Vivianne Maloney Counselling & Psychotherapy

30/08/2025

A fascinating new study suggests that intelligence may play a role in shaping political views. Researchers have found a strong correlation between higher intelligence and left wing beliefs, with evidence pointing to a possible genetic influence. This discovery is sparking major discussions about how biology, environment, and cognition intersect to form the way people see the world.

For decades, scientists have debated whether political orientation is driven purely by upbringing and social environment or if there is a deeper biological factor. This research indicates that intelligence not only influences how people process information but may also predispose them to favour more progressive values, such as equality, social welfare, and openness to change.

Genetics appear to contribute as well, suggesting that intelligence and political leanings can both be influenced by inherited traits. However, researchers emphasise that intelligence is not the sole factor in political identity. Culture, education, and life experience remain powerful forces that shape beliefs.

What makes this finding groundbreaking is the possibility that ideology is not only a matter of choice but may be partially rooted in our biology. This challenges the idea that politics is formed only by environment and highlights how human behaviour is more complex than once thought.

28/08/2025

An important study for those experiencing M.E.

For years, many people suffering from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) were told their illness was “all in their head.” Now, the largest genetic study to date has confirmed that ME/CFS is a real biological condition. Researchers identified eight DNA regions linked to immune system problems and nervous system dysfunction.
The study, involving tens of thousands of participants, found consistent genetic markers in people diagnosed with ME/CFS. These markers affect how the body responds to infections, stress, and inflammation, explaining why patients experience extreme fatigue, brain fog, and post-exertional crashes even after mild activity.
This discovery is a major step forward in understanding the disease. It validates the experiences of millions of patients who have struggled to get proper diagnosis and care. It also opens the door to new treatments targeting the biological mechanisms behind the illness.
Doctors and scientists hope that this research will lead to better diagnostics, support, and therapies. Most importantly, it challenges the stigma surrounding ME/CFS, showing that it’s not psychological—it’s physiological.

26/08/2025

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26/08/2025

Scientists find viral proteins in the blood of patients with long COVID.

A new study has found fragments of the COVID-19 virus lingering in the blood of people suffering from long COVID – months after their initial infection. These tiny protein remnants, often called “ghost proteins,” may represent the first measurable biomarker for a condition that has remained difficult to diagnose.

The research, published in the journal Infection, was led by scientists at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and the Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. By analyzing blood samples from long COVID patients, the team found 65 unique viral protein fragments hidden inside microscopic particles known as extracellular vesicles (EVs). These are small packages cells use to move materials like proteins and metabolites around the body.

Crucially, the viral proteins came from a molecule called Pp1ab, which the virus uses to replicate itself. Because this protein doesn’t exist in healthy human cells, its presence could indicate that parts of the virus remain in the body – even after recovery from the initial infection.

Why is this important?

Many scientists suspect long COVID symptoms – including fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath – may be caused by hidden viral reservoirs that persist in the body. These findings support that theory, suggesting that the body could still be processing viral debris weeks or even months after the infection ends.

Interestingly, the viral fragments weren’t found in every blood draw, which raises questions about whether this activity is ongoing or sporadic – and whether triggers like physical exertion may influence it.

If confirmed, this discovery could lead to the first reliable blood test for long COVID, offering hope for more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments.

Read the study:
Abbasi, Asghar et al. "Possible long COVID biomarker: identification of SARC-CoV-2 related protein(s) in Serum Extracellular Vesicles." Infection, 21 July 2025.

20/08/2025

Date for the Diary.......
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20/08/2025

Aware's Autumn courses are now open for registration

https://www.aware.ie/programmes/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwMSldtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHh2rVTXTB9Ae6w9yqEvKLwXccpcG_dKoZdlb1bFiylottw2HoPw82wnT_jGK_aem_nKglrMgQ5NyZQPXoYawEQA

We are passionate about empowering people with the knowledge and skills to look after their mental health and build resilience. We offer a range of adult, school and workplace programmes, please click below to find out more. All public programmes are free of charge.

20/08/2025

Registration for September programmes opens on Sept. 1st.

06/08/2025

Registration now open

10/06/2025

There are only 4 places left on our FREE online Supporters Programme starting this Thursday. If you are supporting a loved one struggling with their mental health, this programme is for YOU. Click here to guarantee your place today https://ow.ly/pvjl50W3ilU

16/05/2025

15/05/2025

10/05/2025

Save the date for this Benefit Dance for a great cause. Hoping everyone will come out and support. It is sure to be a great night with some fabulous entertainment, raffle and great spot prizes. Tickets will be on sale soon.