https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/mind_brain/parenting/ Latest research on parenting. Everything from infancy through the teen years, including breastfeeding, colic, academic success, behavioral problems, teen relationships and more. en-us Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:59:11 EDT Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:59:11 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/mind_brain/parenting/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225941.htm Scientists are uncovering a surprising connection between autism and ADHD that goes deeper than labels. Instead of diagnoses, it’s the severity of autism-like traits that seems to shape how the brain is wired—even in children who don’t officially have autism. The study found that certain brain networks tied to thinking and social behavior stay unusually connected in kids with stronger autism symptoms, hinting at a different developmental path. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:21:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225941.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042737.htm Fast fashion might come with a hidden danger: lead. Researchers testing children’s shirts from multiple retailers found every sample exceeded U.S. safety limits, raising concerns about toxic exposure—especially since young kids often chew on clothing. Brightly colored fabrics like red and yellow showed particularly high levels, likely due to chemicals used to fix dyes. Simulations suggest that even brief mouthing could expose children to unsafe amounts of lead, a substance known to harm brain development and behavior. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:25:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042737.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071936.htm Millions of people start work before sunrise—but their brains aren’t ready for it. A new clinical trial has found that the wake-promoting drug solriamfetol can significantly boost alertness in early-morning shift workers struggling with shift work disorder. Participants who took the drug were able to stay awake and function better throughout full shifts, with improvements in productivity, safety, and daily performance. Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:10:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071936.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330210905.htm Deep sleep does far more than rest the body — it activates a powerful brain-driven system that controls growth hormone, fueling muscle and bone strength, metabolism, and even mental performance. Scientists have now mapped the neural circuits behind this process, uncovering a delicate feedback loop in which sleep boosts growth hormone, and that same hormone helps regulate wakefulness. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:39:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330210905.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043602.htm What teens eat might matter more for their mental health than previously thought. A sweeping review of nearly 20 studies found that healthier diets are often linked to fewer depressive symptoms, while poor eating habits may go hand in hand with greater psychological distress. Interestingly, focusing on whole dietary patterns—not just individual nutrients—showed more consistent benefits, suggesting that overall eating habits could play a meaningful role during this critical stage of brain development. Sun, 29 Mar 2026 04:02:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043602.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326011458.htm Vivid dreams might be doing more than just entertaining your mind at night. Researchers found that immersive dreaming can actually make sleep feel deeper and more refreshing, even when brain activity is high. Surprisingly, people reported their deepest sleep after intense dream experiences, not just during quiet, inactive periods. This suggests dreams may play a key role in helping us feel truly rested. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 02:00:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326011458.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm Early life stress may set the stage for long-term digestive problems by disrupting the gut-brain connection. Studies in both mice and thousands of children found links to symptoms like pain, constipation, and IBS. Scientists discovered that different biological pathways control different gut issues, hinting at more personalized treatments in the future. The research also highlights how a child’s early environment can have lasting physical effects—not just emotional ones. Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:08:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317015928.htm Researchers have identified a surprising brain pattern that may help explain why people with ADHD often struggle to stay focused. Even while awake, their brains can slip into brief episodes of “sleep-like” activity during demanding tasks. These moments are linked to more mistakes, slower reaction times, and lapses in attention. Tue, 17 Mar 2026 02:25:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317015928.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260304184215.htm A new experimental drug is showing remarkable promise for children with Dravet syndrome, a severe genetic form of epilepsy. In clinical trials, the treatment zorevunersen cut seizures by as much as 91% while also improving quality of life for many patients. The therapy works by boosting the function of a key gene involved in nerve cell signaling. Encouraging results have led researchers to launch a larger Phase 3 trial. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:14:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260304184215.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260218044624.htm Sugary drinks may be linked to more than just physical health problems in teens. A new review of multiple studies found a consistent association between high consumption of beverages like soda, energy drinks, sweetened juices, and flavored milks and increased anxiety symptoms in adolescents. Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:45:27 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260218044624.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260218031606.htm That viral claim that your frontal lobe “isn’t fully developed until 25” turns out to be more myth than milestone. Early brain scans showed that gray matter changes dramatically through the teen years, and because studies stopped around age 20, scientists estimated development might wrap up in the mid-20s. But newer, massive brain-imaging research paints a different picture: key wiring and network efficiency in the brain continue evolving into the early 30s. Thu, 19 Feb 2026 02:54:09 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260218031606.