness, and gender . This is not a complete list of all risk factors, however, it's a good place to start.

The growing rate of depression in children, teenagers, and young adults is an interesting subtopic you can focus on as well. Whether you dive into the reasons behind the increase in rates of depression or discuss the treatment options that are safe for young people, there is a lot of research available in this area and many unanswered questions to consider.

Depression Signs and Symptoms

The signs of depression are those outward manifestations of the illness that a doctor can observe when they examine a patient. For example, a lack of emotional responsiveness is a visible sign. On the other hand, symptoms are subjective things about the illness that only the patient can observe, such as feelings of guilt or sadness.

An illness such as depression is often invisible to the outside observer. That is why it is very important for patients to make an accurate accounting of all of their symptoms so their doctor can diagnose them properly. In your depression research paper, you may explore these "invisible" symptoms of depression in adults or explore how depression symptoms can be different in children .

How Is Depression Diagnosed?

This is another good depression research topic because, in some ways, the diagnosis of depression is more of an art than a science. Doctors must generally rely upon the patient's set of symptoms and what they can observe about them during their examination to make a diagnosis. 

While there are certain  laboratory tests that can be performed to rule out other medical illnesses as a cause of depression, there is not yet a definitive test for depression itself.

If you'd like to pursue this topic, you may want to start with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The fifth edition, known as DSM-5, offers a very detailed explanation that guides doctors to a diagnosis. You can also compare the current model of diagnosing depression to historical methods of diagnosis—how have these updates improved the way depression is treated?

Treatment Options for Depression

The first choice for depression treatment is generally an antidepressant medication. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most popular choice because they can be quite effective and tend to have fewer side effects than other types of antidepressants.

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is another effective and common choice. It is especially efficacious when combined with antidepressant therapy. Certain other treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), are most commonly used for patients who do not respond to more common forms of treatment.

Focusing on one of these treatments is an option for your depression research paper. Comparing and contrasting several different types of treatment can also make a good research title about depression.

A Word From Verywell

The topic of depression really can take you down many different roads. When making your final decision on which to pursue in your depression research paper, it's often helpful to start by listing a few areas that pique your interest.

From there, consider doing a little preliminary research. You may come across something that grabs your attention like a new study, a controversial topic you didn't know about, or something that hits a personal note. This will help you narrow your focus, giving you your final research title about depression.

Remes O, Mendes JF, Templeton P. Biological, psychological, and social determinants of depression: A review of recent literature . Brain Sci . 2021;11(12):1633. doi:10.3390/brainsci11121633

National Institute of Mental Health. Depression .

American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition . American Psychiatric Association.

National Institute of Mental Health. Mental health medications .

Ferri, F. F. (2019). Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2020 E-Book: 5 Books in 1 . Netherlands: Elsevier Health Sciences.

By Nancy Schimelpfening Nancy Schimelpfening, MS is the administrator for the non-profit depression support group Depression Sanctuary. Nancy has a lifetime of experience with depression, experiencing firsthand how devastating this illness can be.  

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Mental Health Dissertation Topics & Titles

Published by Carmen Troy at January 9th, 2023 , Revised On June 10, 2024

You probably found your way here looking for mental health topics for your final year research project. Look no further, we have drafted a list of issues, and their research aims to help you when you are brainstorming for dissertation or thesis topics on mental health.

PhD-qualified writers of our team have developed these topics, so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting a brief research proposal or full dissertation service from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an introduction to the topic, research question , aim and objectives, literature review , and the proposed research methodology to be conducted. Let us know if you need any help in getting started.

Check our dissertation examples to understand how to structure your dissertation .

Also read: Psychology dissertation topics & nursing dissertation topics

List Of Trending Mental Health Research Topics & Ideas

  • The Impact of Social Media on Body Image and Self Esteem in Youngsters. 
  • How Does Loneliness Link to Depression in People Above the Age of 70
  • The Effects of Israeli-Palestinian Conflicts on the Mental Health of Children in Gaza 
  • The Impact of Posting Pictures From War on the Mental Health of Viewers
  • The Effectiveness of Excercise Programs in Managing Symptoms of Depression 
  • Role of Cultural Competency in Providing Effective Mental Healthcare for Diverse Populations
  • The Impact of Social Stigma on Help-Seeking Behaviours for Mental Health Concerns
  • The Effectiveness of Art Therapy Interventions in Managing Symptoms of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (Ptsd)
  • How Group Therapy Interventions Impacts Promoting Social Connection and Reducing Loneliness
  • Animal-Assisted Therapy Interventions in Reducing Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
  • Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy in Treating Eating Disorders

Latest Mental Health Dissertation Topics

Review the step-by-step guide on how to write your dissertation here .

Topic 1: An assessment of the Influence of Parents' Divorce or Separation on Adolescent Children in terms of long-term psychological impact.

Research Aim: This study aims to investigate the level of traumas experienced by the children of divorced or separated parents. The principal aim of this study is to explore the long-term psychological impacts of parents’ divorce on the life of children regardless of their gender and age in terms of mental wellbeing, academic performance, and self-worth.

Topic 2: An investigation of the impact of Trauma and Health-related quality of life on the Mental health and Self-worth of a child.

Research Aim: This study aims to assess the long-term impacts of the trauma children face in their early years of life on their overall mental health. Also, numerous studies have emphasised improving the quality of life for children who tend to experience multiple traumas and take them along in adulthood. Therefore, this study also proposed the impacts of traumatic childhood experiences on self-worth, mental health, and vitality of implementing firm intervention before the child reaches adulthood.

Topic 3: Assessing the effect of Psychological training on males suffering from Post-Surgery Anxiety in the UK.

Research Aim: Postoperative problems may occur as a result of surgical stress. This study aims to examine different approaches to control post-surgical anxiety and improve patients’ lives in the short and long term, focusing on male patients in the UK. It will also give us an understanding of how psychological training and interventions affect anxiety in male patients and help them overcome this through a systematic review.

Topic 4: Investigating the Relationship between Mental illness and Suicides- A case study of UK's Young Adults.

Research Aim: This study aims to find the relationship between mental illness and suicides and risk factors in the UK. This study will specifically focus on young adults. It will examine different mental disorders and how they have led to suicide and will analyse further studies of people who have died by suicide and find evidence of the presence or absence of mental illness.

Topic 5: Examining the behaviour of Mental Health Nurses taking care of Schizophrenia Patients in the UK.

Research Aim: Negative behaviours and discrimination have been usually reported as a reason for the inconvenience in the treatment of mentally ill or schizophrenia patients, which negatively impacts the patient’s results. Healthcare professionals’ attitudes have been regarded as being more negative than the general public, which lowers the outlook for patients suffering from mental illness. This study will examine the behaviour of mental health nurses regarding schizophrenia patients in the UK and also focus on the characteristics associated with nurses’ attitudes.

COVID-19 Mental Health Research Topics

Topic1: impacts of the coronavirus on the mental health of various age groups.

Research Aim: This study will reveal the impacts of coronavirus on the mental health of various age groups

Topic 2: Mental health and psychological resilience during COVID-19

Research Aim: Social distancing has made people isolated and affected their mental health. This study will highlight various measures to overcome the stress and mental health of people during coronavirus.

Topic 3: The mental health of children and families during COVID-19

Research Aim: This study will address the challenging situations faced by children and families during lockdown due to COVID-19. It will also discuss various ways to overcome the fear of disease and stay positive.

Topic 4: Mental wellbeing of patients during the Coronavirus pandemic

Research Aim: This study will focus on the measures taken by the hospital management, government, and families to ensure patients’ mental well-being, especially COVID-19 patients.

Best Mental Health Topics for Your Dissertation

Topic 1: kids and their relatives with cancer: psychological challenges.

Research Aim: In cancer diagnoses and therapies, children often don’t know what happens. Many have psychosocial problems, including rage, terror, depression, disturbing sleep, inexpiable guilt, and panic. Therefore, this study is designed to identify and treat the child and its family members’ psychological issues.

Topic 2: Hematopoietic device reaction in ophthalmology patient’s radiation therapy

Research Aim: This research is based on the analysis of hematopoietic devices’ reactions to ophthalmology radiation.

