The brains of teens with mental illness are “wired” differently

Adolescence can be a difficult period of development in a young person’s life. A recent study shows that teens with mental health issues are “hooked up” differently than other teens. Neuroscientists at the University of Alberta (Canada) have discovered that the structure of the brain differs between adolescents with mental health problems and those with “good” mental health. The article is published in the journal Brain Imaging and Behavior.

The research, led by Anthony Singhal, professor and director of the department of psychology at the University of Alberta, looked at adolescents aged 14 to 17 who had a history of mental health problems, including depression, l and attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD).

Difference in the white matter of the brain

The adolescents in this study underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams. Teenagers with no pain mental illness also underwent these examinations, in order to compare them.

The scans examined the white matter in their brains. The results showed clear differences in neural connective pathways, depending on cognitive control, between healthy adolescents and those with mental health problems.

“We found that the pathways were less structurally efficient in patients than in healthy controls,” says Anthony Singhal. In addition, these observations were correlated with the results of the attention control tests. In other words, lower neural efficiency in key pathways has been associated with a reduced overall tendency to focus attention. “

The study is one of the first to show these results in adolescents, adding to previous research with adult participants. “We cannot properly speak of differences between the brains of people, insists Anthony Singhal. It’s not as simple, but you have to start somewhere, and it’s a good place to start. “

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