News & Research: August & July, 2010

Abrupt Discontinuation Of Antidepressants Linked To Relapse

In this observational research, clinicians found that those patients who abruptly stopped taking their antidepressant medication were more likely to experience a return of symptoms than those who tapered off their medication gradually under the guidance of their physician. (See original article)

Teens’ Excessive Use Of The Internet May Lead To Depression

A study in China found that teens who spend excessive amounts of time online are at higher risk for developing depression than moderate internet users. Whether excessive internet use actually causes depression is still not clear, but it could nevertheless signal a problem for teens. (See original article)

Ketamine Shows Promise For Treating Bipolar Disorder

Research suggests that ketamine may be useful for treating depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder. This “club drug” appears to provide quicker relief than standard antidepressants when a person is in a depressive crisis, although the effects are not long lasting. (See original article)

Depression Makes The World A Dull Place

Researchers found that those who are depressed actually see the world differently. Depression may cause impairment in how one perceives contrast, resulting in the world appearing more dull than usual. (See original article)

Teen Suicide Facts You Need To Know

This article takes a close look at teenage suicide and depression. The author offers tips on how to recognize that a teen might be suicidal. He also provides discussion on general issues every parent should be aware of with regard to a depressed teen. (See original article)

Tai Chi Can Improve Depression, Anxiety, And Self-Esteem

Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese form of martial arts movement has been shown to improve overall well-being and mood. Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine, in reviewing a body of research in this area found that active participation in Tai Chi reduced stress and anxiety, as well as depression and mood swings. It also helped improve self-esteem. (See original article)

Depression in Cancer Patients May Be Treated With Phone Support

A recent study showed that cancer patients who struggle with depressive symptoms and physical pain may be helped by phone support. One of the most overlooked issues that cancer patients cope with is depression. (See original article)

Mental State of Moms Influenced Kids’ Well Being After 9/11 Tragedy

New York City preschoolers with a mother having mental health problems after the 9/11 attacks were more likely to have behavioral problems three years later than kids whose mothers coped better with the attacks. Whether these kids’ moms had mental health problems was more influential on their well being than if the kids had witnessed the attacks themselves. (See original article)

Perceptions Of Racism May Affect Black Women’s Treatment For Depression

Due to concerns about racism and the expectation of being a “strong black woman,” African-American women may not be getting the care they need for depression. The women in a study conducted at Oregon Health & Science University were very wary of most depression treatments and providers, perceiving them as “white systems of care.” (See original article)

Playing Violent Video Games May Help Relieve Depression and Stress

Researchers at Texas A&M International University studied young men and women who play video games. They found that the ones who played violent video games handled stress better and were less depressed and hostile than those who did not play such games. While this is a correlational study (not cause and effect), the results suggest that having a “mood-management” activity may help people manage stress and depression. (See original article)

Brain Changes in MS Patients May Lead To Depression

Researchers believe that brain atrophy may be a significant reason why multiple sclerosis patients have a high risk of developing depression. This risk can be as high as 50 percent. The brain atrophy or shrinkage occurs in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved in many functions, including mood and memory. (See original article)

Depression May Increase Risk Of Dementia, Alzheimer’s

After studying nearly 1,000 people for up to 17 years, researchers found that those who were depressed at the outset were at almost twice the risk for developing dementia. Their risk also increased for developing Alzheimer’s Disease. (See original article)

Competition To Win My Lead to Depression In Teen Girls

In studying competing to win versus competing to excel in teens, researchers learned that the former may have detrimental effects on teen girls. Competing to win resulted in higher levels of depression and loneliness in girls. However, competition to personally excel was related to higher self-esteem and less depression in both boys and girls. (See original article)

How The Body Is Affected By Mood Disorders

Many people think about depression as a manifestation of the mind, but it can affect the body in significant ways as well. Headaches, bowel issues, heart disease, osteoporosis, and high blood pressure can all be related to depression and anxiety. (See original article)