Anxiety

Short-term and late-term effects of psilocybin on symptoms in major depression

People who score higher on autistic traits may be more likely to label their feelings as a way of coping with uncertainty

Research at Nagoya University suggests that individuals with higher autistic traits use labeling as a way to cope with uncertainty, reducing emotional stress. The study found a link between autistic traits and lower anxiety levels when people are able to put their feelings into words.

Scientists finally see inside the ‘black box’ of depression treatment

One dose of psilocybin changes the human brain

Researchers found that psilocybin causes temporary shifts in brain entropy, leading to increased insight and emotional self-awareness. This correlates with improved well-being and cognitive flexibility, suggesting the psychedelic trip is key to its therapeutic effects.

I’m concerned about anxiety—what do I need to know?

This article provides an overview of anxiety disorders, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. The study found that anxiety disorders can be effectively managed with a combination of therapy and medication.

Treatment of anxiety for adults in primary care settings

The American Medical Association (AMA) has developed guidelines for treating anxiety disorders in adults in primary care settings. Behavioral therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are recommended treatments.

How a mental health strategy helps young adults navigate cancer diagnosis

Researchers at Rutgers University tested the efficacy of Bright IDEAS, a problem-solving skills training intervention, in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms and improving health-related quality of life among young adults with cancer. The study found significant reductions in symptoms and improvements in quality of life compared t...

Anxiety regulated by key signal in brain immune cells

Researchers identify calcium as a key chemical signal that triggers immune cells during obsessive-compulsive and anxiety-related behaviors. This discovery establishes a new framework to study how anxiety arises and persists through calcium signals in microglia, potentially leading to targeted therapies.

Study reveals how dreams affect our emotions in day-to-day life

A recent study found that more fear in dreams is associated with worse mood in the morning, but individuals with better emotion regulation strategies tend to have more fear in their dreams. Additionally, emotional complexity in dreams may have a protective effect on mood.

Maternal psychological anxiety could harm a developing fetus

Researchers found that maternal anxiety about radiation exposure during the Fukushima nuclear accident was linked to increased rates of preterm births, lower birth weights, and severe birth outcomes. Socioeconomic factors, such as education level and income, played a role in mitigating these effects.

Smartphone app developed by mental health researchers improves mental habits and functioning in randomized trial

A randomized trial tested HabitWorks, a smartphone app offering personalized exercises to target interpretation bias. Participants reported significant improvements in interpretation bias, functioning, and overall mental health symptom severity.

Emotions in motion: How movement may signal mental health issues

A recent study published in Gait & Posture found that analyzing a person's walk and getting up from a chair can identify elevated depression and anxiety symptoms. The researchers used machine-learning models trained on data from participants' movements combined with information about their mental state, achieving high accuracy rates.

Ultrasound helps the brain overcome fear more quickly

Researchers have found that targeted ultrasound can aid in unlearning fear more efficiently by stimulating the amygdala, a key region in processing emotions. Participants who received ultrasound stimulation showed reduced fear responses to previously frightening stimuli.

Tulane University study reveals how the brain fine-tunes fear as threats fade

A Tulane University study reveals how the brain regulates defensive behavior and fine-tunes fear responses as perceived threats diminish. Researchers identified distinct roles for neurons in the central amygdala, which help determine whether an animal responds with intense escape behavior or freezing.

The cost of resilience: BGU study reveals the mental toll of war on Israel’s teachers

A new BGU study examines the emotional labor of teachers during wartime, revealing that those who fake emotions are at higher risk of psychological collapse. The research emphasizes the importance of fostering internal motivation and clear educational identities to mitigate teacher attrition.

Negative emotions at work aren’t always harmful—empathetic leaders make the difference

Research by David Lebel and colleagues found that only half of the relationships between negative emotions and workplace outcomes were harmful during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, many showed no effect or even positive effects, highlighting the importance of empathetic leadership in moderating these outcomes.

