Research on stress and its effects on mind and body. Covers work stress and health, mood-supporting materials, stress-response cells, and deep sleep's role.
A Mayo Clinic study found a significant relationship between stress levels and poor quality of life in medical center employees. The researchers emphasize the importance of engaging employees into wellness programs to reduce burnout and improve overall well-being.
A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that sex in later years can have contrasting effects on cardiovascular health for men and women. For older men, frequent sex increases the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems, while moderate amounts of sex may promote health among older women.
Research suggests that women experiencing persistent childbirth pain are more likely to develop postnatal depression following birth. A study conducted in 2016 found that women with persistent pain had significantly higher scores on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale compared to those whose pain resolved within four weeks.
Researchers found that a resort vacation immediately impacts molecular networks associated with stress and immune pathways. Meditation retreats were associated with antiviral activity, while long-term meditators had distinct molecular signatures.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that people are more likely to undermine their performance at stressful tasks when they're operating at 'peak capacity' based on their preferred time of the day. This behavior, known as self-handicapping, was more common among morning people in the morning and night owls in the evening.
A new study finds that older adults consistently improve their psychological well-being over time, with lower levels of stress and depression compared to younger adults. The researchers attribute this to increased wisdom with age, better coping mechanisms, and fewer negative emotions.
Research suggests that younger women with coronary heart disease are vulnerable to the damaging effects of psychological stress on their heart. The study found that stress-induced, reduced blood flow occurred more frequently in younger women than men, especially among those under 50 years old.
Researchers study how parents cope with NICU stress using secular and spiritual strategies, finding that negative religious coping can lead to lower levels of connection with family. Effective coping fosters bonding with the baby, while spiritual support provides a sense of meaning and connection.
A mindfulness-based intervention reduced depressive symptoms and stress among African-American women with lower socio-economic status. Participants learned yoga, breathing techniques, and body scans to manage daily stresses and gain control over their emotions.
Exposure to nature videos reduces aggressive behavior among inmates, with a 26% decrease in violent infractions. Inmates who viewed the videos also showed reduced negative emotions and behaviors.
A new study by Northwestern University finds that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is associated with improved subjective memory in breast cancer survivors. Higher levels of physical activity are linked to lower distress, less fatigue, and higher self-confidence, which in turn aids memory.
A new study from King's College London examined Freud's theory on Hysteria, a disorder resulting in severe neurological symptoms. The research found that stressors around the time of onset might be relevant for some patients with Conversion Disorder (CD), challenging the sole cause of trauma assumption. However, the study also highligh...
A UBC study suggests that teacher burnout and student stress are linked, with elevated cortisol levels found in students in classrooms where teachers experience more emotional exhaustion. This connection highlights the need for adequate resources and support for teachers to prevent a cyclical problem of stress contagion in classrooms.
A new study by the University of East Anglia examines the relationship between emotional intelligence, stress, burnout, and social work practice. The researchers found that emotional intelligence was a key predictor of stress and burnout, while realistic workloads and administrative support were essential for effective social work.
A UT Austin study suggests teaching teens that socially relevant traits are malleable can help them cope with social challenges. The research found that teens who learned this lesson reported feeling less threatened, exhibited higher cardiac efficiency, and performed better academically.
A new study by Drexel University found that making art can significantly reduce stress-related hormones in the body, with 75% of participants experiencing a decrease. The study also found no correlation between past art experience and cortisol levels, suggesting that anyone can benefit from creative expression.
Researchers have observed a link between stress exposure during pregnancy and the development of autism in children. Mothers carrying a specific variant of a stress-sensitive gene reported higher levels of stress, particularly during the second and third trimesters.
A team of researchers, led by Prof. Dr. Sonja Entringer, is studying the effects of maternal stress during pregnancy on newborn cell biology and cellular aging. The study aims to understand how prenatal exposure to stress affects the unborn child's development and future health.
A study published by the American Psychological Association found that chronic fatigue syndrome patients are more likely to suppress their emotions due to a heightened fight-or-flight response. This suppression is associated with increased anxiety and distress, which can worsen fatigue symptoms.
Researchers found that email-based exercises showed sustained improvements in psychological health over two years, with significant effects on stress, confidence, and gratitude. The study suggests that internet-based interventions can be an effective tool for promoting mental health.
