Charity Provides Vital Mental Health Support for Ukrainian Refugees in UK
A charity in the UK is providing crucial psychological support to Ukrainian refugees grappling with PTSD and anxiety. Opora offers resources such as a support channel on Telegram, a mental health workbook, and an interactive map of services. With up to one-third of Ukrainian refugees experiencing mental health conditions, accessing NHS services can be challenging. Opora aims to bridge the gap and break the stigma around mental health, emphasizing the importance of seeking help. The ongoing conflict and uncertainty about returning home further compound the mental health challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees.
Expert Panel Votes Against MDMA Therapy for PTSD Treatment
An expert panel in the United States has voted against the use of MDMA therapy for treating PTSD, citing concerns about the drug’s efficacy. Despite promising results from trials, panelists raised doubts about the long-term benefits and potential risks associated with the treatment. The FDA is expected to make a final decision by August 11, while Australia has approved the use of MDMA for therapy sessions.
Genetic Basis of PTSD Uncovered in Groundbreaking Study
A recent study published in Nature Genetics has identified 95 risk loci associated with PTSD, 80 of which were previously unknown. By pinpointing potential causal genes related to various biological processes, this research enhances our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying PTSD and opens up opportunities for targeted interventions and personalized treatment strategies.
Dogs Sniffing Out PTSD
Scientists have discovered that dogs can be trained to detect stress-related volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in human breath, potentially identifying the onset of PTSD flashbacks. This groundbreaking study utilized two dogs to distinguish between the breath of individuals recalling traumatic experiences and control samples, achieving over 70% accuracy. The findings suggest that assistance dogs could offer earlier intervention during PTSD episodes by detecting specific stress markers, highlighting the potential for more effective PTSD management.
Study Shows Promise of MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD
A recent study published in Nature Medicine has revealed promising results for individuals suffering from moderate to severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The research, conducted as a double-blinded randomized clinical trial, found that combining the drug MDMA with psychotherapy can…