Articles tagged with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Studies reveal a gene-regulating protein that triggers coping mechanisms in mice exposed to inescapable stress, leading to reduced behavioral despair. The discovery provides an animal model for exploring how antidepressants work on the brain circuitry involved in stress response.
This article discusses various aspects of pain management, including the impact of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on patient satisfaction. The study found that patients with both conditions were more likely to have a chronic medical condition and greater physical and psychosocial stressors.
A recent Geisinger Health System study reveals a clear connection between combat veterans' mixed handedness and the likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The research found that extreme mixed handedness increased PTSD risk by nearly five times.
A multicenter trial found that family members who engaged in a longer, more comprehensive conference had lower rates of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. The study provided a 15-page leaflet with information on end-of-life care and bereavement support.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was prevalent among those affected by Hurricane Katrina, with a diagnosis rate of over 38% in New Orleans. The prevalence is significantly higher than the general US population, suggesting a need for long-term, coordinated mental health response as part of disaster relief efforts.
Researchers are using a virtual reality simulation called Virtual Iraq to better understand how symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develop. The study found that participating veterans with PTSD experience increased physiological arousal, anxiety, and suppressed memories after viewing the simulation.
Children experience traumatic events, such as parent imprisonment or sudden separation, without developing PTSD. More than two-thirds of children report at least one traumatic event by age 16.
A study of 279 torture survivors found that psychological manipulation, deprivation, and humiliation caused as much distress as physical torture. The researchers concluded that the distinction between torture and other forms of maltreatment is not only useless but also dangerous.
A Stanford/Packard study found that severe PTSD damages children's brains by reducing the size of the hippocampus, a crucial structure for memory processing and emotion. Children with PTSD were more likely to experience a decrease in hippocampal volume, which can lead to prolonged symptoms and impaired brain development.
A randomized controlled trial found that prolonged exposure cognitive behavioral therapy was more effective than present-centered therapy in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in female military veterans and active-duty women. The therapy led to improved symptoms, quality of life, and reduced anxiety.
Humans and primates are highly intelligent, social creatures prone to stress-related diseases due to chronically psychosocially stressed situations. Chronic stress compromises health by suppressing immune function, reproduction, and brain function.
Researchers found that cortisol can lessen emotional impact of stress in women, with a high dose providing protective effects. The study suggests potential for cortisol as a clinical tool to treat and prevent anxiety disorders.
Adolescents with parents in the military experience increased stress and physiological changes during wartime, including higher blood pressure and heart rates. Researchers found that these effects were particularly pronounced in children of deployed parents.
A UGA study finds that social workers are at risk of experiencing post-traumatic stress due to repeated exposure to trauma victim stories. The study, which surveyed nearly 300 social workers, found that 15% met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD within a week. The researchers recommend education and support measures to minimize this risk.
A prospective study found that higher levels of PTSD symptoms are associated with an increased risk of non-fatal and fatal coronary heart disease in older male veterans. The study analyzed data from 1,946 men enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Normative Aging Study.
Researchers found that experiencing control over a stressor immunizes a rat from developing depression-like syndrome when it later encounters uncontrollable stressors. The prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in processing information about controllability and regulating responses to subsequent stressors.
A study of healthy women has found that stress-related cortisol administration can reduce fatigue and increase vigor. The research may help fine-tune treatments for illnesses linked to low cortisol levels, such as chronic fatigue syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Research finds childhood traumatic events and emotional instability are associated with CFS, which affects daily activities and interferes with rest. Higher overall trauma scores increase the risk of CFS by 3-8 times, with emotional neglect and sexual abuse during childhood linked to worse symptoms.
Recent studies on PTSD are shedding light on its underlying causes, including the role of trauma, genetics, and neural circuitry. The condition affects approximately 5% of men and 10% of women, with a higher likelihood in children of trauma survivors.
Patients who received social support during and after a major intensive-care intervention showed reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Better-perceived social support was associated with improved mental health, including lower levels of anxiety and better quality of life.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that a natural stress hormone corticosterone can decrease the fearful response associated with reliving traumatic memories in mice. The study showed that this hormone enhances new memories competing with fearful memories, thereby decreasing their negative emotional significance.
