A recent study suggests that adults with autism have prolonged connections between different areas of the brain, which may explain some of their symptoms. These prolonged connections make it difficult for individuals with autism to switch between ideas or thoughts efficiently. The study used a new type of MRI scan to analyze the duration of connectivity between over 300 areas of the brain and included participants with and without autism. The findings provide a new understanding of autism in the brain and could potentially lead to the development of treatment strategies and medications.
In another study, researchers found that certain lifestyle factors can reduce the risk of developing depression. Eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, staying socially active, not smoking, and getting good sleep were all associated with a significant decrease in depression risk. Each healthy habit individually mattered, with exercise alone reducing the risk of future depression. People adhering to at least five out of seven healthy habits had a 57% lower risk of depression compared to those with none or only one. The study, based on data from the UK Biobank, suggests that a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of depression, regardless of an individual’s genetic predisposition.
The articles also mention other studies, including one that found that boosting creativity helps children face challenges, another that highlights how online therapy can connect postpartum depression patients with survivors, and a study that reveals fitter individuals require fewer psychiatric medications.
SOURCE: University of Utah, news release, Nov. 16, 2018