VR could reduce anxiety for people undergoing medical procedures

A new study suggests that using virtual reality (VR) to explain medical procedures can help patients better understand their treatment and reduce anxiety. The research tested VR as part of the consent process for a procedure to treat kidney stones, with patients reporting improved understanding and reduced anxiety after the experience.

Research presented at international urology conference in London shows how far prostate cancer screening has come

Research presented at EAU26 confirms that prostate cancer screening leads to a reduction in mortality, but also detects cancers that would otherwise remain undetected. The study's findings suggest that using MRI in prostate cancer screening can reduce overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies.

How the brain charts emotion in a map-like way

A new study reveals that the hippocampus represents emotion concepts in a structured hierarchy of pleasantness and bodily reaction, while the ventromedial prefrontal cortex tracks relationships between these nodes. This map-like representation may help in the treatment of mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety.

Treatment with psychedelics may provide a missing link towards long-term PTSD recovery

Treatment with psychedelics triggers large-scale reconfiguration of brain network dynamics driven by myelin remodeling, which might augment or sustain therapeutic effects. The study suggests that enhancing myelination could be a viable strategy to promote longer-term neural health and recovery from PTSD.

Loneliness, anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation in the all of us dataset

Researchers analyzed data from over 62,000 participants, finding that loneliness partially mediated the link between anxiety and suicidal thoughts as well as depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. Targeting loneliness may be a crucial strategy to prevent progression from these conditions.

Study Finds Online Racism Associated With Black Young Adults Seeking Mental Health Support

A new study found that Black young adults experiencing high levels of online racism are more likely to use digital mental health tools. The research also showed that these individuals were more likely to engage in online mental health communication, regardless of their anxiety or depression symptoms.

Study: Anxiety, gloom often accompany intellectual deficits

A study analyzing data from 44,000 adults found that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience substantially higher rates of anxiety and depression. The study also highlights significant healthcare treatment and access barriers facing this population.

Adolescent cannabis use and risk of psychotic, bipolar, depressive, and anxiety disorders

A cohort study found that adolescent cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders, particularly psychotic and bipolar conditions. The study's results inform the development of interventions and policies to prevent or delay adolescent cannabis use.

Anxiety, depression, and care barriers in adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities

This cross-sectional study highlights critical gaps in accessible mental health services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The findings underscore the need for policy reforms to address systemic inequities and provide disability-informed care.

How tech-dependency and pandemic isolation have created ‘anxious generation’

Experts like Amber Chandler suggest solutions such as no-tech public spaces, phone-free bedtimes, and hands-on problem-solving to help teenagers cope with unprecedented anxiety. Chandler's book offers evidence-based strategies to nurture belonging in a 'scared new world'.

Research reveals impact of tinnitus on employment

A new study found that nearly one in five adults with tinnitus have had to reduce their working hours or leave employment due to the condition. The research also revealed that targeted interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, can improve work productivity and overall wellbeing.

Aerobic exercise may be most effective for relieving depression/anxiety symptoms

Exercise has a medium-sized effect on depression symptoms and a small to medium-sized effect on anxiety symptoms, with aerobic formats being the most effective for relieving depression. All forms of exercise are as good as or better than medication or talking therapies for easing symptoms, regardless of age or sex.

Worrying about aging may actually age women faster

A study by NYU School of Global Public Health found that anxiety about aging contributes to accelerated epigenetic aging, with greater concern about declining health having the strongest association. This can lead to physical decline and increased risk of age-related diseases.

In Sweden, young adults feel most dissatisfied while the oldest thrive

A new study reveals that young adults in Sweden report lower life satisfaction, a weaker sense of meaning, and higher levels of loneliness, anxiety, and depression compared to older age groups. In contrast, older Swedes are among the happiest in the world, with strong close relationships and less loneliness.

Climate-related depressive symptoms may be alleviated through action and hope – hope in society’s capacity to act also plays a part

Individuals who combine climate worry with actions such as volunteering, following a plant-based diet, or avoiding air travel experience fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms. Climate hope in society's ability to mitigate climate change also correlates with reduced mental health issues.