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260213223926.htm Sleeping on a problem might be more powerful than we ever imagined. Neuroscientists at Northwestern University have shown that dreams can actually be nudged in specific directions — and those dream tweaks may boost creativity. By playing subtle sound cues during REM sleep, researchers prompted people to dream about unsolved brain teasers they had struggled with earlier. An astonishing 75% of participants dreamed about the cued puzzles, and those puzzles were solved far more often the next day. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 01:47:47 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260213223926.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211073043.htm Swapping just an hour of TV a day for something more active could significantly lower the risk of developing major depression—especially in middle age. A large Dutch study tracking more than 65,000 adults over four years found that replacing 60 minutes of TV with other activities cut depression risk by 11% overall, and by nearly 19% in middle-aged adults. The more time people reallocated—up to two hours—the greater the benefit, with risk dropping as much as 43% in midlife. Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:08:23 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211073043.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210082921.htm Autism has long been thought of as a condition that mostly affects boys, but a massive study from Sweden suggests that idea may be misleading. Tracking nearly 3 million people over decades, researchers found that while boys are diagnosed more often in childhood, girls steadily catch up during their teenage years. By early adulthood, autism diagnoses among males and females are nearly equal. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:19:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210082921.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260208233825.htm A sweeping new review of ADHD treatments—drawing on more than 200 meta-analyses—cuts through years of mixed messaging and hype. To make sense of it all, researchers have launched an interactive, public website that lets people with ADHD and clinicians explore what actually works, helping them make clearer, evidence-based decisions—while also highlighting a major gap: most solid evidence only covers short-term effects, even though long-term treatment is common. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 01:32:16 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260208233825.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260207092904.htm A major study suggests menopause is linked to changes in brain structure, mental health, and sleep. Brain scans revealed grey matter loss in areas tied to memory and emotional regulation, while many women reported increased anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Hormone therapy did not reverse these effects, though it may slow age-related declines in reaction speed. Researchers say menopause could represent an important turning point for brain health. Sat, 07 Feb 2026 09:52:48 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260207092904.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260204114144.htm At just two months old, babies are already organizing the world in their minds. Brain scans revealed distinct patterns as infants looked at pictures of animals, toys, and everyday objects, showing early category recognition. Scientists used AI to help decode these patterns, offering a rare glimpse into infant thinking. The results suggest babies begin learning and understanding far sooner than expected. Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:14:20 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260204114144.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260201062457.htm Middle age is becoming a tougher chapter for many Americans, especially those born in the 1960s and early 1970s. Compared with earlier generations, they report more loneliness and depression, along with weaker physical strength and declining memory. These troubling trends stand out internationally, as similar declines are largely absent in other wealthy nations, particularly in Nordic Europe, where midlife well-being has improved. Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:25:53 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260201062457.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260124073920.htm A large, decades-long study suggests that signs of ADHD in childhood may have consequences that extend well beyond school and behavior. Researchers followed nearly 11,000 people from childhood into midlife and found that those with strong ADHD traits at age 10 were more likely to experience multiple physical health problems and health-related disability by their mid-40s. Sat, 24 Jan 2026 07:39:20 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260124073920.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260119234937.htm When you’re short on sleep and your focus suddenly drifts, your brain may be briefly slipping into cleanup mode. Scientists discovered that these attention lapses coincide with waves of fluid washing through the brain, a process that usually happens during sleep. It’s the brain’s way of compensating for missed rest. Unfortunately, that internal cleaning comes at the cost of momentary mental shutdowns. Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:29:32 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260119234937.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260116085131.htm Scientists have discovered that the adolescent brain does more than prune old connections. During the teen years, it actively builds dense new clusters of synapses in specific parts of neurons. These clusters emerge only in adolescence and may help shape higher-level thinking. When the process is disrupted, it could play a role in conditions like schizophrenia. Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:09:31 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260116085131.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106224623.htm Teens who sleep in on weekends may be giving their mental health a boost. A new study found that young people who made up for lost weekday sleep had a significantly lower risk of depression. While consistent sleep is still best, weekend catch-up sleep appears to offer meaningful protection. The findings highlight how powerful sleep can be for adolescent well-being. Wed, 07 Jan 2026 01:04:25 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106224623.