Scientists at SUNY Downstate Medical Center discovered a molecular mechanism maintaining memories in the brain by inhibiting a specific enzyme, protein kinase M zeta. This finding may have applications in treating chronic pain and memory loss conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
Post-tsunami mental health studies found elevated rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression among survivors in Thailand. Loss of livelihood was a significant predictor of these symptoms. Children also showed increased symptoms of depression and PTSD.
A study reviewing 40 years of disaster research found that PTSD affects a substantial burden of people who experience disasters. The most important risk factors for developing PTSD are the extent of exposure and the scope of the disaster.
Researchers are developing a new field in disaster mental health training to address the emotional needs of victims, first responders, and others affected by disasters. With funding from the DOH Grant, they have already trained 168 community-based mental health professionals and plan to expand their reach.
A study found that individuals with alcohol dependence without PTSD exhibit a disconnect between emotional distress and biological stress response to stress tests. They are more likely to relapse during the follow-up period due to this disruption.
A study of UK armed forces personnel deployed to the 2003 Iraq War found no specific health effects on regular service members. However, reserve personnel reported higher rates of physical and mental illness due to deployment-related stresses.
A five-week mantram course helped 83% of survey participants find the technique useful for managing stress, anxiety, and unwanted thoughts. Mantrams were found to be effective in reducing PTSD-type dreams and improving emotional regulation.
The study found that US military veterans who served in Iraq had a higher prevalence rate of mental health problems and combat experiences compared to those who served in Afghanistan or other locations. Iraq veterans used inpatient and outpatient mental health services at higher rates, with an annualized rate of utilization of 35%.
A new initiative aims to track the experiences of Hurricane Katrina survivors, gathering data on their recovery process, mental health, and access to healthcare. Quarterly reports will be posted online to inform policy decisions.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that parents of children with cancer often suffer from post-traumatic stress symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, and heightened arousal. The studies suggest that these symptoms can be just as severe as those experienced by patients themselves.
Research reveals a likely connection between early-life stress and teenage mental health problems, including behavioral and emotional disorders. Monkeys studied showed similar responses to early-life stresses as human children, providing a clearer developmental picture.
Researchers found extremely high reported human rights violations among Tibetan refugees, leading to increased incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, and depression. The study reveals that torture and human rights abuses are unacceptably high among Tibetans who have escaped to Nepal or India.
According to a recent review, approximately 15% of heart attack patients develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can lead to impairments in social functioning, vitality, and physical health. The study also identifies risk factors for PTSD in cardiovascular disease patients.
A study by Gavan McNally and colleagues found that opiate users are more susceptible to stress-induced anxiety. The researchers tested rats with morphine or saline solution, then subjected them to restraint stress. The results showed that opiate-treated rats experienced greater anxiety responses, including reduced social interaction, a...
A study published in JAMA Network in 2005 found that war survivors experienced high rates of mental health disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. The study highlighted the need for comprehensive care and support for military personnel returning from combat.
A study of Cambodian immigrants in the US found a significant prevalence of PTSD and depression, with rates highest among older, poorer, and unemployed individuals. The research suggests that these disorders may be linked to a single continuum of posttraumatic stress.
A recent US study by Boston University researchers found that family and community engagement are crucial in mediating the traumatic reaction of unaccompanied refugee minors, known as the 'Lost Boys of Sudan'. The study suggests that comprehensive approaches to resettlement efforts can help these young men thrive on all fronts.
The latest US mental health tracking survey shows a high prevalence of mental disorders, with most cases being mild. However, the survey also found that many cases go untreated and when treatment occurs, it often does not meet recommended guidelines.
A US study assessed the functional and behavioral health of unaccompanied Sudanese refugee minors one year after resettlement in foster care. The youths reported high levels of trauma and stress, with increased risk of PTSD associated with separation from family, group home living, and feelings of loneliness.
A study based on US National Comorbidity Survey Replication data found that 26.2% of adults in the US had a mental disorder, with anxiety disorders being the most prevalent. Severity levels showed 22.3% as serious, 37.3% as moderate, and 40.4% as mild.
