Amygdala Cells Linked to Anxiety

Summary: Researchers have identified specific cell types in the amygdala linked to anxiety, revealing potential new targets for treatment. By analyzing gene expression in human and macaque brains, scientists discovered…

Childhood Attention Problems and Genes Linked to Psychosis Risk

Summary: Childhood attention issues, coupled with genetic predispositions, increase the likelihood of experiencing psychotic-like symptoms in adolescence. By analyzing data from 10,000 youths, researchers discovered that variability in attention spans…

Depression Alters Brain Circuits, Heightening Negative Perception

Summary: Scientists have identified how depression alters the brain’s response to positive and negative stimuli, particularly in the amygdala, a key emotional processing center. The study found that depression reduces…

Happy Partners Help Reduce Stress in Older Adults

Summary: Having a happy intimate partner can lower stress levels in older adults by reducing the production of cortisol, a stress hormone. Couples with higher relationship satisfaction experience an even…

Emotional Blindness Drives Empathy Deficits in Psychopathy

Summary: A new study links psychopathy with alexithymia, or emotional blindness, which may explain the emotional deficits seen in people with psychopathic traits. Individuals with strong psychopathic traits struggle to…

Listening to Music After Surgery Lowers Pain and Anxiety

Summary: A new study suggests that listening to music after surgery can significantly reduce pain, anxiety, and even heart rate, aiding recovery. An analysis of 35 studies found that patients…

Video Games Boost Cognition, Exercise Improves Mental Health

Summary: A large-scale study has found that playing video games boosts cognitive abilities, but has no impact on mental health, while exercise improves mental well-being without affecting cognition. Over 1,000…

25% of Adults Suspect Undiagnosed ADHD

Summary: A new survey reveals that 25% of adults in the U.S. suspect they may have undiagnosed ADHD, though only 13% have consulted a doctor. Social media has driven greater…

New Genetic Mutations Linked to Schizophrenia Risk

Source: A study has identified mutations arising during brain development that may contribute to schizophrenia. Unlike inherited genes, these somatic mutations occur after conception and were found more frequently in…

Happiness class is helping clinically depressed school teachers become emotionally healthy − with a cheery assist from Aristotle

Uncommon Courses is an occasional series from The Conversation U.S. highlighting unconventional approaches to teaching. Title of Course Evidence-Based Happiness for Teachers What prompted the idea for the course? I…