In this book, Bruce Hood demonstrates that the key to happiness is not self-care but connection. Grounded in decades of studies in neuroscience and developmental psychology, the book presents seven lessons to break negative thought patterns and re-connect with what truly matters. These lessons include altering your ego, avoiding isolation, rejecting negative comparisons, becoming more optimistic, controlling your attention, connecting with others, and getting out of your own head. The book offers practical takeaways to re-wire thinking and transform lives by focusing on connection and presence rather than egocentric perspectives and comparisons.
This book, written by three experts in trauma and resilience, answers key questions about adapting to life's most challenging situations, building personal resilience, and the science behind resilience. It combines cutting-edge scientific research with personal experiences of individuals who have survived traumatic events, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors describe ten key resilience factors such as facing fear, optimism, and relying on role models, providing practical tips and inspiring stories to help readers adapt and grow from stressful life events.
Professor Brendan Kelly is a leading psychiatrist, author, and researcher. He is a Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin and Consultant Psychiatrist at Tallaght University Hospital. He has authored over 20 books, including, The Science of Happiness, The Modern Psychiatrist's Guide to Contemporary Practice and Resilience: Lessons from Sir William Wilde on Life After Covid.
Among other things, in this episode we explore the complex relationship between happiness, society, and mental health. We discuss the different kinds of happiness and the common pitfalls people encounter when chasing it and the balance between individual responsibility and societal influence in shaping mental health. Brendan also shares insights from his background in Buddhism, including the belief that there is no fixed ‘self’ and how this perspective can lead to a more mentally balanced life.
You can access Brendan's book The Modern Psychiatrist’s Guide to Contemporary Practice for free here:
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/oa-mono/10.4324/9781003378495/modern-psychiatrist-guide-contemporary-practice-brendan-kelly
Interviewed by Dr. Alex Curmi. Dr. Alex is a consultant psychiatrist and a UKCP registered psychotherapist in-training.
If you would like to invite Alex to speak at your organisation please email alexcurmitherapy@gmail.com with "Speaking Enquiry" in the subject line.
Alex is not currently taking on new psychotherapy clients, if you are interested in working with Alex for focused behaviour change coaching , you can email - alexcurmitherapy@gmail.com with "Coaching" in the subject line.
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The Thinking Mind Podcast: Psychiatry & Psychotherapy 
