Latest news with #TheaGallagher
Fox News
4 days ago
- Health
- Fox News
Extreme heat affects the brain — here's how to protect your cognitive health
Summer heat has swept the U.S., with warnings issued across the East Coast and Midwest. In addition to putting stress on the body, hot weather can also take a toll on the brain and mental health. Dr. Jace Reed, director of emergency psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, emphasized in an interview with Fox News Digital that the brain is a major organ that can be greatly affected by heat. Extreme heat can cause mental health changes like increased irritability and anxiety, along with decreased memory, attention and reaction time. This can affect daily interactions socially and professionally, the expert cautioned. "You may be slower at completing your task or remembering what someone just told you," he told Fox News Digital. "Those can be initial early signs that the heat is affecting your brain and your mental abilities." Symptoms like extreme confusion could mark the beginning of a heat stroke, which could require hospitalization, the psychiatrist warned. In a separate interview with Fox News Digital, Thea Gallagher, a doctor of psychology and director of wellness programs at NYU Langone Health, noted that when the body overheats, it struggles to regulate internal balance. This can lead to disrupted sleep, fatigue and poor concentration, as well as impaired cognitive function, slow reaction times and struggles with decision-making. The heat can also increase oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, Gallagher added, which can potentially damage neurons, worsen existing neurological conditions and raise stroke risk. "Heat exposure may trigger an inflammatory response in the brain," she said. "In cases like heatstroke, inflammation is believed to contribute to symptoms such as confusion and delirium." Excessive heat can also weaken the protective blood-brain barrier, according to the expert, which makes the brain more vulnerable to toxins and pathogens. Higher temperatures are also associated with disturbances in mood and violent behavior, especially during prolonged heatwaves. Psychiatric emergency visits for anxiety, depression and substance use also rise significantly on the hottest days, Gallagher confirmed. Below are some of the main mental symptoms that can worsen in hot weather, experts cautioned. People who suffer from mental health conditions such as mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety or even dementia are more vulnerable in hot weather. Some psychiatric medications could make it difficult for the body to regulate temperature or stay hydrated, Gallagher noted, while heat can "intensify" symptoms like agitation or paranoia. "People with cognitive impairments may not recognize the signs of overheating," she added. "Some SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) can suppress sweat production, which is the body's primary cooling mechanism. This raises the risk of overheating, dehydration and even heat stroke." "Paradoxically, SSRIs can also cause excessive sweating in some individuals — a side effect known as 'SSRI sweats,'" she went on. "While this might seem like it would help with cooling, it can actually lead to dehydration if fluid intake doesn't keep up." The experts recommended the following practices to protect brain health in extreme heat. For more Health articles, visit "Days are also longer and there are more activities, which can be exhausting," Gallagher noted. "Therefore, it is good to prioritize sleep and rest … and [find] ways to slow down when you can."
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New Research Says This Daily Practice Could Stave Off Memory Loss. Here's What Doctors Say.
New research suggests practicing having a positive mindset could influence your memory down the road. There was a small link between participants who reported higher levels of wellbeing and those who performed better on memory tests. Here's what you need to know about mental health and its ties to your brain health. There is nothing worse than being told to "stay positive" after a rough day at the office, bad doctor's visit, or messy breakup. Yet, while it can be incredibly difficult to stay positive during difficult times in your life (and, of course, anxiety and depression are very, very real), new research suggests that striving to stay positive could influence your memory down the road. Of course, memory is complex, and it's impossible to stay upbeat and slap a smile on all the time, but these findings definitely provide a good reminder to focus on the good in your life. Because when you're able to proactively change your mindset, you might be better off down the road! Here's exactly what the study found, plus, what doctors want you to keep in mind when taking this information into consideration. Meet the experts: Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; Thea Gallagher, PsyD, a clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone Health and a cohost of the "Mind in View" podcast The study, which was published in the journal Aging & Mental Health, analyzed data from nearly 11,000 women and men who participated in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, a long-term research study on adults over the age of 50. During the 16 year study, the participants answered questions on their wellbeing and memory every two years. Wellbeing questions included things like, 'I can do the things that I want to do,' and 'I feel that life is full of opportunities,' while the memory tests challenged the participants to recall 10 words immediately and then with a delay. The researchers found a small link between people who said they had higher levels of wellbeing and those who performed better on the memory tests. They also found that the link was still there, even after the researchers adjusted for participants who had depression. 'Higher levels of wellbeing are associated with better memory function over 16 years,' the researchers wrote in the conclusion. 'Better wellbeing may be a protective factor in retaining memory function from middle to later adulthood.' The researchers defined 'psychological wellbeing' as the balance between psychological, social, and physical challenges a person faces, along with their available resources to meet those challenges. The researchers refer to psychological wellbeing as a 'multifaceted construct' of emotional health (like happiness and confidence) and effective functioning (control over your life and your sense of purpose). The study didn't dive into this exact question (i.e. figuring out why they saw these results with participants), but experts certainly have a few theories. 