Topic 3: Psychological effects of cyberbullying Vs. physical bullying: A counter study

Research Aim: This research will focus on the effects of cyberbullying and physical bullying and their consequences on the victim’s mental health. The most significant part is the counter effects on our society’s environment and human behaviour, particularly youth.

Topic 4: Whether or not predictive processing is a theory of perceptual consciousness?

Research Aim: This research aims to identify whether or not predictive processing is a theory of perceptual consciousness.

Topic 5: Importance of communication in a relationship

Research Aim: This research aims to address the importance of communication in relationships and the communication gap consequences.

Topic 6: Eating and personality disorders

Research Aim: This research aims to focus on eating and personality disorders

Topic 7: Analysis of teaching, assessment, and evaluation of students and learning differences

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse teaching methods, assessment, and evaluation systems of students and their learning differences

Topic 8: Social and psychological effects of virtual networks

Research Aim: This research aims to study the social and psychological effects of virtual networks

Topic 9: The role of media in provoking aggression

Research Aim: This research aims to address the role of media in provoking aggression among people

Mental Health Topics for Your Dissertation For Research

Topic 1: what is the impact of social media platforms on the mental wellbeing of adults.

Research Aim: the current study aims to investigate the impact social media platforms tend to have on adults’ mental well-being with a particular focus on the United Kingdom. While many studies have been carried out to gauge the impact of social media platforms on teenagers’ mental well-being, little to no research has been performed to investigate how the health of adults might be affected by the same and how social media platforms like Facebook impact them.

Topic 2: The contemporary practical management approach to treating personality disorders

Research Aim: This research will discuss the contemporary practical management approach for treating personality disorders in mental health patients. In the previous days, much of the personality disorder treatments were based on medicines and drugs. Therefore, this research will address contemporary and practical ways to manage how personality disorders affect the mental state of the individuals who have the disease.

Topic 3: How is Prozac being used in the modern-day to treat self-diagnosed depression?

Research Aim: In the current day and age, besides people suffering from clinical depression, many teens and adults have started to suffer from self-diagnosed depression. To treat their self-diagnosed depression, individuals take Prozac through all the wrong means, which harms their mental state even more. Therefore, the current study aims to shed light on how Prozac is being used in the modern age and the adverse effects of misinformed use on patients.

Topic 4: Are women more prone to suffer from mental disorders than men: A Comparative analysis

Research Aim: There have been several arguments regarding whether women are more likely to suffer from mental disorders than men. Much of the research carried out provides evidence that women are more prone to suffer from mental disorders. This research study aims to conduct a comparative analysis to determine whether it’s more likely for men or women to suffer from mental disorders and what role biological and societal factors play in determining the trend.

Topic 5: The impact of breakups on the mental health of men?

Research Aim: Several studies have been carried out to discuss how women are affected more by a breakup than men. However, little research material is available in support of the impact the end of a relationship can have on men’s mental health. Therefore, this research study will fill out the gap in research to determine the impact of a breakup on men’s mental health and stability.

Topic 6: A theoretical analysis of the Impact of emotional attachment on mental health?

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the theories developed around emotional attachment to address how emotional attachment can harm individuals’ mental health across the globe. Several theories discuss the role that emotional attachment tends to play in the mind of a healthy being, and how emotional attachment can often negatively affect mental well-being.

Topic 7: How do social media friendships contribute to poor mental health?

Research Aim: This research idea aims to address how social media friendships and networking can often lead to a lack of self-acceptance, self-loathing, self-pity, self-comparison, and depression due to the different mindsets that are present in today’s world.

Topic 8: What role do parents play in ensuring the mental well-being of their children?

Research Aim: It is assumed that parents tend to stop playing a role in ensuring that the mental health and well-being of their children are being maintained after a certain age. Therefore, this study will aim to put forward the idea that even after the children pass the age of 18, activities and their relationship with their parents will always play a role in the way their mental health is being transformed.

Topic 9: A study on the mental health of soldiers returning from Iraq?

Research Aim: This topic idea puts forward the aim that the mental health of soldiers who return from war-struck areas is always a subject of interest, as each of the soldiers carries a mental burden. Therefore, it is vital to understand the soldiers’ mental health returning from Iraq, focusing on what causes their mental health to deteriorate during the war and suggestions of what to do or who to call if they do become unwell.

Topic 10: How the contemporary media practices in the UK are leading to mental health problems?

Research Aim: The media is known to have control and influence over people’s mindsets who are connected to it. Many of the contemporary media practices developed in the UK can negatively impact the mental well-being of individuals, which makes it necessary to analyse how they are contributing to the mental health problems among the UK population.

Topic 11: What is the impact of television advertising on the mental development of children in the UK?

Research Aim: This topic aims to address how television advertising can negatively impact children’s mental development in the United Kingdom, as it has been observed in many studies that television advertising is detrimental to the mental health of children.

Topic 12: How deteriorating mental health can have an Impact on physical health?

Research Aim: This research aims to address the side-effects of deteriorating mental health on the physical health of individuals in society, as it is believed that the majority of the physical ailments in the modern-day age are due to the deteriorating mental health of individuals. The study can address the treatments for many ailments in our society due to deteriorating mental health and well-being.

Topic 13: The relationship between unemployment and mental health

Research Aim: How unemployment relates to concepts, such as a declining economy or lack of social skills and education, has been frequently explored by many researchers in the past. However, not many have discussed the relationship between unemployment and the mental health of unemployed individuals. Therefore, this topic will help address the problems faced by individuals due to unemployment because of the mental blocks they are likely to develop and experience. In the future, it will lead to fewer people being depressed due to unemployment when further research is carried out.

Topic 14: The mental health problems of prisoners in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: While prisoners across the globe are criticised and studied for the negativity that goes on in their mindsets, one would rarely research the mental health problems they tend to develop when they become prisoners for committing any crime. It is often assumed that it is the life inside the prison walls that impacts the prisoners’ mental health in a way that leads to them committing more crimes. Therefore, this research topic has been developed to study prison’s impact on prisoners’ mental well-being in the United Kingdom to eventually decrease the number of crimes that occur due to the negative environment inside the prisons.

Topic 15: Mental well-being of industry workers in China

Research Aim: While many research studies have been carried out regarding the conditions that the workers in China tend to be exposed to, there is very little supporting evidence regarding the impact such working conditions have on the mindset and mental health of the workers. Therefore, this study aims to address the challenges faced by industry workers in China and the impact that such challenges can have on their mental well-being.

Topic 16: Is the provision of mental health care services in the United Kingdom effective?

Research Aim: Many people have made different assumptions regarding the mental health care services provided across the globe. However, it seems that little to no research has been carried out regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of the provision of mental health care services in the United Kingdom. Therefore, this study aims to put forward research into the mental health care services provided in well-developed countries like the United Kingdom to gauge the awareness and importance of mental health in the region.

Topic 17: What are the mental health problems that minorities in the United Kingdom face?

Research Aim: It is believed that minorities in the United Kingdom are likely to experience physical abuse, and societal abuse and are often exposed to discrimination and unfair acts at the workplace and in their social circle. The study investigates the range of mental problems faced by minorities in the UK, which need to be addressed to have equality, diversity, and harmony.

Topic 18: The impact the Coronavirus has had on the mental health of the Chinese people

Research Aim: The spread of the deadly Coronavirus has led to many deaths in the region of China, and many of those who have been suspected of the virus are being put in isolation and quarantine. Such conditions tend to hurt the mental health of those who have suffered from the disease and those who have watched people suffer from it. Therefore, the current study aims to address how the Coronavirus has impacted the mental health of the Chinese people.

Topic 19: How to create change in mental health organisations in China?

Research Aim: Research suggests little awareness about mental health in many Asian countries. As mental health problems are on the rise across the globe, it is necessary to change mental health organisations. Therefore, the study aims to discuss how to create change in mental health organisations in the Asian region using China’s example.

Topic 20: Addressing the mental health concerns of the Syrian refugees in the UK

Research Aim: This research project would address the concerns in terms of the refugees’ mental health and well-being, using an example of the Syrian refugees who had been allowed entry into the United Kingdom. This idea aims to put forward the negative effects that migration can have on refugees and how further research is required to combat such issues not just in the United Kingdom but worldwide.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service!

