Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Brain Sciences Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Anxiety, Depression and Stress

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Brain Sciences (ISSN 2076-3425). This special issue belongs to the section "Cognitive, Social and Affective Neuroscience".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 18 January 2026 | Viewed by 7848

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Sung Joon Cho

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. Department of Psychiatry, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Republic of Korea
2. Workplace Mental Health Institute, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Seoul 03181, Republic of Korea
Interests: mood disorder; anxiety disorder; schizophrenia; stress; social and community psychiatry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Anxiety, depression, and stress have emerged as some of the most urgent mental health challenges of our time. These conditions are deeply embedded in the fabric of modern society, driven by chronic work demands, shifting social dynamics, and global uncertainties. They disrupt daily functioning, lower the quality of life, and impose significant burdens not only on individuals but also on families and healthcare systems.

Contemporary biomedical models conceptualize depression and anxiety as neural network disorders involving widespread brain changes. Current guidelines emphasize a biopsychosocial approach, integrating biological, psychological, and social factors. Alongside treatments such as NMDA modulators, brain stimulation, and anti-inflammatory agents, growing evidence supports third-wave CBT, VR therapy, EMDR, online CBT, and social support as effective psychosocial interventions.

This Special Issue aims to explore a wide range of high-quality research related to the causes, treatment, and prevention of anxiety, depression, and stress. We welcome submissions covering clinical interventions, neurobiological mechanisms, psychosocial factors, innovative therapies, and policy strategies. Original research articles, systematic reviews, and novel methodological approaches are all encouraged.

Through this collaborative effort, we hope to deepen the scientific understanding and contribute to the development of more effective responses to these pervasive mental health issues. Your valuable contributions will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of research and clinical practice in this important field.

Dr. Sung Joon Cho
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Brain Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

anxiety
depression
stress
NMDA modulators
brain stimulation
anti-inflammatory agents
psychosocial interventions

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (7 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

14 pages, 572 KB

Open AccessArticle

Resilience as a Mediator Between Childhood Trauma and Adult Psychopathology: The Moderating Role of Harm Avoidance in Korean Adults

by Eun Soo Kim, Young Chul Shin, Yun Tae Kim, Kang-Seob Oh, Sang-Won Jeon, Dong-Won Shin and Junhyung Kim

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1308; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15121308 - 4 Dec 2025

Viewed by 211

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Childhood trauma is a well-established risk factor for adult psychopathology, yet the underlying neuropsychiatric mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, this study examined whether resilience mediates the relationship between childhood trauma and depressive and anxiety symptoms, and whether this pathway is moderated by harm avoidance (HA). Methods: A total of 218 Korean adults (aged 19–50 years; 79 men and 139 women) completed validated measures of childhood trauma (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ)-Short Form), harm avoidance (Temperament and Character Inventory–Harm Avoidance subscale), resilience (Brief Resilience Scale), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7). Mediation and moderated mediation models were tested using structural equation modeling, and indirect effects were estimated via bootstrapping with 5000 resamples. Results: Childhood trauma was associated with lower resilience, an effect moderated by HA. Resilience was strongly inversely associated with depression and anxiety. Indirect effects of trauma through resilience were significant for both outcomes, with stronger effects at higher HA. Conclusions: The associations between childhood trauma and both depression and anxiety were mediated by resilience, and this indirect pathway was amplified by HA. These findings suggest a neuropsychiatric mechanism whereby early-life stress and temperament jointly shape effective neural vulnerability, leading to depression- and anxiety-associated outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anxiety, Depression and Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 4766 KB

Open AccessArticle

Negr1 Deficiency Modulates Sex-Specific Neurobehavioral Adaptations to Social Isolation

by Arpana Reinsberg, Katyayani Singh, Mohan Jayaram, Kaie Mikheim, Mari-Anne Philips and Eero Vasar

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1286; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15121286 - 29 Nov 2025

Viewed by 353

Abstract

Objective: Neuronal growth regulator 1 (Negr1) is a GPI-anchored neuronal cell adhesion molecule of the IgLON superfamily associated with multiple psychiatric disorders. This study aimed to investigate behavioral and molecular adaptations to social isolation (SI) stress in Negr1-deficient (Negr1^−/−) mice. Methods: Male and female Negr1^−/− and wild-type (Wt) mice (n = 10 per group) were exposed to two weeks of SI or group housing (Ctl). Behavioral assays assessed exploratory and anxiety-like behavior. Gene expression analyses in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were performed using RT-qPCR, focusing on GABAergic, neurotrophic, and IgLON family genes. Results: SI-induced weight loss in Negr1^−/− mice compared to Wt was evident in both sexes but more pronounced in males. Behaviorally, SI Wt males showed stress-induced hyperactivity compared to Ctl Wt, whereas SI Negr1^−/− males exhibited blunted exploratory behavior relative to SI Wt in the open field test (OFT). Negr1^−/− females showed reduced exploration in the elevated plus maze (EPM), suggesting increased anxiety. Hippocampal Pvalb was downregulated in SI Negr1^−/− mice of both sexes compared to Wts, with a stronger decrease in males, indicating heightened male vulnerability in GABAergic interneuron function. In males, SI reduced hippocampal Bdnf in both genotypes, whereas Ntrk2 (TrkB) upregulation occurred only in Negr1^−/− mice, suggesting a genotype-specific compensatory response. Hippocampal expression of Fgfr2 and IgLON members (Ntm1a/1b, Lsamp1a/1b) was increased in SI Negr1^−/− males compared to SI Wt, with minimal changes in females. Conclusions: Negr1 deficiency leads to sex-specific behavioral and molecular adaptations to social isolation stress, highlighting the role of Negr1 in modulating neurotrophic and GABAergic signaling pathways under adverse environmental conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anxiety, Depression and Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 403 KB

