Research on anxiety and how to ease it. Covers cognitive-behavior programs, virtual reality, stress-response cells, and health-related worry.
A study found that women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) have overly optimistic views of their risk of recurrence and invasive breast cancer. Anxiety levels decreased over time, but depression remained low. Clinicians should be aware of these inaccurate perceptions to minimize distress.
Patients with larger social networks report less pain and anxiety before surgery, which can positively impact their recovery. Clinicians should be aware of the link between social networks and patient recovery after major operations.
A study led by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers found that women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) often misperceive their risk of recurrence or dying from breast cancer, due to elevated anxiety. This can lead to poor treatment choices and negatively impact emotional well-being and health behaviors.
Researchers at McGill University and Université de Montréal found that depression and anxiety can double a patient's chances of repeated heart ailments. Patients with coronary artery disease who had major depression or anxiety were more likely to experience cardiac events over two years.
A former US naval captain and interim health minister of Iraq criticises the US Department of Defense strategy for using achievement indicators instead of outcomes to judge the success of initiatives. The critique comes as a report confirms that far too many civilians have been killed during the US-led occupation, and many healthcare w...
A pioneering Spanish study reveals that nearly half of patients with head injuries feign psycho-cognitive disorders to profit from insurance claims or sick leave. Researchers have developed reliable tools to detect these 'simulators', providing a valuable solution for healthcare professionals.
Researchers found that women with IBS cannot turn off a pain modulation mechanism in the brain, making them more sensitive to mild discomfort. The study suggests that abnormal brain responses may be the root cause of the disorder and could lead to new treatment approaches.
New research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reveals that longstanding anxiety markedly increases the risk of heart attack, even when other cardiovascular risk factors are taken into account. Anxiety is unique among psychological factors in predicting heart disease risk.
A 20-minute evening back massage was found to decrease pain intensity and unpleasantness, as well as anxiety, in patients undergoing major surgery. The study suggests that massage may act through multiple mechanisms, including relieving anxiety and generating mood-boosting endorphins.
A landmark public health study has found that people who had a low birth weight are more likely to experience depression and anxiety later in life. The study, which analyzed data from over 4,600 people born in Great Britain in 1946, suggests a dose-response relationship between birth weight and mental health outcomes.
A Florida State University professor is developing a new approach to help smokers with anxiety disorders quit. The study focuses on reducing anxiety sensitivity, which is a risk factor for developing anxiety problems.
A study of 1,043 residents found that almost half had evidence of an anxiety or mood disorder five to seven months after the hurricane. The rate was highest among New Orleans residents, who were more likely to develop such disorders following physical adversity, property loss, and stressors associated with the slow government response.
A pilot program at the University of Cincinnati has shown promising results in curbing alcohol abuse among college students who turn to drinking to cope with social anxiety. The program uses motivational interviewing and behavioral therapy to help students manage their anxiety and reduce hazardous drinking behaviors.
Altered levels of an enzyme controlling brain hormone production linked to social isolation-induced anxiety and aggression in mice. The study suggests a potential mechanism for the psychological effects of social isolation, which could lead to the development of new treatments.
A five-year longitudinal observational cohort study found that anxiety is strongly associated with sleep disturbances. Those who experience severe life events are more likely to develop sleep disturbances, especially if they already have a predisposition to anxiety.
Researchers found that darkness amplifies the impact of social stress on anxiety levels, with a startle response boosted in healthy volunteers. The study suggests that stress can alter nervous system function and contribute to anxiety disorders.
A study found that carbon dioxide inhalation triggers emotional distress and a panic response in healthy volunteers. The reaction is dose-dependent, with higher CO2 concentrations causing stronger negative emotions. Older subjects exhibited a weaker reaction, suggesting an underlying protective brain alarm may be blunted in the elderly.
Researchers found that 60% of staff suffered from anxiety, but this fell to just 8% after aromatherapy massages and relaxing music. The study also examined seasonal differences and found a greater reduction in winter months.
Researchers found that oil spill clean-up workers were more likely to experience lower and upper respiratory tract symptoms, including chronic cough and phlegm. The effects persisted for over a year after the last clean-up activity but eventually declined, suggesting partial reversibility.
