New research finds that regular running is just as effective as antidepressants for treating depression and anxiety, and leads to better physical health outcomes. Key Facts: In a study of 141 patients, running therapy and antidepressant medication had comparable effects on rates of remission (no longer meeting diagnostic criteria) from depression/anxiety disorders. However, running led …
Kava kava, an herbal supplement made from the root of Piper methysticum, has gained popularity as an alternative treatment for anxiety and insomnia. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis re-examined kava kava’s effectiveness and safety for anxiety disorders. The authors concluded that kava kava is effective for short-term anxiety relief but long-term safety remains uncertain. …
A new pilot study investigates using kava and valerian, two herbal remedies, to treat stress-induced insomnia. Key Facts: 24 patients with stress-induced insomnia took part in the 6-month crossover study. All patients took kava for 6 weeks, then valerian for 6 weeks, then a combination of both for 6 weeks. Both kava and valerian significantly …
Chamomile, a popular herbal tea, has frequently been associated with benefits for relaxation and sleep. A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in Phytotherapy Research comprehensively analyzes the clinical research on chamomile for anxiety, insomnia, and sleep quality. Key facts from this study: 12 randomized controlled trials with 965 total patients were included. Trials tested …
Social anxiety disorder (SAD), one of the most common anxiety disorders, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations. A new brain imaging study provides evidence that SAD is associated with an overactive serotonin system. Key Takeaways: Using PET imaging, researchers found increased serotonin synthesis and reuptake in multiple brain regions in patients with …
A new study reveals important connections between lingering lung damage after COVID-19 and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. The research also demonstrates that simple at-home breathing exercises can improve both lung function and mood. Key facts: 1 in 3 patients in the study still had abnormal lung function 2 months after moderate COVID-19 …
Research provides new evidence that generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and depressive disorder (DD) have distinct patterns of brain activity. Machine learning analysis of EEG data reveals signature brain features that may enable more accurate diagnosis. Key Facts: DD showed increased beta band power and complexity compared to GAD Brain network connectivity was altered in both …
Researchers have discovered that a common soil bacterium called Mycobacterium vaccae (M. vaccae) may help reduce stress, anxiety, and inflammation in the brain. Key Facts: M. vaccae is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soil, mud, and water. It is considered harmless to humans. When heat-killed M. vaccae is injected into rats, it reduces stress-induced …
Researchers developed a new gene editing technique that reduces anxiety in mice. The technique uses CRISPR technology to edit a specific gene in the brain called HTR2A. Editing this gene leads to lower levels of anxiety behaviors in tests with mice. This research demonstrates the potential of using gene editing tools like CRISPR to precisely …
