This study presents a comprehensive analysis of recent mental illness research by utilizing an advanced bibliographic method capable of analyzing up to 12,965 papers indexed in the Web of Science database, overcoming the limitations of traditional tools like VOSviewer, which typically analyze fewer than 1,000 papers. By examining a vast dataset, this study identifies key trends, significant keywords, and prominent contributors, including leading researchers, universities, and countries/regions, in the field of mental illness research. Additionally, the study highlights eight major contributors to mental health problems, offering critical insights into the field’s current state. The findings underscore the importance of advanced bibliographic methods in providing a more detailed and accurate overview of mental illness research. This analysis not only enhances the understanding of young scholars entering the field but also uncovers significant trends and identifies notable gaps in the literature. The study advocates for continued innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to deepen understanding and address unresolved challenges in mental health research.