Why Night Owls Are More Prone to Depression: Science-Backed Reasons

Night owls—individuals who stay up late—face a higher risk of depression, according to recent research, and a new study sheds light on why this connection exists. Published in PLOS One, the study reveals that people who thrive at dusk tend to be less mindful, meaning they are less focused on the present moment. This lack of mindfulness, combined with poor sleep quality and increased alcohol consumption, significantly contributes to their elevated depression risk.

Led by senior researcher Simon Evans, a neuroscience lecturer at the University of Surrey in the U.K., the research team emphasized the role of mindfulness in mental health. "We examined various aspects of mindfulness as key factors," the team noted, pinpointing the "acting with awareness" facet as particularly protective. This involves staying fully engaged in the moment and performing tasks with intentional focus rather than on autopilot, which can help reduce depression risk.

The study surveyed nearly 550 university students through an online questionnaire, collecting data on sleep patterns, mindfulness levels, alcohol use, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Results confirmed that night owls reported higher depression symptoms compared to those with average or morning sleep schedules. Additionally, late-night individuals experienced poorer sleep quality and consumed more alcohol than early risers or average sleepers—findings consistent with prior studies linking sleep issues and alcohol to depression.

What sets this study apart is its exploration of mindfulness as a factor in depression risk among night owls. The research found that morning types, or "early birds," exhibit greater "acting with awareness" due to better sleep quality, reducing daytime fatigue, inattention, and mind wandering. In contrast, evening chronotypes—night owls—often struggle with subpar sleep, leading to daytime sleepiness and a reduced ability to stay present, further heightening their vulnerability to depression.

These findings suggest actionable steps for night owls to lower their depression risk: practicing mindfulness, reducing alcohol intake, and prioritizing better sleep hygiene. With mindfulness training gaining traction as a mental health tool, the study recommends focusing on enhancing the "acting with awareness" aspect in mindfulness interventions. By adopting these strategies, individuals who prefer late nights could improve their mental well-being and mitigate depression risks effectively.

Understanding Depression: Essential Symptoms and Warning Signals

What Is Depression? 

While occasional sadness is a normal part of life, persistent feelings of sadness, irritability, or low motivation most days for more than two weeks could signal clinical depression (also known as major depressive disorder). Unlike temporary mood swings, this condition involves multiple symptoms—such as fatigue, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities—that last at least two weeks and significantly disrupt daily life.

Key Facts About Depression:

Depression is not a personal weakness or character flaw—it’s a medical illness with biological and psychological causes.

Brain imaging, such as PET scans, shows reduced activity in individuals with depression compared to those without it.

Effective treatments, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

These PET scans of the brain indicate low activity in a person suffering from depression compared to someone who is not depressed.

Understanding Depression Symptoms

1. Emotional Symptoms - The most noticeable emotional symptoms of depression often include persistent sadness or irritability, along with a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Individuals may also struggle with unwarranted guilt, feelings of worthlessness, or hopelessness. Additionally, recurring thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm—such as cutting or burning—can emerge, reflecting the deep emotional toll of this condition.

2. Physical Symptoms - Depression often manifests through physical symptoms, impacting overall health. Common signs include persistent tiredness and low energy, difficulty sleeping (such as early morning waking), or oversleeping. Physical complaints like headaches, muscle cramps, digestive issues (e.g., stomachaches, diarrhea, or constipation), and unexplained aches or pains may persist despite targeted treatment. People with depression might also feel or appear slowed down or unusually agitated.

Depression can amplify other medical conditions, particularly those involving chronic pain. Shared brain chemicals influence both mood and pain, making depression treatment key to improving physical symptoms and enhancing outcomes for various illnesses.

3. Appetite Symptoms - A common but often overlooked symptom of depression is changes in appetite, which can lead to significant weight loss or weight gain. While some people with depression lose interest in food and unintentionally drop pounds, others may turn to emotional eating for comfort, resulting in overeating.

Key Points About Depression and Appetite Changes:

Loss of appetite: Low motivation, sadness, or fatigue can make eating feel like a chore.

Increased cravings: Depression may trigger a desire for high-carb or sugary foods for temporary relief.

Unintentional weight fluctuations: Rapid changes in weight without diet or exercise shifts could signal depression.

Since appetite changes can also be linked to other health conditions, it’s important to consult a doctor if these shifts persist. Managing depression with therapy, medication, or lifestyle adjustments can help restore a healthy relationship with food.

