Oxytocin has different effects on stress in male and female mice
New research suggests oxytocin may trigger anxiety in stressed females, unlike males where it increases social motivation. The hormone also had no effect on non-stressed females.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Articles tagged with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
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Posttraumatic stress disorder reveals an imbalance between signalling systems in the brain
A new study by Uppsala University researchers found that posttraumatic stress disorder is caused by an imbalance between two neurochemical signalling systems: serotonin and substance P. The severity of symptoms depends on the degree of imbalance, not just one system.
Military sexual trauma: Prevalent and under treated
Studies reveal high rates of male military sexual trauma due to stigma and shame, affecting mental health outcomes. Female veterans who experienced assault are also at risk of PTSD and delayed seeking help.
Sexual dysfunction is prevalent among recently deployed veterans
A recent study found nearly 18% of returning veterans experience sexual functioning difficulties, with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder being major contributing factors. The study's authors emphasize the need for easy access to effective care and open discussion of sexual health concerns among veterans.
Reduced activity of a brain protein linked to post-traumatic stress disorder
A new study published in PLOS Biology found that people with PTSD have reduced SGK1 protein activity in their prefrontal cortices. Reducing SGK1 activity in rats led to PTSD-like behavior and induced learned helplessness, a key aspect of the disorder.
Kenyan journalists covering life-threatening events at increased risk of psychological harm
A major study of Kenyan journalists who covered violent events found that they were at increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. The research, published by JRSM Open, highlights the need for news organizations to prioritize their psychological health and offer confidential counselling.
GW researcher receives $750,000 to study the link between PTSD and heart disease
Researchers at GW University, Emory University, and Harvard University will investigate the connection between stress-related mental health disorders like PTSD and cardiovascular disease. The project aims to develop new therapeutic advances in treating PTSD and its comorbidity with cardiovascular disease.
Reduced heart rate variability may indicate greater vulnerability to PTSD
A prospective study found that reduced heart rate variability may indicate a greater risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in U.S. Marines before and after combat deployment. The researchers suggest that addressing the biology of the autonomic nervous system may offer new opportunities for preventing PTSD.
Gene may predict severity of post-traumatic stress disorder
Researchers found that a gene linked to PTSD severity predicts increased symptoms and thinner brain cortex in veterans returning from conflict. The study suggests a possible genetic blood test to identify at-risk individuals.
No link found between PTSD and cancer risk
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine find no evidence of association between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and cancer incidence. The large population sample analyzed various cancer diagnoses among people with PTSD compared to the general population, showing no strong associations even among select groups.
Trauma experiences change the brain even in those without PTSD
Research by University of Oxford scientists found that trauma can change the brain even in those without PTSD, with potential implications for early diagnosis and treatment. The study identified specific brain network imbalances and suggests a spectrum of traumatic effect on the brain.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy decreases PTSD symptom severity among veterans
A randomized trial found that mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy resulted in greater improvement in self-reported PTSD symptom severity compared to present-centered group therapy. The study suggests that this type of intervention may be an acceptable alternative for veterans with poor adherence to existing treatments.
Computerized treatment may combat PTSD symptoms
A new study suggests a cutting-edge computer program capable of alleviating PTSD symptoms by reducing fluctuations in attention towards and away from perceived threats. The program, targeting basic cognitive processes, produced significant reductions in severe PTSD symptoms with a similar success rate as cognitive behavioral therapy.
New insights into the circuitry of PTSD and mild traumatic brain injury
A new study examined brain networks in veterans with trauma exposure using functional magnetic resonance imaging and graph theory tools. The researchers found that veterans with more severe PTSD re-experiencing symptoms showed weaker connectivity in two brain networks, including the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.
Coping by avoidance in making decisions for relatives in ICU may lead to PTSD
A new study at Case Western Reserve University's Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing found that coping by avoidance when making decisions for relatives in ICU can lead to PTSD. The study surveyed 77 people and found 42% had clinically significant PTSD symptoms, with death of the patient being a strong predictor.
