PTSD Linked to Accelerated Brain Aging

Summary: A new study using advanced deep-learning brain age estimation shows that World Trade Center responders with PTSD exhibit signs of accelerated brain aging. Using BrainAgeNeXt, a model trained on…

Music and Nature Work in Harmony to Ease Stress and Lift Mood

Summary: The viral phrase “touch grass” may be more than internet humor—science shows that engaging with nature and music can significantly boost emotional and physical well-being. A new review found…

Hormonal Contraceptives Influence Memory of Emotional Events

Summary: A new study reveals that hormonal contraceptives may shape both emotional responses and memory processing in women. Compared with naturally cycling women, users of hormonal birth control had stronger…

Highly Sensitive People Face Greater Mental Health Risks

Summary: A large-scale meta-analysis of 33 studies has shown that highly sensitive individuals are more prone to common mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and avoidant personality disorder. Sensitivity…

New Drug Targets Brain Glial Cells to Reverse PTSD Symptoms

Key Questions Answered Q: Why do PTSD patients struggle to forget traumatic memories?A: The study reveals that excessive GABA, produced by astrocytes via the MAOB enzyme, disrupts the brain’s ability…

Old Injuries Rewire the Brain to Feel Fear and Pain Forever

Quick Q&A Q: Can past injuries increase sensitivity to future pain or stress?A: Yes — this study shows that old injuries can prime the brain to overreact to new stressors,…

Tiny Brain Region Orchestrates How We Segment and Remember Life Events

Summary: Our memories don’t flow like a continuous stream—they’re divided into meaningful events, thanks to a tiny brain region called the locus coeruleus. New research shows this region acts like…

AI Facial Analysis Detects PTSD

Summary: Diagnosing PTSD in children is often hindered by limited communication and emotional awareness, but new research is using AI to bridge that gap. By analyzing facial movements during interviews,…

How PTSD Disrupts Brain Cell Communication

Summary: A new study has examined brains affected by PTSD at the single-cell level, uncovering distinct genetic alterations that may drive the disorder. Researchers focused on the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex,…

Hallucinogens Linked to Milder PTSD

Summary: In a unique real-world study, researchers examined the psychological effects of trauma on survivors of the October 7 Nova Festival attack in Israel, focusing on their use of mind-altering…