Emotional Health Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Nomophobia: How Fear of Being Without Your Phone Harms Health (& What to Do About It)

The AHA! Team — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:10:19 +0000

Kissairis Munoz via Dr. Axe – In today’s hyper-connected world, many people experience anxiety when they are without their smartphones. This condition, known as nomophobia, has become increasingly common. What exactly is nomophobia, and how can you recognize and address it? Does the “ding” of your phone have you dropping whatever you’re doing to see who “liked” your latest Facebook status? Are you answering work emails before rubbing the sleep from your eyes? Does a low battery icon leave you quivering in fear? You, my friend, are likely suffering from nomophobia. Thankfully, there are ways to treat this condition to help address your smartphone addiction. What Is Nomophobia? Nomophobia, short for “no-mobile-phone phobia,” is the fear of being without a mobile phone or being unable to use it. The term originated from a 2008 study commissioned by the U.K. Post Office to examine the anxieties mobile phone users experience. The study found that nearly 53 percent of mobile phone users in the U.K. tend to feel anxious when they “lose their mobile phone, run out of battery or credit, or have no network coverage.” More simply put, nomophobia is having a smartphone addiction, and it’s a “first world problem” that’s showing no signs of slowing down, regardless of age. While it might sound silly — can you really be addicted to a handheld device? — the implications are real. About half of U.S. adults are checking their phones at least several times an hour, with 11 percent tapping their screens awake every few minutes. No space is safe from the rush of a new tweet, either. Almost one in 10 Americans has admitted to using her phone during sex, and among young adults ages 18 to 34, the number is even higher: One in five has engaged with his smartphone when being intimate. Is it a surprise, then, that 12 percent think that smartphones are detrimental to relationships? When you combine nomophobia with cars, things get even scarier. Among American adult drivers, more than 27 percent have sent or read texts while driving. Among young adults, that number shoots up to 34 percent. What’s the harm in interacting with your phone at a red light or when traffic is heavy? Consider the fact that text messaging while driving makes a crash 23 times more likely. Yikes. Symptoms While there is no set criteria to diagnose this condition, experts believe nomophobia is a smartphone addiction and/or dependence. Recognizing the signs of nomophobia is the first step toward addressing it. Common symptoms include: Panic or anxiety when separated from your phone Checking your phone repeatedly without receiving notifications Doomscrolling Avoiding places or situations where phone use is restricted Feeling uneasy when your phone is out of sight Excessive time spent on your phone, impacting daily life Respiratory alterations Trembling Perspiration Agitation Disorientation Tachycardia Inability to turn off your smartphone Taking the phone everywhere Fear of being without phone access (no internet connection or cell signal) Fear of not being able to use phone in case of emergency Stressing about neglecting your online persona Socially isolating and skipping activities to spend more time on your smartphone Increased heart rate According to research, some signs that someone may have nomophobia can include the fear of: Feeling disconnected Not have immediate access to information Giving up the convenience of your mobile device Not being able to contact and communicate with others Causes Several factors contribute to the development of nomophobia: Social connectivity: Fear of missing out (FOMO) on social interactions and updates. Dependence on technology: Increasing reliance on smartphones for various daily tasks. Instant gratification: The immediate access to information and entertainment that phones provide. Psychological factors: Underlying anxiety disorders or personality traits. Other possible causes that research has unearthed include: obsessive thoughts and compulsive smartphone behaviors extremely large number of hours using a smartphone each day social discomfort and feelings of inferiority Damage Nomophobia Does Even for those of us who don’t text and drive, nomophobia has serious consequences. It can have several adverse effects on an individual’s well-being, such as: Mental health: Increased anxiety, depression, stress and feelings of loneliness. Physical health: Poor posture, eye strain and sleep disturbances due to excessive phone use. Social interactions: Reduced face-to-face communication and weakened relationships. Productivity: Decreased focus and productivity at work or school due to constant phone checking. Furthermore, research on nomophobia in adolescents and young adults published in 2021 in Frontier in Psychiatry concluded that “excessive smartphone use is associated with psychiatric, cognitive, emotional, medical and brain changes that should be considered by health and education professionals.” The authors revealed that “excessive smartphone use is associated with difficulties in cognitive-emotion regulation, impulsivity, impaired cognitive function, addiction to social networking, shyness and low self-esteem. Medical problems include sleep problems, reduced physical fitness, unhealthy eating habits, pain and migraines, reduced cognitive control and changes in the brain’s gray matter volume.” Here’s more on the negative effects of smartphone addiction: 1. You’re wasting time While many of us are convinced that multitasking allows us to get more done, multitasking doesn’t really work. Not only are our brains unequipped to handle two dissimilar tasks at once, but trying to accomplish several things at once ends up wasting more time than saving any. Think about it: How well do you retain information when someone’s talking to you as you’re scrolling through emails or watching the latest cat video your friend posted? Even if your body is in a room, it’s easy to miss important information when your brain is somewhere else completely. Plus, let’s face it: No one likes talking to someone who’s “listening” with her face buried in a screen. 