Tag: anxiety

Categories : Mental HealthTags :

Social Media Breaks Relieve Mental Health and Free up Time

On By ModernMedia
Photo by Freestocks on Unsplash

Advising people to take a week-long social media break could lead to significant improvements in their wellbeing, depression and anxiety and could become a recommended part of maintaining mental health, according to the authors of a study published in Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking.

University of Bath researchers studied the mental health effects of a week-long social media break. Some participants were able to free up 9 hours a week of time otherwise spent scrolling Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok.

Their results suggest that just one week off social media improved individuals’ overall level of well-being, as well as reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.

For the study, the researchers randomly allocated 154 individuals aged 18 to 72 who used social media every day into either an intervention group, where they were asked to stop using all social media for one-week or a control group, where they could continue scrolling as normal. At the beginning of the study, baseline scores for anxiety, depression and wellbeing were taken.

At the start of the study, average time spend on social media was 8 hours per week. After one week, the participants who were asked to take the one-week break had significant improvements in wellbeing, depression, and anxiety than those who continued to use social media, suggesting a short-term benefit.

Participants asked to take a one-week break reported using social media for an average of 21 minutes’ use compared to seven hours for the control group, with screen usage stats used to confirm adherence to the break. Lead researcher from Bath’s Department for Health, Dr Jeff Lambert explained: “Scrolling social media is so ubiquitous that many of us do it almost without thinking from the moment we wake up to when we close our eyes at night.

“We know that social media usage is huge and that there are increasing concerns about its mental health effects, so with this study, we wanted to see whether simply asking people to take a week’s break could yield mental health benefits.

“Many of our participants reported positive effects from being off social media with improved mood and less anxiety overall. This suggests that even just a small break can have an impact.

“Of course, social media is a part of life and for many people, it’s an indispensable part of who they are and how they interact with others. But if you are spending hours each week scrolling and you feel it is negatively impacting you, it could be worth cutting down on your usage to see if it helps.”

The team’s next steps include investigating short breaks in different populations (eg younger people) and to increase follow up time. If benefits persist, they speculate that this could help in mental health management.

Over the past 15 years, social media has undergone explosive growth. In the UK the number of adults using social media increased from 45% in 2011 to 71% in 2021. As many as 97% of 16 to 44-year-olds use social media, with scrolling being most frequent online activity.

Feeling ‘low’ and losing pleasure are core characteristics of depression, whereas anxiety is characterised by excessive and out of control worry. Wellbeing refers to an individual’s level of positive affect, life satisfaction and sense of purpose. According to the UK mental health organisation Mind, one in six people experience a common mental health problem like anxiety and depression in any given week.

Source: University of Bath

Categories : Gastrointestinal Mental Health PaediatricsTags :

GI Issues and Anxiety Linked in Children with Autism

On By ModernMedia
Male doctor with young girl patient
Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

A new study has found a bi-directional relationship between gastrointestinal (GI) issues and internalised symptoms such as anxiety in children and adolescents with autism, which means the symptoms seem to be affecting each other. The findings could inform future precision medicine research aimed at developing personalised treatments for people with autism experiencing gastrointestinal issues. The study appears in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

Autism is known to be often associated with GI issues, and is often overlooked in children despite being a source of pain and anxiety. Food preferences are often for carbohydrates and processed foods. The most common cause of GI issues in children with autism are abdominal pain, constipation, chronic diarrhea and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

“Research has shown gastrointestinal issues are associated with an increased stress response as well as aggression and irritability in some children with autism,” said Brad Ferguson, an assistant research professor. “This likely happens because some kids with autism are unable to verbally communicate their gastrointestinal discomfort as well as how they feel in general, which can be extremely frustrating. The goal of our research is to find out what factors are associated with gastrointestinal problems in individuals with autism so we can design treatments to help these individuals feel better.”

In the study, Ferguson and his team analysed health data from more than 620 under-18 patients with autism who experience gastrointestinal issues. Then, the researchers examined the relationship between the GI issues and internalised symptoms. Ferguson explained the findings provide more evidence on the importance of the ‘gut–brain axis’ in GI disorders in individuals with autism.

