Researchers have identified a key neural circuit that plays a role in dissociation, a phenomenon in which people can feel disconnected from their bodies and reality. Read More
The risk of developing PTSD was eight times higher in teens who experienced traumatic events and had elevated acyl-ghrelin levels than trauma-exposed teens with lower levels of the hormone. Read More
Recent trauma suffered during adulthood has a greater impact on aspects of cognitive functioning that trauma suffered during childhood. However, experiencing the death of a parent or parental divorce during childhood was associated with an increase in cognitive decline. People who reported experiencing traumatic events showed greater overall declines in executive function and episodic memory during later life than those who had no experience of adverse events. This was especially true for those who experienced trauma during adulthood than those who experienced trauma as children. Read More
The NTRK2 gene has been implicated in resilience to developing PTSD following psychologically traumatic events. Previous studies outlined the role NTRK2 plays in memory formation. Those with increased regulation of the gene developed fewer traumatic memories following traumatic experiences. Read More
Children who experience early life adversity experience faster biological aging than children with no history of exposure to abuse. Trauma was associated with biological aging in early puberty, cellular aging, and alterations in brain structure. The findings may explain why children who experienced adversity early in life often suffer poor health as they age. Read More
Having difficulty getting to sleep, in addition to ruminating about trauma experiences and other negative events before sleep, boosts the odds of sexual trauma survivors experiencing post-trauma nightmares. Read More
Strengthened amygdala pathways increase aggression in those who have experienced trauma. The findings could lead to new treatments for PTSD. Read More
Researchers examine the differences between mood and personality disorders, addressing why so many misconceptions still exist about them. Read More
Using fear as a political platform has created a resurgence in feelings of tribalism. The utilization of fear as a political tool is uninformed, illogical and can result in increased social violence. A new study looks at the impact of the politics of fear on tribalism. Read More
Dissociative disorders affect 10-11% of people at some point in their life. Dissociation is often the result of a traumatic event and can lead to emotional numbness. The condition is often comorbid with other mental health disorders. However, dissociative disorders are often overlooked. A new paper explores the phenomena of dissociation and calls for more understanding of the condition. Read More
Researchers conclude many psychiatric diagnoses are scientifically worthless as tools for identifying discrete mental health disorders. Read More
Experiencing trauma and adversity during childhood has been linked to a greater risk of tooth loss later in life. Read More