Study revealed brain stimulation may improve attention but also heighten threat sensitivity in individuals with anxious depression

A new study found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can enhance task engagement and activation of brain regions associated with executive function in individuals with comorbid anxiety and depression. However, it unexpectedly heightened sensitivity to threats, including increased eyeblink startle response under conditi...

More than just ‘daydreaming’ – dissociation is the mind’s survival tactic

Dissociation is a complex survival mechanism in response to overwhelming trauma, affecting memory, identity, and perception. Research confirms its prevalence among individuals who have experienced trauma, and effective dissociation-specific treatment options are needed.

Body-focused teens more likely to experience anxiety and depression at 20

Research from the University of Warwick finds that teenage girls who manage their bodies through constant dieting and exercise face heightened risks of psychological health issues. By age 20, these young women are more likely to experience anxiety and depression, highlighting the need for a broader approach to mental health support.

Takeaways are used to reward and console – study

A study found that ordering takeaway meals is a popular self-gifting option for both rewarding good days and consoling bad days. The research suggests that this may be due to the convenience of taking away daily cooking duties, while also providing a indulgent treat.

When aging affects the young: Revealing the weight of caregiving on teenagers

A COVID-19 survey found that young carers experience higher stress levels with greater care responsibilities. However, they also exhibit positive emotions like a sense of accomplishment and pride. The surveys revealed more pronounced emotional responses in 2024, suggesting growing societal understanding and support for young carers.

FAU study reveals social, family and health factors behind teen bullying

Adolescents bullied or engaging in bullying face lasting mental, physical and social challenges. The study identified socioeconomic disadvantages, race, physical differences, and pre-existing health conditions as risk factors for bullying.

New brain study explains how binge drinking contributes to long-lasting negative feelings

Research found that prolonged heavy drinking induces neuroinflammation, promoting negative emotional states lasting for weeks into abstinence. Inhibiting proinflammatory microglia activation during alcohol exposure blocks the development of anxiety and fear memory.

Breastfeeding may lower mums’ later life depression/anxiety risks for up to 10 years after pregnancy

A study of 168 second-time mothers found that those who breastfed were less likely to experience depression and anxiety 10 years after pregnancy. Each week of lifetime exclusive breastfeeding was associated with a 2% lower likelihood of reporting depression and anxiety, after accounting for influential factors.

Yoga for opioid withdrawal and autonomic regulation

This randomized clinical trial found yoga to significantly accelerate opioid withdrawal recovery and improve autonomic regulation, anxiety, sleep, and pain. The study supports the integration of yoga into withdrawal protocols as a neurobiologically informed intervention addressing core regulatory processes.

Smile and the world will trust you: How mimicry shapes first impressions

Researchers found that smiling faces are associated with higher trustworthiness, confidence, and attractiveness. Facial expressions play a crucial role in social judgments, with emotional mimicry influencing character trait evaluations.

Worrying about money and food ages the heart faster than traditional risk factors

A novel analysis found that financial strain and food insecurity accelerate biological aging and increase mortality risk, surpassing traditional risk factors. The study emphasizes the need for targeted preventive interventions and patient-centered care to address social determinants of health.

A newly discovered neural pathway links emotional stimuli to wakefulness

A newly discovered neural pathway connects the amygdala with arousal centers in mice, revealing a key mechanism for emotional regulation of sleep-wake cycles. This finding highlights potential therapeutic targets for stress-related insomnia and mood disorders.

Stress-related brain signals drive risk of cardiovascular disease in people with depression and anxiety

A new study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that patients with depression are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease due to stress-related brain activity, nervous system dysregulation, and chronic inflammation. The study also suggests that addressing chronic stress, anxiety, or depression is crucial for heart health.

Anxiety is reversed for lab mice rehomed in fields

Researchers found that lab mice rewilded for two years showed reduced and even reversed fear response to the elevated plus maze. The study suggests that a range of experiences can increase a sense of agency, reducing anxiety in animals and humans alike. After living in fields, mice returned to their original levels of anxiety behavior.