Important Notes:

As a mental health student looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment on existing mental health theories – i.e., to add value and interest in the topic of your research.

Mental health is vast and interrelated to so many other academic disciplines like civil engineering ,  construction ,  project management , engineering management , healthcare , finance and accounting , artificial intelligence , tourism , physiotherapy , sociology , management , project management , and nursing . That is why it is imperative to create a project management dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic based on your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, and there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation as you may end up in a cycle of rejection at the initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

While developing a research topic, keeping our advice in mind will allow you to pick one of the best mental health dissertation topics that fulfill your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalising your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Please look at some of our sample mental health dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure Your Mental Health Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

  • A Title Page
  • Acknowledgements
  • Declaration
  • Abstract: A summary of the research completed
  • Table of Contents
  • Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
  • Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analysing published and unpublished literature available on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths whilst identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic, and key terms that can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
  • Methodology : The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter which usually includes research design , research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods, and data analysis strategy .
  • Findings and Analysis : Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs, charts, and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
  • Discussion and Conclusion : The researcher presents his interpretation of results in this chapter and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section of the paper is to draw a linkage between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regard to the implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
  • References : This should be completed following your University’s requirements
  • Bibliography
  • Appendices : Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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How to find mental health dissertation topics.

To find mental health dissertation topics:

  • Research recent mental health issues.
  • Examine gaps in existing literature.
  • Consider diverse populations or perspectives.
  • Explore treatment approaches or therapies.
  • Look into stigma and societal factors.
  • Select a topic that resonates with you for in-depth study.

You May Also Like

There are a wide range of topics in sports management that can be researched at the national and international levels. International sports are extremely popular worldwide, making sports management research issues very prominent as well.

Find the most unique and interesting dissertation topic ideas for translation studies to help you in your translation dissertation/ thesis.

Need interesting and manageable project management dissertation topics? Here are the trending project management dissertation titles so you can choose the most suitable one.

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61 intriguing psychology research topics to explore

Last updated

11 January 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Short on time? Get an AI generated summary of this article instead

Psychology is an incredibly diverse, critical, and ever-changing area of study in the medical and health industries. Because of this, it’s a common area of study for students and healthcare professionals.

We’re walking you through picking the perfect topic for your upcoming paper or study. Keep reading for plenty of example topics to pique your interest and curiosity.

  • How to choose a psychology research topic

Exploring a psychology-based topic for your research project? You need to pick a specific area of interest to collect compelling data. 

Use these tips to help you narrow down which psychology topics to research:

Focus on a particular area of psychology

The most effective psychological research focuses on a smaller, niche concept or disorder within the scope of a study. 

Psychology is a broad and fascinating area of science, including everything from diagnosed mental health disorders to sports performance mindset assessments. 

This gives you plenty of different avenues to explore. Having a hard time choosing? Check out our list of 61 ideas further down in this article to get started.

Read the latest clinical studies

Once you’ve picked a more niche topic to explore, you need to do your due diligence and explore other research projects on the same topic. 

This practice will help you learn more about your chosen topic, ask more specific questions, and avoid covering existing projects. 

For the best results, we recommend creating a research folder of associated published papers to reference throughout your project. This makes it much easier to cite direct references and find inspiration down the line.

Find a topic you enjoy and ask questions

Once you’ve spent time researching and collecting references for your study, you finally get to explore. 

Whether this research project is for work, school, or just for fun, having a passion for your research will make the project much more enjoyable. (Trust us, there will be times when that is the only thing that keeps you going.) 

Now you’ve decided on the topic, ask more nuanced questions you might want to explore. 

If you can, pick the direction that interests you the most to make the research process much more enjoyable.

  • 61 psychology topics to research in 2024

Need some extra help starting your psychology research project on the right foot? Explore our list of 61 cutting-edge, in-demand psychology research topics to use as a starting point for your research journey.

  • Psychology research topics for university students

As a university student, it can be hard to pick a research topic that fits the scope of your classes and is still compelling and unique. 

Here are a few exciting topics we recommend exploring for your next assigned research project:

Mental health in post-secondary students

Seeking post-secondary education is a stressful and overwhelming experience for most students, making this topic a great choice to explore for your in-class research paper. 

Examples of post-secondary mental health research topics include:

Student mental health status during exam season

Mental health disorder prevalence based on study major

The impact of chronic school stress on overall quality of life

The impacts of cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can occur at all ages, starting as early as elementary school and carrying through into professional workplaces. 

Examples of cyberbullying-based research topics you can study include:

The impact of cyberbullying on self-esteem

Common reasons people engage in cyberbullying 

Cyberbullying themes and commonly used terms

Cyberbullying habits in children vs. adults

The long-term effects of cyberbullying

  • Clinical psychology research topics

If you’re looking to take a more clinical approach to your next project, here are a few topics that involve direct patient assessment for you to consider:

Chronic pain and mental health

Living with chronic pain dramatically impacts every aspect of a person’s life, including their mental and emotional health. 

Here are a few examples of in-demand pain-related psychology research topics:

The connection between diabetic neuropathy and depression

Neurological pain and its connection to mental health disorders

Efficacy of meditation and mindfulness for pain management

The long-term effects of insomnia

Insomnia is where you have difficulty falling or staying asleep. It’s a common health concern that impacts millions of people worldwide. 

This is an excellent topic because insomnia can have a variety of causes, offering many research possibilities. 

Here are a few compelling psychology research topics about insomnia you could investigate:

The prevalence of insomnia based on age, gender, and ethnicity

Insomnia and its impact on workplace productivity

The connection between insomnia and mental health disorders

Efficacy and use of melatonin supplements for insomnia

The risks and benefits of prescription insomnia medications

Lifestyle options for managing insomnia symptoms

The efficacy of mental health treatment options

Management and treatment of mental health conditions is an ever-changing area of study. If you can witness or participate in mental health therapies, this can make a great research project. 

Examples of mental health treatment-related psychology research topics include:

The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with severe anxiety

The benefits and drawbacks of group vs. individual therapy sessions

Music therapy for mental health disorders

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with depression 

  • Controversial psychology research paper topics

If you are looking to explore a more cutting-edge or modern psychology topic, you can delve into a variety of controversial and topical options:

The impact of social media and digital platforms

Ever since access to internet forums and video games became more commonplace, there’s been growing concern about the impact these digital platforms have on mental health. 

Examples of social media and video game-related psychology research topics include:

The effect of edited images on self-confidence

How social media platforms impact social behavior

Video games and their impact on teenage anger and violence

Digital communication and the rapid spread of misinformation

The development of digital friendships

Psychotropic medications for mental health

In recent years, the interest in using psychoactive medications to treat and manage health conditions has increased despite their inherently controversial nature. 

Examples of psychotropic medication-related research topics include:

The risks and benefits of using psilocybin mushrooms for managing anxiety

The impact of marijuana on early-onset psychosis

Childhood marijuana use and related prevalence of mental health conditions

Ketamine and its use for complex PTSD (C-PTSD) symptom management

The effect of long-term psychedelic use and mental health conditions

  • Mental health disorder research topics

As one of the most popular subsections of psychology, studying mental health disorders and how they impact quality of life is an essential and impactful area of research. 

While studies in these areas are common, there’s always room for additional exploration, including the following hot-button topics:

Anxiety and depression disorders

Anxiety and depression are well-known and heavily researched mental health disorders. 

Despite this, we still don’t know many things about these conditions, making them great candidates for psychology research projects:

Social anxiety and its connection to chronic loneliness

C-PTSD symptoms and causes

The development of phobias

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors and symptoms

Depression triggers and causes

Self-care tools and resources for depression

The prevalence of anxiety and depression in particular age groups or geographic areas

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex and multi-faceted area of psychology research. 

Use your research skills to learn more about this condition and its impact by choosing any of the following topics:

Early signs of bipolar disorder

The incidence of bipolar disorder in young adults

The efficacy of existing bipolar treatment options

Bipolar medication side effects

Cognitive behavioral therapy for people with bipolar 

Schizoaffective disorder

Schizoaffective disorder is often stigmatized, and less common mental health disorders are a hotbed for new and exciting research. 

