Category Archives: Mental Health

Clinical drug trials compare patients treated with a new drug with those who take placebo pills. Placebos look identical to the drug but contain no active ingredients. The placebo effect occurs when a patient taking the “dummy” pill experiences a … Continue reading →

Previous studies suggest that bright light therapy can help seasonal affective disorder (SAD), episodes of depression that occur during fall and winter. Bright light affects serotonin levels, a brain hormone associated with mood. Now research reports that bright light therapy … Continue reading →

Last year, the U.S. unemployment rate hit a 25 year high. The historically high jobless rate and prolonged economic recession has created dire financial problems for many Americans. Now research reports that unemployment is linked with higher rates of mental … Continue reading →

Extrasensory perception, known as ESP, is the ability to perceive future events before they actually happen. For years parapsychologists have been trying prove the existence of paranormal events. Now research reports that it has established proof that ESP exists. The … Continue reading →

On October 13, 2010, all 33 trapped Chilean miners were successfully rescued. The miners became international heros after enduring two months trapped  2,200 feet underground in Chile’s San Jose Mine. Despite grim circumstances, the miners emerged in satisfactory condition. Throughout … Continue reading →

Previous studies suggest that S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a natural nutrient necessary for the production of cartilage, may help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms. Now research reports that SAMe may help treat major depression. This study was the first to use SAMe as an … Continue reading →

Early psychiatric studies during the 1950s through the 1960s suggest that hallucinogens may help relieve anxiety, enhance mood and treat other mental health problems. Research ended in the 1970s when the federal government criminalized psychedelic drugs like psilocybin – used … Continue reading →

In 1985 the federal government criminalized the psychotherapy drug MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymeth amphetamine). MDMA is used recreationally under the street name ecstasy. However, the FDA has recently sanctioned research investigating the therapeutic benefits of MDMA. Now, in the first completed clinical … Continue reading →

The neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric) has a calming effect on the brain and enhances relaxation. GABA prevents neurons from overfiring in the brain, which blocks stress and anxiety. Now research reports that GABA levels were elevated in the brain after a … Continue reading →

Every year about 25 million Americans are treated for depression. Antidepressant medications are prescribed for most cases of depression. Now a meta-analysis reports that antidepressant drugs are no better than a placebo in relieving mild to moderate depression. A meta-analysis … Continue reading →

Transcendental meditation (TM) is a form of meditation introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the 1960s. Previous studies suggest that TM may decrease stress, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. College statistics indicate a significant increase … Continue reading →

A survey conducted by the U.S. Center of Disease Control (CDC) reports that most American adults are sleep-deprived. Nearly 70 percent of respondents report having at least one day of insufficient sleep monthly and 11 percent of respondents report never … Continue reading →

Homocysteine is a toxic amino acid that can damage blood vessels. Homocysteine is a biomarker for cardiovascular disease when elevated in the blood. Alzheimer’s disease  occurs in older adults and causes memory loss, confusion and eventually death. Now a study … Continue reading →

Green tea is rich in antioxidant catechins (EGCG) and the amino acid theanine.  Research suggests that green tea may reduce inflammation and stress as well as prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other chronic diseases. Now research reports that drinking … Continue reading →

The traditional Mediterranean diet features foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains and olive oil with an emphasis on lean protein (like fish, chicken and nuts). Previous research shows the Mediterranean diet offers protection against heart disease, various forms of cancer, … Continue reading →