Warning Signs of Suicide

Individuals experiencing depression face an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Recognizing key warning signs of suicide is critical for early intervention. These signs may include discussing suicide or death, expressing threats toward others, displaying irritability, engaging in reckless behavior, giving away possessions, or finalizing personal matters. If you notice these suicide warning signs, it’s essential to act quickly and seek immediate assistance. Visit your nearest emergency room or contact a suicide prevention hotline for support. Reliable options include the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255) and 800-SUICIDE (800-784-2433), both available 24/7 to provide help for those in crisis.

Depression Risk Factors: Who Is Most Likely to Develop It?

Depression can affect anyone, but a family history of depression is commonly recognized as a key risk factor for developing this mental health condition. For instance, individuals who are children or siblings of someone with depression have a higher likelihood of experiencing a depressive disorder themselves. Research shows that women are twice as likely as men to encounter depression at some point in their lives, making gender a significant factor. Determining the prevalence of depression can be challenging, as symptoms often differ depending on factors like gender, age, and ethnic background, influencing how the condition manifests and is diagnosed.

How Walking Prevents Low Back Pain: Discover Its Surprising Health Benefits

Looking for a simple way to boost your health? Walking might be your answer. From enhancing heart health and metabolism to reducing stress, this low-impact habit offers a wealth of benefits. Now, new research adds preventing low back pain to the list, making it an even stronger reason to lace up your shoes and step out daily.

Walking Reduces Back Pain: What the Research Says

A study in The Lancet reveals that walking 30 minutes, five times a week—paired with behavioral coaching—slashes back pain recurrence. Participants who walked regularly after a back pain episode stayed pain-free nearly twice as long as non-walkers, took fewer sick days, and visited doctors less often. “Walking is low-impact, safe, and requires no special skills,” says Dr. Cedric Bryant, president of the American Council on Exercise. It’s an accessible way to keep back pain at bay.

Physical Health Benefits of Walking

Walking does wonders for your body. Here’s how it helps:

• Boosts Cardiovascular Health: Improves heart function and aerobic capacity.
• Regulates Blood Pressure: Keeps hypertension in check.
• Controls Blood Sugar: Lowers diabetes risk.
• Speeds Metabolism: Aids weight management and fights osteoarthritis.
• Preserves Mobility: Keeps you moving as you age.

The U.S. Department of Health recommends 150–300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly. A brisk 30-minute walk five days a week hits the minimum, while 45–60 minutes most days is ideal for weight loss. Split it up—say, 30 minutes in the morning and 20 after dinner—or level up with hills or a weighted vest, suggests Bryant.

Mental Health Perks of Walking Outdoors

Walking isn’t just physical—it’s a mental game-changer, especially outdoors. “Nature helps you decompress, refocus, and relax,” says Dr. Mark A. Slabaugh, an orthopedic surgeon at Mercy Medical Center. It’s like meditation with movement. Bryant agrees, touting sunlight, fresh air, and scenery as mood-lifters. Bring a friend for a social boost, or use walks to spark creativity—Bryant swears by it for writing breakthroughs.

How to Build a Walking Habit That Sticks

Ready to make walking your thing? Start small and grow:

• Begin Easy: A five-minute stroll can become 10, then more, says Slabaugh.
• Celebrate Wins: Notice better mood, energy, or food choices to stay motivated.
• Mix It Up: New routes, podcasts, or intervals keep it fresh. Try indoor walks on rainy days!

Walking Workouts to Try

• 30-day walking + resistance band plan
• Indoor walking for bad weather
• 20-minute treadmill intervals
• 10-minute indoor cardio blast

Oklahoma Confirms Measles Cases Linked to Texas and New Mexico Outbreak

 

As the Texas measles outbreak surges, Oklahoma has now confirmed four cases, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health. This escalation ties into a broader regional outbreak that originated in Gaines County, Texas, and has spread to New Mexico and beyond, raising concerns about vaccination rates and public health.

Measles Outbreak Update: 321 Cases Across Three States

The measles outbreak, which began earlier this year in Gaines County, Texas, has reached a total of 321 confirmed cases as of March 18, 2025. Texas reports 279 cases, including 208 children and 52 adults, with 36 hospitalizations. New Mexico has 38 cases—17 children under 17, 20 adults, and one pending age verification—with two hospitalized. Oklahoma’s four cases, all unvaccinated, are directly linked to exposure from the Texas and New Mexico outbreak. The virus has now affected 11 Texas counties and two New Mexico counties.

Vaccination Status and Measles Spread

Most cases involve unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status, underscoring the critical role of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. However, six cases—two in Texas and four in New Mexico—occurred in people with at least one MMR dose, highlighting rare breakthrough infections. Two doses of the MMR vaccine offer 97% protection, making vaccination a key defense against this highly contagious disease.

