A recent study found that lesions in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) result in compulsive sexual behavior in rats, highlighting a potential role for mPFC dysfunction in regulating behavioral inhibition. The research suggests that intact mPFC function is not required for normal expression of sexual behavior.
Researchers have discovered a direct relationship between a psychiatric disorder and the immune system, specifically microglia cells derived from bone marrow. Bone marrow transplants cured mutant mice with compulsive hair-pulling behavior, suggesting potential new treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder.
A study from Rhode Island Hospital found that patients over-diagnosed with bipolar disorder were more likely to receive disability payments for a longer period. The researchers propose a link between the two, suggesting that clinicians may over-diagnose bipolar disorder in complex, chronically ill patients seeking secondary gain.
A new pediatric DSM category, Temper Dysregulation Disorder with Dysphoria (TDD), aims to better reflect symptoms of children currently diagnosed with bipolar disorder. However, the authors argue that this change alone is not enough to promote flourishing in troubled children and may even lead to increased medication use.
Researchers at MIT and Hebrew University identified specific classes of neurons in songbirds that match those in mammalian basal ganglia. The study suggests that the same brain circuits underlie learning in both species, with implications for human biology and disorders like Parkinson's disease.
Researchers discovered a strong link between childhood sexual or emotional abuse and the severity of binge eating disorder. The study found that learned self-criticism and body dissatisfaction are key factors in this association.
Research suggests that individuals taking dopamine agonist medications for Parkinson's disease are at a higher risk of developing compulsive behaviors. The DOMINION Study, which analyzed data from 3,090 patients, found that dopamine agonists were associated with an increased odds of having an impulse control disorder.
Researchers identified a rare mutation in a gene required for histamine production, which could lead to the development of new treatments for tics and Tourette syndrome. The study found that increasing brain histamine reverses repetitive behaviors similar to human tics.
Weill Cornell researchers discovered a single gene, Slitrk5, responsible for OCD-like behaviors in mice. The genetically altered mice exhibited repetitive self-grooming and extreme anxiety, with altered brain functioning mirroring those seen in human OCD patients.
A new study found that stress can aggravate the impact of prior streptococcal infection on symptoms of Tourette syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The researchers identified a link between psychosocial stress and worsening tic and obsessive-compulsive symptom severity in children with Tourette syndrome and OCD.
A recent study reveals that women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) have distinct biological responses to stress and pain, differing from those with major depression. The findings suggest that PMDD is a separate entity from depression, warranting more precise treatments.
A new study by the Scripps Research Institute found that unrestricted access to high-fat foods can trigger addiction-like responses in the brain, leading to compulsive eating behaviors and obesity. The study suggests that type 2 dopamine receptors play a key role in this process.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute found that compulsive eating shares the same molecular mechanisms as cocaine and heroin addiction. In rat models, obesity coincides with a deteriorating chemical balance in reward brain circuitries, leading to compulsive overeating habits.
A new study from Rhode Island Hospital has found that a widely-used screening tool for bipolar disorder may incorrectly identify borderline personality disorder. The research team tested the accuracy of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) and found that it misidentified patients with borderline personality disorder, leading to potent...
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that a gene mutation in mice leads to learning problems and obsessive behaviors. The study suggests a potential way to treat repetitive behaviors in humans using a specific drug targeting nerve function abnormalities.
A study found that stressed mice seek chocolate despite painful consequences, mirroring human compulsive eating behavior. Researchers trained mice with a history of hunger to overcome their fear of certain foods.
A Canadian study links parenting style to children's relationships with hobbies, finding autonomy fosters passion while control predicts obsessive behavior. The research team evaluated over 500 participants between six and 38 years old.
A new online treatment system using biofeedback therapy and web technologies aims to improve patient care for individuals suffering from panic disorder. The system, developed by researchers in Taiwan, has shown promising results in reducing panic attacks and improving symptoms.
Researchers found dopamine agonists trigger increased learning from beneficial outcomes and greater prediction error in susceptible individuals, leading to choice bias towards gains. The study provides insight into the brain mechanisms underlying behavioral addictions in Parkinson's disease patients.
