New Mater research no fish out of water
- Release Date: 14/09/2009
- Media Contact: Miranda Hunt 0410 417 790
A new trial underway at Mater’s Kids in Mind Research will examine whether the effects of fish oil can treat aggressive behaviour in young people.
Research Investigator Dr Angela Dean said there was increasing concern about behavioural problems, such as aggression, in children and adolescents.
“Aggression is one of the most common reasons that young people present to the Mater Child and Youth Mental Health Service (CYMHS),” she said.
“Problem behaviours may include verbal abuse and physical attacks on friends and family members.”
Dr Dean said preliminary research suggested that fish oil may have a role in treating aggression. However, no studies have previously specifically tested whether it is useful for aggression in young people.
“Fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, is sometimes promoted as a treatment for behaviour problems such as ADHD, and many families report using fish oil as a treatment for their child’s aggression,” she said.
Kids in Mind Research are currently looking for young people to participate in this trial.
For more information about the research phone 07 3163 1823 or email kareen.adam@mater.org.au or angela.dean@mater.org.au.
For media enquiries, please contact Mater Public Affairs:
Raegen Purse, Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ph: 07 3163 3495