Childhood Temperament Can Identify Future Risks of Anxiety and Depression: Study

Written by Sarah Cownley
Published on

Angry offended little girl ignoring not listening mother words, advice, mum hugging, talking with stubborn, upset daughter at living room, bad upbringing, difficult behavior of childAccording to recent research, childhood temperament and a neural process may predict the risk of developing anxiety and depression later in life. This new information from The University of Texas at Dallas could help shape how mental health is handled in adolescence and early adulthood.

The study analyzed information from 165 individuals from 4 months old through the age of 26. The subjects were followed for decades because full symptoms don’t usually emerge until young adulthood.

The participants were categorized as either inhibited or uninhibited as young children. As adolescents, they had functional MRIs while completing tasks to measure the brain’s reaction in anticipation of a reward or trying to win money.

“We looked at the ventral striatum, a brain region well studied in terms of understanding depression in adults, to see if it’s tied to maladaptive processing in the reward centers of the brain,” said lead scientist Dr. Alva Tang.

It was found that the association between inhibition at 14 to 24 months of age and depression symptoms in those from ages 15 to 26 was present only in those participants who showed blunted activity in the ventral striatum as adolescents. There was no association found with anxiety.

“We found that behavioral inhibition was related to worsening depressive symptoms into adulthood. This supports the assertion that this temperament shows a stronger relation to developing anxiety in adolescence, but in adulthood, it is tied more strongly to depression.” Tang said.

Tang’s previous work has related anxiety to neural networks and processes that affect attention and executive functions. However, this new research highlights the rewards and motivational centers in the brain and relates them to depression.

Supporting Mental Health

Many studies have tied mental health issues to various conditions. However, there have also been an overwhelming amount of studies that show how lifestyle changes can help with symptoms of anxiety and depression. For example, diet and exercise can play an important role in reducing symptoms. Getting the proper vitamins and nutrients is also vital for mental health.

There are numerous factors that can take a toll on the ability of the brain to function at peak potential. This can affect memory, concentration, and overall brain function.

The Smart Pill can help to enhance cognitive function and memory through 9 ingredients that help to support, nourish, and maximize brain health. These include ginkgo biloba, huperzine A, bacopa extract, rosemary extract, and a B vitamin complex. This unique formula helps to boost circulation, fight free radicals, and provide nutritional support.

Reducing anxiety can be tough, but with the help of Anxiety Rescue, you can help to support healthy mood balance and cognitive function. Through a variety of ingredients, this unique formula can help to target multiple aspects of stress, mood support, and anxiety. Anxiety Rescue begins to work quickly and improves benefits and support as the weeks go on.

Advertisement

On any matter relating to your health or well-being, please check with an appropriate health professional. No statement herein is to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventative, or cure for any disease, disorder or abnormal physical state. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Foods and Drugs Administration or Health Canada. Dr. Marchione and the doctors on the Bel Marra Health Editorial Team are compensated by Bel Marra Health for their work in creating content, consulting along with formulating and endorsing products.

Exit mobile version