Research on anxiety and how to ease it. Covers cognitive-behavior programs, virtual reality, stress-response cells, and health-related worry.
A single mindfulness and compassion session significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress in participants one week later. The study, conducted on 91 individuals, demonstrated the efficacy of a single session mindfulness-based intervention.
A new treatment has been shown to reduce mental health difficulties in children with epilepsy compared to standard care. The Mental Health Intervention for Children with Epilepsy (MICE) treatment uses a modular approach to treat multiple conditions simultaneously, reducing the likelihood of psychiatric disorders by 40%.
A new review paper from Brigham and Women's Hospital concludes that menopause does not uniformly elevate the risk of depression and other mental health conditions. Certain groups, such as those with a history of depression or severe sleep disturbances, are more likely to experience depressive symptoms during menopause.
A new study reveals that coaches who display 'authentic leadership' qualities, such as empathy and understanding, can strengthen athletes' mental health. This is particularly important for high-level athletes competing at national, international, or university leagues.
A Curtin University study reveals Australian Gen Z's major concerns about climate change, manifesting as anxiety, fear, and feelings of powerlessness. The study suggests that while online activism is important, Gen Z may need to engage in more traditional areas of activism to drive meaningful change.
A UC Riverside-led study found that moderately anxious children from minoritized groups are hypervigilant to threats, exacerbating their general state of anxiety. The study used MRI scanners and involved preadolescent Latina girls from low-income families.
A study by Osaka University researchers found that Japanese liberals are more sensitive to collective ownership threats than conservatives. The study suggests that this sensitivity may deter countries from engaging in activities that infringe on the territorial integrity of others.
Researchers found that CBD-dominant products reduced anxiety symptoms and improved mood without the intoxicating effects of THC. The study suggests that CBD may provide a safer alternative for treating anxiety disorders.
A University of Waterloo study found that urban spaces with nature elements can significantly reduce anxiety and boost positive outcomes in adolescents. After just two minutes in a natural setting, youth scores decreased by up to 13%.
A new study from the University of Toronto found an association between poor sleep and symptoms of muscle dysmorphia among Canadian young adults. Participants who reported greater muscle dysmorphia symptoms had shorter sleep duration and difficulty falling or staying asleep more than half the time.
A large clinical trial found that an intervention for pregnant women in Pakistan significantly reduced the likelihood of developing moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression after birth. The intervention, led by Dr. Pamela J. Surkan, was administered by non-specialized providers and showed promising results.
A new study found that mass shooting lockdown drills help children who have been exposed to violence feel safer, contradicting previous research conclusions. Lockdown drills may be a way to help students who have been exposed to violence feel safer in schools.
A new study finds women in healthcare occupations endure significantly more stress and burnout compared to their male counterparts. Job satisfaction and better work-life balance can mitigate this stress. The analysis also highlights the need for healthcare employers and policymakers to develop solutions to prevent burnout.
Delta opioid receptors play a crucial role in anxiety development, and research reveals its therapeutic effects in animal models. KNT-127, a DOP agonist, reduces anxiety-like behavior by suppressing glutamatergic transmission, offering new potential for treating anxiety disorders.
A new study by Johns Hopkins University reveals that vision impairment is linked to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as social isolation among older adults. The research emphasizes the need for enhanced support and care for individuals with vision impairment.
Astrocytes in the habenula region of the brain play a crucial role in regulating anxiety. The study found that artificial alkalization of these cells reduces theta band neuronal activity, while optogenetic alkalization increases it. This suggests that astrocytes tune into the 'marble blues' to control anxiety responses.
A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found a causal link between government policies and mental health decline in people with Black Caribbean heritage. The research team analyzed data from over 58,000 participants and found an increase in psychological distress after the 2014 Immigration Act and the Windrush scandal.
A new study found that young teenagers who develop a strong distrust of others as a result of childhood bullying are substantially more likely to have significant mental health problems as they enter adulthood. Researchers used data from 10,000 children in the UK and found that adolescents who were bullied at age 11 and developed great...
A large survey of Australian university employees reveals a sector suffering high stress, exhaustion, and unrelenting work pressures. The study found that digital stress, job security, and resourcing are top concerns, with researchers calling for a sector-wide policy to report on psychosocial safety climate as a key performance indicator.
