Mental Health

Gamers free to interact with and explore a game world at their own pace are more relaxed and have improved mental well-being, according to new research. It could open the door to using gaming as a therapeutic tool to counter stress and anxiety.

Spanning nearly 100 laboratories in 45 countries, a landmark study has, for the first time, shown an association between genetic brain shape and size and the prevalence of neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease and ADHD.

An Oxford University study showed that playing the eponymous video game Powerwash Simulator showed a small improvement in the moods of more than 70% of its participants. In fact, it was found to be more effective than watching TV or reading.

A study conducted by researchers at Uppsala University shows that playing the popular video game Tetris can significantly reduce flashbacks in people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

A head-mounted ultrasound device has now completed two human trials. One showed how the targeted sound waves could improve pain symptoms, while another revealed a marked improvement in depression symptoms after just one session.

Taking placebos fully aware that they contain no active ingredients can still significantly reduce stress, anxiety and depression according to a new study. It’s suggested that these 'non-deceptive placebos' might be an effective way of improving mental health.

Exercise’s positive effect on depression is well-known, but not how it produces its anti-depressant effects. After reviewing a broad range of studies into how depression and physical activity affect motivation, researchers have now come up with a hypothesis.

Finding support and information from medical professionals lacking, people wanting to come off their antidepressant medication are turning to online groups instead, according to new research. The study highlights an ongoing problem that needs addressing.

MoodCapture will use your smartphone camera as you unlock the screen to assess facial expressions and backgrounds for depression severity. While the app is still in development, the team says it represents a breakthrough in personal diagnostic medicine.

Months of trial and error, as well as adverse side effects, to find the right antidepressant may soon be a thing of the past for those with depression, with a novel artificial intelligence model able to determine a drug's efficacy within just one week.

People suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD) are also more likely to have higher body temperatures, finds the largest study of its kind – and surprisingly, one suggested treatment is to heat the body up even more, with saunas and hot yoga.

Researchers have identified the neurons responsible for controlling how growth hormone affects anxiety and the creation of fear memories, a hallmark of post-traumatic stress disorder. The discovery could lead to a new class of anti-anxiety drugs.

In a finding that could have a significant impact on personalized medicine, scientists have identified five blood compounds linked to suicidal ideation. It could prove crucial in assessing risk factors and for new targeted treatment of depression.

A groundbreaking study has mapped dopamine, deep inside the brain, in real time. Surprising researchers, the "pleasure neurotransmitter" is more complex than earlier thought, shaping our brain to make better decisions based on prior experience.

Researchers have identified how Lactobacillus, a member of our guts’ microbiome community, affects a critical immune system protein, influencing stress levels and mental health. The findings could lead to new treatments for depression and anxiety.