Panic Triggered by CO2

A study at the University of Iowa shows that breathing carbon dioxide increases brain acidity that activates a protein with a significant role in fear and anxiety behavior. The study offers an understanding of the biological basis of panic and anxiety disorders, suggesting new approaches for treatment. (Cell, November 2009; 139(5):1012-1021)
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Uncertainty Fuels Anxiety

The central finding of a new brain scan study is that uncertainty makes a bad event feel even worse. A new study shows that neural responses in the insula and amygdala are much stronger to negative stimuli when the event is preceded by uncertainty. (Cerebral Cortex, published online August 13, 2009)
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SLE (Lupus) Patients Prone to Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety and mood disorders are more common in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) than in the general population, according to results of a new study. Researchers found that panic disorder, specific phobia, OCD, major depressive disorder, and bipolar I disorder were significantly more common among SLE subjects than among other white women. In contrast, generalized anxiety disorder and dysthymic disorder were significantly less common in this population. (Arthritis and Rheumatism, June 2009; 61:822-829)
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Trial Shows Kava Safe in Treating Anxiety

The results of a clinical trial at the University of Queensland in Australia show that a water-soluble extract of kava, a medicinal plant from the South Pacific, is safe and effective in treating some anxiety and depressive disorders. Prescribed in tablet form, kava was also found to have had a positive impact on reducing depression levels, which had not been tested before. (Psychopharmacology, published online May 9, 2009)
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Panic Attacks Not Necessarily Linked to PTSD

A new research study dispels the previously accepted notion about panic attacks—that one immediately following a traumatic event would trigger or predict PTSD.
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Several Sessions of Exposure Therapy Needed for Effective Treatment of Anxiety

Patients with anxiety disorders treated with exposure therapy achieve better outcomes when treated with multiple exposure sessions, which suggests an accumulated effect of this type of therapy for anxiety, according to research.
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