Open AccessArticle

Life Stressors and Depressive Symptoms: The Moderating Roles of Alcohol Consumption and Age

by Jiwan Moon, Sang-Won Jeon, Yoosuk An and Sung Joon Cho

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1126; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15101126 - 21 Oct 2025

Viewed by 516

Abstract

Background: Mental health issues among employees are a growing concern globally, particularly in high-stress environments such as Korean workplaces. This study was conducted to analyze the relationships between life stressors and depressive symptoms among Korean employees, focusing on the moderating effects of alcohol consumption and age. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 8432 Korean employees. The participants completed assessments for depressive symptoms, alcohol consumption, and seven major life stressors (workplace stress, family relationships, interpersonal conflicts, health problems, financial strain, traumatic events, and mannerisms). Moderation analyses were performed using Hayes’ PROCESS macro. Results: The severity of depressive symptoms significantly increased with higher levels of alcohol consumptions. The findings indicated that age moderated the relationship between interpersonal conflict stress and depressive symptoms, suggesting that the association between interpersonal stress and depression was weaker among older individuals. Conversely, alcohol consumption moderated the relationship between traumatic event stress and depressive symptoms, suggesting that higher alcohol use intensifies the impact of traumatic stress on depression. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the complex interactions between life stressors, alcohol consumption, and depressive symptoms in Korean employees. The findings highlight the need for age-specific mental health interventions and early intervention for excessive alcohol consumption, especially for individuals experiencing traumatic events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anxiety, Depression and Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2694 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Correlation Between Depression-like Behaviors and Lipid Peroxidation in the Prefrontal Cortex of Mice: The Impact of Early Life Stress

by Xue Mi, Zi-Ling Ye, Xu-Jun Zhang, Xiao-Man Dai and Zhou-Song Luo

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1112; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15101112 - 15 Oct 2025

Viewed by 802

Abstract

Objectives: This study attempted to investigate whether early life stress (ELS) induces lipid peroxidation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of mice and its correlation with depression-like behavioral changes. Methods: A mouse ELS model was established via maternal separation. Depressive and anxiety-like behaviors were assessed using the forced swim test, sucrose preference test, tail suspension test, and open field test. The expression levels of GPX4, SLC3A2, SLC7A11, TFR1, and lipid peroxidation markers in the PFC of mice were measured and correlated with depression-like behavioral changes. Results: ELS induced depressive and anxiety-like behaviors in mice. The mRNA and protein expressions of GPX4, SLC3A2, and SLC7A11 were downregulated in the PFC of ELS mice; the mRNA level of TFR1 was upregulated but its protein level remained unchanged. In the PFC of ELS mice, the product of lipid peroxidation, malondialdehyde, was significantly increased, while the antioxidants, glutathione and superoxide dismutase, were significantly decreased. These markers were significantly correlated with sucrose preference or immobility time of the ELS mice. Conclusions: The study evidences that early life stress can induce lipid peroxidation in the PFC of mice and that the latter is closely associated with depression-like behaviors, hinting that ELS may induce depression via lipid peroxidation in the PFC. These findings may suggest a potential strategy for the treatment of early-stage stress-related depression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anxiety, Depression and Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 768 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Efficacy and Central Remodeling Mechanism of a Composite TMS Pattern in First-Episode and Recurrent Depressive Disorders

by Li Pu, Jiang Wu, Shan Huang, Dandan Liu, Xi Tan, Hongmei Yan, Guojian Yan and Dezhong Yao

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(8), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15080801 - 28 Jul 2025

