Scientists observe an abnormal attentional bias in depressed individuals
New research finds that people with major depressive disorder tend to focus longer on threatening and neutral images than healthy individuals. Eye-tracking data revealed slower gaze shifts and larger pupil responses, pointing to possible disruptions in visual attention and emotion...
Popular sugar substitute erythritol may impair brain blood vessel health, study finds
A new study suggests that erythritol, a popular sugar substitute, may harm the cells lining blood vessels in the brain. Lab tests revealed increased oxidative stress, reduced nitric oxide, and impaired clot-busting responses—factors linked to stroke risk.
Anxious-depressed individuals underestimate themselves even when they’re right
New research reveals that individuals with symptoms of anxiety and depression struggle to integrate their own moments of confidence into broader self-assessments. This internal bias, rather than poor performance, may drive persistent underconfidence in everyday life.
Genetic and biological clues point to inflammation’s role in mental health
New research using data from over 55,000 people has found that low-grade inflammation is associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and impaired memory. The results offer evidence that immune system activity may play a causal role in mental health.
Study links anorexia nervosa to elevated opioid receptor levels in brain’s reward centers
Researchers have identified increased availability of opioid receptors in the brains of women with anorexia nervosa. The findings suggest that the brain's reward system may function differently in those with the disorder, contributing to restrictive eating patterns.
Mediterranean diet appears to weaken the depression–Alzheimer’s connection
A new study suggests that the Mediterranean diet may reduce the biological impact of depression on the brain. In older men, depressive symptoms were linked to higher Alzheimer’s biomarkers—except in those with strong adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet.
Psychedelics may buffer against PTSD, finds new study of survivors of Nova music festival massacre
A new study of Nova festival massacre survivors suggests that taking classic psychedelics before the attack was linked to lower anxiety and trauma symptoms weeks later, offering rare insights into how psychedelics may influence trauma memory formation in real-world settings.
A common herb shows promise for boosting brain health and fighting Alzheimer’s
Long praised in the kitchen, rosemary is gaining scientific attention for its brain-boosting properties. Recent studies show it may support memory, protect neurons, and even reduce Alzheimer’s-related damage—thanks to compounds like 1,8-cineole, carnosic acid, and its lab-made cousin, diAcCA.
Researchers are starting to untangle the links between cognitive processes, emotion regulation, and depression
A new study using network modeling suggests that processing speed and cognitive flexibility influence depression indirectly, by shaping how people regulate emotions.
Sensory issues in autism may stem from co-occurring emotional blindness, not autism itself
Researchers have uncovered evidence that sensory sensitivities linked to autism may instead be genetically tied to alexithymia. This emotional processing trait, often overlooked, could be the true source of sensory challenges across multiple conditions, not just autism.
Verbal abuse changes how children’s brains develop, increasing risk of anxiety and depression
New research highlights how childhood verbal abuse can alter brain development, increasing risks for anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. Experts warn that harsh language is not harmless—and prevention is key to improving long-term mental health outcomes for future generations.
Higher body roundness linked to sleep disorders, with depression playing a mediating role
Visceral fat may affect your sleep more than you think. A study using national survey data shows that individuals with higher Body Roundness Index scores have more sleep disorders, and depression explains part of that connection.
New study links psychological traits to loneliness and negative coping behaviors in young adults
New research highlights how personality traits and emotion regulation styles contribute to social loneliness. The study found that secure attachment reduces loneliness, while emotional suppression and neuroticism increase it—offering new insight into why loneliness becomes chronic for some individuals.
Developmental prosopagnosia: Even ‘mild’ face blindness can severely disrupt daily life
Face blindness, or developmental prosopagnosia, affects about 1 in 50 people—yet most remain undiagnosed. A new study reveals how even mild cases can cause major social challenges, from failing to recognize close friends to being misjudged as rude or uncaring.
Scientists uncover key role of thyroid hormones in fear memory formation
Thyroid hormones may play a much larger role in emotional memory than previously thought. A new study shows that thyroid signaling in the brain’s fear center is both necessary and sufficient for storing fear memories, with implications for PTSD treatment.
