Mental Health

A new study finds that fatal school shootings have lasting economic impacts far beyond the tragedy itself. Fear and anxiety ripple through communities, leading people to spend less on groceries, restaurants, and other public spaces for months after the shooting.

Researchers have identified connections between obsessive thoughts about relationships, emotional closeness, and habits like social media addiction and striving for perfection. The findings highlight risk factors that can deepen doubt and tension in romantic connections, especially when conflict is present.

Loneliness is a growing crisis, and while Silicon Valley promotes AI companions, research suggests an older, simpler solution may be more effective. Studies show that reading improves social connections, brain health, and emotional understanding, making books a powerful antidote.

Researchers in Spain have identified a potential link between certain heavy metals in urine and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children. High levels of copper and cadmium were associated with inattention, while copper and antimony related to hyperactivity-impulsivity.

A new study finds that a widespread parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, can physically damage human sperm, including decapitating them on contact. The findings raise fresh questions about the parasite’s potential role in the decades-long global decline in male fertility.

A new meta-analysis suggests that people with major depressive disorder have lower levels of the brain antioxidant glutathione in the occipital cortex. The findings highlight a possible role for oxidative stress in depression and point to potential treatment targets.

A groundbreaking study suggests that Parkinson’s disease may begin in the kidneys, where a toxic protein builds up and travels to the brain. This discovery could reshape our understanding of the disease’s origins and risk factors.

Lower diversity in the oral microbiome was linked to higher depressive symptoms in a large U.S. sample, with especially strong associations among men and non-Hispanic Whites. Differences in microbial composition were also observed between depressed and non-depressed individuals.

Touch-related sensory decline could offer early clues to cognitive problems, according to a recent review. The findings point to tactile impairments as possible predictors of memory loss and dementia, offering new directions for early detection and prevention.

Parental bonding may influence happiness well into adulthood, according to a new study. Italian researchers found that overprotective parenting predicted greater anxiety, while caring parenting supported healthier anger control—both of which played roles in shaping overall life satisfaction.

A new study suggests that certain gut bacteria may influence the risk of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Using Mendelian randomization, researchers identified specific microbial taxa that appear to protect against or increase OCD symptoms.

A new study finds that teens exposed to stronger heatwaves are more likely to experience mental health symptoms, raising concerns about the psychological impact of climate change on youth.

A new study analyzing 18 years of UK survey data found that attending religious services doesn't consistently improve mental health. While previous research suggested benefits, this large-scale analysis found mostly no effect—and sometimes even slightly worse mental health symptoms.

A new study suggests that where kids exercise matters: children who played basketball outside showed sharper thinking and faster reaction times than when playing indoors, hinting at a powerful brain-boosting synergy between physical activity and nature.

Researchers have found that individuals who frequently view internet pornography show distinct brain activity and diminished cognitive control. The study suggests that heavy use may impact emotional processing and executive function in ways that resemble patterns seen in substance addiction.