“Stress signals from the brain can alter the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine in the gut which control gastrointestinal motility, or the movement of stool through the intestines. Stress also impacts the balance of bacteria living in the gut, called the microbiota, which can alter gastrointestinal functioning,” Ferguson said. “The gut then sends signals back to the brain, and that can, in turn, lead to feelings of anxiety, depression and social withdrawal. The cycle then repeats, so novel treatments addressing signals from both the brain and the gut may provide the most benefit for some kids with gastrointestinal disorders and autism.”

Ferguson is collaborating with David Beversdorf, a neurologist who also studies gastrointestinal problems in individuals with autism. Beversdorf had recently helped identify specific RNA biomarkers linked with gastrointestinal issues in children with autism.

“Interestingly, the study from Beversdorf and colleagues found relationships between microRNA that are related to anxiety behaviour following prolonged stress as well as depression and gastrointestinal disturbance, providing some converging evidence with our behavioural findings,” Ferguson said.

Ferguson and Beversdorf are now together investigating the effects of a stress-reducing medication on GI issues in a clinical trial. Ferguson cautioned that treatment could be effective for certain people with autism but not others.

“Our team uses a biomarker-based approach to find what markers in the body are common in those who respond favourably to certain treatments,” Ferguson said. “Our goal is to eventually develop a quick test that tells us which treatment is likely to work for which subgroups of patients based on their unique biomarker signature, including markers of stress, composition of gut bacteria, genetics, co-occurring psychological disorders, or a combination thereof. This way, we can provide the right treatments to the right patients at the right time.”

Source: University of Missouri-Columbia

Categories : Cancer Mental HealthTags :

Fear of Cancer Recurrence is Widespread in Survivors and Patients

On By ModernMedia
Photo by Alex Green on Pexels

A recent analysis of published research found that more than half (59%) of cancer survivors and patients experience at least a moderate level of fear of cancer recurrence and that about one in five (19%) have a high level of fear. The findings, published in Psycho-Oncology, show women and younger people in particular have more fear of recurrence.

Cancer prevalence is increasing due to ageing populations, and more people are surviving cancer thanks to improved treatments. Managing fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) has been reported as one of the most important unmet needs for this growing group. FCR is defined as “fear, worry, or concern relating to the possibility that cancer will come back or progress”. Low levels of FCR can be helpful by promoting treatment compliance and healthy lifestyle adaptations. However, at clinical levels, FCR can limit quality of life and daily functioning and require professional help. Four features have been defined as key characteristics of clinical FCR: “(a) high levels of preoccupation; (b) high levels of worry; (c) that are persistent; and (d) hypervigilance to bodily symptoms”. It is important to address FCR, because FCR may also lead to increased healthcare costs14 and for most patients, it does not decrease over time without intervention.

The analysis, which is included 46 studies from 13 countries. Investigators found similar fear of cancer recurrence rates in survivors and patients. On average, younger people and women experienced more fear of cancer recurrence.

Additional research is needed to not only identify which patients desire support to address their fear of cancer recurrence but also to determine how to tailor interventions to different levels of fear and to individual needs and preferences.

“Knowing the prevalence and severity of fear of cancer recurrence for the general cancer population and for different subgroups is an important development, because it is essential for shaping healthcare provision, policy, and research on fear of cancer recurrence,” said lead author Yvonne Luigjes-Huizer, a PhD candidate at the Helen Dowling Institute and the University Medical Centre Utrecht, in the Netherlands.

Source: Wiley

Categories : Mental HealthTags :

New Applications for Ketamine in Mental Health

On By ModernMedia
Woman with depression
Photo by Sydney Sims on Unsplash

Researchers have identified the fast-acting dissociative anaesthetic ketamine has significant potential as a treatment for mental health conditions. First manufactured more than 50 years ago, ketamine is often used in veterinary and emergency medicine. It also has a history of being an illicit party drug.

In a recent study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, the research team found ketamine to have significant anti-depressant and anti-suicidal effects. They also found evidence that even more benefits.

Led by Psychology Professor Dr Zach Walsh and doctoral student Joey Rootman, the research team arrived at this conclusion after analysing more than 150 worldwide studies on the effects of sub-anaesthetic ketamine doses for the treatment of mental illness.