Keep fears at bay by learning something new
Researchers find that presenting a new outcome instead of omitting an expected threat can lead to more effective fear extinction in both rats and humans. The study's findings have implications for the treatment of anxiety disorders, including posttraumatic stress disorder and phobias.
How cortisol reinforces traumatic memories
A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that cortisol enhances the consolidation of emotional memories, particularly in individuals with anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Cortisol levels can strengthen memories of traumatic experiences during both initial formation and reconsolidation after memory retrieval.
Could 'virtual reality' treat alcoholism?
A new study suggests that virtual reality therapy may help people with alcohol dependence reduce their craving for alcohol. The therapy involves exposing patients to situations that trigger fear and anxiety, then teaching them to manage those situations in real life.
Flood aftermath linked to post-traumatic stress: Queensland University of Technology study
A Queensland University of Technology study has found that flood victims experienced more psychological distress during the rebuilding phase than as waters inundated their homes and businesses. Aftermath stress was the strongest predictor of post-traumatic stress symptoms, with insurance company issues being a major contributor.
No link found between PTSD and cancer risk
A large study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found no evidence of an association between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and cancer incidence. This contradicts plausible theories suggesting a link between stress and cancer, but is consistent with previous population-based studies.
Viewing violent news on social media can cause trauma
A study by Dr Pam Ramsden found that nearly a quarter of participants who viewed violent news events on social media scored high on clinical measures of PTSD. Those with outgoing personalities were also more at risk. The study highlights the need for support and awareness about the risks of viewing traumatic content online.
Cancer and chemobrain: Cancer diagnosis affects cognitive function
A new study by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München attributes mild cognitive defects in breast cancer patients to post-traumatic stress induced by diagnosis, not chemotherapy side-effects. The study found pretreatment cognitive impairment in breast cancer patients was due to stress associated with the disease.
Cancer-related PTS linked to very limited cognitive impairment among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients
A new study found that cancer-related post-traumatic stress is associated with very limited cognitive impairment before treatment among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. The study, published in the JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute, analyzed data from 166 breast cancer patients and 60 matched controls.
Posttraumatic stress can have profound effects on sexual health
PTSD survivors often experience sexual dysfunction due to biological and cognitive processes related to traumatic stress. The condition disrupts trust, safety, and emotional connection, associating arousal with threat.
Risk patterns identified that make people more vulnerable to PTSD
A new computational tool identifies 800 ways people are at increased risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), allowing for personalized prediction guides. The algorithm, developed by NYU Langone Medical Center researchers, can predict PTSD risk less than two weeks after a traumatic event.
Study of veterans finds family support during deployment reduces suicidal thoughts
A recent study found that family support during deployment significantly reduces suicidal thoughts in veterans. The research, published in Anxiety, Stress and Coping, highlights the importance of treating mental health symptoms to prevent suicidal ideation.
Gene networks for innate immunity linked to PTSD risk
Researchers have found genetic markers in blood samples associated with gene networks regulating innate immune function and interferon signaling, offering insights into the pathophysiology of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study suggests that these molecular signatures may be used to predict who is at risk of developing PTSD.
Mental health soon after war-zone concussions predicts disability
Researchers found that early post-traumatic stress symptoms are the strongest predictors of later disability in military personnel with mild brain injuries. A study evaluated 38 patients with mild blast-related brain injury and 34 controls, showing that mental health assessments soon after injury were more predictive of long-term disab...
What makes some women able to resist or recover psychologically from assault-related trauma?
A study of 159 women found that those with high mastery and social support were less likely to develop major depressive disorder after assault exposure. Mastery and posttraumatic growth were also associated with recovery from trauma-related psychiatric disorders.
New UTHealth therapy targets PTSD, substance use disorders
A new therapy, TIPSS, developed by Anka Vujanovic aims to treat both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders. The study focuses on an integrated treatment that combines elements of standard cognitive-behavioral therapy with a focus on PTSD symptoms.
