MentalHealthDaily

Psychobiotic “Lactobacillus plantarum” (JYLP-326) for Test Anxiety in Students (2023 Study)

Test anxiety among college students is a significant concern, affecting their mental and physical well-being. A new study suggests that a probiotic/psychobiotic intervention (Lactobacillus plantarum) could significantly alleviate anxiety, depression, and insomnia, with changes observed in the gut microbiota and fecal metabolites. Highlights: Prevalence of Test Anxiety: 20%-40% of college students experience test anxiety, often …

Vortioxetine Efficacy for Major Depression & Comorbid Anxiety (2023 Study)

by GLOOM

The RELIEVE study provides pivotal insights into the effectiveness of vortioxetine in treating patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) co-morbid with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). A subgroup analysis of the observational study highlights significant improvements in patient functioning, depression severity, cognitive symptoms, and quality of life. The findings underscore vortioxetine’s potential as a beneficial treatment …

Psychiatric Disorders Linked to Accelerated Aging in UK Biobank Study (2023)

by GLOOM

Recent research utilizing data from the UK Biobank has shed light on the intricate relationship between biological aging and mental health, particularly focusing on depression and anxiety in older adults. A large-scale study linked advanced biological aging with increased risks of developing mental health issues, suggesting that biological aging could be a significant factor in …

Genetics of Anxiety Disorders: Insights from Human & Animal Research (2023)

by GLOOM

Anxiety disorders, characterized by excessive or prolonged fear and anxiety, are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Recent advancements in genetics and animal model research are shedding light on the intricate neurobiological mechanisms underlying these conditions. Highlights: Anxiety disorders have a moderate heritability, indicating a significant genetic component. Chronic psychosocial stress and traumatic events …

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for Anxiety Disorders: Preliminary Evidence (2023)

by GLOOM

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB), a medical procedure originally designed for pain management, is emerging as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. This approach leverages its ability to modulate the sympathetic nervous system, which plays a significant role in anxiety symptoms. Highlights: SGB Procedure & Technicality: SGB involves injecting a local anesthetic near the stellate ganglion …

Mycobacterium vaccae Vaccine: A Novel Soil Bacteria-Based Treatment for Anxiety & Stress Disorders

by GLOOM

Stress can induce anxiety and depression, which appears to be mediated in part by stress-induced neuroinflammatory processes. The immunoregulatory bacterium Mycobacterium vaccae (M. vaccae) has anti-inflammatory and stress-resilient effects, but its impact on the brain is unclear. A study discovered that M. vaccae immunization: induces anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory processes in the hippocampus, blocks stress-induced neuroinflammation …

Depressed vs. Anxious Brains: Differences in Brain Waves & Connectivity Revealed

by GLOOM

Advanced analysis of multidimensional EEG data reveals significant differences in brain activity patterns between Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Depressive Disorder (DD). The distinguishing factors seem to be differences in beta brain waves and functional connectivity between various brain regions. Key Facts: Patients with DD exhibited higher power spectrum density (PSD) values and fuzzy entropy …