A sharp increase in teen poisonings has been reported in the UK over the past 20 years, particularly among girls. Socioeconomic deprivation is strongly linked to this trend, with those from the most deprived areas two to three times more likely to poison themselves.
Research suggests that prenatal stress can lead to epigenetic adaptations in newborns, activating the oxytocin receptor gene and facilitating social behavior. This mechanism could indicate that babies develop more resilience to cope with future adversities.
A study in male mice exposed to early life stress shows that the hippocampus matures faster, but with reduced neural growth, supporting an evolution-based hypothesis. This accelerated maturation may be an adaptation to prepare for short-term survival priorities.
A University of Missouri study found that children physically react to stress from their social networks, with cortisol levels and salivary alpha-amylase indicating stress responses. The quality and size of childhood social relationships may have long-term physiological consequences for youth's physical and mental health.
Research at University of Oxford found that individuals with more friends have a higher pain tolerance due to increased endorphin release, which promotes social bonding and pleasure. Additionally, the study discovered correlations between fitter people, those with higher stress levels, and smaller social networks.
A Wayne State University Ph.D. student has been awarded a prestigious NIH fellowship to investigate the effects of stress on cigarette smokers. The research aims to understand how stress impairs brain function and increase the likelihood of relapse, with the goal of developing better treatments for patients.
A Florida State University researcher found that Latino immigrants experience significant stress due to threats to 'familismo', deeply held cultural beliefs about the centrality of family. This ambivalence can have a negative impact on overall health and well-being, particularly in terms of parenting and economic adjustment.
Research discovered that individuals with coronary artery disease exhibit higher baseline troponin levels independently of stress or chest pain, indicating repeated ischemic events. Mental stress tests revealed a significant increase in troponin levels, even after the event, suggesting psychological triggers play a role
Research from Duke Health found that incorporating stress management into cardiac rehabilitation cuts risk of another heart incident in half. Patients who attended weekly stress-management groups had lower rates of cardiovascular events compared to those receiving only traditional cardiac rehabilitation.
Research reveals anticipated rejection due to weight stigma negatively impacts heavier women's emotional well-being. Participants who expected rejection experienced lower self-esteem, increased feelings of shame and embarrassment, and greater stress.
New research reveals that empathy is composed of two forms: cognitive (understanding) and affective (feeling). When partners have accurate knowledge but lack compassionate feelings, they tend to be less supportive. However, when both accuracy and concern are present, responsiveness increases.
A study of 166 breast cancer patients found that 82.5% exhibited symptoms of PTSD following diagnosis, with more than half continuing to display symptoms one year later. The severity of psychological impact was underscored by the fact that some patients rated having breast cancer as their most severe traumatic event.
Research reveals a direct link between economic insecurity and physical pain, with feelings of lack of control exacerbating the issue. The study found that individuals who experience financial stress report more physical pain and have reduced pain tolerance.
A recent study found that Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced stress, anxiety, and fatigue in family caregivers, while improving spiritual well-being. The technique helped caregivers manage chronic illnesses and their own physical health, leading to a calmer and more patient state.
A Rutgers study found that prepubescent female rodents paired with sexually experienced males exhibited elevated stress hormones, reduced learning capabilities, and decreased maternal behaviors. This research sheds light on the consequences of sexual aggression in females, which is crucial for understanding its impact on women's mental...
Researchers found that stressed male mice have offspring with high blood sugar due to an epigenetic change in their sperm. This study suggests a male's life experience can affect his offspring's glucose levels, offering new insights into the mechanisms involved.
Researchers found that mild stress increases brown fat activity, linked to higher cortisol levels and potential heat production. This discovery has implications for preventing obesity and diabetes through sustainable interventions.
Mindfulness meditation training alters brain network functional connectivity patterns, reducing inflammatory biomarkers like Interleukin-6 and improving executive control. This neurobiological change explains the improvements in stress-related health outcomes.
A recent study conducted at the Cornell Food and Brand Lab found that cluttered kitchens can lead to over-snacking. Women who waited in a messy kitchen ate 53 more calories from cookies compared to those waiting in an organized kitchen.
A large study of military conscripts suggests that a tendency to stress easily in early adulthood is linked to an increased risk of developing high blood pressure in later life. Men with low stress resilience scores at age 18 were more than three times as likely to have high blood pressure, regardless of weight or other factors.