The outbreak has claimed lives. Last month, Texas reported its first death—a school-aged, unvaccinated child with no underlying conditions. In New Mexico, officials are probing the death of an unvaccinated adult who tested positive for measles. With cases climbing, experts warn of further spread. “This is going to be a large outbreak… I’m really thinking this is going to be a year-long,” said Katherine Wells, Lubbock Public Health Director, in a CNN-reported briefing. She noted the rural, multistate nature complicates containment efforts.

This regional crisis emphasizes the importance of early detection, vaccination, and public health action. Keywords like “Texas measles outbreak,” “Oklahoma measles cases,” and “measles vaccination rates” highlight the urgency of staying informed. As the outbreak grows, health officials urge unvaccinated individuals to get the MMR vaccine to curb this preventable disease.

Breast Cancer Awareness: Key Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options You Should Know

The prognosis for women diagnosed with breast cancer is steadily improving, thanks to heightened awareness, enhanced early detection methods, and cutting-edge treatment advancements. These factors have significantly boosted survival rates. In the United States, October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer. Numerous organizations champion this initiative, offering vital support through early detection programs. Additionally, these groups organize breast cancer fundraisers—such as walks and events—to fuel research efforts and provide financial assistance to patients facing socio-economic challenges.

Breast Cancer Symptoms

Breast cancer can present with or without noticeable symptoms, making regular screening essential. Some women may detect the condition through self-examination, while others may only learn of it after a routine screening reveals an abnormality. When breast cancer symptoms do appear, they often include key indicators that women should watch for to ensure early detection and treatment.

Common signs of breast cancer include non-painful lumps or masses in the breast, which are often the first physical clue. Other symptoms may involve lumps or swelling under the arms, signaling potential lymph node involvement. Nipple-related changes, such as skin alterations, unusual discharge, or a newly inverted nipple, are also critical warning signs. Additionally, women might notice a flattening or indentation of the breast, shifts in the size, shape, or texture of breast tissue, or other subtle yet significant changes.

Types of Breast Cancer

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare yet aggressive form of breast cancer that doesn’t typically present as a lump. Instead, it often leads to noticeable changes in the breast, such as thickening and pitting of the skin—resembling an orange peel texture. Other symptoms include a larger, firmer, tender, or itchy breast, along with skin redness or a rash. These signs occur when cancer cells block lymph vessels in the skin, causing inflammation. Known for its rapid growth, inflammatory breast cancer requires prompt medical attention for effective management.

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The Most Common Breast Cancer

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), also known as infiltrating ductal carcinoma, accounts for approximately 80% of all breast cancer cases, making it the most prevalent type. IDC begins in the milk ducts but breaks through their walls, invading surrounding breast tissue. This aggressive cancer can metastasize to the lymph nodes and potentially other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment are critical for improving outcomes in invasive ductal carcinoma cases.

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS): A Non-Invasive Breast Cancer

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive or pre-invasive breast cancer confined to the milk ducts. The term "ductal" indicates its origin in the milk ducts, "carcinoma" refers to cancers starting in skin or tissue lining internal organs, and "in situ" means it remains in its original location. Unlike invasive cancers, DCIS hasn’t spread beyond the duct walls into surrounding breast tissue. Often considered a pre-cancer, DCIS may progress to invasive cancer in some instances, making regular monitoring essential.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): The Second Most Common Breast Cancer

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), or infiltrating lobular carcinoma, ranks as the second most common breast cancer type after IDC. Originating in the milk-producing lobules—which connect to the ducts leading to the nipple—ILC breaks through the lobule walls and invades breast tissue. This cancer can spread to lymph nodes and other areas of the body. Understanding ILC’s behavior aids in tailoring effective treatment plans for those diagnosed.

Mucinous Carcinoma: A Rare Type of Invasive Breast Cancer

Mucinous carcinoma, also called colloid carcinoma, is an uncommon subtype of invasive ductal carcinoma. Characterized by cancer cells surrounded by mucin—a component of mucus, the slippery substance lining organs like the digestive tract and lungs—mucinous carcinoma stands out due to its unique composition. "Pure" mucinous carcinomas account for just 2-3% of invasive breast cancers, while about 5% of cases feature a mix of mucinous and other breast cancer cell types. Its rarity makes specialized diagnosis and treatment vital.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Understanding Treatment Challenges

Triple-negative breast cancer is defined by testing negative for estrogen receptors (ER-), progesterone receptors (PR-), and HER2 (HER2-). This means the cancer’s growth isn’t driven by estrogen, progesterone, or excessive HER2 receptors. As a result, it doesn’t respond to hormonal therapies (e.g., tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors) or HER2-targeted treatments like Herceptin. However, alternative medications and therapies offer hope for managing triple-negative breast cancer effectively.