2. You’re more anxious Not having your phone around can increase anxiety. One British study found that 51 percent of participants suffer “extreme tech anxiety” when separated from their smartphones. Some of that stems from feeling that, if we’re apart from our phones, we won’t be included when friends make plans or won’t know what the latest Facebook meme is. Even our bodies are starting to recognize when our phones aren’t around. A University of Missouri study discovered that iPhone users who parted with their devices during situations that require a significant amount of attention, like taking a test or completing a work assignment, could result in poorer performance. That’s because, when participants were separated from their phones and then asked to complete simple word search puzzles, their heart rates and blood pressure increased — as did their feelings of anxiety and unpleasantness. 3. You’re not sleeping as well “Check email one last time, make sure no friends posted anything interesting, one last glance of Instagram … oh wait, a new work email came in. Darn it, that afternoon meeting got pushed up. Did I prep enough for it? Should I review things one more time? Wait, it’s late already. I guess I’ll just think about it for the next half-hour while I toss and turn trying to fall asleep.” Sound familiar? Being inundated with stimulating information right before bed often means you can’t sleep well, particularly when we’re presented with situations beyond our control. And most of us are sleeping with our phones. In almost every age group, at least 40 percent of Americans sleep with their phones within reach. For those 25 to 29 years old, the number’s even higher: Almost 80 percent are snuggling up to their devices. The danger isn’t only that each beep overnight has the potential to wake us up. Smartphones also emit a blue light, signaling to the brain that it’s time to wake up. Blue lights suppress melatonin, the hormone that dictates our sleep rhythms. Yes, the struggle to sleep with your phone is real. 4. Your children are picking up your naughty habits “Do as I say, not as I do” is all too real when it comes to smartphone time. Even as parents ask children and teens to lay off Snapchat or put their phones down during dinner, they’re checking calendars, answering texts or indulging in one last game of Candy Crush. It stands to reason then that in almost every study of smartphone use, young adults have the highest usage rates. Children are learning that always being connected is normal — and missing out on the importance of human-to-human interaction. Are You Addicted to Your Smartphone? If any of these apply to you, all signs point to a smartphone addiction: You reach for your smartphone upon waking up and right before bed. It’s not uncommon for you to catch up on emails or the latest in the news while you’re eating. When your phone is out of reach, low on battery or (gasp) completely turned off, you feel anxious or stressed out. Being out of cell phone signal makes you feel like you might be missing something. You live for that next Instagrammable moment. Pavlov’s dogs have nothing on you: When you hear that familiar text sound, you perk up. You’ve checked your phone at least once while reading this article! Treatment Addressing nomophobia involves a combination of strategies: Digital detox: Gradually reducing the amount of time spent on your phone. Setting boundaries: Establishing phone-free zones or times, such as during meals or before bed. Mindfulness practices: Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, such as meditation or yoga. Professional help: Seeking therapy or counseling to address underlying anxiety or dependence issues. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavior therapy, exposure therapy, systematic desensitization, aversion therapy and hypnotherapy are often used to help treat phobias. Medications: Certain medications can help in severe cases. Support groups: Realizing you aren’t alone and talking with others can help. Self-care: Do things to improve your mental and physical well-being, such as progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, calming activities, ecotherapy and getting outdoors, etc. In addition, follow these steps to enjoy a life that’s complemented, not ruled, by your smartphone: 1. Turn off your cell phone at least an hour before bed Give your brain a chance to unwind and commit to turning off your phone an hour before bedtime. That means off, not just on silent. Those vibrations and blinking lights are still harmful, as is knowing that you’re just one reach away from seeing the latest. Remember, nomophobia never sleeps, and neither will you. No wonder so many of us are always tired, huh? If you have a legitimate reason for keeping your phone on — your daughter is out with friends or your parents are elderly and you don’t have a landline — turn your phone on “do not disturb,” and place your phone on the other side of the room. In this mode, your phone will silence all notifications but allow you to enable exceptions, such as a phone call from a specific number. Remember: Seeing how many “likes” your last Instagram post received is not a legitimate reason. “But I use my phone as my alarm clock,” you say. “I need it nearby!” To that I respond … 2. Stop shacking up with your phone Get a real alarm clock. (Yes, you can still find these Stone Age relics.) Not only will this allow you to turn off your phone completely overnight (again, unless you need to stay on alert for a family member and don’t have a landline), but instead of waking up with the temptation to see what you missed overnight, you can spend the first moments of the morning stretching, thinking about what’s on schedule for the day or basically doing anything other than checking your phone. For extra credit, I challenge you not to turn your phone on again until your morning routine is finished: You’ve exercised, showered, dressed, eaten breakfast, maybe even read the paper (remember that pastime!) and pushed the kids out the door. 3. Set certain times to check your phone Do you really need to look at every single email the second it’s received? Save your sanity and simultaneously help your productivity by designating certain times to glance at...

