Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik cover image

Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik

The Grieving Brain: How to Navigate Emotions After Loss with Mary-Frances O'Connor

Jun 17, 2024
19:59
Snipd AI
Neuroscientist Mary-Frances O'Connor discusses the neurological aspects of grief, explaining how the brain processes loss. She highlights the importance of social support and offers coping strategies. The episode explores the emotional journey of grief and the concept of post-traumatic growth.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Grief activates different brain areas as it processes loss, showcasing the complex emotional journey.
  • Avoidance and rumination are common coping mechanisms during grief, emphasizing the importance of present-moment experiences.

Deep dives

The Neuroscience of Grief as a Form of Learning

Grief, as explored by Dr. Mary Frances O'Connor, is depicted as a learning process through neuroscience. Contrary to traditional views that grief is solely a stressor, neuroscience highlights how reward pathways are impacted during grieving, affecting the brain's attachment processes. The profound bond formed with a loved one triggers significant changes in brain chemistry, involving neurotransmitters like dopamine and oxytocin. This understanding shifts the perspective towards grief being a complex learning curve that the brain navigates.

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