KERA's Think A scientific guide to a better brain
Mar 6, 2025
Camilla Nord leads the Mental Health Neuroscience Lab at the University of Cambridge, while Romy Mushtaq is a physician and author focused on chronic stress management. Daniel Levitin, a neuroscientist and musician, explores music's healing effects. They dive into the relationship between mental health and chronic stress, the importance of dopamine beyond pleasure, and how to restore circadian rhythms. They also discuss the concept of a 'busy brain' and share insights on how music therapy can enhance emotional and cognitive well-being.
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Mood vs. Emotion
- Emotions are fleeting responses to specific events.
- Moods are underlying, persistent states that color our emotional experience.
Defining Good Mental Health
- Good mental health is not about avoiding negative emotions.
- It's about effectively responding to life's challenges, both mental and physical.
Inflammation and Mood
- People often experience low mood when they have a cold.
- Vaccines, which temporarily increase inflammation, can also worsen mood.