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How Purpose, Gratitude & Control Safeguard Your Memory, Mood & Modality

The AHA! Team — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 18:12:43 +0000

S.D. Wells via Natural News – What if the secret to protecting your memory wasn’t found in a pill or a brain game, but in something far simpler—happiness? Happiness as a Brain Protector: A 16-year study reveals that higher levels of well-being (happiness, purpose, autonomy) predict better memory retention and slower cognitive decline—not the other way around. Beyond Traditional Factors: Well-being’s benefits persisted even after accounting for exercise, social connections, and stress reduction, suggesting it independently supports brain health. Autonomy Matters: Participants who felt more in control of their lives showed stronger memory performance, highlighting empowerment as a key cognitive safeguard. Actionable Well-Being Strategies: Cultivating meaningful relationships, purposeful activities, gratitude, and lifelong learning may offer long-term protection against memory decline—starting at any age. Happiness Could Be the Key to Preserving Memory, Landmark 16-Year Study Finds” What if the secret to protecting your memory wasn’t found in a pill or a brain game, but in something far simpler—happiness? A groundbreaking 16-year study published in Aging & Mental Health reveals that individuals with higher levels of well-being experience slower memory decline as they age. Tracking over 10,000 adults aged 50 and older across England, researchers discovered that emotional health—encompassing happiness, purpose, and autonomy—may be a powerful predictor of long-term cognitive function. The findings challenge conventional approaches to brain health, suggesting that cultivating well-being could be as crucial as diet or exercise in safeguarding memory. The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Liverpool and University College London, measured participants’ memory and well-being every two years from 2002 to 2018. Using a simple word-recall test—a reliable indicator of early dementia risk—they found that those with higher well-being scores consistently outperformed their peers, even after accounting for factors like depression, exercise, and social activity. Lead researcher Amber John emphasized the significance: “Our findings are important in proposing that good well-being predates better memory rather than vice versa. This suggests that improving well-being could protect against subsequent memory decline.” Unlike fleeting happiness, well-being in this study was defined as a deeper sense of fulfillment, confidence, and control over one’s life. Notably, participants who felt more autonomous showed the strongest memory retention, hinting that empowerment—not just positivity—plays a critical role. While the exact mechanisms remain under study, prior research suggests multiple pathways linking well-being to cognitive health. Positive emotions reduce chronic stress, which damages brain regions like the hippocampus—a hub for memory formation. Social engagement and purposeful activities, both linked to happiness, also stimulate neural connections. Yet this study went further: even after controlling for exercise, social ties, and mood disorders, well-being still predicted better memory. Joshua Stott, a senior researcher, called it “an important step toward understanding the interplay between well-being and memory over time.” Emma Taylor of Alzheimer’s Research UK, though not involved in the study, noted the implications: “People over 50 who reported they felt happier and more fulfilled in life had a better memory over time.” While causation isn’t proven, the correlation is strong enough to rethink prevention strategies. A New Prescription for Brain Health: Cultivate Joy Traditional approaches to memory preservation often focus on avoiding harm—quitting smoking, managing stress—but this study flips the script, urging proactive well-being. Researchers recommend evidence-backed practices: Meaningful relationships: Strong social ties boost both happiness and cognitive resilience. Purpose-driven activities: Volunteering, hobbies, or work aligned with personal values enhance mental acuity. Autonomy: Making daily choices, however small, reinforces a sense of control. Gratitude practices: Simple habits like journaling positives can shift long-term well-being. Taylor added, “It’s never too late to start taking steps to keep our brains healthy throughout our lives.” In a world where dementia looms as a growing public health crisis, this study offers a hopeful, accessible strategy: prioritize happiness. While more research is needed, the message is clear—well-being isn’t just a luxury; it’s a potential lifeline for the aging brain. As science continues to explore natural protections against cognitive decline, one truth emerges: a joyful life may be the best medicine of all. Tune your internet dial to NaturalMedicine.news for more tips on how to use natural remedies, including happiness, for preventative medicine and for healing, instead of succumbing to Big Pharma products that cause, spread, and exacerbate disease and disorder. Sources for this article include: NaturalNews.com NaturalMedicine.news To read the original article, click here

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How Does Reishi Rescue Your Immune System & Emotional Wellbeing?

The AHA! Team — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 05:27:14 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – A new review in Food Science and Human Wellness shines a spotlight on one of the most revered medicinal mushrooms – the reishi mushroom. A staple of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for over 2000 years, these ancient edible fungi are now being taken seriously by researchers around the globe and explored for their potential to promote health, longevity, and even help people to heal from chronic health issues. A new review in Food Science and Human Wellness shines a spotlight on one of the most revered medicinal mushrooms – the reishi mushroom. Botanically known as Ganoderma lucidum, the reishi mushroom is also called Ling Zhi (meaning “The Mushroom of Immortality” – a clue to the high esteem in which it is held). Let’s take a closer look at the compelling health benefits of this mighty mushroom. The reishi mushroom’s wide range of benefits include boosting the immune system In the new review, the authors reported that reishi mushrooms have antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-allergy, and antitumor properties. These versatile mushrooms are also adaptogenic, meaning that they can help the body adjust to prolonged physical and psychological stress. The team pointed out reishi’s high levels of triterpenoids – which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to protect heart and liver health – and polysaccharides, such as beta-glucans, which can help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels. The authors declared that the most studied of all reishi benefits involve the fungus’ ability to stimulate the immune system. In a placebo-controlled study published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, twelve weeks of supplementation with beta-glucans from reishi mushrooms increased the amounts of lymphocytes (immune system cells critical to the body’s defense) in children with immune deficiency. In addition to their gifts to the body, reishi mushrooms can also benefit the psyche. Medicinal mushrooms can have nootropic effects – meaning they can promote mental function and concentration – along with mild calming and mood-elevating properties. In fact, Taoist monks have used reishi mushrooms to enhance spiritual practices and meditation. Mysterious mood-lifter: Reishi extracts increased happiness in women with fibromyalgia Our current “sick care” system attempts to manage fibromyalgia – a chronic disorder characterized by muscle pain, fatigue, insomnia, and depression – with synthetic muscle relaxers and other toxic medications. However, these pills may provide only partial relief and can feature unwanted side effects. Hence, there is an ongoing search for natural alternatives. In a 2020 trial involving women with fibromyalgia, volunteers were given either six grams of reishi extract or a placebo daily – with intriguing results. Although the reishi group didn’t see any statistically significant differences in body aches or other symptoms, they reported feeling substantially happier! The intervention reduced depression levels from 7.6 to 5.36 – which is near the cut-off level for a diagnosis of depression. The participants reported the reishi’s efficacy at between 2 and 3 on the Global Impression of Improvement Scale (GIIS), which means that they quantified improvements in the way they were feeling on a spectrum ranging from “slightly improved” to “greatly improved.” Meanwhile, the control group did not fare nearly as well, ranking their status between 3 and 4 on the GIIS. This signifies that they either noticed no change at all or were only minimally better. Clearly, these findings – brighter mood, increased happiness, and less perception of physical discomfort – call for further exploration. Breast cancer patients struggling with mood disturbances find relief Depression, fatigue, and anxiety can sap the strength and threaten the morale of those battling cancer. However, a four-week study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed that a reishi extract (Ganoderma lucidum spore powder) reduced cancer-related emotional upset, tiredness, and improved quality of life in women with breast cancer who were undergoing endocrine therapy. Incidentally, earlier studies have supported reishi’s calming effects. A study published in Cellular and Molecular Biology showed that lucidone D, a terpene from reishi mushrooms, helped to reduce body aches and promote sleep. In yet another study, reishi extracts improved quality of life and alleviated tiredness and physical discomfort in people with neurasthenia. Access the power of reishi through convenient supplements With their deep reddish-bronze color and glossy sheen, reishi mushrooms have a distinctive appearance – and a notoriously bitter taste to go along with it. Although perfectly edible, this harsh taste is why people rarely nibble reishi mushrooms “solo.” Fortunately, supplements are available in powders, tinctures, capsules, and teas. Opt for an organic product certified for purity and marketed by a reputable vendor. For immune support, holistic healthcare providers typically advise 1.5 to 9 grams daily, but consult your holistic doctor before supplementing with reishi, especially if you have any health concerns. By the way, reishi powder actually “plays well with others” when balanced with pleasant, robust flavors such as cacao or coffee. You can add this mushroom to your favorite morning meal, or favorite smoothie. You may also find specialty chocolates, coffee alternatives, and energy bars enhanced with reishi. As the new review demonstrates, reishi mushrooms appear to promote physical, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. Maybe it’s time to try the “king of mushrooms.” Editor’s note: For the highest quality medicinal mushrooms … check out the LuvByNature brand for a variety of healthy options. Sources for this article include: Sciencedirect.com MDPI.com Begelhouse.com Healthline.com Thespruceeats.com NIH.gov Whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com To read the original article click here.

