A groundbreaking new study accepted for publication in Depression and Anxiety reveals that individuals with high levels of conscious negativity bias—where the mind fixates on potential dangers or worst-case scenarios—show significant dysfunction in brain regions tied to emotional regulation and cognitive control.

Researchers analyzed brain scans and cognitive data from 1,984 patients with anxiety disorders, using advanced SPECT imaging and the Total Brain assessment platform. The findings were striking: higher negativity bias was associated with decreased activity in the frontal and temporal lobes, the insula, and parietal regions—all areas involved in focus, decision-making, and emotional stability. In contrast, increased activity was observed in specific cerebellar lobules, linked to motor tension and emotional overactivation.

Patients with elevated negativity bias also reported significantly higher levels of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, emotional instability, and poor memory and stress regulation.

The study underscores the importance of addressing negativity bias in therapy—not just for emotional relief but also for improving brain health and cognitive performance. Researchers recommend positivity bias training, including simple daily practices like:

• Starting the day by saying: “Today is going to be a great day,”
• Actively looking for the micro-moments of happiness during the day,
• And ending each day by reflecting on: “What went well today?”