Mental Disorders Research Articles

Exploring Multidisciplinary Approaches to Comorbid Psychiatric and Medical Disorders: A Scoping Review

Psychiatric disorders often coexist with internal medical conditions, posing significant challenges to diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient outcomes. This study examines the bidirectional relationship between these conditions, emphasizing their impact on morbidity, treatment adherence, and quality of life. Through a comprehensive review of the peer-reviewed literature, we explore the physiological, neuroinflammatory, and psychosocial mechanisms that underpin these interactions. Key psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, cognitive impairments, and psychosis, are identified as critical contributors to diagnostic complexity and therapeutic hurdles. Our findings underscore the importance of integrated, multidisciplinary care models, advocating for early detection, routine mental health screening, and personalized treatment strategies. Challenges such as overlapping symptoms, diagnostic ambiguities, and potential drug interactions are critically analyzed, with practical, evidence-based recommendations proposed for clinical practice. Despite advancements, significant research gaps persist, particularly the lack of longitudinal studies and the limited application of precision medicine tailored to this population. Future directions focus on enhancing diagnostic tools, developing innovative therapeutic approaches, and integrating mental health services into routine care. This study highlights the critical need for holistic, patient-centered approaches to manage comorbid psychiatric and internal medical conditions, offering actionable insights to improve outcomes and bridge existing gaps in research and practice.

Chronotherapeutic Treatments for Psychiatric Disorders: A Narrative Review of Recent Literature.

This narrative review examines the newest findings from clinical trials of chronotherapeutics for psychiatric disorders. We reviewed the potential effects of the most commonly-studied chronotherapeutics such as bright light therapy, dark therapy, melatonin, and chronotherapy on the psychiatric disorders of depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders. The preponderance of recent clinical trials in chronotherapeutics has focused on bright light therapy in depression. However, there is an emerging body of preliminary studies testing chronotherapeutics in other psychiatric disorders, including bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Chronotherapeutics hold potential to improve sleep in adults with psychiatric conditions as well as psychiatric symptoms. Although the most recent literature demonstrates the promise of these interventions, the current body of work is limited by small sample sizes and relatively few studies outside of depression. Larger-scale trials are needed to refine treatment protocols, develop personalized treatment approaches, and inform dissemination. Studies in psychiatric conditions besides depression are particularly needed.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) Symptoms in Adolescent Patients With Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction.

Disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) share clinical characteristics. However, research on the prevalence of ARFID symptoms in youth with DGBI and the clinical presentation of DGBI youth with varying levels of ARFID symptoms is limited. In this cross-sectional observational study, 38 adolescents (range 12-17 years; 71% female) with a diagnosed DGBI receiving treatment at a pediatric gastroenterology clinic and a primary caregiver completed the Nine Item ARFID Screen (NIAS). Gastrointestinal (GI), psychiatric, quality of life (QOL), and weight/growth outcomes were assessed via youth- and caregiver-reported questionnaires, anthropometrics, and a water load test. ARFID symptoms were characterized, and their associations with GI, psychiatric symptoms, QOL, and weight/growth outcomes were analyzed. Clinically significant ARFID symptoms were reported by 42% of youth and 55% of caregivers. ARFID symptoms were associated with more severe GI and psychiatric symptoms, lower QOL, and clinically significant weight loss or faltering growth. While associations became non-significant after false discovery rate correction, the effect sizes were medium to large, clearly demonstrating meaningful associations. Agreements between youth and caregiver NIAS reports were good to excellent. ARFID symptoms are common in adolescents with DGBI and associated with clinical severity. Further elucidating this common co-morbidity and developing guidelines for effective co-management are priorities.

Socio-demographic, health, treatment, and labour market characteristics of sick-listed employees diagnosed with and treated for a mental disorder in Germany.

To examine the socio-demographic, health, treatment, organisation, job, and labour market characteristics of 484 German sick-listed employees diagnosed with a mental disorder (MD), along with gender differences. This cross-sectional study used online baseline self-report data from sick-listed employees diagnosed with and treated for a MD, recruited as part of an evaluation trial for a return to work (RTW) intervention (DRKS00026232). Descriptives and t-tests/chi-squared tests were performed. Mean age was 42.6years (range 20-60years). Nearly 60% were female, 31% highly educated, and more than half fell into lower gross household income groups. Recurrent depression was a common diagnosis. The employees reported moderate depressive symptoms, low RTW self-efficacy, and poor work ability. Gradual RTW was rated the most common workplace accommodation need for RTW. Significant gender differences were found regarding socio-demographic, health, job, and labour market characteristics. Despite the majority having permanent, fulltime, white-collar jobs, the results highlight the vulnerability of persons with a diagnosed MD in the labour market, suggesting an urgent need for more clinical and work-directed aftercare. Women seem more disadvantaged than men but not regarding treatment and organisation characteristics, emphasising the importance of addressing gender differences in mental health and practice.