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Infant-Directed Singing Shown to Boost Emotional Health

The AHA! Team — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:23:15 +0000

Society for Research in Child Development via News-Medical – Many parents know that infants love to be sung to; however, there is limited prior research to show the long-term effects on parental singing. In a new study, researchers explored whether using a music enrichment intervention program to encourage parents to sing more frequently to their babies could improve the health of both infants and caregivers (as with skin-to-contact). This research was featured in a new Child Development article with authors from Yale University (United States), the University of Amsterdam (the Netherlands), the University of Auckland (New Zealand), McGill University (Canada), Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (United States) and Princeton University (United States). Researchers advertised for study participants through in-person visits to baby fairs, distribution of flyers at local daycare centers, preschools, and delivery hospitals, and an announcement on public radio in New Haven, Connecticut. Online recruitment efforts targeted social media groups for expecting and new parents, along with online communities related to early childhood education. The study requirements mandated that all participants have a smartphone to be able to communicate and complete surveys online in English and be a primary caregiver of the infant. The study was conducted with 110 caregivers and their infants, who were on average nearly 4 months old. Most caregivers were from the United States and New Zealand, predominantly white, educated, and socioeconomically advantaged. Study participants were randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. The main portion of the study lasted six weeks, starting with a pre-test in week one, followed by a four-week intervention, and then a post-test in week six. Caregivers in the intervention group completed a brief, smartphone-based music enrichment program to help them sing more often to their babies (through access to instructional videos with children’s songs). Throughout the study, participants completed smartphone surveys one to three times daily, reporting on infant and parent mood, stress, sleep quality, and music use. The findings suggest that simple, low-cost interventions, such as increasing infant-directed singing, have the potential to improve health outcomes for both infants and caregivers. The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD) had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Samuel A. Mehr from Auckland University along with Dr. Eun Cho from Yale University and doctoral student, Lidya Yurdum from the University of Amsterdam to learn more about the research. SRCD: Can you please provide a brief overview of the study? Author team: We conducted a randomized controlled trial to test whether a simple, low-cost music intervention-encouraging caregivers to actively integrate singing into daily routines with their infants-could improve wellbeing for both infants and caregivers. The study included 110 caregiver-infant pairs, primarily from the United States and New Zealand (with infants on average about 4 months old). Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. During the 4-week intervention, participants in the intervention group were encouraged to sing more to their infants than usual. We measured how this change in behavior would influence infant mood, stress, sleep, and music behavior, using brief, smartphone based surveys that caregivers completed at random times throughout the day. Our main finding was that the intervention successfully increased the frequency of infant-directed singing, especially in soothing contexts, and led to measurable improvements in infants’ general mood as reported by caregivers. SRCD: Did you learn anything that surprised you? Author team: One interesting finding was how intuitively caregivers incorporated singing into soothing routines for their infants, even though the intervention did not explicitly instruct them to use singing for this purpose. Among a dozen soothing strategies, singing was the only one that showed a significant increase in use following the intervention. From a methodological perspective, a particularly encouraging outcome was the high level of compliance with the study protocol-caregivers completed over 70% of the surveys across the 10-week period, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach for future developmental research. This strong compliance supported our decision to move forward with a longer-term, longitudinal study, which is currently underway. SRCD: Can you please explain how this research might be helpful for parents, caregivers and pediatricians? Author team: Our findings suggest that encouraging parents and caregivers to sing more frequently to their infants can have a positive, causal impact on infant mood. Singing is a universal practice-parents from almost every culture and throughout history have intuitively used singing to soothe and connect with their infants. It’s easy to do, requires no special equipment or training, and is accessible to everyone. Because infant mood is closely linked to parenting stress, caregiver-infant bonding, and later social-emotional development, such a simple intervention could have meaningful downstream benefits. For pediatricians and professionals working with families, recommending increased infant-directed singing is a practical, accessible strategy to support infant well-being. SRCD: Can you please address some of the research limitations? Author team: There are several limitations to note. First, our sample was predominantly white, highly educated, and socioeconomically advantaged and composed mainly of mothers, which limits the generalizability of the findings to more diverse populations. Second, all infant mood data were based on caregiver reports-although these reports were collected in real time to reduce recall bias, they remain subject to potential reporting biases. Third, the intervention was relatively brief and low-intensity; longer and more structured interventions might yield broader effects, including on caregiver mood or other health outcomes. Finally, music was already a regular part of many families’ routines at baseline, which may have limited the observable effect size of the intervention. SRCD: What’s next in this field of research? Author team: Despite the intervention lasting only four weeks, we observed clear benefits for infant mood. This suggests that the positive effects of singing to infants may be even more pronounced with longer-term, higher-intensity interventions-and may also extend to caregiver wellbeing and additional aspects of infant health beyond mood. Building on these findings, we are currently conducting two follow-up studies. The first is a direct replication of our original study, but with professionally developed, higher-quality intervention materials designed to help parents sing more to their infants. This will allow us to determine if improved resources can enhance the intervention’s effectiveness. The second is a longitudinal, randomized trial that follows families over eight months. In this study, we are comparing three active interventions -singing (music plus active parent-infant interaction), music listening (music without active interaction), and reading (no music but active interaction) – as well as a general control group. This design will help us disentangle the unique contributions of music, singing, and interactive activities to infant and caregiver outcomes. More information about this ongoing research can be found at https://www.togetherwegrow.study. This research was funded by the National Institutes of Health (United States), the Royal Society of New Zealand, the University of Auckland (New Zealand) and Princeton University (United States). Source: Society for Research in Child Development Journal reference: Cho, E., et al. (2025) Ecological Momentary Assessment Reveals Causal Effects of Music Enrichment on Infant Mood. Child Development. doi.org/10.1111/cdev.14246. To read the original article click here.

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Could Your Antidepressant be Cutting Your Life Short? Research Uncovers Surprising Risks

The AHA! Team — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 05:42:52 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – WARNING: Out of 375,000 study participants on antidepressants, one-third died prematurely Antidepressants are supposed to help regulate mood and improve quality of life. However, a study led by scientists from McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, has found that for some people, antidepressants raise the risk of premature death. Additionally, a new study published in BMJ Mental Health found that using antidepressants on their own can increase the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. This suggests that antidepressants might play a role in linking mental health problems, like depression, to a higher risk of heart-related conditions. The most common antidepressant drug class is serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which function by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, one of the major feel-good chemicals in the brain. Serotonin has been called the “happiness” neurotransmitter, and people who aren’t producing enough of it are more prone to depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. WARNING: Out of 375,000 study participants on antidepressants, one-third died prematurely In theory, antidepressants such as SSRIs keep serotonin in the brain longer for those suffering from depression. However, Canadian researchers found that these antidepressants disrupt the regulation of multiple processes in the brain, including the ideal functioning of serotonin. The team conducted a meta-analysis of existing research from 16 medical studies and databases. They wanted to see if they could discern a link between antidepressant use and mortality. In all, 375,000 participants were studied. The researchers looked at the risk of several conditions in relation to antidepressants, including cardiovascular disease. They used a mixed-effects model to control for preexisting conditions and severity of depression for more accurate results. Different antidepressant types were studied, including SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants. Bottom line: the analysis found that taking antidepressants raised the risk of dying prematurely by 33 percent over those not taking antidepressants. Antidepressant users were also 14 percent more likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or other adverse cardiovascular event. Serotonin assists in numerous bodily processes – not just mood Both tricyclic antidepressants and SSRIs resulted in the same increased risk of early death. These types are considered the first generation of antidepressants. Serotonin isn’t just a brain chemical; this neurotransmitter is actually present throughout the body. It helps to regulate cell growth, digestion, reproduction, the immune system, and many other processes. To be perfectly clear, this valuable substance is present in just about every organ of the body. While keeping more serotonin in the brains of depressed people seems like a good idea, these drugs are clearly affecting brain and body chemistry in unanticipated ways. Even those who prescribe the drugs are not sure what their long-term effects might be. Manipulating serotonin functioning can lead to a range of different unforeseen effects – which in turn seem to be leading to early death for one-third of all antidepressant users. Natural antidepressants can boost serotonin without harmful side effects No doubt, synthetic antidepressant usage has soared in recent years. In the U.S., around one in 10 people are on SSRIs or other antidepressants. Even more shocking, an estimated one in 4 women between the ages of 40 and 60 take antidepressants. While severe clinical depression requires medical intervention, Americans need to stop relying on the ‘pill for every ill’ treatment approach and tap into the many natural solutions available. Americans need to stop relying on the ‘pill for every ill’ A healthy diet rich in organic (antioxidant-rich) vegetables and fruit and regular physical exercise can significantly reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Of course, many other things would also prove helpful, such as improving personal relationships, consuming a healthy amount of non-toxic fats like organic avocados and coconut oil, and taking adequate B vitamins. Simply put, there is so much that can be done to improve your emotional well-being – without the need for toxic medications. Do your research, work with a qualified holistic healthcare provider, and discover what works best for you. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Karger.com Medicalnewstoday.com Dailymail.com To read the original article click here.

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Vacation Health Benefits: How Taking Time Off Changes Your Brain

The AHA! Team — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 05:25:48 +0000

