Recent developments in psychiatry and neuroscience are shedding light on the potential of digital and pharmacological innovations to transform mental health care.
Two new significant studies from the University of Oxford, supported by our BRC highlight this evolving landscape.
One study, featured in National Geographic*, explores the unexpected cognitive benefits of GLP-1 agonists—drugs originally developed for diabetes and now widely known for aiding weight loss. Medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are being investigated for their potential to slow cognitive decline. Early studies in mice show reduced brain inflammation and improved memory, while human trials hint at modest benefits for conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Dr Riccardo De Giorgi, a psychiatrist at the University of Oxford’s Department of Psychiatry and NIHR Oxford Health BRC researcher, quoted in the National Geographic article shared his thoughts on the significance of this research:
“I was delighted, and a little touched, to be featured in this thoughtful and in-depth article in the National Geographic exploring the potential of GLP-1–based therapies for brain health. This feature holds particular personal significance, as reading this magazine during my teenage years was what first sparked my interest in science. The piece delves into the fascinating intersection of psychiatry, neuroscience, and metabolic research, reflecting the translational direction this field is now taking. It’s especially encouraging to see the National Geographic, a leading platform for high-quality science journalism, engage seriously with this emerging area. Clear, evidence-informed reporting like this is essential to raising public understanding of such a complex and rapidly evolving topic.”
In a separate but equally compelling study published in Biomedical Engineering Society , Oxford University and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust (OHFT) researchers conducted the first investigation into the attitudes of acutely unwell psychiatric inpatients toward wearable health technologies. The study involved 83 inpatients at adult acute psychiatric units, most of whom were detained under the Mental Health Act and receiving antipsychotic treatment. Despite high levels of paranoid ideation, many participants expressed a willingness to use external sensing devices—particularly those that were comfortable, easy to use, and perceived as clinically beneficial.
Patients emphasized the importance of reliability, clear feedback, and integration with clinical care, underscoring that technology should support rather than replace human interaction. Preferences leaned toward wrist-worn or visible devices, while acceptability declined for implanted or concealed technologies. Privacy and control emerged as key concerns, more so than in patients with physical health conditions.
Senior Clinical Lecturer at Oxford University’s Department of Psychiatry, Dr. Alvaro Barrera, Consultant Psychiatrist at OHFT, commented on the study’s implications:
“This study is important because its findings contradict the assumption that people in the middle of a psychotic episode would refuse to engage with digital technology. This population has a high level of need and this study shows that they are willing to engage with this type of technology.”
Together, these studies challenge prevailing assumptions about mental illness and technology and point toward a future where digital tools and novel therapies play a central role in psychiatric care. They also highlight the importance of patient-informed, co-designed approaches to ensure that innovations are both effective and acceptable to those they aim to help.
*note National Geographic article it is behind a paywall