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260105165818.htm A long-running debate over Tamiflu’s safety in children may finally be settled. Researchers found that influenza, not the antiviral medication, was linked to serious neuropsychiatric events like seizures and hallucinations. Even more striking, kids treated with Tamiflu had about half the risk of these events compared to untreated children with the flu. The results suggest the drug may be protective rather than harmful. Mon, 05 Jan 2026 20:48:09 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260105165818.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260103155026.htm Your daily rhythm may matter more for brain health than previously thought. Older adults with weaker, more disrupted activity patterns were far more likely to develop dementia than those with steady routines. A later daily energy peak was also linked to higher risk. The study points to the body clock as a possible early warning sign for cognitive decline. Sat, 03 Jan 2026 19:52:00 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260103155026.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251226045345.htm A first-of-its-kind national trial shows that public Montessori preschool students enter kindergarten with stronger reading, memory, and executive function skills than their peers. These gains don’t fade — they grow over time, bucking a long-standing trend in early education research. Even better, Montessori programs cost about $13,000 less per child than traditional preschool. The results suggest a powerful, affordable model hiding in plain sight. Thu, 01 Jan 2026 07:40:43 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251226045345.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225235942.htm ADHD stimulants appear to work less by sharpening focus and more by waking up the brain. Brain scans revealed that these medications activate reward and alertness systems, helping children stay interested in tasks they would normally avoid. The drugs even reversed brain patterns linked to sleep deprivation. Researchers say this could complicate ADHD diagnoses if poor sleep is the real underlying problem. Thu, 25 Dec 2025 23:59:42 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225235942.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225035342.htm Attention depends on the brain’s ability to filter out distractions, but new research suggests this works best when background brain activity is quieter. Scientists found that lowering certain versions of the Homer1 gene improved focus in mice by calming neural noise. The effect was strongest during a critical developmental window. This approach could inspire new treatments for ADHD that work by reducing mental clutter instead of increasing stimulation. Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:21:08 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225035342.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223084855.htm A massive global genetics study is reshaping how we understand mental illness—and why diagnoses so often pile up. By analyzing genetic data from more than six million people, researchers uncovered deep genetic connections across 14 psychiatric conditions, showing that many disorders share common biological roots. Instead of existing in isolation, these conditions fall into five overlapping families, helping explain why depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders so frequently occur together. Sat, 03 Jan 2026 02:28:04 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223084855.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223084852.htm New research reveals a brighter side of ADHD, showing that adults who recognize and use their strengths feel happier, healthier, and less stressed. People with ADHD were more likely to identify traits like creativity, humor, and hyperfocus as personal strengths. Across the board, using these strengths was linked to better quality of life and fewer mental health symptoms. The study suggests that embracing strengths could be a game-changer for ADHD support. Wed, 31 Dec 2025 10:51:21 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223084852.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251221043218.htm A major international review has upended long-held ideas about how top performers are made. By analyzing nearly 35,000 elite achievers across science, music, chess, and sports, researchers found that early stars rarely become adult superstars. Most world-class performers developed slowly and explored multiple fields before specializing. The message is clear: talent grows through variety, not narrow focus. Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:05:31 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251221043218.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251217082507.htm More than 20% of young adults say they use cannabis or alcohol to fall asleep, with cannabis leading by a wide margin. Researchers warn this strategy can backfire, disrupting sleep quality and increasing the risk of long-term sleep and substance-use problems. Thu, 18 Dec 2025 03:11:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251217082507.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213042402.htm Scientists exploring how the brain responds to stress discovered molecular changes that can influence behavior long after an experience ends. They also identified natural resilience systems that help protect certain individuals from harm. These findings are opening the door to treatments that focus on building strength, not just correcting problems. The work is also fueling a broader effort to keep science open, independent, and accessible. Sat, 13 Dec 2025 09:38:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213042402.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251209234247.htm Researchers discovered that unusually high temperatures can hinder early childhood development. Children living in hotter conditions were less likely to reach key learning milestones, especially in reading and basic math skills. Those facing economic hardship or limited resources were hit the hardest. The study underscores how climate change may shape children’s learning long before they reach school age. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:59:03 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251209234247.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251209043055.htm A Virginia Tech study shows that ultra-processed foods may influence adolescents differently from slightly older young adults. Participants aged 18 to 21 ate more at a buffet and snacked even when not hungry after two weeks on an ultra-processed diet. Because eating without hunger predicts future weight gain, these findings hint at a heightened vulnerability during late adolescence. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:53:40 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251209043055.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251204024234.htm Researchers studying people with major psychiatric disorders found that drinking up to four cups of coffee a day is associated with longer telomeres. This suggests a potential slowing of biological aging by about five years. However, drinking five or more cups showed no benefit and may even contribute to cellular damage. Coffee’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help explain the effect. Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:09:51 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251204024234.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251201084942.htm A large study of brain scans shows that our neural wiring evolves through five major stages from birth to late old age. These phases are separated by sudden turning points that mark big shifts in how the brain is organized. The most surprising discovery is that adolescent-style development lasts into our early thirties. The work helps explain changing abilities and risks at different points in life. Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:57:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251201084942.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251127010322.htm A massive veteran study found a strong connection between untreated sleep apnea and a higher chance of Parkinson’s. CPAP users had much lower odds of developing the condition. Researchers believe that repeated dips in oxygen during sleep may strain neurons over time. The results suggest that better sleep might help protect the brain. Thu, 27 Nov 2025 01:10:17 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251127010322.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251110021114.htm Researchers identified SGK1 as a key chemical connecting childhood trauma to depression and suicidal behavior. High SGK1 levels were found in the brains of suicide victims and in people with genetic variants linked to early adversity. Drugs that block SGK1 could offer a new kind of antidepressant, especially for patients resistant to SSRIs. Mon, 10 Nov 2025 10:28:58 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251110021114.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010322.htm Prenatal exposure to the insecticide chlorpyrifos causes widespread brain abnormalities and poorer motor skills in children. Even after a residential ban, ongoing agricultural use continues to endanger developing brains. Fri, 07 Nov 2025 10:54:08 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010322.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251106213552.htm Scientists have discovered a surprising benefit of the acne drug doxycycline: it may lower the risk of schizophrenia. Teens prescribed the antibiotic were about one-third less likely to develop the condition as adults. The effect could stem from the drug’s ability to reduce brain inflammation. Researchers say the findings highlight an unexpected new direction in mental health prevention. Thu, 06 Nov 2025 21:44:15 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251106213552.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251103093016.htm Researchers found that embodying a digital, childlike version of one’s own face helps unlock vivid childhood memories. This illusion strengthens the connection between bodily self-perception and autobiographical recall. The findings suggest that memory retrieval is not purely mental but deeply linked to how we perceive our own bodies. Such insights could lead to tools for recovering forgotten memories or treating memory loss. Mon, 03 Nov 2025 22:44:15 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251103093016.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251102205012.htm Disrupted sleep patterns in Alzheimer’s disease may be more than a symptom—they could be a driving force. Researchers at Washington University found that the brain’s circadian rhythms are thrown off in key cell types, changing when hundreds of genes turn on and off. This disruption, triggered by amyloid buildup, scrambles normal gene timing in microglia and astrocytes—cells vital for brain maintenance and immune defense. Mon, 03 Nov 2025 01:25:26 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251102205012.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251025084557.htm A new study shows that eating more fruits and vegetables during the day can significantly improve sleep that same night. Researchers found a clear link between diet quality and sleep depth, with participants who met the CDC’s daily produce recommendations seeing a 16% boost in sleep quality. The findings suggest that small dietary changes could make a big difference in how well we rest. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:19:53 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251025084557.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251019120518.htm A major collaboration between UC San Diego and 23andMe identified genes that shape cannabis use behaviors. The study linked the CADM2 and GRM3 genes to cannabis use and connected these patterns to more than 100 traits across mental and physical health. Researchers say understanding these genetic influences could help prevent cannabis use disorder and guide future therapies. Mon, 20 Oct 2025 01:29:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251019120518.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251012054608.htm Researchers have discovered that ADHD’s hallmark mind wandering might actually boost creativity. People who deliberately let their thoughts drift scored higher on creative tests in two large studies. The findings hint that mindful management of mental drift could turn ADHD’s challenges into creative strengths. Mon, 13 Oct 2025 03:22:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251012054608.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092917.htm Scientists discovered that lifelong social support can slow biological aging. Using DNA-based “epigenetic clocks,” they found that people with richer, more sustained relationships showed younger biological profiles and lower inflammation. The effect wasn’t about single friendships but about consistent connections across decades. Sat, 04 Oct 2025 09:29:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092917.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002074014.htm New research shows that poor sleep could make the brain appear years older than it really is. Using MRI scans and machine learning, scientists found a clear link between unhealthy sleep patterns and accelerated brain aging. Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:36:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002074014.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250925025336.htm New studies show that a bacterial molecule, peptidoglycan, is present in the brain and fluctuates with sleep patterns. This challenges the idea that sleep is solely brain-driven, instead suggesting it’s a collaborative process between our bodies and microbiomes. The theory links microbes not only to sleep but also to cognition, appetite, and behavior, pointing to a profound evolutionary relationship. Thu, 25 Sep 2025 03:48:24 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250925025336.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250922074947.htm A sweeping review from NYU Langone Health reveals that everyday exposure to plastics—especially during childhood—poses lasting risks for heart disease, infertility, asthma, and even brain development issues. These chemicals, found in packaging, cosmetics, and common household items, can disrupt hormones, ignite chronic inflammation, and lower IQ. Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:05:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250922074947.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250915202839.htm Preschoolers with ADHD are often given medication right after diagnosis, against medical guidelines that recommend starting with behavioral therapy. Limited access to therapy and physician pressures drive early prescribing, despite risks and reduced effectiveness in young children. Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:10:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250915202839.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250913232924.htm Chronic insomnia may do more than leave you groggy, it could speed up brain aging. A large Mayo Clinic study found that people with long-term sleep troubles were 40% more likely to develop dementia or cognitive impairment, with brain scans showing changes linked to Alzheimer’s. Those reporting reduced sleep showed declines comparable to being four years older, while certain genetic risk carriers saw even steeper drops. Sun, 14 Sep 2025 02:02:57 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250913232924.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250908175446.htm UC Berkeley researchers mapped the brain circuits that control growth hormone during sleep, uncovering a feedback system where sleep fuels hormone release, and the hormone regulates wakefulness. The discovery helps explain links between poor sleep, obesity, diabetes, and cognitive decline, while opening new paths for treating sleep and metabolic disorders. Mon, 08 Sep 2025 22:23:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250908175446.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250906013448.htm Getting a smartphone before age 13 may drastically increase the risk of poor mental health later in life, according to data from more than 100,000 people. Early use is linked to suicidal thoughts, aggression, and detachment, largely driven by social media, cyberbullying, and lost sleep. Researchers urge urgent action to restrict access and protect young minds. Sat, 06 Sep 2025 01:57:26 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250906013448.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104658.htm A long-term study following insomnia patients treated with cannabis-based medical products revealed sustained improvements in sleep quality, mood, and pain management over 18 months. Most participants reported better rest and less anxiety or depression, while only a small fraction experienced mild side effects such as fatigue or dry mouth. Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:42:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104658.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250828002404.htm Using cannabis to self-medicate comes with hidden dangers—new research shows these users face higher paranoia and consume more THC. Childhood trauma further amplifies the risks, especially emotional abuse, which strongly predicts paranoia. Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:24:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250828002404.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250821004246.htm A large-scale review finds that acetaminophen use during pregnancy may increase the risk of autism and ADHD in children. The strongest studies showed the clearest links, pointing to biological pathways like oxidative stress and hormone disruption. Experts call for caution, updated guidelines, and safer alternatives. Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:57:53 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250821004246.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250813083608.htm UC Berkeley scientists found oxytocin is key for quickly forming strong friendships, but less critical for mate bonds. In prairie voles, a lack of oxytocin receptors delayed bonding and reduced partner selectivity, changing how the brain releases oxytocin and affecting social behavior. Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:01:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250813083608.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040940.htm A massive global survey has revealed that people with eating disorders often turn to cannabis and psychedelics like magic mushrooms and LSD to ease their symptoms, rating them more effective than traditional medications. Surprisingly, common prescriptions like antidepressants were seen as helpful for overall mental health but fell short for eating disorder relief. Thu, 24 Jul 2025 10:42:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040940.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040455.htm Scientists at Princeton and the Simons Foundation have identified four biologically distinct subtypes of autism, using data from over 5,000 children and a powerful new computational method. These subtypes—each with unique traits, developmental paths, and genetic signatures—promise to revolutionize how we understand, diagnose, and treat autism. Thu, 24 Jul 2025 22:45:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040455.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250717013903.htm Premature menopause isn t just a hormonal issue it s a deeply emotional one for many women. A new study reveals that almost 30% experience depression, and it s not just about hormone loss but also grief, identity, and support systems. Thu, 17 Jul 2025 01:39:03 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250717013903.htm