Depression

A new meta-analysis has reviewed over 400 clinical trials investigating the efficacy of various psychological interventions on mental well-being in an attempt to empirically categorize the most effective tactics to improve one’s well-being.

A first-of-its-kind trial has pitted a common antidepressant against psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms. The results are mixed but suggest the drug is at least as effective as common antidepressants in treating depression.

Researchers are closer to an objective blood test for mood disorders, with a new study describing a panel of blood-based biomarkers that can distinguish between depression and bipolar disorder, and measure the future risk of developing these conditions.

More than one in 10 adults suffer from chronic rhinosinusitis, an inflammatory sinus condition. A new brain imaging study suggests the disease is linked with functional brain connectivity changes that could explain cognitive problems such as brain fog.

For some people a small irritation can wreck their day, while others can shake off minor problems and move on. A new study is suggesting persistent activity in the amygdala could be why some are unable to move on from momentary negative experiences.

New research has demonstrated how odors evoke memories in the brain, in ways stronger than other senses. Using neuroimaging and intracranial electrophysiology the research shows how olfactory pathways communicate directly with the hippocampus.

A study published in Nature Communications indicates a possible genetic association between stomach ulcers and depression. The research found a genetic link between a susceptibility for peptic ulcer disease and psychiatric disorders such as major depression.

The notion of using ketamine as an anti-depressant is gathering steam, and a new study has shown how this might work in practice, with chronic suicidality sufferers offered rapid relief through oral administration of the drug in clinical settings.

Australian scientists have developed a world-first test claimed to accurately measure levels of a brain protein associated with depression and bipolar disorder. The test could offer doctors an objective diagnostic tool to assess patients.

In the largest and longest follow-up study to date investigating the lingering effects of COVID-19, researchers have found more than two-thirds of hospitalized patients report at least one ongoing symptom six months after contracting the disease.

How bacteria in the gut could influence depression has been unclear but new research has shed light on one possible mechanism, showing how changes to the microbiome can lead to decreased activity in the hippocampus and subsequent depressive behavior.

A new analysis of US patient data has found nearly one in five people are diagnosed with a psychiatric illness within three months of a positive COVID-19 test. The study suggests recovered patients are twice as likely to suffer from anxiety or depression.