The reason why chronic pain is chronic appears to be linked to its persistent memory in the prefrontal cortex. A new study by Dr. Vania Apkarian, professor of physiology and anesthesiology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, shows that treatment with a drug called D-cycloserine, apart from being effective in relieving the “emotional suffering” from old injuries, also reduces the sensitivity of old injury sites. Read more →

A new study presented by the World Health Organization points to the international community’s efforts to curb interpersonal violence and its mental and physical consequences. This past week nearly 200 experts on violence prevention assembled in Scotland for “Milestones 2007,” a gathering intended to critically examine advances made since the WHO release of the “World Report on Violence and Health,” in 2002. At the time of its original publication, a portion of this landmark report highlighted the psychological impact of interpersonal violence, supporting emerging research on the long-term, medically-related consequences of violence. This on-going study acts to solidify the link between violent behavior and consequently, mental distress. Read more →

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that between 1992 to 2004, the rate of hospitalization for depression has increased approximately 81% for females and 30% for males aged 5-19 years. In 2004, more than 5,000 US children and adolescents committed suicide and an additional 171,870 non-fatal self harm injury cases were reported. About 15-20% of American teens have experienced a serious episode of depression, which is similar to the proportion of depressed adults. Read more →

In nature’s original design plan, the brain was the leader for coordinating our physical activities: the “motor high-command.” It comes as little surprise then, that exercise strengthens the brain’s interconnections, and rejuvenates the mind. Read more →

We could be a crucial step closer to our understanding of the basics of obesity with discovery of a molecule that makes mice lazier, and reduces all spontaneous physical activity, even looking for food. It’s a molecule called Bsx, which has been isolated from the hypothalamus of mice, and is found across all species including humans. Read more →

There are several pathways to becoming health psychologist; however, those wishing to undergo board certification should consult the American Board of Clinical Health Psychology. There are two lines of graduate programs available: masters and doctoral programs. They include courses in research methods, statistics, introductory and abnormal psychology, pain management, mind-body connection, health care management, stress and illness, physiological psychology, psychopharmacology and several other elective options. Read more →