Risk of Substance Use Among LGBTQI+ Community Affected by Lifetime and Day-to-day Discrimination – Results from a Cross-sectional Study Performed in South India

Abstract Background: Stressors from discrimination (lifetime and day-to-day) can be precipitated as mental health problems particularly substance use among marginalized subjects including LGBTQI+ community. The study assessed substance use among LGBTQI+ adults and its association with lifetime and day-to-day discrimination. Materials and Methods: The study was performed as a cross-sectional design among 254 LGBTQI+ adults above the age of 18 years where substance use was measured using WHO – ASSIST V.3 questionnaire and discrimination was evaluated using a lifetime and day-to-day assessing questionnaire. The analysis of risk of substance use amid discrimination was measured using logistic regression. Results: Among the subjects 64.2% were Gay men with a mean (SD) age of 30.67 (6.05) years. In lifetime discrimination, experience of discrimination was found to be always present during the enquiries for any housing among 11 (4.3%) while in day-to-day discrimination, the experience was always present in public places among 11 (4.3%) and public transport 13 (5.1%). In substance use risk score, 169 (66.5%) subjects showed a moderate risk for using any alcohol beverages and 135 (53.1%) showed a moderate risk in using any tobacco related products. The analysis showed a significant positive association between the discrimination and substance use (alcohol and tobacco related) among LGBTQI+ adults. Conclusion: The increased proportion of substance use among the LGBTQI+ community is linked with the discrimination suffered by the individuals, which is to be addressed by society in a deeper and specific manner.

Metaverse for mental health disorders: Opportunities and challenges

Several articles on the mental health impact of the metaverse and the need to balance its potential benefits with the risks of metaverse use has recently published. The metaverse consists of a combination of immersive technologies and artificial intelligence algorithms. The metaverse differs from the preceding digital psychiatric interventions due to its complex structure and interactions between components. The diverse functions of the metaverse ensure that it may have a substantial impact on mental health. However, the evidence for its efficacy in treating mental health disorders is limited to a few trials. The mental health benefits of immersive technologies are well-documented and suggest that metaverse-based psychiatric treatment may be similarly efficacious. The mental health risks of the metaverse are largely unknown, and it is not clear whether they will be greater than other digital psychiatric interventions. Much more research is needed to determine whether metaverse-based psychiatric treatment will meet the standards of appropriate mental healthcare.

Investigating the Role of the Physical Environment on Communication Patterns in Emergency Departments During Caregiving for Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health Patients.

This study investigates how the physical environment influences communication dynamics among staff members, pediatric mental and behavioral health (MBH) patients, and their families in the emergency department (ED). The United States faces a public health challenge as MBH conditions in school-age children contribute to an increasing number of ED visits. Effective communication plays a pivotal role in pediatric MBH caregiving, where challenges often arise due to the sensitive nature of these conditions. This qualitative study involved observations and semistructured interviews with 55 care providers across four hospital-based EDs in the southeastern United States. Qualitative thematic analysis of the interviews identified physical environment impacts on communication at three scales: unit, staff workstation, and patient care space. This study identified aspects of the physical environment, such as proximity, visibility, crowding, and privacy as influential factors in communication patterns for the MBH care process in ED. The physical environment has an essential impact on communication patterns and care delivery for the increasing number of pediatric MBH patients in the ED.

Shared underlying dynamics between sleep disorder and psychiatric disorder: pro-inflammatory state?

Shared underlying dynamics between sleep disorder and psychiatric disorder: pro-inflammatory state?

Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal and gut-brain axes in biological interaction pathway of the depression

The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and gut-brain axes are vital biological pathways in depression. The HPA axis regulates the body's stress response, and chronic stress can lead to overactivation of the HPA axis, resulting in elevated cortisol levels that contribute to neuronal damage, particularly in regions such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, both of which are involved in mood regulation and mental disorders. In parallel, the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network between the gut microbiota and the central nervous system, influences emotional and cognitive functions. Imbalances in gut microbiota can affect the HPA axis, promoting inflammation and increasing gut permeability. This allows endotoxins to enter the bloodstream, contributing to neuroinflammation and altering neurotransmitter production, including serotonin. Since the majority of serotonin is produced in the gut, disruptions in this pathway may be linked to depressive symptoms. This review explores the interplay between the HPA axis and the gut-brain axis in the context of depression.

