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Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

The Conversation

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Why does chronic pain often lead to depression? Our research shows the answer is in the brain

Why does chronic pain often lead to depression? Our research shows the answer is in the brain

Depression affects an estimated 40% of adults with chronic pain.

friday 10

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Menopause: our study revealed how it affects the brain, cognition and mental health

We also investigated whether taking HRT post-menopause had any impact on these health outcomes.

10.02.2026 7

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Huntington’s disease: treatments are finally on the horizon after research breakthroughs

Sadly, there is no cure for Huntington’s disease. But a couple new research papers suggests this may be about to change.

14.01.2026 10

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Eight seconds and dropping? How to make the most of short attention spans

If the content is interesting, motivation can improve sustained attention.

02.09.2025 10

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Anxiety is the most common mental health problem – here’s how tech could help manage it

Devices that deliver mild, constant electrical current can alter our brain activity.

11.06.2025 9

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Forget chatbots: research suggests reading can help combat loneliness and boost the brain

People who read report a deeper understanding of others’ experiences and beliefs.

14.05.2025 9

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Why neglecting your brain health can make it harder to achieve physical goals

If our brain health isn’t optimal, it’s hard to achieve physical fitness challenges.

27.01.2025 10

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian

Loneliness and social isolation are linked to specific proteins – new research

Human beings are inherently social. We thrive on connection, communication and shared experiences, which help shape our identities and foster a...

06.01.2025 10

The Conversation

Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian