Study links brain circuit changes with anxiety in young people

• 

  Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital found an association between anxiety in young people and changes in a brain circuit involving the cerebellum, amygdala and thalamus.

• 

  The study examined nearly 3,500 young people from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study.

• 

  Altered organization and weaker connections in the circuit were associated with higher anxiety and a greater likelihood of related disorders.

• 

  The researchers also found that efficient and resilient networks elsewhere in the brain were associated with protection against social and/or generalized anxiety disorders.

• 

  Anxiety-related brain differences were measurable at ages 11–12 and were associated with lower ability to process spatial information.

• 

  The researchers said the findings could help guide precision interventions, while emphasizing the importance of early support.

Who

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital, led by Caterina Stamoulis

What

A study found associations between anxiety in young people and alterations in brain structures and circuits

When

Published October 10, 2026; brain alterations were measurable at ages 11–12

Where

United States

Why

To better understand links between brain development and anxiety, and identify potential targets for precision interventions

This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.

This story does not have a timeline yet.