Here are a few examples of interesting research topics related to this mental health disorder:

The prevalence of schizoaffective disorder by certain age groups or geographic locations

Risk factors for developing schizoaffective disorder

The prevalence and content of auditory and visual hallucinations

Alternative therapies for schizoaffective disorder

  • Societal and systematic psychology research topics

Modern society’s impact is deeply enmeshed in our mental and emotional health on a personal and community level. 

Here are a few examples of societal and systemic psychology research topics to explore in more detail:

Access to mental health services

While mental health awareness has risen over the past few decades, access to quality mental health treatment and resources is still not equitable. 

This can significantly impact the severity of a person’s mental health symptoms, which can result in worse health outcomes if left untreated. 

Explore this crucial issue and provide information about the need for improved mental health resource access by studying any of the following topics:

Rural vs. urban access to mental health resources

Access to crisis lines by location

Wait times for emergency mental health services

Inequities in mental health access based on income and location

Insurance coverage for mental health services

Systemic racism and mental health

Societal systems and the prevalence of systemic racism heavily impact every aspect of a person’s overall health.

Researching these topics draws attention to existing problems and contributes valuable insights into ways to improve access to care moving forward.

Examples of systemic racism-related psychology research topics include: 

Access to mental health resources based on race

The prevalence of BIPOC mental health therapists in a chosen area

The impact of systemic racism on mental health and self-worth

Racism training for mental health workers

The prevalence of mental health disorders in discriminated groups

LGBTQIA+ mental health concerns

Research about LGBTQIA+ people and their mental health needs is a unique area of study to explore for your next research project. It’s a commonly overlooked and underserved community.

Examples of LGBTQIA+ psychology research topics to consider include:

Mental health supports for queer teens and children

The impact of queer safe spaces on mental health

The prevalence of mental health disorders in the LGBTQIA+ community

The benefits of queer mentorship and found family

Substance misuse in LQBTQIA+ youth and adults

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Research Areas

The Department of Mental Health covers a wide array of topics related to mental health, mental illness, and substance abuse. We emphasize ongoing research that enriches and stimulates the teaching programs. All students and fellows are encouraged to participate in at least one research group. Faculty and students from multiple disciplines work together within and across several major research areas:

Faculty are working to understand the distribution, causes and consequences of autism and developmental disabilities as well as the impact of public health policy on children and families.

Global Mental Health faculty develop, implement and evaluate measures and interventions to assess and meet mental health needs of communities around the world, with a focus on developing nations.

Mental Health and Aging

Faculty in the Mental Health and Aging Research Area conduct observational and intervention research aimed at enhancing cognitive and mental well being in older adults.

Mental Health and COVID-19

Understanding how mental health evolves as a result of this serious global pandemic will inform prevention and treatment strategies moving forward. 

Mental Health in the Workplace

At the Bloomberg School of Public Health, which houses the only department of mental health in a school of public health, we have a unique ability to define both the problems and potential solutions.

Mental Health Services and Policy

Faculty in this area study mental health and behavioral health services and supports in communities, educational institutions and employment settings. They aim to reduce risk, and provide effective long-term treatment.

The Methods program area develops and applies innovative qualitative and quantitative methods for public mental health research, with a focus on statistical methods and economic models.

Prevention Research

The Prevention Research faculty develop, test, refine and bring to scale prevention programs directed at a range of mental health and behavioral problems in children, adolescents, adults and the elderly.

Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetic Epidemiology

Faculty in this area research genetic factors and how they interact with the physical and social environment to affect the risk for mental disorders.

Psychiatric Epidemiology

Faculty in this area study the occurrence and distribution of mental and behavioral disorders across people, space and time, and examine the causes to develop support and treatment strategies.

School-based Mental Health

The Department of Mental Health views the education and schools as a key public health context. Multiple faculty members partner with local school systems to develop, refine, and test preventive interventions for school-aged children and aim to promote mental health as well as positive social, emotional, and behavioral development.

Social Determinants of Mental & Behavioral Health Area emphasizes the role of multilevel social and structural factors in shaping mental and behavioral health, such as stigma, social networks, structural racism and policies on housing, drug control, and criminal justice domestically and internationally.

Substance Use Epidemiology

Faculty in this area study the etiology and natural history of substance use, and develop and evaluate interventions to prevent and control substance use disorders.

The Department of Mental Health has projects focused on various aspects of violence such as suicide, intimate partner violence , and youth violence. Faculty and students from multiple disciplines work together within and across several major research areas.

Centers and Institutes

The department houses several school-based centers, and has a significant role in many others across the school. These are described below. Centers help bring together faculty, students, and community partners across multiple departments and schools to meet their particular missions in pursuit of improving public mental health.

  • Moore Center for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse
  • Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities
  • Center on Aging and Health
  • Center for Mental Health and Addiction Policy Research
  • Suicide Prevention

Our Students and Faculty Work in Action

The Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Mental Health Measurement Working Group developed key questions to add to existing large domestic and international surveys to measure the mental health impact of the pandemic.

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COUHES connect

Guidance on Conducting Research Involving Mental Health Topics

In human subjects research, many studies utilize questionnaires and assessments that address mental health, behavior or quality of life. These may include questions and assessments of the subject’s intent to harm him/herself or others. As part of its responsibility to protect research subjects, COUHES evaluates the risks and benefits of asking study participants about these topics.

This guidance document is intended to help researchers determine the appropriateness of including mental health topics in their research and considerations in developing acceptable plans for mitigating any potential risk.

Identifying Risk of Harm

Intentional identification.

Studies may be designed to gauge intent to harm self or others. This may be done through assessments such as behavioral evaluations, interviews, surveys or other measures for depression and suicidality.

When using such clinical diagnostic measures, researchers should consider if the study setting and population are appropriate with regards to the safety, risk-benefit ratio, and knowledge to be gained. If these measures identify study participants as clinically at-risk, or the study targets populations at high risk for injury to self or others, the COUHES application must include a a safety plan that describes what actions will be taken to ensure the safety of at-risk participants.

Unintentional Identification

For studies that include quality-of-life assessments or questionnaires that ask about sadness, anxiousness, or stress, the identification of a participant at-risk for harm to self or others may be unintentional. This is because these assessments are not typically designed for diagnostic purposes.

COUHES evaluates if a safety plan is needed for such studies on a case-by-case basis. A plan may be required if responses reveal acute risk (e.g. imminent danger to self or severe low mood) or if the study population is at elevated risk (e.g. receiving mental health treatment for depression, mood, or anxiety disorders).

In-Person vs. Remote Identification

When conducting research related to mental health, researchers should consider the physical environment where the study procedures will take place, and how participants will be adequately protected in that environment. Safety and ethical considerations can differ depending on whether the participants complete the intervention remotely or in-person, and whether the researchers know the identity of the participant or study participation is anonymous.

Creating a Participant Safety Plan

For studies that may identify a participant is at immediate or emerging risk for harming self or others, researchers must develop a safety plan.

The key to a safety plan is an assessment of how imminent is the risk. How this assessment is made can vary depending on: whether study procedures are carried out remotely or in-person; in a clinical, laboratory, or other setting; or whether the information is collected anonymously or not tied to an individual.

The COUHES application must explain:

  • How the risk will be assessed;
  • When investigators will review a subject’s response to questionnaires and assessments, and the frequency at which this review will occur; and
  • By whom the level and immediacy of risk will be assessed.

If participants’ responses will not be individually assessed, the COUHES application should explain why the investigators believe an individually identifiable assessment will not be included.

Any researchers administering the clinical measures and assessments, or reviewing a subject’s responses, should be appropriately qualified to assess the measures and assessments, and be familiar with the safety plan. In particular, individuals that are assessing participants’ risk of harm to self or others must have appropriate training in the assessment and implementation of the safety plan.

Intervention

Safety plans described in a COUHES application may include the follow, as appropriate:

  • If participants will be provided mental health or other resources, a copy of the resource referral document, and an explanation of how/when the resources will be made accessible to participants. 
  • For assessments that determine imminent risk, procedures on transferring the participant to appropriate crisis intervention or de-escalation resources.
  • For assessments that determine less than imminent risk, referral or intervention procedures and how this information is communicated to participants.
  • For research that gathers anonymous information or where responses are not tied to an individual the plan should provide for a resource referral document to be given to participants that includes mental health resources, crisis intervention services, or hotline information depending on the type of risk.
  • Qualifications of researchers and/or clinicians involved in participant interactions, assessments, and safety interventions.
  • Confirmation that research staff directly interacting with participants will be adequately trained on the safety plan.
  • If participants and parents/legal guardians, as applicable, will be notified of findings.
  • If information is reportable under state or federal law, plans for notifying the relevant authorities and/or agencies under mandated reporting requirements.