Researchers have identified a genetic locus on chromosome 7 associated with canine compulsive disorder (CCD), a condition characterized by repetitive behaviors. The CDH2 gene region is linked to increased risk of CCD in Doberman breeds and may be involved in human OCD and autism spectrum disorders.
A genetic locus on chromosome 7 has been linked to canine compulsive disorder, a condition characterized by repetitive behaviors. The neural cadherin-2 gene, CDH2, is involved in mediating synaptic activity and neuronal adhesion, suggesting a possible connection to human obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Researchers suggest that compulsive eating may be a legitimate addiction, sparking a new perspective on weight management. The concept of food addiction shares similarities with other addictive behaviors, including tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association finds that deficiencies in DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, may contribute to mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and ADHD. The research suggests that increasing DHA in the diet may help improve nervous-system function.
Researchers suggest remote therapies, such as online cognitive behavioral therapy, could improve treatment outcomes for eating disorders. The study reviews the current state of eating disorder diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the need for increased access to specialized care.
Research found four alterations in RORB gene associated with pediatric bipolar disorder, linking circadian rhythm abnormalities to the condition. The study suggests that clock genes may be important candidates for further investigation into bipolar disorder's molecular basis.
A study of 15 patients with severe Tourette syndrome found that deep brain stimulation reduced tic frequency by 52% on average and improved OCD symptoms. The treatment showed no significant effect on thinking abilities.
A recent study by the University at Buffalo's Research Institute on Addictions found that adolescents with conduct disorder symptoms are more likely to exhibit problem gambling behaviors. The study of 2,274 youth between 14-21 years old showed a strong correlation between increasing conduct disorder symptoms and problem gambling symptoms.
A new study has identified a possible link between autism and non-DNA sequence mutations in the oxytocin receptor gene, OXTR. The research found that this alteration is present in both peripheral blood cells and the brain's temporal cortex, suggesting a major role in human development.
A Stanford University researcher has pinpointed the mechanism by which a gene associated with both autism and schizophrenia influences behavior in mice. The study identified behavioral changes in the mice similar to some symptoms of autism and schizophrenia, highlighting the complexities of cognitive disorders.
A new research center exploring deep brain stimulation for OCD has been established at the University of Rochester Medical Center, thanks to a $10.5 million award from the National Institute of Mental Health. The center will link over 50 researchers studying how DBS affects people with OCD.
A large study of over 4,500 participants found no association between streptococcal infection and Tourette syndrome or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Researchers also ruled out exposure to strep infections as a trigger for these conditions.
Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that nearly half of young adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder between ages 18-25 may recover by age 30. The study suggests a possible link to brain development and social changes during emerging adulthood.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have made a breakthrough in understanding how monkeys weigh costs and benefits when deciding whether to explore new options or stick with what they know. By analyzing neural signals in the posterior cingulate cortex, the team was able to predict which strategy the monkey would employ.
A new study by the American Psychological Association reveals that excessive exercise can lead to physical addiction, causing withdrawal symptoms. Rats given a drug that blocks the action of heroin showed severe withdrawal symptoms after running excessively, highlighting the potential for exercise to become compulsive and addictive.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health have found a link between antibodies to strep throat bacteria and the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder in mice. The study suggests that an inappropriate immune response to the bacteria may trigger psychiatric symptoms, providing new insights into identifyi...
Researchers suggest that OCD should be classified as a separate disorder due to its symptomatically heterogeneous nature and genetic factors contributing 27-47% of variance. Treatment trials indicate promise for medications like D-cycloserine combined with exposure and response prevention therapy.
A follow-up study found that patients previously diagnosed with bipolar disorder were more likely to be diagnosed with borderline personality disorder or impulse control disorders. The researchers analyzed 82 psychiatric outpatients who received a previous diagnosis of bipolar disorder, which was not confirmed through the Structured Cl...
Researchers identify dysfunction in neural circuits of the brain that may contribute to the development of anorexia. Childhood personality traits and perfectionism are also found to be predisposing factors.
Researchers found that brain initially stores improvements in one pathway before transferring to motor pathway for long-term storage. Young zebra finches learn to sing by mimicking their fathers' song and eventually master the syllables and rhythms through repeated practice.
Researchers found that patients with trichotillomania reported significantly reduced hair-pulling after taking the supplement for 12 weeks. Fifty people participated in a double-blind study, with 56% reporting improved symptoms.
