L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound that plays a key role in energy production in the body. Some research suggests it may enhance cognitive function, but does it really work as a nootropic or “smart drug” in healthy people? Key Facts: L-carnitine is made in the body and obtained from food sources like meat. It …
Deep brain stimulation (DBS), a surgical procedure that implants electrodes in the brain to deliver electrical stimulation, may offer hope for people with severe depression that has not responded to multiple treatments. However, larger and more rigorous studies are still needed to confirm its benefits and long-term safety. Key Facts: DBS targets areas of the …
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an emerging experimental therapy that has shown promise in treating patients with severe, treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Early research indicates DBS may help patients who have failed to respond to medications, psychotherapy, and other interventions. Key facts: DBS involves surgically implanting electrodes in specific brain regions to deliver mild electrical stimulation. …
Researchers conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis exploring the association between fear of missing out (FOMO) and internet use. The analysis integrated 85 studies involving over 55,000 participants. Here are some key facts from the research: The correlation between FOMO and internet use ranged widely, from 0.11 to 0.63 across studies. The FOMO-internet use correlation was similar …
Behavioral addictions like internet, sex, and shopping addictions may not be formally recognized as psychiatric conditions, but research shows that treatments can be effective in reducing problematic symptoms. Key Facts: Psychological, pharmacological, and combined treatments all showed robust improvements in global severity and frequency of compulsive behaviors for internet, sex, and shopping addictions. Treatment gains …
Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is a newly recognized behavioral addiction characterized by excessive absorption in fantasy. Key facts about Maladaptive Daydreaming: It involves compulsive,immersive daydreaming that impairs functioning MD serves as an escape and emotional regulation strategy It shares features with other behavioral addictions like gaming and porn addiction MD can occupy many hours a day …
A new meta-analysis published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions explores the relationship between mobile phone addiction (MPA) and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and poor sleep quality in college students. The analysis, conducted by researchers in China, pooled data from 40 studies involving over 33,000 college students worldwide. Key Takeaways: College students …
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a challenging psychiatric illness affecting 2% of the population. While some patients respond to therapy and medications, others continue to suffer from severe, treatment-resistant symptoms. Exciting new research shows that directly modulating brain activity through neuromodulation techniques can provide relief for these patients. Key Facts: OCD involves dysfunction in brain networks …
Addiction involves complex interactions between the brain’s reward circuitry and stress systems. The adrenal cortex and its hormones are emerging as key players. Key Facts: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulates adrenal cortex hormone secretion. Adrenal hormones like cortisol influence mood, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms. Disrupting adrenal hormone signaling reduces addictive behaviors in animal studies. There …
A new study provides evidence that the psychedelic compound psilocybin has both immediate and lasting anti-inflammatory effects in healthy volunteers. The findings shed light on how psilocybin may improve mood, social behavior, and potentially treat depression. Key facts: Psilocybin decreased the inflammatory marker TNF-alpha immediately after administration. Seven days later, psilocybin reduced two other inflammatory …
