APA June Journals Highlight Esketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression

The American Psychiatric Association released its June 2026 journal issues with new research on depression treatment, suicide prevention, and integrated mental health care.

The American Journal of Psychiatry published a study on the regional blood flow signatures of opioidergic modulation of ketamine in patients with major depressive disorder. A related paper examined mu-opioid signaling as a maintenance mechanism for ketamine's antisuicidal effects.

Meta-analyses published in the June issues indicate that intranasal esketamine can provide rapid remission for treatment-resistant depression. Researchers note that long-term efficacy remains under study, but the short-term results are significant for patients who have not responded to standard antidepressants.

The journals also published an update on somatic treatments for suicide risk and a global expert consensus on relapse prevention strategies following electroconvulsive therapy for major depressive disorder.

Psychiatric Services, the APA's second major journal, featured research on integrated behavioral health care for depression, employment trajectories for people with mental disorders, and the impact of war on mental health. One study examined how betrayal, age, gender, and ethnicity shape mental health outcomes in conflict zones.

Additional research covered the role of religion and spirituality in help-seeking for psychosis, and the integration of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy into medication management.

The APA publishes its journals monthly, with each issue covering clinical research, policy, and practice updates for mental health professionals.