Sleep promotes neurogenesis by enhancing neural progenitor cells in the hippocampus and regulating stress molecules like glucocorticoids. Stress control through techniques such as meditation, yoga, and mental stimulation can improve BDNF signalling, decrease pro-inflammatory molecules, and enhance stress resilience, creating a positive feedback loop that supports neurogenesis. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, particularly those requiring moderate mental exertion, can increase growth factors like BDNF, IGF-1, and FGF-2, promoting the maturation of new neurons. A holistic approach incorporating healthy diets, regular exercise, quality sleep, stress management, and mental stimulation can support brain development and regeneration in adults, regardless of age.
https://www.thestar.com.my/food/food-for-thought/2025/03/28/curious-cook-brain-food-part-2Anant Goenka, a prominent figure in the Indian business world, emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and installing the right value systems for personal and professional success. He suggests that individuals should prioritize their well-being and create a balance between their professional and personal lives to achieve long-term goals. This approach can help individuals make better decisions, improve their mental health, and increase productivity.
https://www.livemint.com/companies/people/anant-goenka-work-life-balance-rpg-group-work-culture-india-investment-summit-mumbai-employee-value-systems-india-11743166849454.htmlKacey Musgraves has spoken publicly about her journey towards self-compassion, revealing she attends therapy once a week. She attributes her past self-criticism to her strict Christian upbringing. In contrast, she now takes ownership of her actions, including her drinking habits. Prior to 2021, Musgraves admitted to heavy drinking for three months before a notable incident in 2020. Since then, she has prioritized healthy habits like tennis and yoga to cope with emotions and process the negative impact of alcohol on her life.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-14545385/Ingrid-Andress-drunken-national-anthem-performance-rehab.htmlA recent event at a hospital highlighted the growing concern of autism in Pakistan, where Dr. Nosheen Kazmi emphasized the need for specialized services to diagnose and manage Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dr. Faiza Badar stressed the importance of therapists in improving behavior, communication, and daily living skills in children with autism. The event brought together teachers, parents, and healthcare professionals who discussed the significance of early diagnosis, intervention, and therapy to support affected children.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1295979-shifa-hospital-hosts-awareness-session-on-world-autism-dayIn Malaysia, women recovering from drug addiction at the Bachok Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre are struggling to celebrate Aidilfitri with family and friends. For Siti, 43, a decade-long methamphetamine addiction has left her regretful of her past, particularly during Syawal celebrations when she usually visits her parents' graves but can only pray from afar this year due to her condition.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2025/03/28/festive-songs-silent-tears-aidilfitri-in-recovery-at-puspen-bachok/171083Health Victoria is warning the public that even non-addictive substances can cause serious side effects and death, advising people to start low and go slow if they're considering using them. If you or someone you know needs help with substance use, call DirectLine on 1800 888 236 for information and support.
https://www.9news.com.au/national/drug-warning-heroin-sold-as-cocaine-and-methamphetamine-meth-in-melbourne-victoria/5f396dc8-600b-40d0-8562-e95bbaafbf70Adult ADHD diagnoses surged during the pandemic, with a significant increase in reported cases, according to a study. James Vivian, an Australian man, experienced a resurgence of symptoms after feeling they had subsided, highlighting the potential for long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health.
https://www.smh.com.au/national/how-the-pandemic-prompted-a-surge-in-adult-adhd-diagnoses-20250328-p5ln9e.htmlThe UK has seen a significant rise in mental health disability claims, with 2 million more people claiming since the pandemic, increasing from 3.8 to 5.8 million. In England, 48% of working-age individuals report suffering from mental problems, making it the most common form of impairment. Labour backbenchers are pushing for ministers to scrap plans that would make it harder to get disability benefits, which aim to save £5 billion and address worklessness. The impact varies by region, with higher rates in Scotland and Wales compared to England, and women being more likely to claim disability than men.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14546741/A-quarter-Brits-say-DISABLED-benefit-cuts.htmlA new report reveals that ADHD affects approximately 1 in 9 children in the US. Researchers found a link between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and an increased likelihood of developing ADHD. The study also identified DNA changes related to immune system pathways in placentas exposed to acetaminophen, which may be a mechanism linking this exposure to child neurodevelopment. Dr. Ryan Sultan, an expert at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, described the findings as "important and concerning".
https://www.foxnews.com/health/childrens-adhd-risk-linked-mothers-use-common-otc-pain-reliever