Highlights From APA’s 2019 Annual Meeting Day One

Welcome to San Francisco!

APA’s 2019 Annual Meeting began in San Francisco Saturday. From now through May 22, Psychiatric News will deliver an evening digest of some of the day’s highlights. Whether you are here in San Francisco or at home, these reports will convey the excitement and outstanding scientific program being presented at this year’s meeting.

Stewart Brings a Robust and Eventful Presidential Year to a Close

During the Opening Session on Saturday, Altha Stewart, M.D., described how APA renewed its global reach while laying the groundwork for a more diverse and inclusive profession and responding to several national emergencies.
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Schwartz: APA Must Lead the Way to End Stigma, Improve Care

Incoming APA President Bruce Schwartz, M.D., vowed during his Opening Session address on Saturday to focus on three crucial areas: increasing access to care, improving quality of care, and continuing the fight against the stigma and discrimination attached to mental illness. Read More >

Levin Speaks to Future of a 'Noble' Profession

The 2019 APA Annual Meeting can offer a blueprint for the future, said APA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, M.D., M.P.A., during the Opening Session on Saturday. “For all the progress we’ve made, there are still some areas where we must improve as we work toward our next milestones—the 200th and 225th anniversaries,” he said.
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MindGames Playoffs Offer Double Treat to Meeting Attendees

MindGames has become one of the most popular Annual Meeting attractions, and this year, attendees got two versions—the traditional resident competition and a special history version in honor of APA's 175th Anniversary.
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The Lincolns: Retrospective Diagnosing Raises Questions Worth Pondering

Studying the putative psychiatric symptoms of historical figures raises important questions about the nature of psychiatric diagnosis, how those diagnoses are viewed through various cultural lenses, and how they may change over time. Read More >

Medications for Cannabis Use Disorder May Ease Withdrawal But Fail to Achieve Abstinence

Treatments to manage withdrawal or block the positive effects of cannabis offer limited benefit, but an over-the-counter supplement may reduce drug-seeking behavior in youth. Experts question whether treatment goals should focus on curbing consumption versus total cessation. Read More >

APA Raises $15,000 for Center Serving Disadvantaged Women

As part of the APA’s annual “APA Gives Back” program, APA President Altha Stewart, M.D., presented a donation today of $15,000 to this year’s recipient, the Young Women’s Freedom Center. For 25 years, this center has been providing support, advocacy, and opportunities for healing for women and girls of color who are impacted by poverty or who were formerly incarcerated. Read More >