A mixed methods evaluation of a mindfulness-based stress reduction course for people with Parkinson's disease

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction course (MBSR) on people with Parkinson's disease who experienced depression, anxiety, stress or difficulty coping with Parkinson's. Methods Thirteen participants were recruited and six completed the full MBSR course. Data were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance and thematic analysis. Results There were significant improvements in levels of depression, anxiety and stress at weeks eight and sixteen, as measured by the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale, short version (DASS-21). Themes of ‘mindfulness as challenging’ and ‘mindfulness as life-enhancing’ were identified from follow-up questionnaire responses. All participants reported they would recommend MBSR to other people with Parkinson's. Conclusion This study supports previous preliminary findings that mindfulness-based interventions could benefit people with Parkinson's experiencing non-motor symptoms. Further research using larger sample sizes, a control group, and a longer follow-up period is required

Early postnatal docosahexaenoic acid levels and improved preterm brain development

BACKGROUND: Preterm birth has a dramatic impact on polyunsaturated fatty acid exposures for the developing brain. This study examined the association between postnatal fatty acid levels and measures of brain injury and development, as well as outcomes. METHODS: A cohort of 60 preterm newborns (24–32 weeks GA) was assessed using early and near-term MRI studies. Red blood cell fatty acid composition was analyzed coordinated with each scan. Outcome at a mean of 33 months corrected age was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, 3(rd) edition. RESULTS: Adjusting for confounders, a 1% increase in postnatal docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels at early MRI was associated with 4.3-fold decreased odds of intraventricular hemorrhage, but was not associated with white matter injury or cerebellar haemorrhage. Higher DHA and lower linoleic acid (LA) levels at early MRI were associated with lower diffusivity in white matter tracts, and corresponding improved developmental scores in follow-up. CONCLUSION: Higher DHA and lower LA levels in the first few weeks of life are associated with decreased IVH, improved microstructural brain development, and improved outcomes in preterm born children. Early, and possibly antenatal, intervention in high-risk pregnancies needs to be studied for potential benefits in preterm developmental outcomes

Examining relationships between climate change and mental health in the Circumpolar North

Indigenous people living in the Circumpolar North rely, to varying degrees, on the natural environment and the resources it provides for their lifestyle and livelihoods. As a consequence, these Northern Indigenous peoples may be more sensitive to global climate change, which has implications for food security, cultural practices, and health and well-being. To date, most research on the human dimensions of climate change in the Circumpolar North has focused on biophysical issues and their consequences, such as changing sea ice regimes affecting travel to hunting grounds or the effects of melting permafrost on built infrastructure. Less is known about how these changes in the environment affect mental health and well-being. In this paper, we build upon existing research, combined with our community-based research and professional mental health practices, to outline some pathways and mechanisms through which climate change may adversely impact mental health and well-being in the Circumpolar North. Our analysis indicates that mental health may be affected by climate change due to changes to land, ice, snow, weather, and sense of place; impacts to physical health; damage to infrastructure; indirect impacts via media, research, and policy; and through the compounding of existing stress and distress. We argue that climate change is likely an emerging mental health challenge for Circumpolar Indigenous populations and efforts to respond through research, policy, and mental health programming should be a priority. We conclude by identifying next steps in research, outlining points for policy, and calling for additional mental health resources that are locally responsive and culturally relevant