Researchers at Rutgers-Camden are investigating the association between children's anxiety, depression, and substance abuse over time. The study aims to better understand how these conditions relate to each other and develop effective prevention and treatment strategies for young people.
Researchers found that women with social physique anxiety who took an exercise class focusing on health benefits enjoyed the workout and reported improved attitudes towards future participation. In contrast, those taught by instructors emphasizing appearance reported lower enjoyment and engagement.
A University of Iowa study shows that disrupting the acid sensing ion channel protein (ASIC1a) reduces innate fear behavior in mice. The findings suggest that this protein may be a critical component of brain systems underlying innate fear.
New research suggests that extensive discussions of problems in friendships can have a negative effect on emotional adjustment in teenage girls. Girls who engage in co-rumination, or excessive talking about problems, are more likely to experience anxiety and depression.
A recent study published in Complementary Health Practice Review found Rescue Remedy to be an effective all-natural stress reliever comparable to pharmaceutical drugs without adverse side effects. The remedy, containing five flower essences, was administered to 111 individuals and showed significant reduction in situational anxiety.
A new assessment framework, STAMP, can help healthcare professionals and others identify early warning signs of potential violence. The framework is based on observable behavior such as staring, lack of eye contact, tone and volume of voice, anxiety, mumbling, and pacing.
A study of over 3,500 French children found that 1.2% used performance-enhancing drugs at 11, increasing to 3% by 15. The most commonly used drug was salbutamol, with health problems and low self-esteem linked to its use. The study highlights the need for adults to monitor young athletes' behavior and address signs of distress.
Research abstracts presented at SLEEP 2007 reveal that reduced sleep quality can aggravate anxiety disorders and other pre-existing psychological conditions. Experts emphasize the importance of adequate sleep for overall health and well-being, recommending seven to eight hours of sleep per night.
A team of researchers discovered a receptor molecule for serotonin plays crucial roles in fear responses to ambiguous stimuli in mice. The hippocampus brain region is involved in processing and assessing value of stimuli, making it easier to interpret situations as threatening.
A research review found that men worry more about their penis size than women, with average-sized penises being just as desirable. Despite this, many men experience anxiety and small penis syndrome, which can be treated with conservative approaches such as therapy and education.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that brain activity patterns differ between two types of anxiety: anxious apprehension (verbal rumination, worry) and anxious arousal (intense fear, panic). The study used fMRI to identify distinct brain regions active in each type of anxiety.
Research at University of Chicago found that stereotype-induced math anxiety undermines working memory and spills over into other academic areas. Girls who experience math-related worries may struggle with verbal portion of standardized tests after taking a math test.
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.
Researchers found that chronically bullied kids have lower cortisol levels, linked to anxiety and stress. The study suggests a biological marker for early recognition and intervention of long-term psychological effects on youth.
Research shows that highly anxious patients with heart disease face nearly double the risk of heart attack or death compared to those with a more serene outlook on life. Patients who started out highly anxious but later found inner calm markedly reduced their risk.
Research suggests that Iraq veterans with migraines are more likely to also have symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, or anxiety. The study found a significant association between migraine headaches and psychiatric conditions in soldiers returning from deployment.
A meta-analysis of 27 major studies found antidepressants effective in treating anxiety, OCD, and depression in children and adolescents. The study suggests that while there is a small risk of suicidal thoughts, it is outweighed by the benefits of treatment.
A new study finds anxiety to be as prevalent as depression, affecting nearly 20% of patients in primary care. The GAD-7 screening tool identifies undiagnosed anxiety disorders, highlighting the importance of physician assessment.
Researchers find that stress hormone THP increases anxiety in adolescents by reversing its calming effect, contributing to pubertal angst. The discovery sheds new light on the causes of mood swings during puberty.
A new coaching intervention, known as the Mastery Approach to Coaching, was found to reduce sport anxiety and improve personal achievement goals in young athletes. The program, which emphasizes effort and supporting teammates over winning at all costs, also showed positive effects on academic motivation.
Research reveals Gypsies' and Travellers have higher rates of long-term illnesses, mobility issues, and pain, with poorer mental health outcomes. Policies to address health inequalities have not met their needs, highlighting the need for targeted support.
