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Around 8% of human DNA is made up of genetic sequences acquired from ancient viruses. These sequences, known as human endogenous retroviruses (or Hervs), date back hundreds of thousands to millions of years – with some even predating the emergence of Homo sapiens. Our latest research suggests that some ancient viral DNA sequences in the human genome play a role in susceptibility to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. Hervs represent the remnants of these infections with ancient retroviruses. Retroviruses are viruses that insert a copy of their genetic material into the DNA of t...... Read Full article on HadNews

Experts often highlight social media and harsh economic times as key reasons why young people are getting unhappier. And while those factors are important, I would like to emphasise another. Younger generations have less freedom and independence than previous generations did. The area where children are allowed to range unsupervised outside has shrunk by 90% since the 1970s. Parents increasingly organise entertainment – ranging from play dates and sports and music classes to family cinema trips – for their children, rather than letting them come up with it themselves. Perhaps this can help explain recent reports that many teenagers ...... Read Full article on HadNews

X owner Elon Musk recently described using small amounts of ketamine “once every other week” to manage the “chemical tides” that cause his depression. He says it’s helpful to get out of a “negative frame of mind”. This has caused a range of reactions in the media, including on X (formerly Twitter), from strong support for Musk’s choice of treatment, to allegations he has a drug problem. But what exactly is ketamine? And what is its role in the treatment of depression? It was first used as an anaesthetic Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic used in surgery and to relieve pain. At certain doses, people are awake but are disconne...... Read Full article on HadNews

At least one in ten people have depression at some point in their lives, with some estimates closer to one in four. It’s one of the worst things for someone’s wellbeing – worse than debt, divorce or diabetes. One in seven Australians take antidepressants. Psychologists are in high demand. Still, only half of people with depression in high-income countries get treatment. Our new research shows that exercise should be considered alongside therapy and antidepressants. It can be just as impactful in treating depression as therapy, but it matters what type of exercise you do and how you do it. Read more: Why are so ...... Read Full article on HadNews

Around one in seven Australians take antidepressants; more than 3.5 million of us had them dispensed in 2021–22. This is one of the highest antidepressant prescribing rates in the world. Guidelines mostly recommend antidepressants for more severe depression and anxiety but not as first-line treatment for less severe depression. Less commonly, antidepressants may be prescribed for conditions such as chronic pain and migraine. Yet prescription rates continue to increase. Between 2013 and 2021, the antidepressant prescription rate in Australia steadily increased by 4.5% per year. So why are so many Australians taking antidepressants and...... Read Full article on HadNews

Research out today from Finland suggests women may find it harder to adjust to later-life divorce and break-ups than men. The study used population data from 229,000 Finns aged 50 to 70 who had undergone divorce, relationship break-up or bereavement and tracked their use of antidepressants before and after their relationship ended. They found antidepressant use increased in the four years leading to the relationship dissolution in both genders, with women experiencing a more significant increase. But it’s too simplistic to say women experience poorer mental health or tend to be less happy after divorce than men. ...... Read Full article on HadNews

There is a lot of talk about how pet guardianship can benefit humans. But did you know this important symbiotic relationship can also benefit our furry friends? In honor of International Human-Animal Bond Day, let’s explore how having a family is good for dogs and cats and vice versa! Dogs and Cats Get Loving Homes A strong human-animal bond means that dogs and cats are well cared for. In fact, up to 85% of pet guardians consider their animal companions to be a member of the family. That translates to better care and increased spending on their health and well-being. In 2022, Americans spent a whopping $136.8 billion on their animal companio...... Read Full article on HadNews