Dietary Capsaicin Exacerbates Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and Mental Disorders in Type 1 Diabetes Mice

Background/Objectives: Diabetes mellitus is often accompanied by mental health complications, including anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. Recent research suggested that capsaicin, the active component of chili peppers, may influence mental health. This study aimed to determine the effect of dietary capsaicin on mental disorders in a type 1 diabetes (T1D) mouse model, while also exploring the potential involvement of the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Methods: We induced T1D in mice using streptozotocin (STZ) and administered a diet supplemented with 0.005% capsaicin for five weeks. Behavioral assessments, including the open field test (OFT), tail suspension test (TST), forced swimming test (FST), elevated plus maze (EPM) test, and Morris water maze (MWM) test, were conducted to evaluate depressive and anxiety-like behaviors as well as cognitive function. Targeted and untargeted metabolomics analyses were performed to assess neurotransmitter levels in the hippocampus and serum metabolites, while 16S rRNA sequencing was utilized to analyze gut microbiota composition. Intestinal barriers were determined using western blot detection of the tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin. Results: Dietary capsaicin exacerbated anxiety and depressive-like behaviors along with cognitive declines in T1D mice. Capsaicin reduced gut microbiota diversity and levels of beneficial bacteria, while broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment further intensified anxiety and depression behaviors. Metabolomic analysis indicated that capsaicin disrupted metabolic pathways related to tryptophan and phenylalanine, leading to decreased neuroprotective metabolites, such as kynurenic acid, hippurate, and butyric acid. Additionally, capsaicin diminished the expression of ZO-1 and occludin, indicating increased intestinal permeability. Conclusions: Dietary capsaicin aggravates gut microbiota and metabolic disturbances in diabetic mice, thereby worsening anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.

The Cosmetic Surgery in Adolescents: Psychological, Social, and Medico-Legal Responsibilities.

The increasing prevalence of cosmetic surgery among adolescents raises critical questions regarding medical responsibility and the legal standards for informed consent. While the desire to meet aesthetic standards promoted by media and social networks is a key factor driving demand for these procedures, the psychological vulnerability typical of adolescence calls for careful evaluation of patient rights and medical obligations. Informed consent for adolescents, in particular, must be assessed within a multidimensional framework that considers psychological conditions, personal motivations, and the social and cultural pressures that can negatively affect young patients' self-perception. This article examines the complexities of informed consent in adolescent cosmetic surgery, focusing on the physician's responsibility to ensure patients have a clear understanding of both the risks involved and realistic expectations of the procedure. It also discusses the value of a multidisciplinary approach, involving psychologists and legal professionals, to address the specific needs of adolescents. Emphasis is placed on the necessity for preoperative psychological assessments to distinguish between genuine desires and social pressures, with the goal of protecting adolescents' psychological and physical well-being and preventing decisions driven by unstable motivations. The article concludes with recommendations for adopting guidelines and enhancing education, advocating for an approach that respects young patients' rights and emphasizes physicians' accountability for ethical and safe practice.

Cannabis Use Disorder Emergency Department Visits and Hospitalizations and 5-Year Mortality.

