Depression

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.

Medical Express Reports: Quick Summary Researchers have created a therapeutic videogame seeks to alleviate depression symptoms. The game is not entertainment but a medical software device for health care, and it will be evaluated accordingly. For example, that the game must be clinically proven efficacious and must not compromise patient safety. Ideally, players will both benefit from the game and enjoy playing it. Key Points Although mental health is a cornerstone of well-being, it is faltering in today’s societies for many reasons.

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.

Neuroscience News Reports: Quick Summary Symptomatic depression increases the risk of developing dementia by 51%, but those being treated for depression had a significantly lower risk of being diagnosed with depression later in life. Key Points Depression has long been associated with an increased risk of dementia. A new study provides evidence that timely treatment of depression could lower the risk of dementia. No effective treatment for dementia exists but identifying ways to help minimize or prevent dementia would help to lessen the burden of the disease.