“We found strong evidence that indicates ketamine provides rapid and robust anti-depressant and anti-suicidal effects, but the effects were relatively short-lived,” explained Rootman. “However, repeated dosing appeared to have the potential to increase the duration of positive effects.”

The study also provides limited evidence to suggest a possible use for ketamine in the treatment of other disorders, such as eating disorders, problematic substance use, post-traumatic stress and anxiety.

“What our research provides is an up-to-date overview and synthesis of where the knowledge on ketamine is at right now,” said Rootman. “Our results signal that ketamine may indeed have a broader spectrum of potential applications in psychiatric treatment—and that tells us that more investigation is needed.”

This study serves as a foundation for fellow researchers looking to design ketamine-related projects and offers valuable data for clinicians considering using ketamine with their patients.

The results also help to satisfy the public’s appetite for information on innovative and emerging psychiatric treatments, said Dr Walsh, explaining that the review provides a relatively compact document with evidence regarding which ketamine treatments may be helpful for diverse diagnoses.

With many people experiencing mental health disorders, Dr Walsh said that “the reality is that existing treatments don’t work for everyone. As a result, many Canadians are curious about new approaches to help with these serious conditions.”

Overall, while Dr Walsh acknowledges research into other treatment areas is just beginning, he finds the preliminary evidence encouraging.

“We need a lot more information on how these interventions could work – for example, administering the drug is only a part of treatment. We need to figure out what amount and type of psychotherapy would best compliment the drug intervention to really maximise potential benefits,” he explained. “With that being said, it is a truly exciting time for ketamine research. If it can deliver the relief that early evidence suggests it can, this could be among the most significant developments in mental health treatment in decades.”

Source: University of British Columbia

Categories : Mental Health Substance UseTags :

Access to Medical Marijuana Increases Risks for Abuse

On By ModernMedia
Cannabis plants
Photo by Crystalweed Cannabis on Unsplash

A study found that access to medical marijuana to treat pain, anxiety, or depression symptoms led to cannabis use disorder (CUD) in a significant minority of individuals while failing to improve their symptoms. The Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) study was published in JAMA Network Open. 

In the US, individuals are able to gain access to cannabis products using medical marijuana cards (MMCs), usually issued by a doctor. Researchers found the greatest risk of developing the addictive symptoms of CUD was in those seeking relief from anxiety and depression. This finding indicates the need for stronger safeguards over the dispensing, use, and professional follow-up of people who legally obtain cannabis through MMCs.

“There have been many claims about the benefits of medical marijuana for treating pain, insomnia, anxiety and depression, without sound scientific evidence to support them,” said lead author Jodi Gilman, PhD, with the Center for Addiction Medicine at MGH. “In this first study of patients randomised to obtain medical marijuana cards, we learned there can be negative consequences to using cannabis for medical purposes. People with pain, anxiety or depression symptoms failed to report any improvements, though those with insomnia experienced improved sleep.”

Dr Gilman was particularly disturbed by the fact that individuals with symptoms of anxiety or depression – the most common conditions which people seek medical cannabis for – were the ones most vulnerable to developing cannabis use disorder. CUD symptoms include a vicious circle of needing more cannabis because of growing tolerance, and seeking out cannabis to treat the psychological problems it causes.

“Medical” cannabis has surged in popularity in the US, as so far 36 of its 50 states have commercialised its use for myriad health conditions through medical marijuana cards. These cards require written approval of a licensed physician who, under the current system, is often not the patient’s primary care provider but rather a ‘cannabis doctor’ who may provide authorisation to patients with only a cursory examination, no recommendations for alternative treatments, and no follow-up. The medical marijuana industry effectively functions outside the regulations that apply to most fields of medicine.

The researchers started their trial in 2017 with 269 adults (average age of 37) who were interested in obtaining a medical marijuana card. One group was allowed to get MMCs immediately, while the second group, designed to serve as a control, was asked to wait 12 weeks before obtaining a card. Both groups were tracked over 12 weeks. The team found that the odds of developing CUD were nearly two times higher in the MMC cohort than in the wait list control group, and that by week 12, 10% of the MMC group had developed a CUD diagnosis, with the number rising to 20% in those seeking a card for anxiety or depression.