Cannabis use disorders (CUD) are associated with adverse health effects, including mental disorders and motor vehicle collision-related injuries. However, little is known about whether CUDs are associated with increased mortality risk. To examine whether individuals receiving incident hospital-based care (an emergency department visit or hospitalization) for a CUD is associated with increased risk of death. This population-based retrospective cohort study included all individuals aged 15 to 105 years living in Ontario, Canada, between 2006 and 2021 (n = 11 622 571 individuals). Overall and cause-specific mortality were compared between individuals with incident hospital-based CUD care and age- and sex-matched members of the general population or individuals with hospital-based care for other substance use disorders using cause-specific hazard models adjusted for comorbid mental health, substance use, and chronic health conditions. Statistical analysis was performed from September to December 2024. Incident hospital-based CUD care. Overall and cause-specific mortality identified using vital statistics. The matched analysis included 527 972 individuals (mean [SD] age, 29.9 [13.6] years; 330 034 [62.5%] female) with a median (IQR) follow-up of 5 (3-9) years; 106 994 had incident CUD. Within 5 years of incident hospital-based CUD care, 3770 individuals (3.5%) died compared with 3770 (0.6%) of matched general population members. After adjusting for comorbid conditions, individuals with incident hospital-based CUD care were at increased risk of death relative to the general population (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.79 [95% CI, 2.62-2.97]). Individuals with hospital-based CUD care were at increased risk of all investigated types of death and particularly elevated risk of death by suicide (aHR, 9.70 [95% CI, 6.04-15.57]), trauma (aHR, 4.55 [95% CI, 3.55-5.82]), opioid poisoning (aHR, 5.03 [95% CI, 2.86-8.84]), other drug poisonings (aHR, 4.56 [95% CI, 3.11-6.68]), and lung cancer (aHR, 3.81 [95% CI, 2.39-6.07]) relative to the general population. Compared with an individual with hospital-based care for CUD, individuals with hospital-based care for alcohol (aHR, 1.30 [95% CI, 1.26-1.34]), stimulants (aHR, 1.69 [95% CI, 1.62-1.75]), and opioids (aHR, 2.19 [95% CI, 2.10-2.27]) were at relatively increased risk of death within 5 years. In this cohort study of all residents of Ontario, Canada, individuals with incident hospital-based CUD care were at markedly increased risk of death compared with the general population. These findings suggest important clinical and policy implications, given global trends toward cannabis legalization and market commercialization accompanied by increasing cannabis use and CUDs.

New diagnosis in psychiatry: beyond heuristics.

Diagnosis in psychiatry faces familiar challenges. Validity and utility remain elusive, and confusion regarding the fluid and arbitrary border between mental health and illness is increasing. The mainstream strategy has been conservative and iterative, retaining current nosology until something better emerges. However, this has led to stagnation. New conceptual frameworks are urgently required to catalyze a genuine paradigm shift. We outline candidate strategies that could pave the way for such a paradigm shift. These include the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC), the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP), and Clinical Staging, which all promote a blend of dimensional and categorical approaches. These alternative still heuristic transdiagnostic models provide varying levels of clinical and research utility. RDoC was intended to provide a framework to reorient research beyond the constraints of DSM. HiTOP began as a nosology derived from statistical methods and is now pursuing clinical utility. Clinical Staging aims to both expand the scope and refine the utility of diagnosis by the inclusion of the dimension of timing. None is yet fit for purpose. Yet they are relatively complementary, and it may be possible for them to operate as an ecosystem. Time will tell whether they have the capacity singly or jointly to deliver a paradigm shift. Several heuristic models have been developed that separately or synergistically build infrastructure to enable new transdiagnostic research to define the structure, development, and mechanisms of mental disorders, to guide treatment and better meet the needs of patients, policymakers, and society.

Two-year outcomes of male alcohol-dependence patients treated in hospitals for uniformed forces

ABSTRACT Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a highly prevalent disorder with a large treatment gap. Treatment of AUD is a challenging task for mental health practitioners, as there is no decisive marker for recovery, and abstinence rates are equivocal with and without treatment. A paucity of Indian studies determining the prognosis of AUD in armed forces led to the initiation of this study. Aim: To study the outcome of alcohol-dependence patients two years after treatment in uniformed forces. Materials and Methods: The study included 100 consecutive male inpatients with alcohol dependence admitted to the psychiatry ward of two hospitals for uniformed forces personnel. Relevant investigations were requisitioned for them, and records were maintained to facilitate easy follow-up at 6-month intervals over 2 years. Results: The majority of patients had begun consumption voluntarily to seek pleasure. The average daily intake was 71.36 g of alcohol. Most of them consumed alone. Ninety-three percent showed features of withdrawal after admission. The most common physical comorbidities were injuries and gastrointestinal disorders, while the most common psychiatric comorbid disorders were substance use disorders and depression. Upon follow-up, 42% maintained abstinence, which was either partial or absolute, 5% were rendered unfit to serve further, 42 were lost to follow-up, and 17% had eventually retired. Conclusion: Contrary to prevailing belief, the results of the present study indicate that 42% of patients with AUD improved with treatment.

Chemoproteomics Sheds Light on Epigenetic Targets of [11C]Martinostat in the Human Brain.

