A study that included 2,000 children revealed that those who play video games for three or more hours a day scored higher on cognitive, impulse control, and working memory assessments than kids who do not play video games. The National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Dr. Nora Volkow adds, “This study adds to our growing understanding…

According to a study that included 750 pregnant women, the more education an expectant mother has on pregnancy, the lower her risk for prenatal depression, which may also reduce the risk for postpartum depression. Journal of Affective Disorders, November 2022

Among a group of 3,200 adults in mid-life and old age, researchers observed that those who have nightmares on a weekly basis (or more frequently) are four times more likely to experience cognitive decline in middle age and two times more likely to develop dementia in their later years. eClinical Medicine, September 2022

While a recent study that looked at diet and health data concerning nearly 40,000 Japanese adults showed no association between total soy intake and dementia risk, researchers did observe that a high intake of the fermented soybean food product known as natto is linked to a 22% lower risk for dementia. European Journal of Nutrition,…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the suicide rate in the United States increased in 2021 much as it had between 2000 and 2018, despite a drop in 2019 and 2020. Mental health experts hope the national rollout of the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline can help reverse course. Vital Statistics Rapid…

A survey of nearly 5,000 adolescents revealed that 9% had anonymously posted negative comments about themselves on their social media posts. Further analysis show that such individuals were five times more likely to have contemplated suicide. Researcher Dr. Robin Kowalski explains, “People who commit suicide feel that the world would be better off without them,…

Individuals with type 2 diabetes are at an elevated risk for dementia; however, a recent study found that diabetics can substantially reduce their risk for the condition by not smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, getting regular exercise; eating a healthy diet; getting adequate sleep; avoiding prolonged sedentary behavior; and maintaining a healthy social life. Neurology,…

The current research supports the following lifestyle behaviors for preserving cognitive function as one ages: don’t smoke, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and get regular exercise. Applied Neuropsychology, Adult, November 2022

Following a review of health histories of nearly 17,000 people, researchers report that individuals with type A blood are 16% more likely suffer a stroke before age 60 than those with other blood types. On the other hand, the risk is lowest for those with type O blood. The researchers explain that type O blood…

Following a review of data from 26 studies, researchers report that women with a family history of a psychiatric illness are at twice the risk for developing postpartum depression. JAMA Psychiatry, August 2022