Kissairis Munoz via Dr. Axe – A study published in Translational Psychiatry found that both taking a vacation and meditating actually make an impact on our molecular networks. We can probably all agree that leaving the cubicle and heading out on a holiday or taking a midday break to meditate and de-clutter our minds feels good. But did you know that these disruptions in our regular schedules actually change our minds and bodies for the better, on a biological level? And that’s just one of the vacation health benefits. A study published in Translational Psychiatry found that both taking a vacation and meditating actually make an impact on our molecular networks. The study followed 94 healthy women between the ages of 30 to 60 years old. They all stayed at the same resort, with half simply on vacation and the other half following a meditation training program. To better understand the “meditation effect,” the scientists behind the study also followed a group of 30 experienced meditators staying at the retreat the same week. The research team looked at changes in 20,000 genes to figure out which genes changed during and after the resort trip. The results showed that spending a week at the resort significantly changed the molecular network patterns of participants in all the groups: the vacationers, the beginner meditators and the experienced meditators. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most notable gene activity was in those areas relating to stress response and immune function. A month after the experience was over, those newbie meditators were riding the relaxation wave with fewer symptoms of depression alongside visible stress relief compared to the non-meditating vacationers. Essentially, while it seems logical that taking a vacation or engaging in heavy meditation would reduce stress, this is one of the first times that researchers have been able to pinpoint large changes in the body’s genes in a short amount of time. What happens in your body when you go on vacation or meditate? Keep reading to learn more of the benefits of taking a vacation. Vacation health benefits Let’s start with the elephant in the room: Most of us don’t take enough time off. In fact, more than half (55 percent) of Americans don’t use all of their paid time off (PTO), and when they do take off, 52 percent say they have worked during time they took off. While it might seem that you’re just getting ahead and proving your worth to your boss, not taking full advantage of those days off means you’re failing to receive the benefits of vacation time. For starters, just planning a vacation can actually boost happiness levels. Whether it’s from the anticipation of the unknown or the excitement of planning time away, getting ready for a holiday can increase happiness, with one study finding that participants saw their mood levels improve about eight weeks before going away. But the real magic occurs when you vacation. Being in a new environment, particularly abroad, affects how our neural pathways respond to things (also known as neuroplasticity) and can make us more creative. When we’re in our normal, day-to-day lives, our brains can go on autopilot: They know how things work and where places are. When our brains are exposed to new sounds, tastes and cultures, different synapses fire off in our brains, revitalizing our minds and encouraging us to try new things, if only because we have to. Maybe you’re not too keen on getting in touch with your creative side. Going on vacation will help you physically, too. The Framingham Heart Study, which began in 1948 and is still going strong, found that women who took vacations just once every six years were nearly eight times more likely to have a heart attack than those who took one at least every two years. A University of Massachusetts study discovered that among middle-aged men at high risk for coronary heart disease, the frequency of annual vacations was associated with a reduced risk of dying. Men who went on vacation regularly were 21 percent less likely to die of any cause and 32 percent less likely to die of heart disease. Who needs medicine when you can lie on the beach? Maybe you don’t have the luxury of jet-setting off to an exotic locale or taking weeks off at a time. That doesn’t mean you should skip taking time off. Turning off your email and “unplugging” can ease you into a vacation state of mind, whether you’re enjoying a “staycation” or hitting the road with your family. Being willing to try new things, whether you’re in an unfamiliar location or not, can keep your brain active and on its toes. Try local food and an adventure you might not normally indulge in. Staying local? Check out a restaurant with a cuisine you might be unfamiliar with, or visit a nearby town you haven’t explored yet. How meditating changes your body Meditation has been around for thousands of years, and the positive effects from people who practice “mind exercising” have been touted for nearly as long. Now science can back up that the benefits you feel after taking a few minutes of zen are real and actually transform your cells. For instance, a 2014 study published in the journal Cancer found that cancer survivors who participated in stress-reducing techniques, including meditation and yoga, physically changed their cells. At the end of the three-month study, the two groups who meditated had longer telomere lengths than the control group, which only participated in one six-hour stress-reduction workshop. Telomeres are bits of DNA at the end of our chromosomes. Shortened telomeres are associated with aging, diseases like cancer as well as death. As our telomeres age and can no longer shorten, the cells they’re attached to begin dying as well. This is how our bodies age. When the study was over, the telomeres of those who meditated were the same length as when the study began. The control group’s telomeres were shorter, indicating that something about the stress-reducing activities was able to keep the telomeres intact in those three months. “We already know that psychosocial interventions like mindfulness meditation will help you feel better mentally, but now for the first time we have evidence that they can also influence key aspects of your biology,” said Linda E. Carlson, the study’s lead investigator. Meditation has also been proven to help reduce anxiety, and it all comes back to the “Me Center,” or the medial prefrontal cortex. This is the area of our brains that processes information about ourselves and the world around us (hence the “me”). Usually, the neural pathways from the sensation and fear areas of the brain to the Me Center are quite strong, triggering a reaction in the Me Center. Meditation actually weakens this connection, so the instinct to react to an upsetting situation weakens. At the same time, the Me Center link to the brain’s lateral prefrontal cortex, or Assessment Center, strengthens. Instead of freaking out about a situation, our minds are able to assess what’s happening in a more rational manner. So, for example, if you email your boss a question and it takes her a few hours to respond, instead of worrying that your job is in jeopardy, you’re able to ascertain that she’s probably in a long meeting and unreachable at the moment. Regularly meditating might actually make you a more compassionate person as well. A 2008 study found that when meditators heard sounds of people suffering, their temporal parietal junctures, the area of the brain linked with empathy, had a stronger response than in the brains of those who don’t regularly meditate. To read the original article click here.

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Nearly 1 in 5 US College Athletes Reports Abusive Supervision by Their Coaches

The AHA! Team — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 05:39:51 +0000

