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Mental Health
Mental Health
Mental Health
There are many varied factors that can influence someone's mental health, from biology to the environment and lifestyle. Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, as well as resiliency.
While there are things individuals can do to take care of their mental health, researchers are trying to gain a deeper understanding of how all the factors interact and what's happening inside the brain.
One area of focus is the brain's reward system, which could also impact treatment for addiction, neuropsychiatric diseases and Parkinson's disease. Researchers used cutting-edge imaging and touchscreens to investigate how reward networks are compromised by addiction, depression, and other conditions.
Experts also shared insights on the potential impact of isolation due to COVID-19 restrictions on those facing addiction and mental health issues. Environmental changes limited coping options, adding stress and potentially increasing relapse risk.
Another study found that while playing video games may boost cognitive abilities, it does not necessarily have an effect on mental health, whereas exercise was associated with improved mental health, but didn't appear to impact cognitive health.