Consent Process

As part of the consent process, consent forms should:

  • Clearly explain to potential participants the sensitive nature of any interviews or questionnaires;
  • Describe what will happen if participants acknowledge/disclose harm to self or others;
  • Have information on the risks and benefits of participating in this type of research. For example, for research with populations at elevated risk, include that the involvement in the research does not provide participants with “protection” against future harmful behavior, and how potential risk is mitigated; and
  • Include any limitations on data confidentiality in the Privacy and Confidentiality section. If information collected during research must be disclosed under mandated reporting requirements, this must be included. Language regarding mandated reporting may be reviewed by MIT Office of General Counsel.

Appendix: Suggested Consent Language

For research that gathers anonymous information and researchers plan only to provide resources, the consent process should not lead participants to think that the researchers will provide immediate assistance. Suggested language to add in the risk section is as follows:

There are no anticipated risks from your participation in this study. However, some people become anxious or upset when answering questions about (behaviors, well-being, mood, views). Your responses will not be individually identified, so we cannot provide you with personal feedback or intervention based on any of your answers. If you are worried about your mood, please refer to the attached resource referral information sheet.

If responses will be individually assessed and can be linked back to participants, the consent form should explain what options the participant will have if they become upset or uncomfortable during study activities. For example:

In the event that you tell the research team you are thinking about harming yourself or others, the research team will provide you resources and may ask you more questions about these thoughts. Based on your responses, the research team may provide you will additional resources or assistance to identify appropriate follow-up. This may include working with you to contact your doctor, contacting a trusted family member or therapist to discuss your thoughts, or working with you on a plan that may include getting you to a hospital for safety.

When using clinical diagnostic or symptom severity measures, participants scores above a pre-defined threshold of the measure should be reported back to the participant with an offer for referrals and/or counseling resources. The threshold for intervention needs to be defined in the COUHES application along with when and how the study findings will be shared with participants. Researchers should be prepared to offer appropriate counseling resources, assistance in making appointments, and/or offering a list of referrals. An example email message is below:

I am part of the team for a research study you recently completed. Based in your responses to some of the questions we asked, you seem to be experiencing (sadness, stress, blue moods, etc.). We provided you some information about mental health resources, but I wanted to follow-up and offer any other information you might want to get help.

To assist investigators with identifying counseling resources, COUHES provides the following:

Conducting Research on Mental Health Topics - Participant Counseling Resources [PDF]

The links below provide additional guidance for engaging participants on the topic of mental health.

  • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Conducting Research with Participants at Elevated
  • Risk for Suicide: Considerations for Researchers
  • NIMH Clinical Research Toolbox
  • NIMH Guidance on Risk-Based Monitoring
  • FDA Guidance for Industry, Suicidal Ideation and Behavior: Prospective Assessment of Occurrence in Clinical Trials
  • FDA Guidance for Industry, Major Depressive Disorder: Developing Drugs for Treatment
  • Certificates of Confidentiality
  • NIH Policy for Data and Safety Monitoring
  • PhenX Toolkit
  • Dates & Deadlines
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  • Engaged in Research: Scenarios
  • Continuing Review
  • Criteria for Acceptance of Studies
  • Financial Conflicts of Interest
  • Guidance on NIH Genomic Data Sharing (GDS) Policy
  • Ongoing Monitoring and Reporting
  • Principal Investigator Status
  • Record Keeping
  • Research at Collaborating Institution
  • Review and Approval of Studies
  • Sabbaticals and Leaves of Absence
  • Training of Research Personnel
  • Additional Review (China, Russia or Saudi Arabia)
  • Adult Subjects with Cognitive Impairment and Reduced Decision-Making Capacity
  • Audiotaping and Videotaping
  • COUHES Policy for Using Amazon's Mechanical Turk
  • Data Handling When a Subject Withdraws From a Study
  • Data Protection
  • Data Sharing
  • Electronic Consent
  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Research Activities
  • Guidance on Use of Protected Health Information for Research Purposes
  • Guidelines for Single IRB
  • Guidance for Student Research and Class Projects
  • Including Women of Childbearing Potential in Research and Pregnancy Testing
  • MIT Students and Lab Members as Subjects
  • MRI and Pregnancy
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  • Private Data, Human Specimens and Cells
  • Research Involving Deception
  • Research Involving Mental Health Topics
  • Research Involving Non-MIT Collaborators
  • Research that May Affect Privacy of Health Information
  • Students as Subjects
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  • Subjects with Limited Comprehension
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  • ClinicalTrials.gov Requirements
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  • GCP Training
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  • HIPAA Guidance Document
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  • Announcements

72 Mental Health Questions for Counselors and Patients

mental health questions

Is it the same as happiness?

Or is it simply the absence of mental illness?

Whether you are a professional therapist or want to help a friend in need, it helps to have some mental health questions up your sleeve.

You may not be able to diagnose someone who isn’t doing 100%, but with a little insight into their state of mind, you can play a valuable role in supporting them to get the help they need.

In this article, we’ll cover some mental health questions to ask yourself, your clients, or even your students. Read on to learn more.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Psychology Exercises for free . These science-based exercises will explore fundamental aspects of positive psychology including strengths, values, and self-compassion, and will give you the tools to enhance the wellbeing of your clients, students, or employees.

This Article Contains:

What are mental health questions, mental health questions, 5 examples of common mental health questions for risk assessment and evaluation, 20 mental health interview questions a counselor should ask, 10 mental health questions aimed at students, 7 questions for group discussion, common mental health research questions, 9 mental health questions a patient can ask, 12 questions to ask yourself, 9 self-reflection questions, a take-home message.

Let’s start with a definition of mental health – more precisely, what it isn’t. In the article The Mental Health Continuum : From Languishing to Flourishing , positive psychologist Corey Keyes (2002) is very adamant about not oversimplifying the mental health concept, writing:

“mental health is more than the presence and absence of emotional states.”

Recapping the definition of a syndrome from the clinical literature, he then reminds us of the following:

“[a syndrome is] … a set of symptoms that occur together.”

Finally, Keyes argues that we can challenge the idea that syndromes are all about suffering. Instead, he argues that can we view mental health as:

“a syndrome of symptoms of an individual’s subjective well-being” or “a syndrome of symptoms of positive feelings and positive functioning in life.”

The right questions can give you insight into others’ wellbeing and promote the benefits of mental health .

These questions also help you:

  • Show your concern for someone who is struggling
  • Open up a dialogue about their mental state
  • Trigger them to reflect on their overall wellbeing
  • Prompt or encourage them to seek professional help if it is necessary

To get a clearer idea of these questions, let’s consider some examples.

3 positive psychology exercises

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Where do you take a mental health conversation once you’ve opened with, “ How are you feeling? ”

For professionals, it might help to screen your client for any disorders or distress. The Anxiety and Depression Detector (Means-Christensen, Sherbourne, Roy-Byrne, Craske, & Stein, 2006) can help you assess depression and anxiety disorders, and it’s only five questions long (O’Donnell, Bryant, Creamer, & Carty, 2008).

You may want to tweak some of these questions to make them more relevant to your client.

  • Have you ever experienced a terrible occurrence that has impacted you significantly? Examples may include being the victim of armed assault, witnessing a tragedy happen to someone else, surviving a sexual assault, or living through a natural disaster.
  • Do you ever feel that you’ve been affected by feelings of edginess, anxiety, or nerves?
  • Have you experienced a week or longer of lower-than-usual interest in activities that you usually enjoy? Examples might include work, exercise, or hobbies.
  • Have you ever experienced an ‘attack’ of fear, anxiety, or panic?
  • Do feelings of anxiety or discomfort around others bother you?

These are just a few examples, and they are primarily concerned with identifying any potential signs of anxiety and depression. By design, they do not assess indicators of wellbeing, such as flourishing, life satisfaction, and happiness.