Digital cognitive behavioral treatment for generalized anxiety disorder

A randomized clinical trial found digital cognitive behavioral therapy to be significantly beneficial for adults with generalized anxiety disorder. The treatment provided sustained benefits and has the potential for public health impact due to its accessibility.

Tech savvy users have most digital concerns

A new study found that highly educated, Western European millennials have the most digital concerns, with individuals having higher levels of digital literacy being the most affected. The research also found that people's perceptions of digital harm are heightened by their level of digital exposure and knowledge.

Anxiety and insomnia may lower natural killer cell count, potentially repressing immune function

Research found that anxiety symptoms reduce circulatory NK cells and sub-populations, while insomnia symptoms decrease total NK cells. This could lead to impaired immune function and increased disease susceptibility.

Most people struggle to spot pain in horses - study

Research found that most people are poor at recognizing pain in horses, but those with more experience are better equipped to identify subtle cues. Higher levels of social anxiety also influenced pain recognition, particularly in humans, highlighting the need for education and training on equine welfare.

Social media detox and youth mental health

A 1-week social media detox in young adults was associated with reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia. The study's findings suggest a potential therapeutic benefit of reducing social media use for mental health concerns.

Golden retriever and human behaviours are driven by same genes

Researchers identified 12 genes linked to canine behaviour also associated with human traits like anxiety, depression, and intelligence. The study provides insights into understanding dog emotional worlds and tailoring training or care to suit their needs.

Probing new mechanisms of depression and anxiety

Researchers found that a protein involved in ATP release, connexin 43, plays a key role in depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors. Restoring connexin 43 in the hippocampus improved behavioral outcomes and boosted ATP levels in stressed mice.

Deep brain stimulation successful for one in two patients with treatment-resistant severe depression and anxiety

Researchers identified a potential biomarker that could inform personalized treatment with deep brain stimulation. Half of the participants showed significant improvements, including nine achieving remission, with brain activity at specific frequency ranges predicting response to treatment.

Nearly half of Australian adults experienced childhood trauma, increasing mental illness risk by 50 percent

A University of Sydney-led study found that 42% of Australian adults experienced traumatic events as children, leading to a 50% higher risk of developing mental health or substance use disorders. Childhood trauma is linked to chronic physical health conditions and can have lifelong consequences.

FAU study finds small group counseling helps children thrive at school

Researchers found that small group counseling improved students' anger management, academic and life skills, feelings of connectedness and safety. Students learned practical strategies and developed social-emotional skills, leading to a positive perception of the school environment.

Research in mice reveals brain cells that drive—and prevent—anxiety

Researchers have identified two groups of brain cells in mice that regulate anxiety - a 'gas pedal' that accelerates anxiety and a 'brake pedal' that prevents it. The discovery could lead to the development of new therapies for anxiety disorders by targeting these microglia.

Low choline levels in the brain associated with anxiety disorders

A new study found that people with generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder have lower levels of choline in their brains. Choline is vital for cell membranes and brain functions like memory, mood regulation, and muscle control.

Mindfulness improves the health of women with chronic jaw pain

A study conducted at the University of São Paulo found that mindfulness can help reduce pain sensitivity and improve emotional regulation in women with TMD. The research involved 53 women who participated in an eight-week mindfulness program, showing significant improvement in pressure pain threshold and reduction in painful points.

More than 100,000 Norwegians suffer from work-related anxiety

A new study reveals that 11.2% of Norwegians experience reduced capacity for work due to work-related anxiety. Experts stress the importance of a supportive culture at work, including psychological support from managers and colleagues, job security, and a safe working environment.

Mapping the links between brain development and mental health

Researchers have developed a new large-scale brain data resource that integrates data from five studies of brain development in children and young adults across three continents. The Reproducible Brain Charts (RBC) project provides a harmonized dataset for tracking changes in brain structure and function, allowing researchers to better...