BMJ Group via EurekAlert! – Athletes with disabilities and those in team sports most at risk, survey reveals. Nearly 1 in 5 college athletes reports some form of abusive supervision —defined as sustained hostile verbal and non-verbal behaviours—by their coaches, reveals an analysis of survey responses, involving National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) athletes, and published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. While there is no evidence of vulnerability according to race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender, athletes with disabilities and those participating in team sports seem to be most at risk, the findings indicate. Athletes view their coaches as role models, which makes their interactions susceptible to supervised abuse, say the researchers. “While transformational leadership can inspire players and impart valuable life lessons that positively impact athletes’ play and contribute to their development, an unethical leader can severely negatively affect an athlete’s mental health, quality of life, and wellbeing in adulthood,” they point out. Given that most coaches identify as White, male, cisgender, able-bodied and straight, the researchers wanted to find out if race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and disability, were distinguishing features of abusive coach supervision. They drew on data from the 2021–22 myPlaybook survey administered by the University of North Carolina Greensboro Institute to Promote Athlete Health & Wellness in collaboration with Stanford University’s Sports Equity Lab. The dataset included 4337 NCAA athletes from 123 universities across the USA. The validated Tepper 2000 questionnaire was adapted to ask respondents whether they had experienced certain abusive coaching behaviours, with each answer ranging from 1 to 5, representing frequency. Four additional questionnaires probed athlete autonomy, team culture, perceived coach leadership skills and care for their athlete’s wellbeing. In all, 3317 respondents provided complete data on abusive supervision and 1926 (58%) provided complete data on this plus the areas covered by the other 4 questionnaires. Most respondents (89%; 2959) were aged between 18 and 21, and male respondents made up 57% (1891) of the total. Sexual orientation was reported as predominantly straight (3125). And as only 19 identifed themselves as non-binary, transgender, or ‘other’, their number was too small to be statistically meaningful, and they were excluded from the analysis. Some 81% (2689) of respondents were involved in non-lean sports—where leanness is not considered a competitive advantage—and about 75% (2480) participated in team sports. Around three quarters of participants shared the same gender as their coach: 1844 male–male pairs; 660 female–female pairs. Of the total number of respondents, 2699 reported no abusive supervision, but 618 (nearly 19%) said they had experienced it. There was no significant age difference between those who reported abuse and those who didn’t. And gender identity analysis revealed that while women were slightly more likely to report abuse, this wasn’t statistically significant. Race/ethnicity data indicated that nearly two thirds (2162) of participants were White, but there was no significant difference between the different racial groups in terms of reporting abuse. After accounting for potentially influential factors, significant differences were noted in the type of sport played as team sports participants were 10% more likely to report abusive supervision than their peers who participated in individual sports. And non-lean sports participants reported more abusive supervision than those participating in lean sports, although this didn’t reach statistical significance. The prevalence of disability was just under 3% (88), and after accounting for potentially influential factors, those reporting a disability were 17% more likely to say they had experienced abusive supervision than their able-bodied peers. Coach behaviours indicative of concern for the athlete’s wellbeing were associated with a lower risk of abusive supervision reports. Coaches who reacted harshly and who focused predominantly on team success/outcomes were deemed more abusive, with a 24%-47% heightened risk of an abusive supervision report. On the other hand, those who were attentive to, and respectful of, their athletes’ needs and efforts; who were demonstrably accountable; and who regularly communicated respectfully with their athletes were deemed more supportive. Their risk of being reported as abusive was around 35% lower. The researchers acknowledge that the survey responses reflect just one point in time, and would not have captured those who discontinued their sporting careers because of the abuse they endured. And the findings might not be applicable to other age groups, sports organisations, or athletes worldwide, they add. But they nevertheless comment: “Overall, these findings are concerning as we know from prior research the role abusive coaching plays in psychological, training, performance and academic outcomes in comparison with coaches who use a more athlete-centred and humanistic approach.” They continue: “Promoting positive coaching strategies that prioritise athlete wellbeing, motivation and teamwork is essential to protecting collegiate athletes and facilitating their development. “Therefore, NCAA member institutions should consider a nationwide policy that mandates the implementation of a standardised educational programme and training created by the NCAA e-learning team for coaches to recognise and address abusive supervision behaviours while recognising and amplifying supportive supervision behaviours.” They conclude: “Ultimately, dealing with this problem is crucial for safeguarding NCAA athletes, particularly those from equity-deserving groups. Further solutions-focused research is necessary to advance the goal of fostering a safe sporting environment for collegiate athletes to thrive both on and off the field.” Journal British Journal of Sports Medicine DOI 10.1136/bjsports-2024-108282 To read the original article click here.

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The Importance of Feeling Your Feelings: A Path to Personal Growth

The AHA! Team — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 05:08:02 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – By Meredith’s Counseling Center, located at the Colbert Institute for Anti-Aging in Southlake, TX. Visit us at SouthlakeCounselingNearMe.com Why Feeling Your Feelings Matters Emotions are an integral part of the human experience. They guide our decisions, shape our relationships, and influence our well-being. However, many people struggle to fully feel and process their emotions, often suppressing them or projecting them onto others. Learning to sit with emotions, understand them, and process them in a healthy way is essential for emotional well-being and personal growth. Research in psychology and neuroscience supports the idea that emotional processing is key to resilience, self-awareness, and healthier relationships. Additionally, inviting God into this process can provide profound comfort, guidance, and healing. The Science Behind Emotional Suppression A study by Gross (2015) found that suppressing emotions can lead to increased stress and poorer mental health. Pennebaker (1997) discovered that people who avoid processing difficult emotions are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and weakened immune function. Conversely, individuals who express and process their emotions experience better psychological and physical health. The Danger of Taking Feelings Out on Others When emotions are unprocessed, they don’t simply disappear—they often manifest in unhealthy ways: Lashing out at loved ones Withdrawing emotionally Engaging in self-destructive behaviors This is known as emotional displacement. For example, someone who feels hurt by a loved one might take out their frustration on a coworker. Baumeister et al. (1996) found that unresolved emotions can lead to aggression, relationship conflict, and long-term emotional damage. How to Process Emotions Healthily 1. Name and Acknowledge Your Feelings Psychologist Dan Siegel coined the phrase “name it to tame it”, emphasizing that labeling emotions reduces their intensity. For example, instead of reacting impulsively, saying, “I feel hurt because I was ignored,” helps you address the emotion constructively. 2. Practice Mindfulness Mindfulness—the practice of being present with your thoughts and feelings—has been shown to improve emotional regulation. A 2011 study in Psychiatry Research found that mindfulness meditation increases gray matter density in brain regions associated with emotional control. 3. Express Emotions Constructively Journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or engaging in creative outlets like art or music can help in processing emotions. Pennebaker & Seagal (1999) found that expressive writing improves mental and physical health by helping individuals make sense of their feelings. 4. Seek Professional Support Therapy provides a safe space to explore and process emotions with the guidance of a trained professional. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) are particularly effective in helping individuals understand and manage emotions. The Role of Faith in Emotional Healing Inviting God into the process of emotional healing can be transformative. Dr. Don Colbert, in his book “The Spiritual Zone,” emphasizes aligning emotional health with spiritual well-being: “When we bring our pain, fears, and struggles to God, we open ourselves to His healing presence. God meets us in our brokenness and provides the comfort, wisdom, and strength we need to move forward.” – Dr. Don Colbert Prayer, meditation on Scripture, and surrendering emotions to God can bring peace and clarity. As Dr. Colbert explains, “The spiritual zone is where we allow God to work in our hearts, transforming our pain into purpose and our struggles into strength.” The Link Between Emotional Processing and Personal Growth Personal growth is about learning to navigate emotions effectively. When we allow ourselves to process our emotions, we gain: Self-Awareness: Understanding emotional triggers and patterns. Empathy: Becoming more attuned to the emotions of others. Resilience: Developing the ability to recover from emotional setbacks. “We cannot selectively numb emotions. When we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive ones.” – Brené Brown Conclusion Allowing yourself to feel your feelings is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step toward healing and growth. By processing emotions in a healthy way—rather than suppressing them or taking them out on others—you build resilience, improve relationships, and foster a deeper understanding of yourself. For those who seek spiritual support, inviting God into this journey can provide unparalleled comfort and guidance. As Dr. Don Colbert reminds us, true healing occurs when we align our emotional, physical, and spiritual health. Ready to start your healing journey? Visit Meredith’s Counseling Center to learn more. To read the original article click here.

