Research on anxiety and how to ease it. Covers cognitive-behavior programs, virtual reality, stress-response cells, and health-related worry.
A new study published in Autism Research found that autistic adults are vulnerable to various negative life experiences, including financial hardship, domestic abuse, and social bullying. These experiences are associated with higher rates of anxiety and depression symptoms and lower life satisfaction in autistic adults.
A Kumamoto University study found that drinking Matcha tea can reduce anxiety by activating dopamine D1 and serotonin receptors. The anxiolytic effects were stronger with extracts derived using 80% ethanol than those using hot water.
A new study found that genetic variation in the serotonin transporter gene affects brain mechanisms that influence anxiety and depression. The research suggests that personalized therapies could be developed based on an individual's genetic profile.
A qualitative study of 16 patients in Halabja, Iraq, exposed to sulfur mustard in the 1980s reveals severe physical and mental health impairments. The study highlights the need for holistic care and detection of somatic and mental ill-health to minimize deterioration in health outcomes.
A new study by UC Berkeley researchers found that nearly half of US-born Latinx youth worry about the impact of US immigration policies on their families. Those with more concerns experience higher anxiety and poorer sleep quality, impacting their well-being and long-term health.
A new study finds that inducing a sense of awe through watching movies can significantly reduce positive emotion and anxiety during periods of uncertainty. Researchers found that participants who watched an awe-inducing video experienced less stress and more positive emotions compared to those who watched neutral or happy videos.
A new study found that focusing on unfulfilled hopes and aspirations can lead to increased emotional vulnerability and psychological distress. In contrast, acknowledging duties and responsibilities without excessive negative thinking may alleviate anxiety but not depression.
A recent study found that up to 40% of asylum seekers in Finland suffer from major depression and anxiety symptoms, with those from Sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the highest rates. The study also highlighted the need for better support for mental health and healthcare services for asylum seekers, particularly children and families.
A team of researchers found an association between hip joint hypermobility and behavioral alterations in dogs, which may suggest a universal trait among mammals. The study suggests that joint hypermobility could be linked to anxiety disorders in animals, mirroring findings in humans.
A new study by University of South Florida researchers finds that anxiety-like behavior increases when early life adversity combines with high levels of FKBP5, a protein capable of modifying hormonal stress response. High FKBP5 also alters signaling of the enzyme AKT in the dorsal hippocampus, amplifying anxiety.
A team of Dartmouth scientists have found that Godzilla has evolved 30 times faster than other organisms on Earth, growing from a 50-meter tall creature to 119.8 meters in just 65 years. This rapid growth is linked to humanity's collective anxiety, with the researchers proposing that Godzilla represents a cultural icon for our times.
Researchers found significant increases in myo-inositol levels and generalized anxiety symptoms among children exposed to traffic-related air pollution. The study suggests a partial link between high TRAP exposure and increased anxiety, highlighting the potential impact on population health.
A new study from Caltech shows that anxious individuals flee danger sooner in slow-threat scenarios, but not in fast-threat situations. This suggests that anxiety is a prediction strategy that helps prevent future dangers.
A recent review of studies found that regulating intestinal microbiota through probiotics and non-probiotic interventions can effectively reduce anxiety symptoms in people. Probiotic supplements were only effective in about half of the studies, while non-probiotic interventions showed a 86% rate of effectiveness.
Researchers at Penn Medicine found that Twitter users with depression and anxiety tend to post less vivid photos with lower aesthetic values, often featuring grayscale images of their faces. The study's lead author noted that this 'flat affect' is characterized by reduced expression and displays of emotion.
Researchers have found that smokers with COPD have significant unmet mental health care needs, particularly anxiety and depressive symptoms. These symptoms can impact many COPD-related outcomes, including hospital readmissions and exacerbations.
A six-week web-based intervention has been shown to significantly improve anxiety, depression and psychosocial well-being in heart-failure patients. The program combined psychological and medical help, was found to have lasting benefits and can be integrated into routine healthcare.
A machine learning algorithm can detect signs of anxiety and depression in young children's speech, potentially providing a fast and easy way to diagnose conditions that are difficult to spot. The algorithm is highly successful at diagnosing children with an internalizing disorder with 80% accuracy.
A new study at Northwestern University found that teaching happiness skills to dementia caregivers reduces their depression, anxiety, and improves physical health. The intervention, called LEAF, increased feelings of happiness and positivity among caregivers after six weeks.
