All In The Mind

Ethan Kross, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan and author of 'Shift', shares his expertise on emotional management. He discusses the importance of strategic avoidance of emotions and how emotional regulation is vital in everyday life. Kross highlights the long-term benefits of teaching children emotional skills and explores how music can aid emotional expression. He also reflects on coping strategies during trauma and the role of personal spaces in managing feelings, making a case for professional help when needed.

Milad Haghani, Associate Professor in Urban Resilience & Mobility at the University of Melbourne, delves into the complexities of crowd behavior. He debunks myths surrounding panicky crowd instincts, revealing instances of compassion during crises. The discussion touches on effective strategies for crowd management, especially during large events like the Hajj and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Milad shares insights on improving evacuation efficiency through simple behavioral modifications and emphasizes the importance of shared identity in preventing disasters.

Rose Kerr, a producer passionate about the psychology of collecting, joins experts Nick Neve, a professor studying hoarding behaviors, and Louise Grimmer, who dives into consumer trends. They explore the emotional motivations behind collecting, from childhood nostalgia to adult pursuits, and the social media influences elevating collectible items. The conversation navigates the thrill of the hunt for rare finds and the delicate line between healthy collecting and hoarding, highlighting how personal identity intertwines with consumerism in this fascinating world.

Dr. Mary Anderson, a clinical psychologist and author of *The Happy High Achiever*, discusses the hidden struggles of high achievers like burnout and imposter syndrome. She explores cognitive distortions that lead to negative self-talk and shares CBT-based strategies to overcome them. The conversation highlights the importance of self-care, converting anxiety into curiosity, and recognizing personal accomplishments. Mary emphasizes the need for work-life balance and reflecting on achievements to foster motivation and well-being.

Hannah Pitt, a senior research fellow at Deakin University, and Anastasia Hironis, a clinical psychologist from the University of Technology Sydney, discuss the pervasive influence of gambling in Australian culture. They explore the ineffectiveness of responsible gambling messages, especially among youth, who see betting as socially normalized. The conversation touches on the risks of loot boxes in video games and the deep cultural acceptance of gambling advertising. Both experts advocate for stricter regulations to protect young Australians from the growing gambling landscape.

Patricia Harney, a clinical psychologist from Harvard Medical School, dives into the overlooked emotional aftermath of true crime narratives. She discusses the complexities of grief experienced by the families of murder victims, emphasizing their unique struggles and trauma. Harney highlights the importance of validation and empathy in healing, and critiques current inadequacies in trauma treatment. The conversation also explores prolonged grief disorder, addressing both its implications and misconceptions, providing a poignant reflection on the human cost of violence.

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In this insightful discussion, Daniel Oberhaus, a science writer and author of The Silicon Shrink, explores the interplay between AI and mental health. He highlights innovative solutions like chatbots and mood-tracking apps that show promise but also raise ethical concerns. Daniel emphasizes the risks of over-reliance on AI tools in therapy and the critical need for transparency in their use. Through personal stories and research, he advocates for a cautious approach, ensuring that technology enhances rather than compromises patient care.

In this lively discussion, Brisbane-based neurosurgeon Alex Kofman shares thrilling insights into awake brain surgery, revealing the extraordinary reality of operating on conscious patients. Meanwhile, neuroscientist Ariel Zeleznikov-Johnston delves into the intriguing realm of brain preservation and the mysteries of consciousness. They explore advancements in neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding longevity and personal choice in healthcare. This vibrant exchange highlights the complexities and wonders of our most vital organ.

In this engaging discussion, Priya Kunjan, a postdoctoral research fellow at RMIT, shares insights on how the housing crisis emotionally impacts renters in Melbourne, revealing deep feelings of despair and hopelessness. Clinical psychologist Gene Hodgins explains the concept of locus of control, illustrating how perceptions of agency affect resilience during these challenging times. Together, they explore the psychological toll of housing insecurity and the broader implications on individuals' futures, shedding light on a pressing social issue.