Anxiety

Cornell Chronicle Reports: Quick Summary New research on serotonin could ultimately lead to new therapeutics for anxiety and depression. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that mediates behaviors such as feeding, sleep, mood and cognition. Drugs that alter serotonin levels are the main weapon for treating psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Key Points Researchers thought that serotonin was made by one specific molecular pathway and then quickly degraded. Research discovered a second, parallel biosynthetic pathway that accounts for about half of the total serotonin production.

Keremeos Review Reports: Quick Summary The Canadian Paediatric Society has new advice for clinicians on how to assess and manage anxiety in children and adolescents as the pandemic escalates concerns over mental health. While mental health was an increasing problem before the pandemic, it heightened pressures on children. Medical professionals should have clear advice on how to differentiate between an age-appropriate response to stress and something more serious. Key Points People are generally aware that the treatments for anxiety are medications and therapy.

Medical News Today Reports: Quick Summary A new study from the University College London (UCL) found talk therapy improved depression and anxiety symptoms in 63% of people with dementia. What’s more, 40% of participants improved to the extent that they were no longer diagnosed as having anxiety or depression by the end of their treatment. Key Points Many people with dementia also navigate mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Talk therapy — also known as psychotherapyTrusted Source — involves talking with a mental health professional about what is bothering you.

WTOV 9 Reports: Quick Summary The United States Preventative Services Task Force is now recommending that children aged 8 years old and older start getting tested for anxiety. Key Points Health officials are pointing the finger at the pandemic. The general stress of the pandemic, not being in their learning environment, not interacting with their friends, limited social options all led to increases in mental health concerns for children. Anxiety can present itself differently in children.