A new study by University of Vermont psychologist Jamie Abaied found that college students whose parents exert psychological control are more likely to engage in hostile behavior with their peers. The study suggests that parental control can stunt independence and lead to relational aggression, which involves harming feelings or damagi...
A new study found that low stress resilience in late adolescence is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in adulthood. The study, published in Diabetologia, followed 1.5 million Swedish male conscripts and found that those with lower stress resistance were 51% more likely to develop diabetes.
A study by Phyllis Moen and Erin L. Kelly found that workers who participated in a pilot work flexibility program reported higher levels of job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and psychological stress. The research adds to the growing body of evidence showing that flexible work arrangements result in happier, healthier, and more product...
Research suggests that habits such as checking emails early and late, using push notifications, and constantly being available can lead to higher levels of stress and pressure. Experts offer tips to help manage email and reduce its negative impact on productivity and wellbeing.
A study found that employed individuals reduced their alcohol use at work but increased their consumption after work and excessive drinking during the Great Recession. Middle-aged workers were more likely to drink during this period due to increased financial and family stress.
A Veterans Affairs study of 738 Iraq war veterans found that those who fought during the insurgency phase were more than twice as likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to those who served in other phases. The finding holds true even after adjusting for demographic and deployment-related risk factors.
A new meta-analysis found that psychological therapies can reduce IBS symptoms for at least six months after treatment ends. The study analyzed 41 clinical trials involving over 2,200 patients, revealing no significant difference in effectiveness between different types of psychotherapy.
Researchers at Rice University and Ohio State University found that chronic inflammation is linked to depression, with concentrations of inflammatory markers CRP and IL-6 elevated by up to 50% in patients. Activities like yoga, meditation, NSAIDS, and exercise can help treat depression caused by chronic inflammation.
Adolescents separated from their fathers experience increased stress and transient depression symptoms four to nine months following separation. However, these symptoms typically disappear over time. The study highlights the importance of informal support or therapy for young adults whose parents have recently separated.
New research suggests that proactively doing things for others can effectively cope with everyday worries and strains. The study found that helping behaviors boosted participants' daily well-being, reducing negative emotions and improving mental health in response to stress.
New research suggests oxytocin may trigger anxiety in stressed females, unlike males where it increases social motivation. The hormone also had no effect on non-stressed females.
Researchers found that people with CFS are more vulnerable to pattern-related visual stress, a condition that causes discomfort and exhaustion when viewing repetitive striped patterns. This discovery may help in diagnosing the illness, which is difficult due to its similar symptoms to other conditions.
A study by Temple University researchers found a significant association between psychological stress and various skin symptoms, including itchiness, hair loss, and acne-like rashes. The study suggests that healthcare providers should ask patients about their stress levels to better understand skin conditions.
A Virginia Tech researcher has won a $7.2 million grant to develop a program promoting healthy relationships and economic stability for low-income couples. The 'Together' project aims to improve couples' well-being, parenting, financial management, and employment through integrated solutions.
A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that a free, web-based cognitive behavioral therapy tool called MoodGYM can reduce suicidal thoughts in interns by nearly four times the normal rate. The tool offers a digital, streamlined form of talk therapy to support mental health.
A study published by the American Psychological Association found that younger mothers are less likely to experience depression and anxiety symptoms. Daughters of women who give birth at 30 or older are more likely to report higher levels of stress, depression, and anxiety as young adults.
A study found that high job demands, stress, and job insecurity are key reasons for presenteeism. The research also highlights the importance of a supportive work environment in reducing the likelihood of going to work while ill.
Researchers found that LGBT youths have lower levels of resilience than adults, leading to higher rates of depression and suicidal thoughts. Resilience-based programs can help mitigate these effects by teaching individuals coping skills and strategies to navigate adversity.
A study of nearly 1,300 veterans found that those who completed online expressive-writing sessions showed more improvements than peers who didn't write at all or did factual writing. Expressive writing reduced physical complaints, anger, and psychological distress, but had limited impact on PTSD symptoms.
A study by Arizona State University researchers found that four factors - unconditional acceptance, feeling comforted when needed, authenticity in relationships, and friendship satisfaction - play a crucial role in keeping mothers happy, healthy, and able to give of themselves. The study, which surveyed over 2,000 well-educated, upper-...