A 18-year study of thousands of Americans found that people who persist in their goals and have a positive outlook tend to experience less depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. The study suggests that perseverance and optimism can create resilience against mental health disorders.
Researchers discovered a new gene mutation that reduces fear and anxiety and increases social interaction in mice, according to a study published in Neuropharmacology. The P4h-tm knockout mice showed striking courage and a lack of learned helplessness compared to control mice.
A new study found that veterans and active-duty service members with combat-related PTSD and mild traumatic brain injury had larger amygdalas, a key region in processing emotions, compared to those with only brain injuries. The findings suggest a potential link between amygdala size and the development of PTSD symptoms.
A pilot study found that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy skills significantly decreased stress, anxiety, and worry among caregivers of veterans. The intervention was effective in reducing caregiver burden, but more research is needed to explore its benefits for the veteran population as well.
A nationwide study published at the European Congress on Obesity found that children and adolescents with obesity are more likely to develop anxiety or depression compared to their peers. The study, which analyzed over 12,000 Swedish children, revealed a clear increased risk of anxiety and depressive disorders in those with obesity.
A recent study found that parents of older, healthier newborns with less social support had lower resilience scores and more symptoms of depression and anxiety. The research suggests that parental resiliency is closely linked to the quality of parent-child interactions and long-term child development.
A new study found a correlation between strong feelings of responsibility and the development of OCD or GAD in American university students. The research identified three types of inflated responsibility, with personal blame and continued thinking having the strongest link to the disorders.
Researchers used deep brain imaging to study amygdala activity in mice, revealing two large antagonistic sets of neurons that encode opposing moment-to-moment state changes. The findings suggest a complex neural basis for internal states like anxiety, which may have implications for understanding human anxiety disorders.
A 3-year longitudinal study shows that repeated media coverage of collective traumas can fuel a cycle of distress, exacerbating fear about future adversities. The study found that individuals who have experienced violence or mental health issues are more susceptible to this pattern.
Researchers found that comic-style information improves patient comprehension and reduces anxiety before cardiac catheterization. The comic booklet was shown to be effective in explaining procedural details and postoperative advice, with patients reporting feeling better prepared for surgery.
Researchers confirmed the theory that impostor syndrome mediates the link between perfectionism and psychological distress. Impostor syndrome arises from maladaptive perfectionism, causing increased anxiety, depressive moods, and other disorders. The study recommends focusing on competence, understanding self-defense mechanisms, mainta...
A simulated study found that exposure to SSRIs differed among poor, normal, rapid, and ultra-rapid metabolizers. This information could inform SSRI dosing to optimize efficacy and minimize adverse effects.
A new University of Liverpool-led study highlights the effectiveness of a brief group psychological intervention for women affected by anxiety and depression in post-conflict Pakistan. The intervention, known as Group Problem Management Plus, was tested in a randomized controlled trial involving 612 women in rural Swat, with promising ...
Researchers discovered a novel gene mutation that reduces activity of the FAAH gene, which is involved in pain sensation and anxiety. The mutation is associated with enhanced wound healing, reduced anxiety, and fearlessness, potentially leading to new treatments for post-surgical pain and anxiety.
Research suggests that people with attachment issues engage more with stories, such as movies and TV shows, to deal with relationship insecurities. They find a 'safe space' to understand their problems or imagine a functional relationship without real-life complications. This vicarious living can help them expand their social experiences.
A new study suggests that white women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) experience higher levels of anxiety compared to their black counterparts. The research found a significant difference in anxiety symptoms between the two groups, with white women exhibiting higher rates of anxiety on screening tests.
A new study suggests that chosen solitude is a positive experience for adolescents and young adults, contributing to personal growth and self-acceptance. In contrast, imposed solitude can be problematic, increasing the risk of social anxiety, loneliness, and depression. The research highlights the importance of understanding individual...
Researchers from the University of Bristol found a link between child and adolescent anxiety and later alcohol use disorders. However, associations with drinking frequency and binge drinking were more inconsistent.
Anxiety in childhood and adolescence is associated with a higher likelihood of later alcohol use disorders, according to an analysis of relevant studies. The positive associations were found in approximately 43% of cases, while negative associations were found in 11% of cases.
A new study examines the link between birth complications and social anxiety symptoms in children, finding that perinatal issues can increase behavioral inhibition and anxiety levels. The research suggests that childhood temperament may be a developmental pathway for this relationship.