Patients with facial lacerations and fractures report higher levels of depression, anxiety, and marital conflict. They also experience problems with alcohol consumption and occupational functioning.
Infants of mothers with posttraumatic stress syndrome disorder (PTSD) symptoms after 9/11 have significantly lower cortisol levels compared to those born to mothers without the condition. This effect is observed both in utero and after birth, suggesting a potential biological risk factor for PTSD.
A study of NYC public school children found a high proportion had a probable mental disorder six months after the 9/11 attack. The severity of exposure was related to disorder rates, with family exposure being a stronger factor than direct exposure.
Researchers are investigating virtual reality therapy as a potential treatment for acute post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in active-duty military members. The therapy aims to provide innovative tools and techniques for early intervention and treatment of PTSD symptoms, including those related to combat.
Research suggests that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant concern among refugee populations in western countries. Studies indicate that approximately 1 in 10 adults experience PTSD, while others may struggle with major depression and generalized anxiety disorders. The findings highlight the need for increased attent...
A study of 160 children found that 65% were exposed to violence, leading to traumatic stress reactions and poor health outcomes such as allergies, asthma, and ADHD. Clinical interventions to improve mothers' safety and health may help protect their children from these effects.
A study by University of Colorado researchers found that rats with controlled stress exhibit reduced brainstem activation and behaviors similar to depression and anxiety. The prefrontal cortex sends inhibitory signals to the brainstem when stress is controllable, quelling alarm center activity.
Researchers found that acute stress increases levels of DHEA-S in healthy humans and the DHEA-S-cortisol ratio is associated with reduced dissociation symptoms. The study suggests that augmentation of DHEA-S levels before stress exposure may provide a protective effect against stress-induced symptoms.
Women with PTSD experience more medical conditions and poorer physical health compared to those with depression or no history of mental health issues. The study found that PTSD affects 17% of women under 45, while depression rates are higher in older age groups.
A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers found that patients who broke bones in traumatic accidents often experience Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), with almost 51% of civilian orthopaedic trauma patients displaying symptoms. The more severe the injury, the higher the likelihood of PTSD.
A study found that lifetime exposure to adversity is associated with an increased risk of developing depressive or anxiety disorders in young adults. The researchers analyzed data from 1,803 interviews and found that the level of adversity was a significant predictor of these disorders.
Case Western Reserve University and US military combat stress experts are training Cleveland police supervisors to recognize stress in their ranks and address operational stress. The training aims to reduce the potential for violent confrontations with suspects or life-altering mistakes.
A study of Pentagon personnel found that nearly 21 percent experienced mental health symptoms, including generalized anxiety and depression, following the 9/11 attacks. The researchers also discovered that a significant portion of those at high risk for mental health problems sought counseling after the attack.
A study by Northwestern University found that over 90% of delinquent youth had experienced at least one traumatic event, with boys reporting higher rates than girls. The researchers recommend improving mental health services for high-risk youth and detecting post-traumatic stress disorder in juvenile detainees.
A recent study by Cornell University found that NYC firefighters experience high levels of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after the 9/11 attacks. The study also highlights the importance of open communication, teamwork, and employee involvement in decision-making to improve firefighter well-being.
Researchers found that acute stress symptoms were common among injured children, but only a small percentage met criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study suggests that more research is needed to develop better predictors of PTSD in children.
A study of 300 former child soldiers found nearly all experienced traumatic events, including physical and sexual abuse. The study highlights the need for stronger intervention by the UN to prevent children from being used as soldiers in conflicts.
Researchers found that patients who lost consciousness for at least 12 hours were less likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder compared to those who remained conscious. The study, which examined 46 inpatients with traumatic brain injuries, suggests that losing consciousness may be a protective factor against developing PTSD.
Researchers found that 9-11 attacks had a significant impact on black adolescents, with 28% feeling pessimistic about their future and 22% losing faith in government protection. The Iraq War study showed military youth experiencing higher blood pressures, heart rates, and anxiety symptoms.