Psychotic-like experiences in adolescents linked to depression and self-destructive behavior

Psychotic-like experiences, such as suspiciousness and unusual thoughts, are common among adolescents who are referred to adolescent psychiatric care. The symptoms are often associated with depression and self-destructive behavior. Researchers emphasize the importance of their systematic assessment as part of adolescent care.

Egyptians drank hallucinogenic cocktails in ancient rituals, study confirms

Scholars for the first time identified chemical signatures of the components of a liquid concoction contained in a Bes mug. A new technique helped identify a sample flavored with honey, sesame seeds, pine nuts, licorice and grapes -- commonly used to make the beverage look like blood.

Only certain paranormal beliefs may be linked with more stress and distress

In a new study, feelings of distress and reduced ability to cope with stress were associated with traditional paranormal beliefs, but not with new age philosophy.

Nixing narcolepsy nightmares

A new study has demonstrated a new way to treat narcolepsy-related nightmares. The scientists combined cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lucid dreaming to help patients in a small clinical trial.

Men and women process pain differently, study finds

According to new research, men and women rely on different biological systems for pain relief, which could help explain why our most powerful pain medications are often less effective in women.

Identifying body-scan postures suitable for people with hyperactivity tendency

Mindfulness practices have been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, many people with ADHD may find static meditation techniques challenging. In a recent study, researchers assessed individualized responses of people to sitting in various postures during body-scan meditation. The findings suggest that a slumped posture may reduce the ease of practice, while supine and upright positions may improve the ease of meditation for people with high hyperactivity/impulsivity tendency.

'Out-of-body' research could lead to new ways to promote social harmony

Out-of-body experiences, such as near-death experiences, can have a 'transformative' effect on people's ability to experience empathy and connect with others, new research explains.

Brain scans reveal that mindfulness meditation for pain is not a placebo

Brain scans reveal that mindfulness meditation engages different neural pathways compared to placebo, demonstrating that pain relief from mindfulness meditation is not the result of the placebo effect.

Travel could be the best defense against aging

Forget about retinol night creams, researchers believe travel could be the best way to defy premature aging. An interdisciplinary study has applied the theory of entropy to tourism, finding that travel could have positive health benefits, including slowing down the signs of aging.

How hope beats mindfulness when times are tough

A recent study finds that hope appears to be more beneficial than mindfulness at helping people manage stress and stay professionally engaged during periods of prolonged stress at work. The study underscores the importance of looking ahead, rather than living 'in the moment,' during hard times.

Crucial insights on loneliness and death ideation among older adults

New research highlights the growing problem of death ideation and the increasing rates of both loneliness and suicidal thoughts among older individuals. The study explores the critical issue of social disconnection and its link to a 'wish to die' among older adults.

Just 10 minutes of mindfulness daily boosts wellbeing and fights depression

New research reveals how short bursts of daily mindfulness can boost wellbeing, combat depression and anxiety, and inspire healthier lifestyle choices.

Growth from adversity: How older adults bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic

The study highlights the remarkable resilience of older adults (median age 86) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Disruptions to their routines led many to discover new hobbies like gardening and painting and explore virtual activities such as online yoga. While 51% experienced psychosocial issues such as anxiety and depression, 86% did not see worsening of their medical conditions and supported pandemic precautions. Despite the hardships, including the loss of residents and increased use of antidepressants and telehealth, many found joy and growth in their altered circumstances.

Mindfulness training may lead to altered states of consciousness

Mindfulness training may lead participants to experience disembodiment and unity -- so-called altered states of consciousness -- according to a new study.

Psilocybin generates psychedelic experience by disrupting brain network

Researchers report that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, destabilizes a critical network of brain areas involved in introspective thinking. The findings provide a neurobiological explanation for the drug's mind-bending effects.

Ultrasound technology can be used to boost mindfulness, study finds

In a new study, researchers used low-intensity ultrasound technology to noninvasively alter a brain region associated with activities such as daydreaming, recalling memories and envisioning the future.

How stress knocks out your cognitive reserve

While mentally stimulating activities and life experiences can improve cognition in memory clinic patients, stress undermines this beneficial relationship.

Psychedelic drug-induced hyperconnectivity in the brain helps clarify altered subjective experiences

A new study shows that the use of psilocybin, a compound found in the widely known 'magic mushrooms,' initiates a pattern of hyperconnectivity in the brain linked to the ego-modifying effects and feelings of oceanic boundlessness. The findings help explain the so-called mystical experiences people report during the use of psychedelics and are pertinent to the psychotherapeutic applications of psychedelic drugs to treat psychiatric disorders such as depression.

Yoga and meditation-induced altered states of consciousness are common in the general population

A new study finds that altered states of consciousness associated with yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and other practices are common, and mostly positive or even transformative, but that for some people, they can be linked to suffering.

New study reveals how teens thrive online: factors that shape digital success revealed

A new study sheds light on the role that new and traditional media play in promoting and affecting character development, emotions, prosocial behavior and well-being (aka happiness) in youth.

Study reveals how humanity could unite to address global challenges

New research has found that perceptions of globally shared life experiences and globally shared biology can strengthen psychological bonding with humanity at large, which can motivate prosocial action on a global scale and help to tackle global problems.

Mindfulness at work protects against stress and burnout

A new study has revealed that employees who are more mindful in the digital workplace are better protected against stress, anxiety and overload. Researchers analyzed survey data from 142 employees.

Relationships with caring adults provide a buffer against depression, anxiety, regardless of adverse childhood experiences

A new study sought to identify factors that would bolster resilience for marginalized and minoritized youth, using data from the Boricua Youth Study, a longitudinal study following three generations of families over 20 years in both Puerto Rico and the South Bronx, New York.

Combine mindfulness with exercise for mental health boost in 2024

New research shows how combining mindfulness with exercise boosts people's mental health and well-being and could help change exercise habits.