A Johns Hopkins study found that 80% of participants experienced improvements in anxiety and depression after using synthetic psychedelic 5-MeO-DMT. The short-acting effects of the substance may make it easier to use as an adjunct therapy, with potential benefits for individuals experiencing clinically significant negative mood.
A study by Queen Mary University of London found that white British individuals are almost twice as likely to have extremist sympathies as those of Pakistani heritage. The research also discovered a significant association between depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress with extremist views.
A report by the University of Cambridge explores the nature and resolution of maths anxiety, finding that girls tend to be more affected than boys and that teachers and parents may inadvertently play a role in its development. The study also highlights the need for conscious awareness of an individual's maths anxiety affecting their pe...
Research suggests that adolescent binge drinking increases risk for anxiety later in life by altering brain connectivity and epigenetic programming. Abnormal epigenetic changes in the amygdala, a key emotional regulation center, can lead to lasting susceptibility to psychological issues.
A study found substantially higher anxiety and depression rates among US adults with atopic dermatitis compared to those without. Virtually all patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis had symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Research found social anxiety disorder had strongest association with alcoholism and predicted it over other anxiety disorders. Individuals with social anxiety were at higher risk of developing later alcoholism compared to those with other anxiety disorders.
A recent study published in ACS Chemical Neuroscience suggests that low doses of psychedelic drugs may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Researchers treated rats with microdoses of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) without negative effects, showing cautious optimism for this treatment method.
According to Binghamton University professor Nina Flanagan, a positive mindset is crucial for maintaining a productive work environment in the healthcare field. Negativity can spread from leaders if not addressed.
Research from the University of Exeter suggests anxiety is a factor in poor school attendance among children and young people. The study found a surprising association between truancy and anxiety, as well as the expected link between anxiety and school refusal.
A new paradigm shift in food allergy treatment is on the horizon, allowing children to gradually reintroduce forbidden foods and reducing long-term anxieties. Researchers and clinicians will provide support as families navigate these new treatments and manage psychosocial concerns related to daily life.
A University at Buffalo psychologist conducted a study using smartphones to measure symptoms in real-time, revealing that some emotions linger and predict later symptoms. The research could provide treatment benefits for patients struggling with anxiety and depression by identifying specific risk factors and suggesting strategies.
A new study in mice reveals that sociable personalities attenuate neuropathic pain, while anxiety intensifies it. High expression of genes IL6 and PDYN in the amygdala correlates with increased pain sensitivity.
Conversations are fundamental to relationships, but people often feel anxious about them. Researchers found that people tend to rank their ability to have a conversation low, but this is not as bad as it seems. In fact, people are very forgiving in conversations and can enjoy talking to strangers.
A meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials found that all types of dietary improvement significantly reduce depressive symptoms, with weight loss, fat reduction, and nutrient-improving diets having similar benefits. Simple changes like eating more fiber-rich meals can be effective in improving mental health.
Researchers found that increasing glutamate levels in the hippocampus normalized anxious monkeys' threat responses, with effects dependent on area 25. This study suggests targeting the brain region and its connection to reduce anxiety.
The study found that benzodiazepine prescriptions for anxiety increased from 3.8% to 7.4% over the 12-year period, with primary care physicians accounting for half of all visits. The growing use of benzodiazepines has led to an increase in overdose deaths, prompting a need for addressing prescribing patterns.
A new study has identified reliable symptoms for diagnosing antenatal anxiety in pregnant women, improving screening tools for health professionals. The findings suggest that elevated worry, panic symptoms, and excessive concerns about the baby's health are robust indicators of antenatal anxiety.
A new study suggests that statistics anxiety is a significant obstacle for psychology majors, with up to 80% of college students experiencing it. The researchers used network science analysis to identify key factors contributing to the anxiety and propose targeted strategies to help students overcome it.
A wearable motion sensor and machine learning algorithm can detect internalizing disorders in young children with high accuracy, identifying those at risk of substance abuse and suicide later in life.
Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute have discovered a neural circuit in the locus coeruleus (LC) that helps moderate brain activity and maintain calm. The circuit involves connections between neurons releasing GABA and noradrenaline, which work together to regulate arousal levels.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that brief pre-exam de-stressing strategies can reduce performance gaps between lower-income and higher-income students. The interventions, which included expressive writing and reappraisal, improved exam scores and course-passing rates for lower-incom...