Brain recalls old memories via new pathways
A recent study suggests that brain circuitry for fear retrieval shifts over time, potentially worsening symptoms of anxiety disorders. The discovery could change scientists' view of post-traumatic stress disorder and inform the development of new treatments.
Rekindling marriage after combat deployment
A new study offers tailored approaches to help spouses reintegrate and rebuild their relationship after a partner's combat deployment. Strategies include emotional acceptance, effective communication, and maintaining trust.
How terrorist attack survivors view their interactions with the media
Among survivors of the 2011 Utøya Island terrorist attack, most perceived contact with media as a positive experience. However, negative evaluations and regrets about participation were found to be associated with post-traumatic stress reactions.
Telemedicine collaborative care for posttraumatic stress disorder in US veterans
A telemedicine-based collaborative care model successfully engaged rural veterans with PTSD in evidence-based psychotherapy, improving clinical outcomes. The study found that patients who attended eight or more sessions of cognitive processing therapy experienced significant improvements in PTSD severity.
Federal legislation ignores PTSD toll on civilians
A study by Jonathan Purtle found that federal legislation addressing PTSD has predominantly focused on military personnel, with over 90% of mentions targeting military personnel or combat exposure. However, PTSD affects a significantly larger civilian population due to its prevalence in non-military traumatic events.
The Lancet Psychiatry: Guidelines limiting duration of overseas deployment prevent mental health problems in UK troops
Research suggests that guidelines limiting duration of overseas deployment in UK troops may have prevented 138 cases of PTSD, among other mental health issues. The Harmony Guidelines, introduced in 2006, limited tours to 13 months or less over a 3-year period.
Pregnant women with PTSD more likely to give birth prematurely, Stanford/VA study finds
A Stanford/VA study found that pregnant women with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely. The study analyzed over 16,000 births to female veterans and found that having PTSD in the year before delivery increased the risk by 35 percent.
Pre-enlistment mental disorders and suicidality among new US Army soldiers
Two studies found that new soldiers are equally likely to have experienced major episodes of mental illness as civilians, but more likely to have a combination of disorders. Rates of pre-enlistment suicide thoughts and plans are similar to matched civilians, but higher rates later in the Army career suggest chronicity of suicidality
Brain imaging research pinpoints neurobiological basis for key symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder like listlessness and emotional detachment in trauma victims
A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center identifies a specific neurobiological basis for key symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including sadness, emotional detachment, and listlessness. The research uses brain imaging to link an opioid receptor in the brain to these symptoms, suggesting a potential target for personal...
Yogic breathing shows promise in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder
A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison finds that yogic breathing can effectively reduce symptoms of PTSD, including anxiety and hyperarousal. The practice has been shown to lower respiration rates and reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans.
Survey finds veterans generally satisfied with mental health care
A survey of U.S. veterans receiving mental health services from the Veterans Health Administration finds general satisfaction, but also significant room for improvement among all areas studied. Patients who received treatment for substance use disorder were less satisfied and less likely to report symptom improvement.
PTSD can develop even without memory of the trauma
Researchers found that rats with no explicit memory of an early childhood trauma developed PTSD symptoms, highlighting the importance of non-articulated brain processes in distress. This study challenges traditional views on PTSD treatment by emphasizing the role of physiologic arousal and other forms of learning.
The Lancet Psychiatry: reclassification of PTSD diagnosis potentially excludes soldiers diagnosed under previous criteria
A new study found that the reclassification of PTSD diagnosis in DSM-5 potentially excludes soldiers who were previously diagnosed under previous criteria. The authors surveyed 1822 US soldiers and found that just under a third were excluded when using DSM-5 criteria, highlighting concerns for treatment and benefits.
Biomarker could reveal why some develop post-traumatic stress disorder
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital discovered a biomarker linked to PTSD development, centered around the glucocorticoid receptor. This receptor is found in stressed animals with PTSD and may be targeted for new treatments.
Media exposure and sympathetic nervous system reactivity predict PTSD symptoms in adolescents
Adolescents with high sympathetic nervous system reactivity develop higher PTSD symptoms regardless of media coverage. Lower sympathetic reactivity before a traumatic event is associated with only post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms following high media exposure.