“Our study underscores the need for better decision-making about whether to begin to use cannabis for specific medical complaints, particularly mood and anxiety disorders, which are associated with an increased risk of cannabis use disorder,” said Dr Gilman. Regulation and distribution of cannabis to people with medical marijuana cards needs to be greatly improved, no matter the specific condition they are issued for. “There needs to be better guidance to patients around a system that currently allows them to choose their own products, decide their own dosing, and often receive no professional follow-up care.”

Source: Massachusetts General Hospital

Categories : COVID Mental HealthTags :

A Case of Three Teens with COVID and Psychiatric Symptoms

On By ModernMedia
Photo by Alex Green on Pexels

A case study details three teenagers with mild or asymptomatic COVID presented with suicidal thoughts, “paranoia-like fears,” delusions and “foggy brain”, which could be explained by anti-neural antibodies – ‘turncoat’ antibodies that may attack brain tissue.

Mounting evidence points to neurological and psychiatric effects of COVID, with a UK study finding a 13% risk of a first-time diagnosis after COVID. The study, published in JAMA Neurology, is the first to look at anti-neural antibodies in paediatric patients previously infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Over five months in 2020, 18 children and teens were hospitalised with confirmed COVID at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco, three of whom were the patients in the study who underwent neurological evaluations.

The researchers examined the patients’ cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and found that two of the patients, both of whom had histories of unspecified depression and/or anxiety, had antibodies indicating that SARS-CoV-2 may have invaded the central nervous system. They also had anti-neural antibodies in their CSF, suggesting a rampant immune system accidentally targeting the brain.

The research follows a previous UCSF study that also found a high level of autoantibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid of adult patients with acute COVID, who experienced neurological symptoms, including intractable headaches, seizures and loss of smell.

“It is way too soon to know whether COVID is a common trigger for neuropsychiatric illnesses, but it does seem to be a potent trigger for the development of autoantibodies,” said co-corresponding author Samuel Pleasure, MD, PhD. “It is currently totally unknown whether patients predisposed to neuropsychiatric illnesses are more likely to develop worsened symptoms after COVID, or whether COVID infection can act as an independent trigger.”

Unlike most psychiatric presentations, the three patients in the UCSF study had symptoms with sudden onset and rapid progression, representing a marked change from their baselines, said co-first author Claire Johns, MD. “The patients had significant neuropsychiatric manifestations despite mild respiratory symptoms, suggesting potential short and long-term effects of COVID.”

After hospitalisations lasting weeks and ongoing psychiatric medications, the two UCSF patients, whose cerebrospinal fluid tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and anti-neural antibodies, were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin, an immunomodulatory therapy that curbs inflammation in autoimmune disorders. After five days, the first patient had “more organised thoughts, decreased paranoia and improved insight.”

Autoantibodies targeting the protein TCF4 were also found, which has genetic links in some schizophrenia cases. However, “we don’t know that the antibodies are actually interfering with the protein’s function,” said co-corresponding author, Michael R. Wilson, MD, noting that the diagnosis of schizophrenia is based on a constellation of symptoms, not a biomarker.
The second patient partially responded to immunotherapy with improved cognition and working memory, but continued to have “impaired mood and cognitive symptoms” six months later. The third patient, with no psychiatric history and without SARS-CoV-2 antibodies or anti-neural antibodies in their cerebrospinal fluid, recovered with psychiatric medications. Their symptoms were attributed to recreational drug use.

In another case study, a 30-year-old patient with mildly symptomatic COVID who presented at a hospital emergency department with delusions, violent outbursts, hyper-anxiety and paranoia was unresponsive to antipsychotic medication but after being diagnosed with possible “autoimmune-mediated psychosis”, responded to intravenous immunoglobulin.

Nonetheless, the researchers agree it’s unlikely that there were pre-existing autoantibodies, and they point to other disorders with psychiatric symptoms, like anti-NMDAR encephalitis syndrome, that are caused by anti-neural antibodies and respond to treatment directed at these rogue antibodies.

The researchers agree that more study is warranted, although Dr Pleasure noted that the rarity of cerebrospinal fluid samples from paediatric patients is a challenge, as they rarely have severe enough COVID to warrant a lumbar puncture.

Source: University of California San Francisco