'Feeling happy and smiling has been shown to increase brain neurotransmitter levels like serotonin,' says Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. (In case you're not familiar with it, serotonin is considered a feel-good hormone, and it plays a role in regulating your mood and boosting feelings of happiness.) 'Feeling well is healthy and good for your brain health,' Dr. Segil says. 'Many patients with memory loss have lost the ability to feel happiness and wellbeing, which is bad for their brain health.' Good psychological wellbeing may also serve as a 'protective factor' for your brain, says Thea Gallagher, PsyD, a clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone Health and a cohost of the "Mind in View" podcast. 'Depression and anxiety can add stress to your life, and that can impact your memory and how well your brain works,' she says. So, it makes sense that being free from anxiety and depression have the opposite effect. We've already established that your mental health could have an impact on your brain health, but prior research already shows it has a major effect on your physical health. 'We have a lot of data to support the concept that stress, anxiety, and depression can take years off of your life,' Gallagher says. 'It impacts our whole health and our physical health.' On the flip side, thinking positively about life may be more helpful for life in the long-run, she says. And yes, your attitude can have an impact on your health outcomes, Dr. Segil adds. 'Fear about having a chronic neurological condition like memory loss often causes worsening memory loss,' he says. Again, some amount of stress and anxiety in life is normal. But trying your best to look at the glass as half-full, it may end up doing your health—and your memory—a solid in the long-term. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
New York Post
31-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
‘Sea therapy': The benefits of beach day extend beyond just fun in the sun
With summer travel kicking off in full swing, many Americans are seeking sunshine and waves. Aside from enjoying rest and relaxation, beachgoers will also be reaping the mental-health benefits of 'sea therapy.' Advertisement Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health in New York City, told Fox News Digital that 'sea therapy is a real concept.' 'The beach allows for mindfulness because it facilitates being more present when you are watching the ocean,' said Gallagher, 'as it is repetitive and allows for greater connection to the present moment while keeping us engaged.' She added, 'It can also be an escape from our busy lives and can allow us to see into the distance, which can be compelling and relaxing.' Gallagher said that 'sea therapy' is often referred to as thalassotherapy or blue space therapy. It taps into the healing properties of coastal environments. Advertisement The rhythmic motion of water can help regulate Americans' nervous systems and supports cognitive restoration. 'Spending time at the beach can have profound effects on mental well-being,' said Gallagher. 3 'The beach allows for mindfulness because it facilitates being more present when you are watching the ocean,' Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health, said. cppzone – Benefits can include stress reduction, mood boost, cognitive restoration and improved sleep, she said. Advertisement The beach can help visitors recover from mental fatigue, promoting attention restoration. Gallagher said exposure to 'negative ions in sea air has been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.' 3 The motion of water can help regulate Americans' nervous systems and support cognitive restoration. Netfalls – Sun exposure also helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function and mood regulation, Gallagher added. Advertisement Travel expert Francesca Page of New York told Fox News Digital that 'sea therapy' is not news to her. She went on a 'post-winter rut' cruise through the British Virgin Islands, Page said. 3 According to Gallagher, exposure to 'negative ions in sea air has been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.' cppzone – 'Even just cruising on the water, when not island-hopping or snorkeling, definitely gave me my fix mentally and physically,' she said. Gallagher warned that potential drawbacks could be sunburn, dehydration, pollution, allergies and water safety concerns — which people seeking 'sea therapy' should be cognizant of ahead of time. 'While swimming has additional advantages, simply being near the ocean — walking, listening to waves or breathing in sea air — can promote relaxation,' said Gallagher.
Fox News
31-05-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Beach days benefit mental health and well-being as visits provide 'sea therapy'
With summer travel kicking off in full swing, many Americans are seeking sunshine and waves. Aside from enjoying rest and relaxation, beachgoers will also be reaping the mental-health benefits of "sea therapy." Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health in New York City, told Fox News Digital that "sea therapy is a real concept." "The beach allows for mindfulness because it facilitates being more present when you are watching the ocean," said Gallagher, "as it is repetitive and allows for greater connection to the present moment while keeping us engaged." She added, "It can also be an escape from our busy lives and can allow us to see into the distance, which can be compelling and relaxing." Gallagher said that "sea therapy" is often referred to as thalassotherapy or blue space therapy. It taps into the healing properties of coastal environments. The rhythmic motion of water can help regulate Americans' nervous systems and supports cognitive restoration. "Spending time at the beach can have profound effects on mental well-being," said Gallagher. Benefits can include stress reduction, mood boost, cognitive restoration and improved sleep, she said. The beach can help visitors recover from mental fatigue, promoting attention restoration. Gallagher said exposure to "negative ions in sea air has been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression." Sun exposure also helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function and mood regulation, Gallagher added. Travel expert Francesca Page of New York told Fox News Digital that "sea therapy" is not news to her. She went on a "post-winter rut" cruise through the British Virgin Islands, Page said. "Even just cruising on the water, when not island-hopping or snorkeling, definitely gave me my fix mentally and physically," she said. Gallagher warned that potential drawbacks could be sunburn, dehydration, pollution, allergies and water safety concerns — which people seeking "sea therapy" should be cognizant of ahead of time. "While swimming has additional advantages, simply being near the ocean — walking, listening to waves or breathing in sea air — can promote relaxation," said Gallagher.
