Mental Health

Childhood Adversity Can Weaken Brain’s Response to Rewards

Posted on July 22, 2009

Childhood adversity can have an impact on a person in ways beyond what is visibly noticeable. According to a new Science Daily release, research suggests that this adversity is associated with diminished neural activity in brain regions that have been implicated in the anticipation of possible rewards.

Study Examines Diagnosis Procedures for Pediatric Bipolar Disorder

Posted on July 20, 2009

Using irritability as an element of diagnosis can be a challenge in any area of medicine as it can be caused by any number of things, both biological and environmental. Now, a new study out of the Bradley Hospital and The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, in addition to two other institutions, find that clinicians consider irritability as a symptom when diagnosing pediatric bipolar disorder.

Obese Children Also Likely to be Depressed

Posted on July 6, 2009

Studies have already shown that obesity and depression can go hand in hand in adults. Now, new research supports the same theory in children. A new Science Daily piece examines a new study that connects abnormalities of the stress hormone cortisol with symptoms of depression in obese children.

“There is evidence in adults that abnormal regulation of cortisol plays a role in both obesity and depression,” said the study’s lead author, Panagiota Pervanidou, MD, of Athens University Medical School in Athens, Greece, in the Science Daily. “Our study indicates that cortisol abnormalities may underlie obesity and depression starting in childhood.”

Expert Argues Attributes of Standard Depression Screening for Teens

Posted on June 29, 2009

There appears to be a continued debate in the medical field as to whether or not teenagers should be screened for depression on a routine basis. While it has been suggested by some studies, certain medical professionals argue against the practice and most insurance companies will not cover the cost of the screening.

News of a new report from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force argues that teenagers should be routinely screened by doctors for depression. This group argued that all children aged 12 to 18 should answer questions to determine potential risk for depression and suicidal tendencies.

Much of the movement in this area is in support of the theory that the mental and emotional health of children is often ignored, or does not receive as much attention as necessary to maintain good health. As many as 10 percent of children have emotional disorders; demonstrating that there is a need for attention in this area.

Parents with Violent Relationship Can Cause Mental Issues for Children

Posted on June 5, 2009

There is a saying that you are a product of your environment. Now, new research demonstrates how a person’s surroundings when growing up can impact their mental health later in life.

Science Daily recently released a report that showed those individuals with parents who were violent to each other are more likely to have mental health problems later on. The exposure to violence experienced by the child acts as a form of maltreatment with negative consequences on the development of the child.

Anxiety and Depression in Early Years Predictive of Victimization Later

Posted on May 22, 2009

Recent research has found that depression or anxiety in children could lead to other problems later on in their school career. Science Daily reported that those children in first grade who show signs of depression and anxiety or excessive aggression are at risk of being chronically victimized by their classmates by third grade.

Intervention Program Helps Teens at Risk for Psychosis