Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman
Ep101 "Why do people walk away from bad events with different outcomes?"
Apr 21, 2025
Dr. Jonathan Downar, a psychiatrist and neuroscientist specializing in magnetic stimulation, joins David Eagleman to delve into the fascinating world of resilience. They explore how the brain processes adversity and whether resilience is innate or developed. The conversation uncovers the importance of the salience network and discusses revolutionary techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in enhancing mental health. Listeners will learn about the interplay between personal experiences and mental strength, with insights on fostering resilience through social connections.
59:55
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Quick takeaways
- Resilience varies among individuals, influenced by neurobiological mechanisms that differ in brain structure and functioning after adversity.
- Mindfulness practices and cognitive behavioral therapy enhance resilience by improving cognitive control and emotional regulation through neural circuitry.
Deep dives
Exploring Resilience
Resilience is the ability of some individuals to thrive in the face of adversity, which can vary dramatically among people experiencing similar hardships. This concept is illustrated through stories of individuals like Stephen Hawking, who maintained a remarkable intellectual drive despite battling a debilitating disease. The exploration of resilience raises questions about its underlying neurobiological mechanisms and whether it can be developed over time. Understanding the neural circuitry that governs resilience is key to potentially enhancing these capabilities in others.
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