Naps–Good for Parents and Kids

People who take a 30-minute nap at least three times a week have a much lower risk of dying from heart disease, according to a new study by Greek researchers.

“The dramatic reduction in events seen–over 60 percent–in working men suggests that factors related to stress and stress reduction are of major importance in global cardiovascular risks.  They also add to the growing appreciation of a physiological link between the heart and the central nervous system–what is becoming known as the ‘heart-brain connection,’” said Stanley L. Hazen, M.D., Ph.D., Preventive Cardiology and Rehabilitation at the Cleveland Clinic.

Click here to read more of the story from the Cleveland Clinic.

Drugs Combined with Therapy Offer Best Benefit to Depressed Teens

A combination of antidepressant drugs and cognitive behavior therapy is the most effect approach when treating teens suffering from major depressive disorder, according to a long-term study led by a Duke University Medical Center psychiatrist.

The findings of the study, “Treatment for Adolescents with Depression Study,” published in the October issue of “Archives of General Psychiatry,” indicate that combination therapy improved depressive symptoms and reduced the level of suicidal thinking and behavior in adolescents.

To read more information about the Duke University study, click here. 

Concussions–Not Just for Male Athletes

Concussions are not just for male athletes.  They are equal opportunity injuries affecting young women as well, such as those playing basketball and soccer. In fact, studies show girls are more susceptible to concussions than boys in the same sports.

A new study by researchers at Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s Hospital also notes girls require more time to rebound from injury symptoms.

To find out more about the study and the tell-tale signs of concussions, click here.

Feeling Relaxed After Cigarette Strong Predictor of Addiction

Adolescents who reported feeling relaxed after their first cigarette were more likely to become addicted to nicotine, according to the study, “Susceptibility to Nicotine Dependence: Development and Assessment of Nicotine Dependence in Youth 2.”

Researchers interviewed 217 6th grade students on tobacco use and dependency. While few risk factors or individual characteristics emerged to predict nicotine addiction in general, a feeling of relaxation after the first cigarette was the strongest predictor of dependence and an ability to stop smoking.  Another predictor was a depressed mood.

Click here to read more about the report from the American Academy of Pediatrics.