Pathological Altruism: The Dangers of Excessive Self-Sacrifice (2024)

Some patients exhibit extreme altruism to the point of self-harm, posing unique challenges for therapists in balancing support and intervention. Highlights: Altruism & Self-Harm: Therapists often encounter patients who display extreme altruism, sometimes to the point of self-harm, posing unique clinical challenges. Positive Psychology: Emphasizes the importance of focusing on patients’ strengths and sources of …

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Oleacein (Rare Compound in Olive Oil) Exerts Anti-Neuroinflammatory & Antidepressant Effects via BDNF & TRKB (2024 Study)

Oleacein, a compound found in extra virgin olive oil, shows potential as a natural treatment for depression and anxiety by reducing inflammation and boosting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Highlights: Oleacein & BDNF: Oleacein significantly increases BDNF expression, which is essential for brain health and neuroplasticity, both in human neuroblastoma cells and in the brains of …

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Case Report: Ozempic (Semaglutide) Worsening Depression in 54-Year-Old Female (2024)

GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide, used for managing Type 2 diabetes, may be linked to adverse mood changes, necessitating further investigation into their psychiatric effects. Highlights: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: These medications mimic GLP-1 hormone effects, enhancing insulin secretion and reducing appetite, commonly used for Type 2 diabetes management. Mood Effects: Data on the impact of …

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Amphetamine Salts Cause Compulsive Biting & Chewing in 32-Year-Old Female with ADHD (2024 Case Report)

TLDR: A patient developed a compulsive chewing behavior when taking mixed amphetamine salts (MAS) for ADHD, highlighting the need to monitor for unusual side effects with stimulant use. Highlights: Patient Background: The patient is a 32-year-old woman with a history of GERD, gastroparesis, migraines, PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder, ADHD, and unspecified bipolar disorder. Medication & …

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Oral Contraceptives Enhance Social Behaviors & Reduce Threat Avoidance Under Stress in Women (2024 Study)

Oral contraceptives (OCs) reduce avoidance bias and increase approach behavior under stress, with effects varying based on the type of contraceptive used. Highlights: Participants: The study involved 130 women, split evenly between those taking oral contraceptives (OCs) and those not using any hormonal contraception. Avoidance Bias: Women taking oral contraceptives showed a reduced tendency to …

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Effects of Water Pollution on the Brain & Strategies to Avoid Neurotoxicity (2024)

Water pollution poses serious risks to human brain health, leading to neurological damage and increased risk of neuropsychiatric diseases. Highlights: Sources of Pollution: Water sources are contaminated by industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and urban waste, introducing harmful chemicals like pesticides, inorganic salts, and organic compounds into drinking water. Neurological Impact: Chemicals such as acrylamide in …

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How Common Are Antidepressant Withdrawal Symptoms? Estimated in 31% of Patients (2024 Review)

Antidepressant withdrawal symptoms occur in about one-third of patients stopping antidepressants, with severe symptoms in about 3% of cases – according to a new Lancet Psychiatry review. Highlights: Incidence of Symptoms: Approximately 31% of patients experience at least one discontinuation symptom after stopping antidepressants, compared to 17% for those stopping placebo. Severe Symptoms: Around 3% …

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Lecanemab for Alzheimers Disease: Reduces Amyloid-Beta Plaques But High ARIA Adverse Events (2024 Review)

Lecanemab shows promise in treating Alzheimer’s disease by reducing clinical deterioration and amyloid-beta plaques, but it has significant adverse effects and requires further research for confirmation. Highlights: FDA Approval: The US FDA authorized lecanemab for Alzheimer’s disease treatment in January 2023. Efficacy: Lecanemab significantly reduces clinical deterioration and amyloid-beta plaques in the brain. Adverse Effects: …

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Lower Intracortical Myelination in Depression within Lateral Orbitofrontal Cortex (2024 Study)

A study used a 7-Tesla MRI to discover that major depressive disorder (MDD) is linked to lower intracortical myelination, particularly in brain regions associated with negative emotions. Highlights: Advanced MRI: The study used Ultra-High Field MRI at 7.0 Tesla to gain detailed insights into brain microstructures in MDD patients. Brain Regions: Researchers focused on the …

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1-Year Post-COVID Neuropsychiatric Symptoms: Fatigue, Cognition, Anxiety, Depression, Headache, Dizziness (2024 Study)

A study found that adults recovering from their first COVID-19 infection more than 1-year ago have higher levels of fatigue and other chronic neuropsychiatric symptoms, influenced by vaccination status and socioeconomic factors. Highlights: Adults who had their first COVID-19 infection over 1-year ago reported significantly higher fatigue levels compared to those who never had COVID-19 …

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