Research NewsFeed

Vegan Sausages Linked to Higher Depression Risk

A study published in Food Frontiers found that vegetarians who consume plant-based meat alternatives, such as vegan sausages, are 42% more likely to experience depression compared to those who eat home-cooked, vegetable-based foods. The National Health Service (NHS) advises individuals experiencing persistent depression to seek medical attention from a General Practitioner (GP).

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14266231/Prof-Tim-Spector-claims-diet-treat-depression-anxiety.html

Missouri Lawmakers Eye Psilocybin for PTSD Treatment

Missouri lawmakers are considering the potential benefits of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in mushrooms, as a treatment for mental disorders such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies have shown promising results, which could potentially address Missouri's high veteran suicide rate. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Missouri had 171 veteran suicides in 2022, with a rate significantly higher than the national average.

https://stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/missouri-lawmakers-look-to-alternative-medicine-to-address-high-veteran-suicide-rate/article_fa5f3a6c-cd22-11ef-9e12-af40d365ad39.html

45% of Americans Feel Tired in Winter Months

The winter months can have an insidious effect on our bodies and minds by disrupting our circadian rhythms, leading to poor sleep quality and mental health issues. According to the National Sleep Foundation, nearly 45% of people report feeling more tired during the winter due to shorter days and longer nights. This is linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition that affects almost 10% of Americans each year, causing symptoms such as poor sleep, fatigue, and mood changes. Research shows that exposure to natural light, particularly in the morning, can improve sleep quality significantly, with studies indicating that up to 60% of people dealing with circadian rhythm disorders experience improved sleep after using light therapy. Poor sleep is strongly linked to mental health struggles like anxiety and depression, with a Harvard Medical School report revealing that people who report poor sleep in winter are two to three times more likely to experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress.

https://stltoday.com/news/nation-world/weather/polar-vortex-severe-winter-weather-icy-roads-dangerous-conditions/article_8e2e6f0a-2cb9-50ab-a474-25ab1732677d.html

HOPE Therapeutics Taps NRx for Breakthrough Therapy

HOPE Therapeutics, Inc. is a development-stage healthcare delivery company that aims to develop a network of interventional psychiatry clinics offering ketamine transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and other therapies for patients with suicidal depression and related disorders. The company plans to pair these services with a digital therapeutic-enabled platform designed to enhance the benefits of NMDA-targeted drug therapy. HOPE Therapeutics has partnered with NRx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing therapeutics based on its NMDA platform for central nervous system disorders such as suicidal bipolar depression, chronic pain, and PTSD. NRx is currently developing NRX-101, an FDA-designated Breakthrough Therapy for treatment-resistant bipolar depression and chronic pain, which also has potential as a non-opioid treatment for chronic pain and for complicated UTI. The company has initiated a New Drug Application filing for NRX-100 (IV ketamine) for the treatment of suicidal depression based on results from well-controlled clinical trials conducted by the US National Institutes of Health and French health authorities. Matthew Duffy, Chief Business Officer at NRx Pharmaceuticals and Co-Chief Executive Officer at HOPE Therapeutics, is leading the companies' efforts to develop these innovative treatments.

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hope-therapeutics-inc-and-nrx-pharmaceuticals-inc-nasdaqnrxp-announce-dr-jonathan-javitt-and-dr-david-feifel-to-present-keynote-address-beyond-ketamine-monotherapy-combined-interventional-treatment-of-suicidal-depressi-302344042.html

January 7, 2025

Managing Adult ADHD with Therapy and Medication

Adults with ADHD often experience symptoms such as mental fatigue, forgetfulness, inability to sit still, and relationship challenges due to inappropriate social behaviors. These symptoms can be managed through treatment options like therapy, medication, or lifestyle adjustments. A healthcare professional specializing in ADHD should be consulted for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.

https://www.foxnews.com/health/7-signs-you-might-have-adhd-what-steps-take

NYU Researchers Boost Alcohol Recovery with Psilocybin

Researchers at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine conducted two studies examining the effects of psilocybin on individuals with alcohol use disorder. The results showed that psilocybin-assisted therapy led to significant improvements in impulsivity, depression and vulnerability for up to six months after treatment. In a study involving 84 participants, those who received psilocybin therapy demonstrated greater openness and experienced positive emotions, with men showing an increase in positive emotions and women showing increased openness. The researchers noted that these results were observed in controlled therapeutic environments and emphasized the importance of using psilocybin under a doctor's supervision.

https://www.montanarightnow.com/lifestyles/health/psychedelics-may-boost-mental-health-of-people-with-cancer-in-recovery/article_74f0fa6a-312d-50aa-a745-7404b3e77daf.html

Laiba's Lakefront Walks Ease Stress and Boost Energy

Laiba suggests that taking walks in natural settings such as parks near lakes or gardens can help reduce anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation. She also recommends walking as a form of exercise that is easy to incorporate into busy schedules, requires no special equipment, and can be done with others, making it gentle on the joints while increasing energy levels.

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/how-dubai-walk-will-help-promote-healthier-lifestyle-among-residents

Managing Bipolar Disorder with NHS Guidelines

Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression, causes individuals to experience extreme mood swings between episodes of depression and mania. These episodes can last for several weeks and may not be followed by a "normal" mood. The condition is believed to be caused by a combination of factors including genetic predisposition, chemical imbalances, and life-changing events or stress. To manage the disorder, individuals are often prescribed mood stabilizers or undergo psychological treatment such as talking therapy. Additionally, the National Health Service (NHS) recommends regular exercise and engaging in activities that provide a sense of achievement to help regulate symptoms.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-14251623/Heston-Blumenthal-admits-kids-werent-shocked-told-bipolar-reveals-granddaughter-helped-rekindle-relationship-son-Jack.html

January 5, 2025

UK Study: Semi-Skimmed Milk Lowers Depression Risk

A large UK study found that drinking semi-skimmed milk daily may reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. The study, conducted by researchers from the Southern Medical University in China, discovered that those who regularly drank semi-skimmed milk were nearly a third less likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and 16 per cent less likely to be depressed compared to those who did not drink any milk. In contrast, vegans who consumed alternatives such as soya or oat milk were more likely to develop anxiety or depression. The researchers suggested that the balance of fats in semi-skimmed milk may have a beneficial effect on the brain and boost levels of 'feel-good' hormones serotonin and dopamine.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14251081/skimmed-milk-cut-chances-depression-anxiety-research.html