Mood

Genetic :: First significant genetic finding in severe PMS, or PMDD

The first significant genetic finding in premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) has now been reported. PMDD is a very severe form of the more commonly known premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. PMDD is heritable, affects 5-8% of women, and is associated with severe emotional and physical problems, such as irritability, marked depressed mood, anger, headaches, weight gain and more, to such an extent that quality of life is seriously impacted.

Sleep :: Disturbed sleep linked to poorer daytime function in older women

One of the first large-scale studies to examine the association of sleep behaviors, neuromuscular performance and daytime function in a community dwelling of older women finds that poorer sleep is associated with worse physical function in older women during the daytime, according to a study published in the October 1 issue of the journal SLEEP.

Depression :: Genes linked to suicidal thinking during antidepressant treatment

Specific variations in two genes are linked to suicidal thinking that sometimes occurs in people taking the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants, according to a large study led by scientists at the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Depending on the particular mix inherited, these versions increased the likelihood of such thoughts from 2- to15-fold, the study found.

Anorexia :: Sense of taste different in women with anorexia nervosa

Although anorexia nervosa is categorized as an eating disorder, it is not known whether there are alterations of the portions of the brain that regulate appetite. Now, a new study finds that women with anorexia have distinct differences in the insulta – the specific part of the brain that is important for recognizing taste – according to a new study by University of Pittsburgh and University of California, San Diego researchers currently on line in advance of publication in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology.

Bipolar Disorder :: Study to compare efficacy of mood stabilizers for geriatric patients of bipolar disorder

Until now, there has been little research on the best ways to care for geriatric patients with bipolar disorder. Now, a major National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)–funded multi-site clinical research study — led by the Weill Cornell Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Westchester Division — is the first to compare the efficacy of two commonly used mood stabilizers for geriatric patients suffering from the episodes of symptoms that characterize bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness.

Alzheimer’s Disease :: Early Alzheimer’s disease program focuses on support, enrichment

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, people experience mild memory loss and confusion. These challenges are significant, but people often maintain much of their normal capability and spirit. Now, a specialized support group program is being formed at the UCSF Memory and Aging Center to help patients learn how to live with the disease and to help family members grieve and adjust.