If you want to find out more about the latter, we have some great articles about Life Satisfaction Scales , as well as Happiness Tests, Surveys, and Quizzes and mental health exercises .

Open-ended questions are never a bad thing when you’re trying to start a discussion about mental health.

A study by Connell, O’Cathain, and Brazier (2014) suggested that seven quality of life domains are particularly relevant to a counselor who wants to open up dialogue with a client: physical health, wellbeing, autonomy, choice and control, self-perception, hope and hopelessness, relationships and belonging, and activity.

Physical health

Questions of this type were related to feelings such as agitation, restlessness, sleep, pain, and somatic symptoms. Examples of prompts to investigate this domain could include:

  • Tell me about your sleeping habits over the past X months. Have you noticed any changes? Difficulty sleeping? Restlessness?
  • How would you describe your appetite over the past X weeks? Have your eating habits changed in any way?

Wellbeing (and ill-being)

These questions looked at feelings of anxiety, distress, motivation, and energy. The ‘absence of negative feelings of ill-being,’ was understandably related to a higher perceived quality of life Connell et al., 2014). Sample prompts might include:

  • Could you tell me about any times over the past few months that you’ve been bothered by low feelings, stress, or sadness?
  • How frequently have you had little pleasure or interest in the activities you usually enjoy? Would you tell me more?

Autonomy, choice, and control

Questions about independence and autonomy were related to quality of life aspects such as pride, dignity, and privacy. Potential questions might include:

  • How often during the past X months have you felt as though your moods, or your life, were under your control?
  • How frequently have you been bothered by not being able to stop worrying?

Self-perception

Self-perception questions were related to patients’ confidence, self-esteem, and feelings of being capable of doing the things they wanted to do. Counselors might want to use the following prompts:

  • Tell me about how confident you have been feeling in your capabilities recently.
  • Let’s talk about how often you have felt satisfied with yourself over the past X months.

Hope and hopelessness

These questions ask about the patient’s view of the future, their hopes and goals, and the actions they were taking toward them.

  • How often over the past few weeks have you felt the future was bleak?
  • Can you tell me about your hopes and dreams for the future? What feelings have you had recently about working toward those goals?

Relationships and belonging

These questions consider how the client felt they ‘fit in with society,’ were supported, and possessed meaningful relationships. Examples include:

  • Describe how ‘supported’ you feel by others around you – your friends, family, or otherwise.
  • Let’s discuss how you have been feeling about your relationships recently.

The more purposeful, meaningful, and constructive a client perceived their activities to be, the better.

  • Tell me about any important activities or projects that you’ve been involved with recently. How much enjoyment do you get from these?
  • How frequently have you been doing things that mean something to you or your life?

Read our post on mental health activities to assist clients in this area.

Other mental health questions for counselors

Another useful source of questions can be found on this website by Mental Health America (n.d.a; n.d.b). You’ll find questions about:

Depression – e.g., How bothered have you felt about tiredness or low energy over the past two weeks? How bothered have you felt about thoughts that you’ve let yourself or others down?

Anxiety – e.g., Over the last two weeks, how bothered have you been by feelings of fear or dread, as though something terrible might happen? How often have you been bothered by so much restlessness that you can’t sit still?

Mental health for young people – e.g., How often have you felt fidgety or unable to sit still? Have you felt less interested in school?

Whatever counseling interview questions you choose to ask as a practitioner, you may find that you need to refer your client to a different healthcare provider. You can help others improve their mental health by making them feel supported and ensuring they are aware of their options for continued support.

mental health questions for students

Bashir (2018) mentions several assessments used to assess mental health, including:

  • The Life Skills Assessment Questionnaire (Saatchi, Kamkkari, & Askarian, 2010)
  • The Self-Efficacy Scale (Singh & Narain, 2014)
  • Mental Health Scale (Talesara & Bano, 2017)

Bashir (2018) found “a positive significant relationship between the mental health of senior secondary school students with life skills and self-efficacy,” suggesting that the two measures together can be used to get an understanding of students’ mental health.

Mental health questions for students

Other self-efficacy and life skills measures could give us a good idea of some example mental health questions for students. The following may help:

Academic self-efficacy questions for students

How much confidence do you have that you can successfully:

  • Complete homework within deadlines?
  • Focus on school subjects?
  • Get information on class assignments from the library?
  • Take part in class discussions?
  • Keep your academic work organized?

Mental health questions (World Health Organization, 2013)

  • Over the last 12 months, how frequently have you felt so worried about something that you were unable to sleep at night?
  • Over the last 12 months, how frequently have you felt alone or lonely?
  • Over the last 12 months, how often did you seriously consider attempting suicide?
  • Over the last 12 months, did you ever plan how you might attempt suicide?
  • How many close friends would you say you have?

As with all the other questions in this article, you’ll probably want to tweak and amend these items to suit your audience.

Your mental health questions answered – jacksepticeye

The catch-all term “mental health group” can refer to several different things. Mental health groups may gather together for therapy or may be more informal peer support groups. You may also find yourself part of a group that’s purely for friends, family, and carers of those whose mental health is a concern.

Whatever group you find yourself in, the World Health Organization (2017) has some suggestions that will help you create a safe and productive space.

Mental health group best practices

Everything that is said in therapy should remain confidential; nothing from the discussion should be shared outside of the group setting.

Bear in mind that not everyone in the discussion will be at the same stage. Some may be new, others may be more seasoned or regular visitors.

Recognize that people won’t necessarily get along, but they all are welcome anyway.

Try not to view peer support or group discussions as a panacea for mental conditions. While they may be a great place to get suggestions or clarity, mental health is about feeling good in more than one way. Participants or caregivers may also require coaching, counseling, or medication to feel better.

7 Group questions

What questions can we ask to get some discussion flowing in a mental health group?

You may want to start with a focus for your discussion. Ask someone to share a story, experience, or step in as a facilitator with a video about the theme at hand. If you are discussing the role of social support, for example, you may have a presentation or case study prepared on the importance of friends and family.

Once you’ve opened with your story or resource, try some of these to spark a discussion (Gruttadaro & Cepla, 2014):

  • How do you feel about the story you just heard? What was your first reaction? How about as the story unfolded?
  • What were your thoughts regarding the signs and symptoms of this mental health issue? Have you experienced any of these yourself or in someone you know?
  • How would you react if you noticed these in someone you care about?
  • How might taking action benefit you and the person you care about?
  • What actions could you take to help someone who is exhibiting these signs and symptoms?
  • What do you believe is important for anyone to be aware of if they know someone with this mental health issue?
  • What experiences have you had that are related to this story? What was similar? What differed?

mental health research topics questions

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The Positive Psychology Toolkit© is a groundbreaking practitioner resource containing over 500 science-based exercises , activities, interventions, questionnaires, and assessments created by experts using the latest positive psychology research.

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Curious to know the top research questions related to mental health worldwide? Tomlinson et al. (2009) identified some of the key priorities for researchers to look at.

The group came up with 55 questions, and the top three topics included:

  • Health policy and systems research topics – e.g., How can health policy and systems research help us create parenting and social skills interventions for early childhood care in a cost-efficient, feasible, and effective way?
  • Cost-effective interventions for low-resource settings – e.g., How can affordable interventions be delivered in settings where resources are scarce?
  • Questions about child and teen mental disorders – e.g., How effective and cost-effective are school-based mental health treatments for special needs schoolchildren?

Engaging with your mental health practitioner is one of the best ways to get the most out of your check-ups. The healthcare system is changing, and gone are the days when a patient sat passively for a diagnosis or prescription (Rogers & Maini, 2016).

These days, arguably, medical dialogues place more emphasis on helping a client help themselves through information, education, and commitment to a better lifestyle. It’s good news indeed for anyone who wants to get proactive about their mental health. So what should you be asking your practitioner?

Before committing to a mental health practitioner, you’ll need to know a few things about the services they provide. Many therapists can provide psychological treatments but aren’t able to prescribe medication. You’ll need a psychiatrist or physician for that.