Researchers find potential new predictor of stress-related illnesses
Researchers discovered a link between DNA methylation and stress response in the brain, predicting depression and PTSD risk. The study used functional imaging, saliva tests, and blood samples to show that small changes in gene expression can be a stronger predictor than genetic sequence variation.
Expressive writing may help breast cancer survivors
A University of Houston study found that expressive writing can reduce fatigue, intrusive thoughts, and posttraumatic stress in Chinese-speaking breast cancer survivors. The intervention involved writing about emotions and benefits for 20 minutes each week over three weeks.
What are the risks of post-traumatic stress disorder after an accident?
A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry has identified the risk factors for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after an accident. The research found that 9% of injured people develop PTSD, with symptoms such as headaches, pain, and anxiety persisting for months after the incident.
Persistent symptoms following concussion may be posttraumatic stress disorder
A recent study suggests that persistent symptoms following concussion may be posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), rather than postconcussion syndrome (PCS). The study found that 8.8% of patients with head injuries met the criteria for PTSD, compared to 2.2% of those without head injuries.
For a holistic approach to POW trauma
A new study examines the complex interplay between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms in ex-POWs, finding that treatment must address both conditions simultaneously. Prof. Solomon's research suggests that a 'tunnel vision' approach to treating POWs is ineffective and may even exacerbate symptoms.
PTSD treatment cost-effective when patients given choice
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that letting patients choose their PTSD treatment can lead to significant cost savings and a higher quality of life. The study showed that patients who were allowed to select their own treatment spent an average of $1,622 less per year compared to those who were assig...
PTSD symptoms common after an ICU stay
A systematic review of 28 studies involving over 3,400 adult ICU survivors found that one quarter exhibited PTSD symptoms. Risk factors included younger age, benzodiazepine use, and frightening ICU experiences. PTSD symptoms were associated with worse health-related quality of life.
Program to move families out of high-poverty neighborhoods has mixed results
A study published in JAMA found that a program designed to move families out of high-poverty neighborhoods had reduced rates of depression and conduct disorder among girls, but increased rates among boys. The study suggests sex differences in the effects of housing mobility on mental health outcomes.
Why are some children more resilient to post-traumatic stress?
A study comparing post-traumatic stress symptoms among children exposed to disasters and identifying risk factors for resiliency. The article discusses the importance of recognizing similarities and differences in how children and adults react to traumatic events.
Study in mice raises question: Could PTSD involve immune response to stress?
Chronic stress in mice primes their immune systems for a prolonged fight, causing an excessive reaction to later acute stressors. The study's findings mimic symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and suggest the spleen plays a key role in storing primed immune cells.
New evidence shows how chronic stress predisposes brain to mental disorders
Researchers found that chronic stress generates more myelin-producing cells and fewer neurons in the brain, disrupting communication and potentially leading to mental problems like anxiety and depression. This long-term change in brain structure may also contribute to conditions such as PTSD, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Transcendental Meditation significantly reduces PTSD in African refugees within 10 days
A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that Congolese refugees who practiced Transcendental Meditation experienced a significant reduction in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms after just 10 days. Their PTSD test scores dropped to an average of 48, indicating nearly no symptoms of PTSD.
Low levels of pro-inflammatory agent help cognition in rats
Research found that neutralizing a specific cytokine in the brain impaired cognitive flexibility in stressed and nonstressed rats. However, restoring low levels of this cytokine in a specific region of the brain corrected the deficit.
Nociceptin: Nature's balm for the stressed brain
Researchers have confirmed the importance of the nociceptin system in modulating the effects of stress. The study found that this system can prevent and even reverse some cellular effects of acute stress in an animal model.
Brain trauma raises risk of later PTSD in active-duty Marines
A study of U.S. Marines found that traumatic brain injury (TBI) during deployment was a significant predictor of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) over time. Pre-deployment PTSD symptoms and combat intensity also played a role in the development of PTSD.