New study aims to improve understanding of brain activity in anxiety disorders

Sep 19, 2003

Researchers at the University of Wollongong are hoping that a new study they are poised to begin will eventually lead to improved understanding and treatment of psychological problems such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Panic Disorder, which are experienced by many thousands of Australians.

People with panic disorder experience sudden, intense periods of anxiety accompanied by physical symptoms such as a pounding heart or shortness of breath. They often fear that they are dying, or going crazy, and may develop a fear of leaving their home.

People with obsessive-compulsive disorder are typically bothered by intrusive and unwanted thoughts (obsessions), and may feel compelled to perform repetitive rituals (compulsions). Common themes of obsessions are fear of contamination from germs, intrusive sexual thoughts, or fear of harming others. Common compulsions include washing or checking excessively.

Their research will be focused on discovering how patterns of brain activity differ between people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, those with Panic Disorder and people without a psychological disorder when they are thinking about emotional information.

The research is being conducted as part of a PhD by Sue Thomas under the supervision of Dr Stuart Johnstone and Associate Professor Craig Gonsalvez of the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences.

"We will be using technology that measures brain electrical activity in exciting new ways to help understand what is going on in these psychological problems," according to Ms Thomas.

Ms Thomas and her co-researchers are now calling for volunteers to help in the study. People required are:

* Adults (18 years plus)

* Male or female

* With a diagnosis of either Panic Disorder or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder from a doctor or health professional

* Not having another serious current psychological condition (for example, major depression, drug or alcohol dependence)

Participants will usually come on two occasions to the University of Wollongong. On the first visit, they will be interviewed by a psychologist, and be given some questionnaires about their psychological symptoms.

On the second visit, brain activity, heart rate, and skin conductance (changes in perspiration levels on the fingers) will be measured while participants are looking at different types of words on a computer screen and performing simple tasks.

Brain electrical activity will be measured from a cap, which sits on the head and is fitted with a number of electrodes that record minute electrical changes as they occur within the brain.

Ms Thomas said the procedure was non-invasive and should involve no discomfort.

Participants will be paid travel expenses.

Anyone wishing to participate in the study should contact: 4221 3660.

Media wishing to obtain further information or arrange interviews should contact: 4221 3660.

Please note: Graphics showing people wearing caps that measure brain electrical activity similar to the ones to be used in the study can be forwarded upon request by Ms Thomas. The caps are fitted with a number of electrodes that record minute electrical changes as they occur within the brain. Photos can be taken of the laboratory equipment in action.

For more information, contact:

media@uow.edu.au
University of Wollongong
Ph: (02) 4221 5942; fax (02) 4221 3128