Articles tagged with Anxiety
Women with false-positive mammogram results experienced moderate to extreme anxiety, yet remained more likely to undergo future breast cancer screening. The study found a significant association between false-positives and increased anxiety, but not necessarily changed plans for future screening.
Research by Baylor University and the University of Texas-San Antonio found that listening to gospel music decreases anxiety about death, while increases sense of control among seniors. The study, based on a nationwide survey, also showed positive associations between religious music and life satisfaction, self-esteem.
A telephone-based collaborative care model was effective in managing depression and anxiety in patients with heart disease, improving health-related quality of life. The study found that patients receiving the intervention had greater average improvement in mental health scores at 24 weeks compared to those in the control group.
Residents of poorer Chicago neighborhoods face more life-changing negative events and experience a range of serious health issues due to the complex interplay between traumatic events and lack of resources. The study's findings highlight the need for addressing poverty and providing support for vulnerable populations.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have created a novel method for controlling serotonin receptors using light, which could lead to more effective treatments for anxiety disorders. By utilizing optogenetic tools, the scientists were able to modulate mouse emotional behavior and reduce anxiety-like behaviors.
The study found that positive thinkers had less brain activity during a task where they were asked to put a positive spin on graphic images, while worriers showed increased activity. This suggests that positive thinking may be harderwired in the brain and could have implications for how negative thinkers approach difficult situations.
Researchers found that Wen Dan Tang significantly reduced insomnia-related anxiety in a sleep-deprived rat model. The traditional Chinese Medicine remedy also prevented decreased Ghrelin levels following sleep deprivation and increased Ghrelin receptor mRNA expression in the hypothalamus.
A study found that video glasses effectively distract patients undergoing minimally invasive treatment procedures, such as biopsies and catheter placements. Patients wearing video glasses showed a significant reduction in anxiety levels, with no adverse effects on blood pressure or pain levels.
A nationwide survey found a strong association between tooth loss and depression, as well as anxiety. The study, which analyzed data from over 451,000 respondents, revealed that individuals with depression or anxiety were more likely to experience tooth loss, with adjusted odds ratios of 1.16 for depression and 1.23 for anxiety.
A mobile gaming app based on attention-bias modification training (ABMT) has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress in stressed individuals. Playing the game for 25 minutes can have potent effects on anxiety, suggesting a potential 'cognitive vaccine' against anxiety and stress.
A new study found that genetic factors explain about 40 percent of individual differences in math anxiety, while environmental factors account for the rest. The research suggests that genetic predispositions can both exacerbate and reduce the risk of poor math performance.
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that younger adults experiencing heart attacks and angina received faster care if they were male. The study also identified gender-related factors affecting access to care, including anxiety levels and personality traits.
Researchers identify cannabinoid receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala, a key emotional hub involved in regulating anxiety and stress responses. The discovery may help explain why marijuana users take the drug to reduce anxiety.
A study found that Facebook usage is associated with increased appearance-focused behaviors and eating pathology in college women. The study suggests that the desire for social validation through likes contributes to maintenance of weight and shape concerns and anxiety.
Researchers studied how anxiety affects political attitudes and found that induced anxiety leads to stronger anti-immigration beliefs. Watching thrilling videos increased physiological reactivity and influenced people's opinions, even when unrelated to politics.
Research found that people with math anxiety struggle to comprehend messages about genetically modified foods, while those with high math skills and confidence can better understand. The study highlights the importance of improving math skills and building confidence in math abilities.
An animal study suggests that activating acid-sensing ion channels called ASIC1a in the brain's emotional control center can reduce anxiety-like behavior. The findings highlight a potential new mechanism for controlling fear and anxiety, paving the way for novel therapies.
A Norwegian University of Science and Technology study found that seven out of ten teenagers reported chronic pain, with depressed girls experiencing the highest rate. The researchers emphasize the importance of treating physical pain alongside mental health issues.
A new analysis of data from the Women's Interagency HIV Study reveals that anxiety is the biggest factor affecting thinking skills in midlife women with HIV. Mental processing speed and verbal memory were more closely linked to depression, anxiety, and hot flashes in both HIV-infected and healthy women.
Researchers found smokers are less physically active, lack motivation, and more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. Smokers also reported feeling tired and had poorer lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life.