Paget’s Disease of the Nipple: A Rare Breast Cancer Form

Paget’s disease of the nipple is an uncommon breast cancer where cancer cells accumulate in or around the nipple. Typically starting in the nipple’s ducts, it spreads to the nipple surface and areola, causing symptoms like a scaly, red, itchy, or irritated appearance. One theory suggests cancer cells originate in the breast’s milk ducts and migrate to the nipple, while another posits the nipple cells themselves become cancerous. Early recognition of Paget’s disease symptoms can lead to timely intervention.

Causes of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer develops when gene damage disrupts the normal life cycle of cells—growth, division, function, and death—leading to uncontrolled cell growth due to changes in DNA structure. Understanding the causes of breast cancer is key to prevention and early detection.

Genetic Causes of Breast Cancer: BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations

Inherited gene mutations, such as those in BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly raise breast cancer risk. These mutations impair DNA repair, increasing the likelihood of breast and ovarian cancers. Passed down through generations, these genetic alterations create a hereditary predisposition to breast cancer.

Lifestyle Factors That Increase Breast Cancer Risk

Lifestyle choices play a critical role in breast cancer development. Poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and exposure to toxins or chemicals are all linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Adopting healthier habits can help reduce this risk.

Medical Treatments Linked to Breast Cancer

Certain medical treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunosuppressive drugs used to manage cancer, can damage healthy cells, potentially leading to "second cancers" unrelated to the original disease. Additionally, chest radiation therapy for other conditions heightens the risk of developing breast cancer later in life.

Mammograms and Breast Cancer Prevention

Early detection of breast cancer is the key to survival. Mammograms are X-rays of the breast that can detect tumors at a very early stage, before they would be felt or noticed otherwise. During a mammogram, your breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue. Then an X-ray captures black-and-white images of your breasts that are displayed on a computer screen and examined by a doctor who looks for signs of cancer. 3D mammograms, or breast tomosynthesis, is a breast imaging procedure that also uses X-rays to produce images of breast tissue in order to detect abnormalities.

Breast Cancer Prevention: Breast MRI and Ultrasound

Breast MRI: Advanced Imaging for Cancer Detection

Breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed 3D images of breast tissue. For enhanced clarity, a contrast dye may be injected via an IV line before the scan, highlighting potential cancerous areas where the dye concentrates. During the procedure, you’ll lie face down on a padded table with cushioned openings for your breasts, surrounded by a breast coil that aids in imaging. This painless test, lasting 30-45 minutes, is a key tool for spotting abnormalities in breast tissue.

Breast Ultrasound: A Complementary Screening Option

A breast ultrasound is often paired with a mammogram to evaluate suspicious areas or screen women at higher risk for breast cancer. Using sound waves, it can distinguish fluid-filled cysts (typically non-cancerous) from solid masses. The process involves applying a water-soluble gel to the skin and gliding a probe over the area while you may briefly hold your breath. Quick and simple, a breast ultrasound takes about 10 minutes.

Experts suggest that women focus on staying familiar with their breasts and spotting any changes, rather than sticking to a strict self-exam schedule. If you opt for breast self-exams, consult your doctor to ensure you’re using the right technique.

What Is a Breast Self-Exam?

A breast self-exam involves checking your breasts for abnormalities like lumps or thickening. Detecting breast cancer early can boost survival rates significantly. If you notice anything unusual during your self-exam, promptly report it to your doctor for further evaluation.

Breast Cancer Survival Rates

Understanding breast cancer survival rates can offer valuable insight into prognosis and treatment success. Survival rates vary based on factors like cancer stage, type, and individual health, making early detection and personalized care critical.

Survival Rates by Stage

Breast cancer survival rates are often measured as five-year relative survival rates. For localized breast cancer (confined to the breast), the five-year survival rate is around 99%. Regional cancer (spread to nearby lymph nodes) has a survival rate of about 86%, while distant cancer (metastasized to other organs) drops to approximately 30%. These statistics highlight the importance of catching breast cancer early.

Factors Influencing Breast Cancer Survival

Survival rates depend on more than just stage. Invasive types like ductal carcinoma (IDC) or lobular carcinoma (ILC), hormone receptor status (e.g., triple-negative), and access to advanced treatments all play a role. Lifestyle factors and overall health can also impact outcomes.

Improving Your Odds

Early detection through awareness, screening, and prompt reporting of changes—such as lumps or skin alterations—can significantly boost survival chances. Advances in therapies, like targeted drugs and immunotherapy, continue to improve breast cancer survival rates across all stages.