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Gut Microbes Play a Key Role in Regulating Stress Responsiveness Throughout the Day

The AHA! Team — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 06:22:36 +0000

University College Cork via EurekAlert! – New Research by Prof John Cryan and Dr Gabriel Tofani et al from APC Microbiome Ireland based in University College Cork has uncovered the vital role that the gut microbiome plays in regulating stress responses by interacting with the body’s circadian clock. Key Findings: New research from reveals that the gut microbiome regulates the body’s diurnal (day-night) rhythms in stress hormones. Depletion of gut microbiota results in disruptions in the brain’s core circadian system, and is associated with altered stress hormone rhythms. The research highlights that gut microbes also regulates key stress-responding brain regions throughout the day. Using microbe transplantation, the team confirmed that oscillations of gut microbes across the day are critical for regulating stress hormone secretion. A pioneering study has uncovered the vital role that gut microbiota plays in regulating stress responses by interacting with the body’s circadian rhythms. The findings open the door for developing new microbial-based therapies that could help individuals better manage stress related mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression which are often associated with alterations in circadian and sleep cycles. This breakthrough research from University College Cork and APC Microbiome Ireland – a Research Ireland Centre – offers compelling evidence that the trillions of microorganisms in the gut orchestrate the body’s hormonal responses to stress in a time-dependent manner, paving the way for new therapeutic approaches targeting the gut-brain axis. Published in Cell Metabolism, this study shines a spotlight on the intricate relationship between the gut microbiota and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the body’s central stress response system. The research demonstrates that depletion of gut microbiota leads to an hyperactivation of the HPA-axis in a time-of-day specific manner, which alongside with alterations to the brain’s stress and circadian responding regions, results in altered stress responsivity across the day. The study further identifies specific gut bacteria, including a Lactobacillus strain (Limosilactobacillus reuteri), as key influencers of this circadian-regulated stress mechanism. L. reuteri emerged as a candidate strain that modulates glucocorticoid secretion (stress hormones), linking the microbiota’s natural diurnal oscillations with altered stress responsiveness. This groundbreaking discovery opens up new possibilities for psychobiotic interventions aimed at improving mental health outcomes by targeting gut bacteria that influence stress regulation. Impact and Implications With modern lifestyles increasingly disrupting circadian rhythms through irregular sleep patterns, high stress, and poor diet, this research underscores the importance of the gut microbiota in maintaining the body’s natural stress-regulation processes. Speaking about the findings, Principal Investigator Professor John Cryan said, “Our research has revealed an important link between the gut microbiota and how the brain responds to stress in a time-specific way. The gut microbiome doesn’t just regulate digestion and metabolism; it plays a critical role in how we react to stress, and this regulation follows a precise circadian rhythm. These findings underscore the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiome, particularly for those living in today’s stressful and fast-paced environment.” First author Dr Gabriel Tofani added “Our findings underscore the importance of not only the gut microbiota composition, but also how gut microbes change across the day. By showing that gut bacteria influence how the body handles stress throughout the day, we’re helping to understand the mechanisms through which the microbiota shapes our responses to the environment around us. Our work also demonstrates that exploring this relationship between the gut microbiota and circadian rhythms will be key in the development of microbiota based therapies for the stress-related disorders in the future”. “This study is a significant leap forward in our understanding of how the microbiome shapes our mental health,” said Professor Paul Ross, Director of APC Microbiome Ireland. “At APC, we are committed to unravelling the many ways in which our gut microbiome impact human health, and this research provides crucial insight into how targeting specific bacteria may help manage or even prevent stress-related conditions. The potential to improve mental health through microbiome-based interventions is very real, and this study takes us one step closer to that goal.” The study was conducted at APC, a global leader in microbiome research based at University College Cork. Professor Cryan’s team has long been at the forefront of gut-brain axis research, and this new discovery adds to the growing body of evidence that gut bacteria have far-reaching effects on mental and physical health. ‘Gut Microbiota Regulates Stress Responsivity via the Circadian System’ is published online via Cell Metabolism which has an impact factor of 28. Read here https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/fulltext/S1550-4131(24)00399-1. Journal Cell Metabolism DOI 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.10.003 To read the original article click here.

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