Initiation of research programs to investigate binding specificity based on in vivo positron emission tomography (PET) imaging results can provide rich opportunities to improve data interpretation, gain biological insight, and inform hypothesis development. Here, we profile the binding specificity of the neuroepigenetic imaging probe, [11C]Martinostat. In vivo neuroimaging studies using [11C]Martinostat have uncovered differential regional uptake in relation to age and biological sex and in patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Alzheimer's disease, and low-back pain compared to healthy controls. Previous studies using recombinant proteins and thermal shift assays in postmortem tissue indicate that [11C]Martinostat engages class I and putatively class IIb histone deacetylases (HDACs). While HDACs serve multiple functions, including regulation of chromatin remodeling and gene transcription, it is not known how differences in HDAC expression may arise across brain regions. HDACs functionally interact with a diverse array of multisubunit complexes, and engagement with associated binding partners may contribute to these differences. To further assess target engagement of [11C]Martinostat, we designed a synthetic probe based on the inhibitor structural scaffold for use in competition experiments followed by proteomic analysis in postmortem tissue. The synthetic probe, called Compound 4, appears to interact with the class I HDAC paralog HDAC2 and the class IIb paralog HDAC6 in a robust manner. We also uncovered unique interacting partners, including synaptic proteins from the synaptotagmin (SYT) family of proteins and neuronal pentraxin 2 (NPTX2). Further work to investigate HDAC associations with interacting proteins across regions of the human brain is needed to better understand neuroepigenetic dysregulation in psychiatric and neurological conditions.

Comparison of Positive and Negative Symptoms in People Diagnosed With Schizophrenia

Objective: This study aims to shed light on the specification and comparison of positive symptoms and negative in schizophrenic patients. Theoretical Framework: With the influence of various structural and ideological factors, the family and society now play an expanded role in terms of behavior, attitudes, beliefs and relationships. This impact has been reflected in all societies in the world; however, while Western countries have adapted social policies to accommodate these changes, developing countries have not created appropriate structures. In Kosovo, funding of mental health services remains low, while mental health problems represent 12.3% of general illnesses and 30.8% of causes of work incapacity. Method: The study is descriptive-analytical, qualitative and quantitative. The research was carried out in four municipalities of Kosovo, whereby, patients with schizophrenia who appear in psychiatric institutions and their caregivers/family members have served as subject samples. Results and Discussion: The results have shown that the presence of schizophrenia is reflected in the prevalence of a low level of education, a high level of unemployment, as well as harmful activities such as smoking and alcohol consumption and physical inactivity. The PNS-Q Self-report and Family Member questionnaires have shown significant correlations for the subscales of positive and negative symptoms. Research Implications: It is recommended for patients with schizophrenia and their families a well-structured strategy created in collaboration with experts in relevant fields, including social protection, psychiatric medical services, education, and integration plan in social life. Originality/Value: This research article aims to increase knowledge about the disease of schizophrenia, especially its symptoms.

Bridging the Gap: Navigating the Nexus of Tuberculosis and Mental Well-being

Abstract The article explores the intricate relationship between tuberculosis (TB) and mental health, emphasizing the bidirectional impact and implications for healthcare strategies. The global burden of TB, coupled with psychosocial challenges, necessitates integrated care. Challenges like stigma and fragmented healthcare demand innovative solutions. The review highlights the interconnected nature of mental health and TB treatment outcomes, showcasing promising interventions from psychosocial support to evidence-based approaches. Persistent challenges require ongoing advocacy. Future research should delve into specific mental health conditions and TB outcomes. Recent reviews stress interdisciplinary collaboration, policy changes, and technology for accessible and patient-centric care. This review contributes insights to address TB and mental health globally, promoting a unified, patient-centered approach for sustainable healthcare.

Pre-disaster Health Vulnerabilities Predict Major Depressive Disorder Symptoms Among High-Risk Puerto Rican Adults after Hurricanes Maria and Irma.

Robust research has established that preexisting physical and mental health conditions increase risk for adverse psychiatric outcomes after disasters. However, it is unclear if increased risk is independent of disaster exposure, and most studies have relied on retrospective reports of pre-disaster functioning. In a pre-post sample of high-risk Puerto Rican adults (N = 361) who experienced Hurricanes Irma and Maria, we assessed: 1) whether indicators of pre-disaster depression and physical health conditions were associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) symptoms; and 2) whether the effects of pre-disaster depression and physical health conditions on PTSD and MDD symptoms were indirect via disaster exposure or had exacerbated the effects of disaster exposure on PTSD and MDD symptoms. Pre-disaster depression and physical health problems were significantly associated with higher post-disaster MDD symptoms (B = 1.50, SE = 0.36, p < .001, and B = 0.21; SE = 0.09, P = 0.016), but not PTSD symptoms. Indirect effects of pre-disaster depression and physical health symptoms via disaster exposure were non-significant, and neither moderated the association of disaster exposure on PTSD and MDD symptoms. Research is needed to understand other pathways through which pre-disaster health conditions predict post-disaster mental health.

