Now we know: Dogs can sniff trauma recollections on our breath

Two dogs in a small study were able to correctly identify what breath smelled like when it was linked to a memory of trauma. The finding might allow dogs to be even better friends when it comes to helping PTSD sufferers cope with their conditions.Conti… Continue reading Now we know: Dogs can sniff trauma recollections on our breath

In a first, growth hormone’s effect on ‘anxiety neurons’ identified

Researchers have identified the specific neurons responsible for controlling how growth hormone affects anxiety and the creation of fear memories, a hallmark of post-traumatic stress disorder. The discovery could lead to a new class of anti-anxiety dru… Continue reading In a first, growth hormone’s effect on ‘anxiety neurons’ identified

Mindfulness program proves a secret weapon against post-traumatic stress

A new study evaluating the effectiveness of an eight-week program focusing on self-compassion and mindfulness found that it reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress and improved quality of life and connectivity in parts of the brain that regulate emot… Continue reading Mindfulness program proves a secret weapon against post-traumatic stress

Stress triggers a neuron during sleep that upends healthy slumber

We all know that stress can rob you of a good night’s sleep, but it’s more than just racing thoughts behind it. For the first time, scientists have identified how stress fires up brain cells at the wrong time during sleep stages, causing interrupted sl… Continue reading Stress triggers a neuron during sleep that upends healthy slumber

Psychedelics improve mental health & cognition in Special Ops vets

Researchers have found that treating Special Operations Forces veterans with two psychedelics improved their mental health symptoms and, unexpectedly, their cognitive functioning. The findings underscore the benefits of psychedelic therapy, especially … Continue reading Psychedelics improve mental health & cognition in Special Ops vets

Suppressing negative thoughts reduces post-traumatic stress & anxiety

A new study has challenged the commonly held belief that consciously suppressing negative thoughts is bad for our mental health, finding that people who did so had lower levels of post-traumatic stress and anxiety, and intrusive thoughts were less vivi… Continue reading Suppressing negative thoughts reduces post-traumatic stress & anxiety

ADHD found to increase risk of developing widespread mental health issues

Scientists have discovered that neurodevelopmental disorder attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is largely inherited, directly increases the risk of sufferers also developing major depression, post-traumatic stress, anorexia nervosa … Continue reading ADHD found to increase risk of developing widespread mental health issues

Australia becomes first country to allow MDMA and psilocybin treatment

Two illicit substances best known for their ‘recreational’ use have been given the tick of approval by Australian authorities to be prescribed for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, … Continue reading Australia becomes first country to allow MDMA and psilocybin treatment