A team of researchers at Caltech has identified a new neural circuit in the lateral septum that plays a causal role in promoting anxiety states. Activation of this circuit increases stress hormone levels, suggesting that it acts to increase anxiety rather than reduce it.
According to a new study, nearly half of children treated for anxiety achieve significant improvement and are disease-free after six years. However, the same number of children do not fare well and require ongoing mental health therapy. The research emphasizes the importance of vigilant follow-up and monitoring to mitigate anxiety's lo...
A recent study published in Medical Care found that psychiatric symptoms such as insomnia and emotional distress have a significant impact on work-related outcomes. The study suggests targeting symptoms, rather than disorders, may help lessen the work impact of mental health issues.
A study published in Biological Psychiatry found that MDMA decreases activity in the limbic system, which is involved in emotional responses. The results suggest possible clinical uses of MDMA in treating anxiety and PTSD. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Dr. Kushner earned the award for his study on hybrid cognitive behavioral therapy versus relaxation training for co-occurring anxiety and alcohol disorder, which showed significant better alcohol outcomes four months after treatment.
A daily meditation practice of 30 to 40 minutes can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with various medical conditions. The study found moderate evidence of improvement in symptoms after an eight-week training program in mindfulness meditation.
A new study published in the American Heart Association journal Stroke found a link between anxiety and an increased risk of stroke over a 22-year period. People with high anxiety levels had a 33% higher stroke risk than those with low levels, possibly due to smoking, physical inactivity, and stress hormone levels.
A study of over 500 university students found that frequent cell phone use was negatively related to GPA and positively related to anxiety. Cell phone use also tended to be associated with lower levels of happiness.
Researchers found that anxiety, depressed mood, and physical disability among RA patients decreased by half over the past two decades. Improved treatment options, including early therapy intervention and biologics, have led to reduced disease activity and better daily living for these patients.
Researchers investigated epigenetic changes in response to maternal cortisol exposure, finding support for prenatal transmission of risk for poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. This study highlights the importance of treating maternal prenatal depression and anxiety to mitigate newborn behavioral problems.
Research by University of Illinois expert Aric Rindfleisch found that materialistic individuals experience higher levels of post-traumatic stress, compulsive buying, and impulsive purchasing after traumatic events. Materialism amplifies distress and impairs coping mechanisms.
Researchers at Stanford University found that a larger amygdala and stronger connections with other brain regions are linked to higher anxiety levels in young children. The study provides new insights into the developmental origins of anxiety and could aid in early identification and treatment.
A study found that younger patients have a lower quality-of-life score after breast biopsy due to increased pain and anxiety. The researchers suggest tailored pre-biopsy counseling could minimize these effects.
A recent study published in Psychological Science reveals that individuals with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to make decisions that are not swayed by unrelated emotions. This allows them to assess risks more accurately and make more informed investment choices.
Researchers have pinpointed specific brain regions and molecules associated with depression and anxiety, offering potential new avenues for understanding and treating these debilitating mental health conditions. The study suggests that targeting certain brain areas and chemical signals may lead to more effective treatments.
A study by Timothy Craig, MD, found that allergy shots decrease anxiety and depression in those allergic to wasp, bee, and ant stings. Allergy shots are the only treatment known to modify disease progression, making them life-saving for severe allergy sufferers.
A new study found that seven in 10 primary care patients with anxiety disorders eventually received adequate medication or psychotherapy, but this took years and was less likely for minorities. The study also showed that people with higher education levels were more likely to receive care.
A large-scale trial found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduced symptoms of health anxiety in medical patients, with improvements sustained at 2 years. The treatment was delivered by non-specialist staff with minimal training and cost-effectively reduced healthcare costs.
A study of over 32,000 participants found that traumatic life events are the biggest cause of anxiety and depression. The research highlights the importance of a person's thinking style in determining their level of stress and anxiety.
A University of Missouri researcher has found that individuals genetically predisposed to anxiousness are less likely to volunteer and help others. Helping such individuals cope with their anxiety may increase their prosocial behavior, improving their overall health and well-being.
A new UNL study reveals a genetic pathway that connects social anxiety to prosocial behavior, finding carriers of a dominant gene are less likely to help others. The study suggests this pathway can influence an individual's level of social anxiety and their willingness to engage in pro-social behavior.
A meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials found that Transcendental Meditation (TM) practice reduced trait anxiety in people with high anxiety levels. Studies showed significant reductions in anxiety, especially in those with elevated anxiety levels.
Research suggests brain activity and hormone fluctuations play crucial roles in premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Women with PMDD exhibit hyper-responsive amygdala activation in response to emotional stimuli, particularly low progesterone levels. The study aims to develop new treatment strategies for affected women.
Researchers discovered that neuroactive stress steroids trigger changes in the brains of methamphetamine-dependent rats during withdrawal. Flumazenil reversed these changes and prevented anxiety by reducing expression of a4βδ GABARs, suggesting a novel therapeutic target for stress-triggered anxiety.
A 2-year study found that two 90-minute group therapy sessions significantly reduced anxiety, depression, and behavior problems in British youth. The interventions targeted specific risk factors for mental health issues and were delivered by trained educational professionals.
A University of Iowa study found that mothers with prematurely born infants who participated in personal sessions with NICU nurses reported lower anxiety and depression symptoms. The sessions, led by a nurse, allowed the mothers to focus on themselves and their needs, leading to improved self-esteem and quality of life.
Researchers discover how anxiety affects olfactory processing, linking emotional centers of the brain. Neutral smells become distasteful under anxiety, leading to a vicious cycle that can heighten distress and lead to conditions like anxiety and depression.
Girls report higher levels of math anxiety in general surveys, but their actual math class performance reveals no significant difference from boys. Lower self-reported competence may be the underlying cause of this discrepancy.
Researchers at MIT have identified a key brain circuit that controls anxiety levels, providing new insights into the development of effective treatments. The study found that manipulating this circuit can boost or reduce anxiety in mice, suggesting a promising avenue for future research.
Researchers found that immune cells called monocytes are recruited to the brain in response to stress and promote anxiety-like behavior. Monocytes travel to specific regions of the brain, generating inflammation that causes anxiety.
A new study found that depressed adolescents are more likely to develop anxiety if they have a pessimistic outlook, poor family relationships, or a mother with an anxiety disorder. Mental health professionals may be able to target these high-risk youth and provide early intervention to prevent anxiety from developing.
Researchers have developed substrate-selective COX-2 inhibitors that relieve anxiety behaviors in mice by activating natural endocannabinoids without gastrointestinal side effects. The findings suggest a new approach to treating mood and anxiety disorders, potentially paving the way for clinical trials and new treatments.
Research suggests that early-life stress exposure increases adulthood anxiety, hormonal stress responses, and a preference for comfort foods. These changes may be used as self-medication to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
New research shows oxytocin's role in strengthening negative social memories and increasing future anxiety, contradicting its long-held association with love and social bonding. The hormone activates a brain region that intensifies the memory of stressful social interactions.
Research suggests that vitamins and minerals, such as B and D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can improve mood and reduce fatigue. Supplementing with these nutrients may provide an alternative to psychiatric medicines for symptom relief.
Regular exercise reduces brain's stress response and anxiety by strengthening mechanisms that prevent excited neurons from firing. The study finds that physical activity enhances local inhibitory mechanisms in the ventral hippocampus, leading to a boost of activity in inhibitory neurons.
A new study by Long and Greenwood suggests that thinking about death can increase humorous creativity as a defense mechanism against anxiety. In the experiment, students who were subconsciously primed with the word 'death' wrote funnier captions than those who consciously wrote about it.
A new study has found that pre-existing insomnia symptoms in military service members prior to deployments may be at greater risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety upon return. The study also identified short sleep duration as a significant risk factor for new-onset PTSD symptoms.
The University of Houston has received a $675,000 grant to investigate the effectiveness of transdiagnostic cognitive behavior therapy for smoking cessation among individuals with anxiety disorders. The study aims to reduce tobacco use and develop an effective smoking cessation treatment that targets people with anxiety disorders.
Researchers found that sleep deprivation triggers excessive anticipatory anxiety by activating the amygdala and insular cortex. Innate worriers are more vulnerable to this impact, suggesting that sleep therapy could be a potential treatment for anxiety disorders.