Start with a focused question
Each claim begins with a specific question about a behaviour, biological pathway or health outcome—not with a trend that needs to be justified.
ASCEND · Evidence process
How ASCEND uses evidence.
Evidence-based should mean more than adding a reference. ASCEND aims to make health science practical while remaining honest about what is established, what is promising and what is still uncertain.
ASCEND brings together evidence from psychiatry, neuroscience, lifestyle medicine, sleep science, exercise science, nutritional psychiatry and related fields. The strength of evidence differs between topics—and the language used should reflect that.
Use the strongest appropriate sources
Guidelines and high-quality systematic reviews are prioritised. Individual clinical trials and other primary studies are used when they add necessary detail or when broader evidence is limited.
Match the wording to the evidence
An association is not described as proof of cause. A promising mechanism is not presented as an established treatment effect. Limitations and uncertainty remain visible.
Apply clinical review
Content is reviewed through a psychiatric and medical lens, including diagnosis, medication, physical health, addiction, safety and the needs of different populations.
Review again
The ASCEND Evidence Library is refreshed at least every six months, with earlier review when important new evidence or guidance becomes available.
Evidence is not all equal
Clearer language for different levels of certainty.
These labels guide how ASCEND communicates a claim. They are not grades for a person, pillar or treatment plan.
Supported by stronger evidence
Findings are reasonably consistent across high-quality evidence or reflected in credible clinical or public-health guidance. Appropriate limits still apply.
Useful, but not yet settled
Evidence suggests a possible benefit or relationship, but the number, size, quality or consistency of studies remains limited.
An early signal or mechanism
The idea may be biologically plausible or supported by early studies, but it should not be presented as proven clinical advice or a treatment effect.
Clinical boundaries
Evidence must still be applied to an individual person.
Research describes groups. Clinical care considers the person: symptoms, diagnosis, medication, physical health, culture, resources, preferences and risk.
ASCEND supports careLifestyle and behavioural factors can complement appropriate psychiatric, psychological, addiction and medical treatment.
ASCEND does not replace careEducational content cannot diagnose illness, assess clinical risk or determine an individual treatment plan.
Conflicts should be visibleAny sponsorship or material conflict relevant to a piece of content should be declared clearly.
Content is reviewedPublication and review dates help readers see when an educational resource was last checked.