All in the Mind

Claudia Hammond hosts a captivating discussion with Dr. Lucy Foulkes, a mental health researcher, who reveals how universal mental health classes in schools may actually increase anxiety. Professor Catherine Loveday uncovers fascinating research showing how astrocytes enhance emotional memory and why musicians may feel less pain. Adding to the conversation, Professor Dwight Hennessy explains the psychology behind road rage and offers practical tips for de-escalating conflict on the road. A thought-provoking blend of science and real-world insight!

This programme may contain information that you might find to be evidence-based and informative... Trigger warnings are everywhere. They’re used in the news, on social media and in academia to flag potentially distressing material so we can emotionally prepare ourselves or avoid it. But what if they actually make things worse? We interrogate a growing body of evidence that suggests they aren’t working in the way they are intended. So should we still be using trigger warnings?Also this week, we’ll hear from psychotherapist and author Stephen Grosz who'll share what he has learnt about love and gift-giving from four decades of conversations with his patients. And Daryl O’Connor, Professor of Psychology at the University of Leeds, joins us in the studio and brings news of a study on links between discrimination and inflammation in the body, and why carrying out acts of kindness for others comes with benefits for you...Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Gerry Holt Content editor: Ilan Goodman Production coordinator: Jana Holesworth Studio engineer: Bob Nettles

Autism tends to be viewed as a spectrum, but a new study published this month in Nature suggests that there are both genetic and behavioural differences between early and later diagnosed autism. So is autism still a spectrum, or should we be thinking of it as having multiple different subtypes? Claudia Hammond talks to Professor Uta Frith, who has pioneered autism research for decades, about what this means for how we view autism now. The universities of Cambridge and Durham are launching a study to help them unlock the secrets of vivid memory. Postdoctoral researchers Kasia Mojescik and Martha McGill tell Claudia how they plan to find out what makes a memory vivid, why some memories are more vivid than others, and how people can get involved in their work.And Claudia is joined in the studio by Catherine Loveday, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Westminster. Catherine brings us new research on how state-level income inequality can impact how children’s brains develop, and the myriad ways music can affect dining experiences.If you'd like to take part in the vivid memories research survey, you can find it here: https://www.english.cam.ac.uk/research/memory/get-involved/ Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston Editor: Ilan Goodman Studio Manager: Donald MacDonald Production coordinator: Jana Holesworth

Daryl O'Connor, a psychology professor, shares insights on environmental sensitivity and its ties to mental health issues like hoarding disorder. Clinical psychologist Dr. Sarah Barrett discusses therapeutic strategies for individuals grappling with hoarding, highlighting the significance of addressing anxiety and shame. They explore Claire's journey through hoarding, its emotional origins, and gradual steps toward decluttering, offering a poignant look at the complexities of attachment and how trauma can influence our relationship with possessions.

Just looking at the news can give the feeling that today’s world is more polarised than ever. And the stats show that in Britain, the majority of people believe that society is divided. How can we go about bridging this divide? Paul Dolan, professor of behavioural science at LSE, has written a book called Beliefism on exactly this. He chats to presenter Claudia Hammond about how we can learn to get along with people we disagree with, and how doing this can impact our lives for the better.Also, The Celebrity Traitors starts this Wednesday on BBC One. To convince their fellow contestants that they’re innocent, the Traitors have to be pretty good at deception. But how can the Faithfuls successfully identify their lies? Claudia speaks to Sharon Leal, senior research fellow in forensic psychology at the University of Portsmouth, to scrutinise the psychological evidence on deceit – and Sharon’s research has real life impacts on how police conduct their interviews. And Claudia is joined in the studio by Pete Olusoga, senior lecturer in psychology at Sheffield Hallam University. Pete shares new research that suggests the bigger a problem is, the smaller it seems, and how being nosy at work could be causing undue stress. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston Editor: Ilan Goodman Studio Manager: Emma Harth Production coordinator: Jana Holesworth

Join Catherine Loveday, a cognitive neuroscience professor, and Paolo Reiler, a psychotherapy expert, as they delve into the intriguing world of AI therapy. They discuss its rising popularity and address concerns about privacy and safety in chatbots. Anna Clark shares her story of using ChatGPT during a challenging divorce for emotional support, while Stephanie O'Dease highlights her daily engagement with AI tools. The conversation sheds light on the balance between AI assistance and human therapy, prompting critical thought about the efficacy and risks involved.

Dive into the vibrant world of mental health advocacy as unsung heroes are celebrated for their profound impact on recovery. Discover inspiring stories from community support groups that empower women and families. Hear about the transformative Kids' Time workshops, which foster understanding among families facing mental illness. Experience the journey of empathetic mental health care, highlighting stigma and compassionate support. The power of connection shines through personal accounts of resilience and kindness, showcasing the strength found in community.

Matthias Gruber, an associate professor of psychology, specializes in the neuroscience of curiosity, while Tim Peake, an astronaut and test pilot, shares his out-of-this-world experiences aboard the International Space Station. Gosia Goclowska, a psychology lecturer, explores emotions like awe and surprise. Together, they discuss the significance of curiosity in fueling exploration, the brain's reward systems, and amusing anecdotes from space that highlight the quirks of living in zero gravity. Their insights illuminate how curiosity shapes learning and innovation in our lives.

Daryl O’Connor, a psychology professor and twin, shares insights on the fascinating psychology of twins. Lisa and Rose Betts discuss their powerful bond, especially during Lisa's struggles with mental health and cancer. They highlight the importance of communication and support in their unique relationship. The trio also debunks myths like twin telepathy and emphasizes the often-unseen contributors to mental health. Their stories illustrate the resilience between twins and how their deep connection can provide strength in tough times.

Katrina Curtis, a senior doctor who overcame severe depression with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), shares her inspiring journey of resilience. She discusses the powerful role of supportive relationships in mental health recovery and the emotional complexities of her experience. Additionally, the conversation introduces 'lemonading,' a playful approach to cope with life's difficulties, emphasizing how joy can aid our healing processes. Katrina's insights shine a light on the importance of community and compassion in the path to flourishing.