Research among 9/11 responders reveals that brain's reward processing plays a key role in building resilience after trauma, with highly resilient individuals showing distinct neural responses to positive emotions. This finding supports the potential use of positive emotion-based interventions to prevent or treat PTSD in trauma-exposed ...
SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 10, 2026
A new study found that a low-cost, simple intervention using a self-help workbook paired with brief phone support significantly improves the mental health of displaced refugees. The program reduced psychological distress, PTSD symptoms, and improved wellbeing and daily functioning among participants.
A digital single-session intervention (SSI) has been shown to meaningfully improve young people's sense of hope and control over their lives. The tool provides short, accessible and evidence-based psychological support and wellbeing activities, increasing feelings of hope and self-agency while reducing feelings of being out of control.
A single-group implementation trial successfully introduced warfarin patient self-management in the US healthcare system, providing critically needed evidence to accelerate its implementation. The study's results support safe and effective patient self-management of anticoagulation therapy.
A new analysis of wellbeing interventions shows that there is no single route to improving mental health, with mindfulness, compassion-based approaches, yoga, exercise and positive psychology interventions all showing moderate benefits. Combining physical activity with psychological interventions appeared particularly promising.
Researchers at the University of Houston found that admitting intellectual errors can increase public trust in science. In a classroom setting, professors who admit mistakes were rated higher by students for warmth, competence, and teacher effectiveness. This study highlights the importance of intellectual humility in building respect.
A new study reveals that autistic individuals identify loneliness, hopelessness, and feelings of worthlessness as key factors contributing to their suicidal thoughts. The research highlights the need for improved access to support services and reduced stigma within society.
A study found that exposure to inaccurate ADHD-related content on TikTok significantly reduced students' accurate understanding of the disorder. Participants who viewed factually incorrect content showed lower accuracy in their ADHD knowledge but reported greater confidence in it afterwards, leading to increased motivation for treatment.
A Griffith University study reveals that reframing stress as a motivator can lead to improved problem-solving skills and personal growth. Participants who underwent a 15-minute online stress mindset intervention showed no negative impact on their willingness to support others.
Research reveals nearly 10% of individuals with disabilities misused prescription drugs in the past year, compared to 4.4% without disabilities. Young adults and those with cognitive disabilities are particularly vulnerable to prescription drug misuse.
Researchers at Stockholm University introduce the 'Valentine's Scale', a 7-question scientifically validated scale to measure relationship satisfaction. The scale provides concrete tips for strengthening relationships and has been shown to predict improvements in quality of life and mental health problems.
The Ask the Experts series offers practical psychological insights to address common challenges, such as exam anxiety, supporting loved ones with dementia, and managing technology use. The books provide clear advice grounded in science and easy to apply.
A randomized clinical trial shows that transitioning insomnia care away from long-term sedatives to cognitive behavioral therapy can be achieved through a mailed, direct-to-patient approach. This method reduces sedative use and improves sleep outcomes in older adults.
A new app, MindEar, has shown promising results in reducing tinnitus symptoms in just weeks through a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises. The app is now available for individuals to trial on their smartphones, offering hope for millions affected by tinnitus.
SourceMindEar·JournalFrontiers in Audiology and Otology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 9, 2024
A recent study from Oregon State University found that refocusing on mental imagery is a more effective distraction than verbal thoughts for adolescents stuck in negative thought spirals. The study, led by Hannah Lawrence, suggests that mental imagery can help break up the thought spiral and seek help from a therapist or support system.
A new randomized controlled trial found that self-help metacognitive therapy significantly reduces anxiety and depression symptoms in recovering heart disease patients. The study suggests this treatment approach may be beneficial for individuals with cardiovascular disease who struggle with rumination.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 31, 2023
Research from Anglia Ruskin University reveals that spending time in snowy environments can improve body image and self-compassion. The study found that participants who scored highly in self-compassion displayed greater improvement in body appreciation after walking in a snow-covered woodland.
Middle-aged women with higher self-compassion had thinner carotid artery walls and less plaque buildup, linked to lower cardiovascular disease risk. The findings persisted even when controlling for behaviors and psychological factors.
Researchers analyzed idle thoughts for 10 minutes to capture patterns of thinking, revealing a link between ruminative thinking and depression. Participants who scored high on a rumination questionnaire experienced negative thoughts that lasted longer than positive thoughts.
A new study found that combining recommendations for health behaviors in a homogeneous way, such as increasing exercise and eating more vegetables, is more effective than mixing positive and negative instructions. This approach can lead to better behavioral outcomes and reduced confusion among individuals trying to change their habits.
Researchers found that people who focused on their emotions following a failure put forth more effort when they tried again. Emotionally motivated participants spent nearly 25% more time searching for a low-priced book than those with only cognitive responses.
A new study reveals why women are drawn to magazines promoting impossible body images: they derive 'thinspiration' that helps them cope with negative self-comparisons. In contrast, those who focus on self-improvement instead experience increased body satisfaction.
Researchers found that receiving positive gossip increases self-improvement value, while negative gossip boosts self-promotion value and raises self-protection concerns. Gossip provides valuable indirect social comparison information, essential for self-evaluation.
Researchers recommend 'low-intensity' interventions like self-help books and websites as a first step in treating depression. These interventions can provide significant clinical benefits, especially for patients with more severe depression at baseline.
A study by Michigan State University's Institute for the Study of Youth Sports found that coaches who prioritize player self-improvement over competition create a sense of teamwork, social skills, and identity among young athletes. The research suggests that focusing on player development can lead to positive outcomes in life skills an...
A recent study by University of Minnesota researchers found that certain brands can influence consumers' perceptions of themselves. Using a brand with an appealing personality can rub off on consumers, even if the brand is used for only a short time.