Bear this in mind, and consider the following questions when you’re deciding whether a provider is right for you (Association for Children’s Mental Health, n.d.; Think Mental Health, n.d.):

  • What is your experience with treating others with my mental health condition?
  • Will you be able to collaborate or liaise with my physician on an integrated care plan?
  • What does a typical appointment with you look like?
  • What treatments or therapies are you licensed to administer?
  • Are there benefits or risks that I should know about these therapies?
  • What is the general time frame in which most patients will see results?
  • How will I know if the treatment is having an effect?
  • How long does this type of treatment last?
  • What does research say about this type of treatment?

mental health questions for students

It is an awareness-raising campaign that encourages us to tune in early to the symptoms of mental illness.

But, of course, you can always check in with yourself as regularly as you like.

Example questions about wellbeing

The Canadian Mental Health Association (n.d.) provides some self-report questions that you can start with; these questions cover six areas and require only agree/disagree responses. Try some of these as an example:

  • Sense of self questions– e.g., I see myself as a good person. I feel that others respect me, yet I can still feel fine about myself if I disagree with them.
  • Sense of belonging questions – e.g., I have others around me who support me. I feel positive about my relationships with others and my interpersonal connections.
  • Sense of meaning or purpose questions – e.g., I get satisfaction from the things I do. I challenge my perspectives about the world and what I believe in.
  • Emotional resilience questions – e.g., I feel I handle things quite well when obstacles get in my way. I accept that I can’t always control things, but I do what I can when I can.
  • Enjoyment and hope questions – e.g., I have a positive outlook on my life. I like myself for who I am.
  • Contribution questions – e.g., The things that I do have an impact. My actions matter to those around me.

According to Rath and Clifton (2004), we each possess a metaphorical bucket representing our emotional and mental wellbeing. This imaginary bucket can be empty, full, or anywhere in between, and it undergoes a continuous process of filling (through positive interactions) and emptying (through negative interactions).

We feel energized, happy, and content when our buckets are full. When our buckets run low or empty, we can easily become negative, insecure, and defensive.

Having positive, meaningful interactions and showing kindness not only makes us feel good and fills our buckets but also fills the buckets of those around us. When our bucket is full, we are more inclined to fill the buckets of others.

However, when our bucket is running low or empty, we don’t have anything left to give to ourselves, let alone others. Therefore, it’s important to show kindness and compassion to ourselves to fill our bucket back up before we can service the buckets of others.

mental health research topics questions

Elsewhere on PositivePsychology.com, we’ve written about the many potential benefits of narrative therapy . If you’re looking for some writing or journal prompts to help you get started, you can try putting your responses to these questions down on paper (Post Trauma Institute, 2019).

  • Have my sleeping habits changed? Do I wake up and fall asleep at regular times? When I sleep, how would I describe the quality of my rest?
  • How has my appetite increased or decreased recently?
  • Am I having trouble focusing at work or school? Can I concentrate on the things I want to do? Do I find pleasure in things that usually make me happy?
  • Am I socializing with my friends as much as I usually do? How about spending time with my family? Am I withdrawing or pulling away from those around me who matter?
  • Do I feel like I’m maintaining a healthy balance between leisure, myself, my career, physical activity, and those I care about? How about other things that matter to me?
  • How relaxed do I feel most of the time, out of 10? Is this the same, more, or less than usual?
  • How do I feel most of the time? Happy? Anxious? Satisfied? Sad?
  • What are my energy levels like when I finish my day? Are there any significant changes in my tiredness?
  • Am I having any extreme emotions or mood swings? Any suicidal thoughts, breakdowns, or panic attacks?

It may help to keep track of your responses over time and take notice of any differences in your answers. It should go without saying that the earlier you seek out any help you may need, the better.

mental health research topics questions

17 Top-Rated Positive Psychology Exercises for Practitioners

Expand your arsenal and impact with these 17 Positive Psychology Exercises [PDF] , scientifically designed to promote human flourishing, meaning, and wellbeing.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

Mental health is not about the absence of mental illness. When we take the time to ask ourselves and others about our mental states, we can potentially make some crucial steps toward wellbeing.

As Keyes (2002) describes, we can think of our mental health as a continuum, with languishing at one end and flourishing at the other. By starting a dialogue and showing that we care, we can help each other get the help we need and potentially begin to feel better.

What questions have you asked yourself before? And what would you add to our list? Let us know in the comments below!

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Positive Psychology Exercises for free .

  • Association for Children’s Mental Health. (n.d.). Questions to ask your mental health professional about treatment options, medications, and more. Retrieved July 29, 2021 from http://www.acmh-mi.org/get-information/childrens-mental-health-101/questions-ask-treatment/
  • Bashir, L. (2018). Mental health among senior secondary school students in relation to life skills and self-efficacy. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research Review, 3 (9), 587–591.
  • Canadian Mental Health Association. (n.d.). Check in on your mental health. Retrieved from https://mentalhealthweek.ca/check-in-on-your-mental-health/
  • Connell, J., O’Cathain, A., Brazier, J. (2014). Measuring quality of life in mental health: Are we asking the right questions?  Social Science & Medicine ,  120 , 12–20.
  • Keyes, C. L. (2002). The mental health continuum: From languishing to flourishing in life. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 43 , 207–222.
  • Means-Christensen, A. J., Sherbourne, C. D., Roy-Byrne, P. P., Craske, M. G., & Stein, M. B. (2006). Using five questions to screen for five common mental disorders in primary care: Diagnostic accuracy of the Anxiety and Depression Detector. General Hospital Psychiatry, 28 (2), 108–118.
  • Mental Health America. (n.d.a). Questions to ask a provider. Retrieved July 29, 2021, from https://www.mhanational.org/questions-ask-provider/
  • Mental Health America. (n.d.b). Mental health screening tools . Retrieved July 29, 2021, from https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools
  • Gruttadaro, D., & Cepla, E. (2014). Say it out loud: NAMI discussion group facilitation guide. National Alliance on Mental Illness. Retrieved July 29, 2021, from https://www.nami.org/getattachment/Get-Involved/Raise-Awareness/Engage-Your-Community/Say-it-Out-Loud/Say-it-Out-Loud-Discussion-Group-Facilitation-Guide.pdf
  • O’Donnell, M. L., Bryant, R. A., Creamer, M., & Carty, J. (2008). Mental health following traumatic injury: Toward a health system model of early psychological intervention. Clinical Psychology Review, 28 (3), 387–406.
  • Post Trauma Institute. (2019). How to do a mental health check-up DIY style! Retrieved from https://www.posttraumainstitute.com/how-to-do-a-mental-health-check-up-diy-style/
  • Rath, T., & Clifton, D. O. (2004). How full is your bucket? Positive strategies for work and life . Gallup Press.
  • Rogers, J., & Maini, A. (2016). Coaching for health: Why it works and how to do it. Open University Press.
  • Saatchi, M., Kamkkari, K., & Askarian, M. (2010). Life skills questionnaire. Psychological Tests Publish Edits, 85 .
  • Singh, A. K., & Narain, S. (2014). Manual for Self-Efficacy Scale. National Psychological Corporation.
  • Talesara, S., & Bano, A. (2017). Mental Health Scale.  National Psychological Corporation.
  • Think Mental Health. (n.d.). Questions to ask your GP – What to discuss. Retrieved from https://www.thinkmentalhealthwa.com.au/mental-health-support-services/how-your-gp-can-help/questions-to-ask-your-gp/
  • Tomlinson, M., Rudan, I., Saxena, S., Swartz, L., Tsai, A. C., & Patel, V. (2009). Setting priorities for global mental health research.  Bulletin of the World Health Organization ,  87 (6), 438–446.
  • World Health Organization. (2013). Global school-based student health survey: 2013 core questionnaire modules. Retrieved July 29, 2021, from http://www.who.int/entity/chp/gshs/GSHS_Core_Modules_2013_English.pdf
  • World Health Organization. (2017). Creating peer support groups in mental health and related areas: WHO QualityRights training to act, unite, and empower for mental health (pilot version) (No. WHO/MSD/MHP/17.13).

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Aletha Natiuk RN, CRRN

Thank you so much for this helpful resource. As a masters student for Public Health Nursing, I found these questions helpful ice breakers for me to use for a focus-group collection strategy paper I am writing (questions were modified, of course to my topic). Thank you!

raj

hello Nicole,

Would like to thank the writer of this article. Used some of these questions to design a mental health survey for our website project to raise awareness about early treatment of mental illnesses. Really informative and useful to raise in-depth questions and start meaningful conversations. Thank you so much!

