Posts

Night Owls More Prone to Depression than Morn-risers

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Abstract Chronotype, an individual’s intrinsic preference for activity timing across the 24-hour cycle, has emerged as a significant determinant of mental health. This review explores the relationship between evening chronotype (commonly termed "night owl") and increased susceptibility to depression. Multiple population-based studies and meta-analyses indicate that individuals with a preference for later sleep-wake cycles exhibit a higher incidence of depressive symptoms compared to morning chronotypes. Mechanistically, this association is attributed to circadian misalignment, social jetlag, reduced exposure to morning light, and maladaptive behavioral patterns, including poor sleep hygiene and irregular routines. Genetic analyses further corroborate these findings, demonstrating that chronotype is partially heritable and linked to neurobiological pathways involved in mood regulation. Importantly, chronotype modification through behavioral and light-based interventions has b...

Why do you think summers are getting more harsh in the tropical regions

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Tropical regions, typically defined as the zone between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, are known for their characteristic warmth, lush biodiversity, and seasonal rainfall. However, recent decades have witnessed a notable and alarming trend — summers in these regions are no longer merely hot; they are becoming harsh, prolonged, and, in many instances, life-threatening. This blog explores the multifactorial reasons behind this intensification of summer heat, supported by scientific insights, real-world data, and climate models. Sun-soaked serenity: embracing the heat by the marina in vibrant summer style Photo by Alessia Marusova on Unsplash 1. The Fundamental Characteristics of Tropical Climates Tropical climates are naturally warm due to high solar insolation, with mean annual temperatures typically above 18°C. These regions experience either distinct wet and dry seasons (tropical savanna and monsoon climates) or continuous rainfall (tropical rainforest climates)...

Shut off your phone internet to help your brain focus better!

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Authored by:  Arya Bandyopadhyay In today’s hyper-connected world, your phone is no longer just a device—it’s a constant companion, a digital assistant, a source of entertainment, and unfortunately, a relentless thief of your attention. The barrage of notifications, social media updates, emails, and instant messages fragments your mental space, draining your focus bit by bit. While we often blame stress or fatigue for our lack of concentration, the real culprit might be sitting right next to us—buzzing quietly on the table. Time to let your brain breathe. Credits: @FST via Google Gemini The Science of Distraction The human brain was not designed to multitask in the way modern life demands. Each time your phone lights up or vibrates, your brain performs a task switch, which temporarily halts deep thinking. According to studies by Rosen et al. (2013), even brief interruptions can reduce work accuracy and prolong task completion time. Over time, this constant interruption diminish...

A simple blood test to predict dementia 10 years in advance!

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Imagine a world where a single blood test could help predict your risk of dementia a full decade before symptoms appear. This isn’t science fiction anymore—it’s a breakthrough in early diagnosis that could change how we approach neurodegenerative diseases forever. What is Dementia? Living with dementia. Credits:  @FST  via  Google Gemini Dementia is not a single disease but a general term used to describe a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, but there are several others, including vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia. One of the biggest challenges with dementia is that by the time symptoms become obvious, irreversible damage has already occurred in the brain (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023). The Power of Early Detection Early diagnosis is key to managing dementia effectively. It allows for timely interventions, lifestyle changes, and treatment strategies that can slow prog...

How to manage your emotions

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How to Manage Your Emotions: A Scientific and Practical Guide Emotions are an integral part of human experience. They serve crucial evolutionary functions—helping us detect danger, form social bonds, and make decisions. Yet, when emotions become intense, chronic, or poorly regulated, they can impair judgment, damage relationships, and harm mental and physical health. Emotional regulation —the ability to manage and respond to emotional experiences effectively—is a skill rooted in complex brain mechanisms, shaped by genetics, environment, and behavior. Scientific research shows that learning how to regulate emotions improves well-being, resilience, and decision-making. Facing our feelings head-on is the first step to understanding and managing them. Emotional awareness isn't always easy, but it’s essential for healing and growth. Photo by Brock Wegner on Unsplash This blog explores the science behind emotions and provides evidence-based strategies to manage your emotional life w...

The Attachment Theory: How Childhood Affects Life

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How Your Childhood Shapes Your Heart: The Attachment Theory Lost in thought, finding her own way—a quiet moment that echoes how our childhood shapes our heart.Photo by Melissa Askew on Unsplash Let’s Get Personal Ever wonder why you cling to love, shy away from it, or feel stuck in a tug-of-war with your heart? It’s not just you—it’s your childhood talking, through something called attachment theory . This powerful idea, sparked by psychologist John Bowlby, shows how the love (or lack of it) you got as a kid shapes how you connect today. Think of it as your heart’s origin story. Grab a cozy spot, and let’s unpack this in a way that feels like a warm chat with a friend, full of insight and heart. What’s the Deal with Attachment Theory? As a baby, you needed someone to make you feel safe—usually your parents. When you cried, did they hug you tight, or were they hit-or-miss? Those moments built your internal working model , a quiet voice in your head that answers: Can I trust people?...

Role of Gut Microbiome in Parkinson's: Surgical Improvements and Injections FAQs

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Abstract: Parkinson’s disease is no longer seen as just a brain disorder. Groundbreaking research reveals a powerful gut-brain connection that could reshape treatment forever. From surgical innovations targeting the vagus nerve to cutting-edge injection therapies, doctors are now focusing on the gut microbiome to slow — or even stop — disease progression. This blog breaks down the latest advancements in simple, powerful points every reader can grasp. Introduction: For years, Parkinson’s was treated as a disease of the brain. But what if the real battle starts in your gut? New science shows that gut bacteria may trigger and fuel Parkinson's — making the digestive system the next big target in treatment. Now, innovative surgeries and injection therapies are emerging, aiming not just to manage symptoms but to strike at the disease’s hidden roots. Here’s everything you need to know — in quick, clear points. Parkinson’s Disease Image Credit: The Singapore Brain Spine Nerves Centre ( ...

All about Personality Disorders

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Understanding Personality Disorders: A Positive Guide Article by - Arya Bandyopadhyay Hey there! Let’s dive into the world of personality disorders with curiosity and compassion. These mental health conditions shape how people think, feel, and connect, often in ways that make life feel like a bumpy ride. But here’s the good news: with understanding and support, there’s hope for brighter days. This blog breaks it all down—types, causes, symptoms, treatments, and more—plus a fun quiz to test your knowledge. Ready to learn and spread positivity? Let’s go! What Are Personality Disorders? Therapist providing compassionate support during a counseling session, fostering a safe space for emotional healing. Credits: thriveworks.com Imagine having a unique lens through which you see the world—one that colors your thoughts, emotions, and actions in ways that feel natural to you but might puzzle others. That’s what personality disorders are: enduring patterns of behavior that differ from cult...

The Psychology of Narcissism

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The Psychology of Narcissism: Finding Empathy Behind the Mask Holding on, even when the world blurs around us. Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash Narcissism—the word itself often evokes images of self-centeredness and arrogance , but beneath this label lies a complex psychological pattern that shapes how individuals interact with the world. In a culture that celebrates individualism and external validation , it's more important than ever to understand the deeper roots of narcissism—not just to identify it but to transform how we engage with those who exhibit these traits. In this blog, we’re not just diving into the science behind narcissism, but offering a more humanized perspective —to empathize , understand , and ultimately learn how we can create healthier connections in a world filled with social pressures. Let’s explore the psychology of narcissism and discover how to approach it with empathy and insight . What Is Narcissism, Really? At its core, narcissism invol...