Investigating mental health disparities in rural sexual and gender minority adults: protocol for the rural exploration and approaches to LGBTQ + Mental Health (REALM) prospective cohort study

BackgroundSexual and gender minority (SGM) persons experience substantial mental health disparities throughout the life course, including increased vulnerability to depression and suicide. Few existing studies, however, have explored how pervasive experiences of SGM-related stigma, discrimination, and trauma (i.e., minority stress) contribute to adverse mental health outcomes among diverse sub-populations of SGM adults living in rural areas of the United States. This paper describes the protocol for a prospective cohort study, “Rural Exploration and Approaches for LGBTQ + Mental Health (REALM),” that will explore minority stress in relation to mental health conditions and suicidal behaviors among rural SGM adults.MethodsOnline processes will be used to recruit and enroll a diverse sample of up to 2,500 SGM adults aged 18 + living in rural counties and small metropolitan areas in the United States to complete an online baseline survey. This will include: up to 1,000 cisgender sexual minority persons (up to n = 500 each cisgender women and cisgender men); and up to 1,500 gender minority persons (up to n = 500 persons who were assigned male at birth and identify as a woman, female, and/or transfeminine; up to n = 500 persons who were assigned female at birth and identify as a man, male, and/or transmasculine; and up to n = 500 persons who identify as some other gender, including non-binary, gender non-conforming, and/or agender regardless of sex assigned at birth). All enrolled participants will subsequently be followed over a 12-month period, with repeated surveys at three-month intervals. Included survey measures will focus on sociodemographic information, mental health, substance use, suicidal behaviors, minority stressors, psychological processes, and other related risk and protective factors.DiscussionThis study presents a critical opportunity to better understand how minority stress contributes to adverse mental health outcomes among populations that remain underrepresented in research and programs in 2024. Results will be used to create more targeted, acceptable, and impactful intervention content and strategies that mitigate stigma, promote mental health, and prevent suicidal behaviors among rural SGM adults.

Interventions that prevent or reduce perinatal loneliness and its proximal determinants: a restricted scoping review

Abstract Background The World Health Organisation’s Commission on Social Connection (2024–2026) highlights the importance of addressing loneliness because of its negative impact on health and well-being. The perinatal period carries an increased risk of loneliness for mothers and fathers which is elevated by intersectional inequalities, such as having a low income, being LGBTQ+, or being from a minoritised community. Perinatal loneliness is associated with perinatal mental illness, which can have lasting negative impacts on parents and their children. The aim of this review was to synthesise studies exploring interventions for perinatal loneliness. Methods We conducted a restricted scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute Methodology to develop a categorisation of interventions and intervention-mechanisms to reduce perinatal loneliness. We included studies that described and/or evaluated interventions in published studies that intentionally or unintentionally reduced loneliness, or its proximate determinants, such as social connectedness and social support. We searched eight electronic databases for peer-reviewed academic papers published in any country describing or evaluating these interventions between 2013–2023. Results Fifty papers were included in the review, from which the following categorisation of interventions was developed: 1) synthetic social support, 2) shared-identity social support groups, 3) parent and baby groups, 4) creative health approaches (arts, nature or exercise based), 5) holistic, place-based and multidisciplinary support that worked with parents to overcome a range of barriers to connection, and 6) awareness campaigns. Five mechanisms were identified within included papers: 1) opportunities for social connection to similar others, 2) positive relationships with a professional or volunteer, 3) normalisation and acceptance of difficulties, 4) meaningful activities and 5) support to overcome barriers (including cultural and financial) to connection. Few studies collected comprehensive demographic data, few considered fathers, and none were LGBTQ+ specific. Conclusions The review identified and synthesised approaches that might address perinatal loneliness and its proximate determinants. Further research is needed to scope the grey literature, review papers in the global south, appraise intervention effectiveness, and co-produce interventions, including for fathers, LGBTQ+ parents, and cultural and religious minorities. Trial registration The protocol for the trial was registered on Figshare.