The partnership makes Depression and Anxiety, a leading journal on anxiety disorders, accessible to a broader audience. The journal will provide essential information for researchers and clinicians in the behavioral sciences, ultimately enhancing its impact in advancing research and treatment of anxiety disorders.
A study by Einstein researchers found that bioterrorism alerts can measurably raise anxiety levels, which could lead to adverse health effects. The team used volunteers to compare the impact of potent and neutral messages on anxiety levels.
A new study finds that hypnosis can significantly reduce pain and anxiety during breast biopsy procedures, while also shortening procedure time and cost. Women who received self-hypnotic relaxation coaching reported improved coping tools for future waits and work-ups.
The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine aims to guide primary care providers in helping patients lead healthier lives through research on daily habits and actions.
Researchers have discovered that mice with a mutated version of the MECP2 protein exhibit high levels of corticosterone, a stress hormone linked to anxiety and other symptoms of Rett Syndrome. The study suggests that blocking receptors for corticotropin-releasing hormone may reduce anxiety in individuals with RTT.
A peptide linked to anxiety is found to be overly plentiful in mice with Rett syndrome, suggesting a causal role in the disorder's anxiety-like behavior. This discovery may lead to new treatments for this symptom by targeting the CRH stress response.
A new FSU study reveals that individuals with high anxiety sensitivity are more likely to develop a clinical case of anxiety or panic disorder. This link was established through a two-year follow-up study involving 404 young adults, indicating anxiety sensitivity as a risk factor for anxiety disorders.
A Yale University study found that anxious children experience more painful and complicated recoveries after surgery, with increased pain and analgesic consumption. The researchers hope to develop strategies to reduce pre-surgical anxiety and improve outcomes for children undergoing elective surgeries.
A meta-analysis of 50 studies found no correlation between anxiety symptoms and pregnancy complications, including longer labor or low birth weight. Despite this, further research is needed to understand the impact of anxiety on pre-eclampsia and small infant weights.
A brain protein called BDNF plays a critical role in regulating anxiety and alcohol consumption in rats. Lower levels of BDNF in specific areas of the brain increased anxiety and drinking behavior, while restoring normal BDNF levels diminished these effects.
Research based on 9,000 children suggests that breastfed babies are less anxious than bottle-fed babies when faced with parental divorce or separation. The findings hold true regardless of other factors, but the authors note that breastfeeding may be a marker for other maternal or parental factors contributing to stress resilience.
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 found that 34.9% of people over 65 with anxiety or depression used complementary or alternative medicine, compared to 26.5% without mental symptoms. However, fewer than 20% used CAM to treat their condition, a surprising finding.
The Florida Shock Anxiety Scale is a new tool developed by University of Florida researchers to identify anxious thoughts and feelings in ICD recipients. The scale evaluates correct underlying anxiety concepts and proved highly reliable, offering a valuable tool for healthcare providers.
Researchers found that early pubertal boys and girls were more likely to engage in abnormal eating behaviors and experience anxiety as young adults. The association suggests long-lasting changes in brain circuitry during early puberty, influencing behavior and cognitive functions.
A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that verbal abuse in childhood can lead to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety in adulthood. The researchers studied data from over 5,600 participants aged 15-54 and found a strong correlation between verbal abuse and self-criticism.
Research shows that generalized anxiety disorder affects 7% of seniors, causing significant impacts on quality of life. Untreated anxiety can lead to anxious depression and poorer cognition in the elderly. New studies aim to address the need for better treatments and therapies for anxiety disorders in older adults.
Research finds that moderate stress during pregnancy may be associated with children being more advanced in mental and motor development at age 2. However, this effect is not seen in the children's ability to regulate their emotions or behavior.
A recent study published in Child Development found that moderate maternal stress during pregnancy is associated with improved early childhood development. The research followed 137 women and their children, revealing that prenatal stress did not hinder temperaments or behavior regulation.
A neurobiology study found that dread influences human decision-making by activating the brain's pain network and attention centers. The researchers discovered two types of individuals: mild and extreme dreaders, who differed in their brain activity patterns.