A 12-week study found that N-acetylcysteine significantly reduced hair-pulling symptoms in patients with trichotillomania, a condition characterized by compulsive hair-pulling and significant psychosocial problems. The treatment was well-tolerated and compared favorably to existing treatment options.
A review in Mayo Clinic Proceedings suggests that deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be an effective treatment for hard-to-treat depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The therapy, which involves stimulating specific parts of the brain, has shown early results with a beneficial effect on these conditions.
A new study found that approximately 10% of children with bipolar disorder experience irritable-only mania, and these participants are significantly younger than those with elation-only or both symptoms. The study suggests that irritability should be included in the diagnosis of pediatric bipolar disorder.
Parents' attempts to soothe anxiety and assist with OCD behaviors can exacerbate the condition in children, according to a new study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. Researchers found that accommodations like excessive bathing or checking rituals worsen symptoms, while therapy helps improve outcomes.
A study funded by NIH found citalopram to be no more effective than a placebo in reducing repetitive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorders. The medication was associated with increased side effects, challenging its use as a treatment option.
A six-site clinical trial found that citalopram, commonly prescribed to children with autism spectrum disorders, was no more effective than a placebo at reducing repetitive behaviors. The study included 149 participants and showed negative side effects in nearly all children.
A new study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found that the antidepressant citalopram did not reduce repetitive behaviors in children and teens with autism spectrum disorders. The medication, an SSRI, was tested in a randomized controlled trial involving 149 children with moderate to severe repetitive behavior.
A multi-center study found that antidepressant citalopram had no significant effect on reducing repetitive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder. The study included 149 children aged five to 17 and tested the treatment over a 12-week period.
RISPERDAL CONSTA has been approved as both monotherapy and adjunctive therapy in the maintenance treatment of Bipolar I Disorder. The medication offers a convenient and effective choice to delay relapse, with studies demonstrating significant delays in mood episode recurrence.
A new study at the Mayo Clinic found that one in six patients taking therapeutic doses of dopamine agonist medications for Parkinson's disease developed new-onset compulsive gambling or hypersexuality. Researchers analyzed medical records of patients and found no such cases in those taking low doses or other treatments.
A new study found that Naltrexone significantly reduced stealing behavior in individuals with kleptomania. The research suggests the drug may offer hope for those struggling with the condition, particularly when used in combination with individual therapy.
Researchers aim to create a whole-brain circuit map in the mouse brain within two to three years, providing insights into neurodevelopmental illnesses. The project would involve tracing inputs and outputs of each area using standardized protocols and technologically feasible techniques.
A long-term study found that adults with a history of anorexia nervosa are more likely to experience mental health issues. The research, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry and International Journal of Eating Disorders, also showed improved reproductive outcomes for those who had recovered from anorexia.
Researchers found that those with greater romantic love reported higher satisfaction and happiness in both short- and long-term relationships. Companion-like love was only moderately associated with satisfaction. Feeling secure in a partner's presence is key to maintaining romantic love.
Children with childhood obsessive and compulsive symptoms are six times more likely to suffer from an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as adults, according to a new study. Researchers analyzed data from the Dunedin Study, which tracked participants' psychological variables from childhood to adulthood.
Children and teens of parents with bipolar disorder have an increased risk of developing bipolar spectrum disorder and other psychiatric disorders, according to a study. The risk is higher for those with two parents having bipolar disorder, with an increased likelihood of early-onset bipolar disorder and mood disorders.
Research suggests that people with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of premature death from medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. The study found that the risk is similar for men and women, with endocrine problems also contributing to the increased mortality rate.
A study by Vanderbilt University researchers found a surprising link between brain iron levels and serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in neuropsychiatric conditions. The team identified multiple trait differences affected by the SERT GK/ER variation, including traits associated with alcohol consumption and brain dopamine signaling.
Tel Aviv University researchers have developed a program that analyzes animal behavior to understand and treat OCD. By comparing human behavior to animal rituals, the model identifies abnormal patterns and provides a tool for mental health practitioners. This innovative approach may motivate patients to correct their compulsive actions.
A new study by UNC researchers found that postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) report poorer health status, worse quality of life, and physical symptoms such as back pain and memory problems compared to those without the disorder.