insert_link Health / Medical Psychologists connect traumatic brain injury to mental health problems Dr. Shaun Whittaker Psychologists have cautioned that traumatic brain injury can lead to different mental health challenges, including personality shifts, depression, and anxiety. These issues may result from brain damage, psychological trauma, or a combination of both, according to Windhoek-based psychologist Dr. Shaun Whittaker. Research by Howlett JR, Nelson LD, and Stein MB in Biological Psychiatry further supports this, explaining that TBI can cause a variety of […] today4 March, 2025
insert_link Interview Transcripts INTERVIEW: Understanding Grief and Trauma: Insights from Psychological Counselor Marcella Katjijova In a recent discussion, psychological counselor Marcella Katjijova addressed the profound impact of witnessing violent events, particularly gun violence, on mental health. According to Katjijova, such experiences can be among the most traumatic a person can endure, leading to lasting adverse effects on both mental and physical well-being. The Nature of Trauma Katjijova explains that trauma stems from distressing events that can fundamentally alter an individual's life. For instance, a […] today5 November, 2024
insert_link Health / Medical Families of victims of violent assault have double the risk of anxiety – new study Chay_Tee/Shutterstock By Elizabeth Cook, City, University of London and Sally McManus, City, University of London Every year, about a million people in England and Wales are victims of violent crime. In addition to the harm suffered in the assault itself, they may also experience mental and physical health effects that last far longer. They often need the support of health and victim services, and they might have contact […] today11 September, 2024
insert_link Health / Medical South African teens are struggling: Western Cape study shows 33% have symptoms of depression By Mirriam Mkhize, University of Cape Town; Claire van der Westhuizen, University of Cape Town, and Katherine Sorsdahl, University of Cape Town In South Africa, little research has been done on depression and anxiety among younger adolescents, those between the ages of 10 and 14. Existing studies have primarily targeted older adolescents and those living with HIV. The age range of 10- to 14-year-olds […] today26 July, 2024
insert_link Lifestyle Does ‘whining’ really make you happier? A therapist gives his verdict Motortion Films/Shutterstock By Ray O'Neill, Dublin City University A problem shared is a problem halved. Research by Age UK shows that only 29% of adults share their worries, but of these 36% feel brighter as a result; 26% feel relief having confided in someone, and 8% feel that the problem recedes once shared. Both the Sun and Daily Mail newspapers recently highlighted research by Southwest University in […] today27 May, 2024
insert_link Lifestyle Pets give companionship, cuddles and joy – and also unavoidable stresses Pets can bring joy and companionship, as well as financial worries, loss and logistical challenges. Dann Tardif/Stone via Getty Images By Emily Hemendinger, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Owning a pet can be a roller coaster. There are the highs, like when your dog greets you with a full-body wiggle when you return home, or when your cat purrs loudly as you cuddle next to one […] today23 May, 2024
insert_link Opinion Pieces Men’s mental health matters: breaking down barriers and seeking support In Namibia, as in many parts of the world, there's a silent struggle happening among men – a struggle with mental health. But why is it silent? Why aren't we talking about it more openly? The truth is, there are several reasons why men tend to keep their mental health struggles to themselves. For one, there's this idea that men should be tough, strong, and always in […] today17 May, 2024
insert_link Lifestyle Would you be happy as a long-term single? The answer may depend on your attachment style Marvin / Shutterstock By Christopher Pepping, Griffith University; Geoff Macdonald, University of Toronto; Tim Cronin, La Trobe University, and Yuthika Girme, Simon Fraser University Are all single people insecure? When we think about people who have been single for a long time, we may assume it’s because single people have insecurities that make it difficult for them to find a partner or maintain a relationship. But is this […] today23 April, 2024
insert_link Health / Medical Bacteria in your gut can improve your mood − new research in mice tries to zero in on the crucial strains The difference between one mouse’s fear and another mouse’s calm might be in their gut bacteria. Katriel Cho, CC BY-NC-ND By Andrea Merchak, University of Florida Probiotics have been getting a lot of attention recently. These bacteria, which you can consume from fermented foods, yogurt or even pills, are linked to a number of health and wellness benefits, including reducing gastrointestinal distress, urinary tract infections and eczema. But […] today19 February, 2024