Viewed by 1179

Abstract

Background: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a combined transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocol incorporating intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) and low-frequency TMS in adults diagnosed with first-episode and recurrent depressive disorders. Methods: A prospective, double-blind, parallel-group trial was conducted involving 42 participants (21 with first-episode depressive disorder and 21 with recurrent depressive disorder) recruited from Chengdu, China. All subjects received 10 sessions of TMS over two weeks. The primary outcome measure was suicidal ideation, assessed using the Beck scale for suicide ideation. Secondary outcomes included sleep quality, depressive symptoms, anhedonia, and cognitive function. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were also recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS V.21.0, with statistical significance defined as p < 0.05. Results: Both patient groups exhibited significant reductions in suicidal ideation following the composite TMS intervention. Secondary outcomes showed significant improvements in sleep quality, overall depressive symptoms, anhedonia, and cognitive function. Notably, a significant association was found between improvements in sleep quality and depressive symptoms in the first-episode group, suggesting differential underlying mechanisms compared to recurrent depression. Limitations: The relatively short intervention and follow-up period limits the ability to assess the long-term sustainability of the observed benefits. Future studies with extended follow-up periods are warranted to evaluate the persistence of TMS effects and the potential need for maintenance sessions. Conclusions: The combined protocol of iTBS and low-frequency TMS effectively reduces suicidal ideation and improves various clinical outcomes in both first-episode and recurrent depressive disorders, indicating the effectiveness of the physical intervention, especially for the first-episode patients. These findings underscore the importance of personalized treatment strategies based on the clinical history of depressive episodes. Further research with longer follow-up periods is warranted to assess the long-term sustainability of TMS effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anxiety, Depression and Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Delving into the Perception, Use, and Context of Duloxetine in Clinical Practice: An Analysis Based on the Experience of Healthcare Professionals

by Oscar Fraile-Martinez, Cielo Garcia-Montero, Miguel Angel Alvarez-Mon, Miguel A. Ortega, Melchor Alvarez-Mon and Javier Quintero

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(7), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15070757 - 17 Jul 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2792

Abstract

Background and objectives: Duloxetine is widely used for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and various types of neuropathic pain. While its efficacy is well documented in clinical trials, less is known about how it is perceived and utilized in routine psychiatric practice. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a cross-sectional observational study involving 80 psychiatrists from Spain to assess real-world clinical attitudes toward duloxetine. Methods: Participants completed a 20-item multiple-choice questionnaire that examined familiarity, perceived efficacy in multiple conditions (MDD, GAD, neuropathic pain, somatization, and quality of life), and perspectives on tolerability, safety, adherence, and overall satisfaction. Results: Survey results indicated that a large majority of psychiatrists frequently prescribe duloxetine, particularly for patients with MDD and comorbid chronic pain. Notably, 94% rated it as either “more effective” or “much more effective” for diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. Psychiatrists reported a high perceived efficacy of duloxetine: 94% rated it as “more effective” or “much more effective” for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and 93% gave similarly positive ratings for general neuropathic pain. For somatization, 70% found it “effective” or “very effective”, and 83% observed improvements in quality of life for many of their patients. Psychiatrists generally reported favorable perceptions of duloxetine’s tolerability profile: 97.5% rated it as the antidepressant associated with the least weight gain, and 82.5% perceived fewer sexual side effects compared to other options. Sedation and gastrointestinal side effects were generally considered mild or less severe. In terms of treatment adherence, 69% rated it as “better” or “much better” than other antidepressants, and 80% found its combination with other antidepressants to be “favorable” or “very favorable”. Overall satisfaction was high, with 99% of psychiatrists reporting being either “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with its use. The side effect profile was generally viewed as manageable, with low perceived rates of weight gain, sedation, and sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, 96% of respondents expressed a willingness to recommend duloxetine to their colleagues. Conclusions: Psychiatrists reported highly favorable attitudes toward duloxetine, viewing it as a flexible treatment option in routine care. However, these findings reflect clinicians’ subjective perceptions rather than objective clinical outcomes and should be interpreted accordingly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anxiety, Depression and Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

11 pages, 257 KB

Open AccessReview

Gamma and Psychological Resilience: Where to Now?

by Damian L. Rocks, Christopher F. Sharpley, Vicki Bitsika, Kirstan A. Vessey, G. Lorenzo Odierna and Christopher B. Watson

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(9), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15090957 - 2 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1384

Abstract

Because of their potential to enhance pathways for diagnosis and treatment, a great deal of research has been conducted to identify brain biomarkers of mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. Similarly, the investigation of the biomarkers of those protective factors that help individuals resist, or recover from, these mental illnesses is also directly relevant to clinical practice. One such protective factor is Psychological Resilience (PR) but relatively little is known about its neurobiological underpinnings. A literature search was conducted of electroencephalographic data and PR, revealing seven studies that reported brain electrical activity categorised into bands of specified frequencies. Several studies reported significant associations between PR and alpha band activity, and somewhat less on beta band activity, principally via their roles in emotion regulation and problem solving. However, despite having a major role in many aspects of cognition and brain function, and being implicated in depression, only two studies examined gamma band activity specifically, and their results were equivocal. Several possible reasons for these apparently null results of the association between gamma band activity and PR are discussed, leading to a brief description of gamma, and suggestions for future research into its association with PR. Full article

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Anxiety, Depression and Stress

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI