Exploring Human Optimism through Behavioral Tasks

How does the brain cultivate optimism, and can psychedelics help people trapped in cycles of depression? In this episode, we’re joined by Beth Fisher, PhD student at M3CS and co-host of Minds Matter. We explore her groundbreaking research using computational models to study how psilocybin influences belief updating and decision-making. Her recent study reveals how psilocybin increases optimistic engagement in rats by reducing loss aversion and modifying memory dynamics. Together, we discuss what this means for treating depression, understanding optimism bias, and unlocking new therapeutic possibilities through psychedelics and cognitive modeling.