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Mental Health, Substance Use, and Child Maltreatment

Child maltreatment is a pressing concern in the United States, with more than four million children referred to child protective services in 2022. Reducing child maltreatment is a national health objective given the substantial, negative consequences for children who experience maltreatment, both in the short- and long-term. Parental mental health and substance use disorders are strongly associated with child maltreatment. In this study, we use administrative data over the period 2004 to 2021 to study the relationship between the number of mental health and substance use treatment centers per county and child maltreatment reports. Our findings provide evidence that better access to mental health and substance use treatment reduces child maltreatment reports. In particular, an 8% increase in the supply of treatment would reduce maltreatment reports by 1%. These findings suggest that recent and ongoing efforts by the federal government to expand mental health and substance use treatment availability may lead to reduced child maltreatment.

All authors contributed equally to this study. Authors are listed in alphabetical order. Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute on Mental Health of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number 1R01MH132552 (PI: Johanna Catherine Maclean). Dr. Meinhofer acknowledges support from the Foundation for Opioid Response Efforts GR00015582 and the National Institute on Drug Abuse K01DA051777. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Institutes of Health or the Foundation for Opioid Response Efforts. We thank Douglas Webber and Jiaxin Wei for excellent comments. All errors are our own. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Bureau of Economic Research.

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NYU School of Medicine WTC Health Program NYU School of Medicine WTC Health Program Clinical Center of Excellence (NYUSOM CCE) was awarded by the Centers for Disease Control/National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (CDC/NIOSH) to provide care to World Trade Center Responders.

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai – World Trade Center Health Program Data Center The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) Data Center at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is the sole entity in charge of collecting, managing, analyzing, performing public health surveillance, and preparing for research using the physical and mental health, exposure, occupational and socioeconomic data generated by the WTCHP  General Responder Cohort Clinical Centers of Excellence by annual medical monitoring examinations of non-FDNY WTC rescue and recovery effort workers and volunteers.

State University of New York (SUNY) Stony Brook - WTC Wellness Program One of the longstanding primary goals of the research program at Stony Brook WTC Wellness is understanding 9/11 illnesses. As of early 2015, WTC Health Program membership totaled more than 70,000 individuals (more than ten percent of which belongs to Stony Brook WTC Wellness). Through collaborations with renowned researchers at SUNY Stony Brook, Columbia University, Bellevue, and other institutions, the multidisciplinary research program at Stony Brook WTC Wellness has secured millions in funding for a variety of groundbreaking studies. Through the integration of cognitive behavioral therapy programs, we focus on promoting lifestyle changes that will positively impact disease trajectories and help our patients lead healthier lives. The combination of our clinical discoveries and related research efforts has helped us develop an ever-evolving standard of care for our patients.

National Center for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) -  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) NIOSH has funded research projects designed to help answer critical questions about the physical and mental health conditions related to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This research plays a vital role in the health conditions currently covered by the WTC Health Program and the Program’s ability to add health conditions to the list. 

Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health Dr. Christina Hoven's career has focused on improving children's mental health services. She was Principal Investigator of the 2002 study: "Effects of The World Trade Center Attacks on New York City Public School Students," conducted on a representative sample of 8,236 students. That first epidemiological study of children following a major disaster included an assessment of eight psychiatric disorders.

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Ableist microaggressions and the mental health of disabled adults

Disabled people reporting the most ableism in the form of microaggressions also report the worst mental health outcomes

Suggested instructions

This research summary can be incorporated into a lecture or shared with students as a reading to demonstrate how psychological science explores the diversity of human experience. This resource can also be used to encourage students to identify the major components of a research study (i.e., the hypothesis or study question, sample, method, and findings). Students can be asked to identify potential limitations of the study and encouraged to discuss the implications for our understanding of human behavior. Keywords highlight how concepts within and across pillars are incorporated into a single research study.

Research summary

Shanna Kattari (they/them) notes that identity-related microaggressions (i.e., common, brief acts that convey derogation or invalidation against people with marginalized identities) are associated with negative mental health outcomes. This awareness is based on previous research on racial microaggressions specifically. The current study investigates whether there is a relationship between ableist microaggressions and the mental health of disabled people (i.e., microaggressions based on prejudice and discrimination towards disabled people). The sample of 311 people ages 19–68 years old was gathered using snowball sampling, a method that is common when trying to sample people from marginalized populations who are often underrepresented in research. Snowball sampling begins as a convenience sample and grows as participants identify additional participants from their own networks. The sample then grows like a snowball as it rolls down a hill. The study participants completed a survey with three sections: demographic information, the Ableist Microaggression Scale, and the Mental Health Inventory. The demographic information included disability status (“Do you consider yourself disabled? Yes/No”), disability type (physical disability, learning disability, etc.), and disability visibility.

Findings include that ableist microaggressions are high for all disabled people. Additionally, those who report more ableist microaggressions also score higher on the mental health inventory (i.e., have worse mental health outcomes). And physically disabled people scored highest on ableist microaggressions and on the mental health inventory, even higher than those with psychiatric disabilities. Limitations include the non-representativeness of the sample, and that cross-sectional data cannot be used to make conclusions about causation. Issues for future study include looking at the intersectional relationship between ableist microaggressions and mental health outcomes for disabled people of color.

Kattari, S. K. (2020). Ableist microaggressions and the mental health of disabled adults. Community Mental Health Journal, 56 (6), 1170–1179. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-020-00615-6

Social, Stereotype, Prejudice, Mental Health, Disparities

The development of resources to broaden diversity and representation in the teaching of high school psychology resources is an APA Committee of Teachers of Psychology in Secondary Schools initiative supported by funding from the American Psychological Foundation David and Carol Myers Fund. This resource was developed by Kara Ayers, PhD; Emily Lund, PhD; Erika Sanborne; and Allison Shaver.

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Livestream Event: Suicide Prevention in Health Care Settings

Date and time.

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month in September, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)  are hosting a livestream event on suicide prevention in health care settings.

Suicide is a major cause of death in the United States, and many people at risk of suicide don’t get the mental health care they need. In many cases, people see a health care provider in the weeks or months before a suicide attempt, making medical settings like emergency rooms and doctor’s offices key points for prevention and intervention.

The event will cover:

  • Research supported by NIMH and SAMHSA on improving how we screen for and assess suicide risk and intervene in health care settings.
  • How to apply this research in clinical practice.
  • Ways to seek help for yourself or others.

Join us to learn more about these important topics and how we can work together to save lives.

Featured Experts

  • Stephen O’Connor, Ph.D. , Chief, Suicide Prevention Research Program, NIMH
  • Richard McKeon, Ph.D., M.P.H., Senior Advisor for 988 and Behavioral Health Crisis Office, SAMHSA
  • Brian K. Ahmedani, Ph.D.   , Director, Center for Health Policy & Health Services Research, Henry Ford Health System

Registration

No registration is required for this free event. Watch the live event on NIMH’s Facebook   page or YouTube channel   .

More information

  • A Facebook or YouTube account is not required to watch, but you will need an account to ask the experts questions during the event.
  • After the event, the recording will be archived on NIMH’s website , Facebook   page, and YouTube channel   .
  • Sign language interpreters will be provided.

Note: The experts featured in this event cannot provide specific medical advice or referrals. Please consult a qualified health care provider for diagnosis, treatment, and answers to your personal questions. If you need help finding a provider, visit nimh.nih.gov/findhelp . If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline   . Call or text 988. Llame al 988 (para ayuda en español).

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    NIOSH has funded research projects designed to help answer critical questions about the physical and mental health conditions related to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This research plays a vital role in the health conditions currently covered by the WTC Health Program and the Program's ability to add health conditions to the list.

  29. Ableist microaggressions and the mental health of disabled adults

    This awareness is based on previous research on racial microaggressions specifically. The current study investigates whether there is a relationship between ableist microaggressions and the mental health of disabled people (i.e., microaggressions based on prejudice and discrimination towards disabled people).

  30. Livestream Event: Suicide Prevention in Health Care Settings

    Overview. In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month in September, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) are hosting a livestream event on suicide prevention in health care settings.. Suicide is a major cause of death in the United States, and many people at risk of suicide don't get the mental ...