A new U of M Medical School study reveals that bias-based bullying amplifies emotional distress in youth with multiple marginalized social positions, such as race, ethnicity, and LGBTQ+ status. The research analyzed over 80,000 students and found a significant reduction in emotional distress among those who experienced no bias-based bu...
The anxiety of headteachers across England increased substantially throughout the pandemic, with senior leaders suffering more than junior colleagues. The research found that digital technology can become a routine part of instructional practice to support teacher wellbeing.
A clinical trial is underway to help patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stick with medication treatment. The trial uses a patient-administered wearable device that delivers mild electrical stimulation to alleviate symptoms of both conditions.
A new study published in The Lancet's eClinical Medicine found that 27% of individuals who visited emergency departments for cannabis use developed a new anxiety disorder within three years. Heavy cannabis use may worsen existing symptoms and delay evidence-based treatments.
Research from the University of Bath found that people who view stressful situations as threats are more likely to experience health problems, including depression and physical illnesses. In contrast, those who see challenges may report better health and wellbeing, with a suppressed immune system being a key factor.
A recent study reveals a brain mechanism linking physical exercise to improved mood by activating a hypothalamo-cerebello-amygdalar circuit. The circuit, involving the cerebellum, bridges motor and emotional systems, indicating that motor-dependent alleviation of anxiety may be linked to the persistence of exercise on mood.
A study by Washington State University researchers found a potential link between high maternal cortisol levels and unpredictable birth complications. Cortisol measurements in hair samples revealed elevated stress hormone levels among women who later experienced unexpected birth problems, such as early births or hemorrhaging.
The PsyPal study will investigate psilocybin therapy's effectiveness in easing psychological distress in patients with incurable diseases. The trial aims to treat over 100 patients across four clinical sites, using a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
Menopausal women who regularly swim in cold water report significant improvements to their anxiety, mood swings, low mood, hot flushes, and menstrual symptoms. The study found that cold water swimming relieves these symptoms through physical and mental effects.
Researchers found stable differences in brain activity in unmedicated children with anxiety that improved after treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy. The study shows CBT leads to clinically significant decreases in anxiety symptoms and improves brain functioning.
A new study found that propranolol, a medication for high blood pressure, can lower anxiety levels in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study involved 69 patients and showed significantly reduced anxiety levels compared to a placebo group.
A study analyzing survey data from 718,000 participants found that living in states with abortion trigger laws was associated with higher anxiety and depression symptoms after the Dobbs v Jackson decision. The study suggests a small but significant increase in mental health issues among those residing in such states.
Researchers found a significant connection between anxiety disorders and the brain receptor TACR3, as well as low testosterone levels. Testing showed that inhibiting TACR3 resulted in increased receptors on the cell surface, blocking long-term synaptic strengthening.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that positive relationships with parents and adults during childhood are associated with better mental health in adulthood. Despite adverse childhood experiences, resilient youth who have strong social connections and meaningful experiences tend to experience less depression, anxiety, and stress.
A recent study by Tokyo University of Science has identified central emotions across languages through word association-based colexification networks. The researchers found that concepts like GOOD, WANT, BAD, and LOVE are associated with many other words representing emotions.
Researchers found that a team intervention provided by phone leads to persistent improvements in depression, anxiety, and quality of life for people managing chronic illnesses. The program demonstrated early, persistent, and clinically meaningful improvements in adults with COPD, HF, or ILD.
A study by University of Illinois professor Emily Van Duyn found that news media consumption can trigger conflicts in couples with differing political views. Couples often struggle to decide which media to follow, leading to disagreements over news sources and content. This conflict can also affect the relationship, causing individuals...
A recent study by University of Cincinnati Blue Ash students found that individuals with clinically significant levels of OCD are more prone to problematic smartphone use. The research also highlighted the impact of fear of missing out, boredom proneness, and inhibitory anxiety on the relationship between OCD and PSU.
Researchers investigated role of estrogen receptors in lateral septum regulating social anxiety in male mice, finding that ERβ plays a crucial role in neural circuitry. Knockdown effects on ERβ gene expression showed increased social anxiety, highlighting its importance in social situations.
A nationwide prospective study found a sharp increase in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety in Israelis following the October 2023 Hamas attack. The study nearly doubled the prevalence of these conditions, which were already higher than those reported in previous studies on terrorist events.
Researchers have discovered a brain circuit that mediates panic disorder, consisting of specialized neurons that send and receive the neuropeptide PACAP. Inhibiting PACAP signaling reduces panic symptoms, offering promising findings for future treatments.
A new study by University of California Riverside researchers found that high-fat diets affect not only obesity and colon cancer but also the immune system, brain function, and potentially COVID-19 risk. The study, which analyzed genetic changes in mice fed different types of fat, showed that polyunsaturated fatty acids in soybean oil ...
Researchers examine the dynamic nature of fear responses in varied environments, shedding light on physical manifestation of memory in the brain. The study reveals that fear memories are linked to pathological states like PTSD and generalized anxiety, with direct translational relevance for disorders involving dysregulated fear responses.
Growth hormone influences regulation of anxiety via a specific group of neurons, according to researchers at the University of São Paulo. The study identified somatostatin-expressing neurons as key players in modulating GH's anxiolytic effect, with increased anxiety observed in mice lacking these neurons.
A study synthesizing over 50 years of research found that even mild sleep deprivation causes measurable negative changes in how people react to everyday events. Sleep loss results in fewer positive emotions, increased anxiety symptoms, and blunted arousal in response to emotional stimuli.
Women who lost a parent early in life are more likely to experience adult separation anxiety and anxious attachment with romantic partners. These women tend to peak in anxiety levels within the first five years of relationships before declining after a decade.
A new study published in Neurology found that nearly 30% of caregivers for severe stroke patients experience high levels of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress during the first year after hospital discharge. Post-traumatic stress was particularly common among Mexican American caregivers.
A study published in the Journal of Nursing Administration found that Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced PTSD, anxiety, and burnout in frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The technique improved flourishing by 15% and decreased symptoms by more than half over a 3-month period.
Researchers flag potential concerns over the impact of social chatbots on neurodiverse people, citing risks of fostering bad habits and reinforcing dysfunctional habits. The technology may relieve social anxiety but can also develop into a form of dependency that negatively impacts actual relationships.
A NIH-funded study found associations between maternal prenatal inflammation and children's attention, anxiety, depression, and aggression. The research used the Child Behavior Checklist to measure aggressive behavior, anxiety/depression, and attention problems in 4,595 participants aged 6-18 years.
A Washington State University study found that watching videos of a soft robot working with a person at picking and placing tasks lowered the viewers' safety concerns and feelings of job insecurity. Soft robots have a potential psychological advantage over rigid robots, as proximity does not increase negative reactions.
A recent UGR study found that parental engagement is positively associated with safer driving styles among young people. Close supervision may lead to anxiety, but also more caution behind the wheel. The study also reveals gender differences in parental involvement and role modeling.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified a key brain molecule responsible for triggering overconsumption of comfort foods after stressful events. The lateral hypothalamic proenkephalin neuron plays a crucial role in driving threat-induced eating associated with negative emotional states.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have discovered how Lactobacillus, a bacterium found in fermented foods and yogurt, influences mood disorders. The findings suggest that maintaining a healthy level of Lactobacillus may help prevent depression and anxiety by regulating immune response to stress.
A study of 3 million US adults found anxiety and depression were significantly higher among younger adults, possibly due to economic conditions and social upheaval. The findings highlight the need for targeted mental health care and economic policies for younger adults during the pandemic.
Research published in The American Journal of Psychiatry finds that cannabis use disorder is disproportionately increasing among veterans with psychiatric disorders, particularly those with more severe mental health conditions. The study suggests that factors like increased legalization and potency may contribute to this trend.
A novel brain stimulation technique has shown significant improvement in patients with hard-to-treat depression, with 66% responding to treatment and nearly half achieving acute remission. The study's findings are promising, particularly for patients who have tried other treatments without success.
Research reviews 98 articles worldwide, finding suicide rates among men increase during and after economic crises. The study highlights the need for governments to fund health services and social support systems to mitigate mental health impact.
Researchers assessed Veterans Affairs participants' coping strategies over three timepoints, finding that stable coping styles are associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression. The majority of the sample (71%) changed their coping style at least once during the study period.
Research reveals that brain inflammation is the primary cause of neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease, including irritability, agitation, and anxiety. The study found a strong association between microglial activation and neuropsychiatric symptom severity, suggesting new pathways for therapy development.
A study of 452 Black pregnant patients found that 62% reported depression in combination with anxiety or stress. Prenatal screening for mental health concerns is necessary to address these co-occurring issues.