All in the Mind

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.

What's going on in your brain when you experience an 'aha!' moment?Imagine you've been stuck on a problem for ages, but then the answer suddenly comes to you out of nowhere, like a bolt of lightning. Claudia Hammond is joined in the studio by professor of cognitive neuroscience Sophie Scott to understand how these 'aha' moments happen.Sophie also brings us her own research into contagious laughter and why some types of laughter are more likely to give us the giggles than others.And Claudia meets another All in the Mind Awards finalist. This time it's Flynn Mellor, nominated by his mum Janine for his unwavering care whilst she was unwell. Claudia visits the pair at home and hears from Janine how Flynn's support saved her life.The All in the Mind Awards ceremony takes place at the BBC Radio Theatre in London on 18 June, and there is a ballot for free tickets which closes at midday on 31 May. You can enter online by going to www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows.If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, including urgent support, a list of organisations that can help is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producers: Sophie Ormiston, Hannah Fisher and Gerry Holt Studio Manager: Emma Harth Editor: Glyn Tansley

This week, we're taking a look at the state of mental health services in the UK. Claudia Hammond is joined in the studio by the BBC's social affairs correspondent Michael Buchanan to dissect how long people are having to wait for care and what is being done to tackle the issues. We also hear from two more finalists in the All in the Mind Awards.First up is Duncan who nominated psychiatrist Dr Ilenia Pampaloni, who in 2023 treated him on the UK's only inpatient OCD ward. Claudia hears how Dr Pampaloni's treatment has helped Duncan have his first year of stability in 20 years. And Claudia visits the group KidsTime Haringey, nominated by Chuks. KidsTime works with families where the parents have mental health disorders, and we hear how the group has helped Chuks rebuild his relationship with his children through specialised workshops and sessions.The All in the Mind Awards ceremony takes place at the BBC Radio Theatre in London on 18 June, and there is a ballot for free tickets which closes at midday on 31 May. You can enter online by going to www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows.If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, including urgent support, a list of organisations that can help is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producers: Sophie Ormiston, Hannah Fisher, Gerry Holt Studio Manager: Tim Heffer Editor: Glyn Tansley

This week we’re talking about interoception. That's the way the brain interprets the many signals that come from the body. How useful is this skill, can you perfect it – and when might it have a more negative effect? In the studio with Claudia is health psychologist Professor Kavita Vedhara who explains why watching 15 minutes of the Two Ronnies, some Fawlty Towers and a bit of Elvis Presley, could boost how well your vaccine works. And Claudia meets a group from Essex who are finalists in this year’s All in the Mind awards. The group teaches women who are experiencing anxiety, depression or abusive relationships how to ride a bike. We’ll hear how this simple community initiative is connecting people and even transforming lives, and why they just can’t stop smiling.The awards take place at the BBC Radio Theatre in London on 18 June and there is a ballot for free tickets which closes at midday on 31 May. You can enter online by going to www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Gerry Holt, Hannah Fisher and Helena Selby Studio Manager: Jackie Margerum Production Coordintator: Siobhan Maguire Content Editor: Glyn Tansley

In this engaging discussion, Catherine Loveday, a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Westminster, explores the nuances of asking 'Are you okay?' during distressing moments and its potential drawbacks. She reveals intriguing research on how eye movement can indicate memory precision, with implications for early Alzheimer's detection. The conversation also highlights the importance of empathy in healthcare, particularly in supporting mental health recovery, showcasing personal stories that illuminate the transformative power of compassionate care.

In this engaging discussion, Robin Ince, a stand-up comedian and recent adult ADHD-diagnosed individual, shares his personal journey alongside Dr. Jessica Eccles, a psychiatrist specializing in ADHD assessment and living with the condition herself. They delve into the alarming length of waiting lists for diagnoses, with some people facing up to eight years of waiting. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of diagnosis and medication, challenges societal views on ADHD, and emphasizes the need for improved support systems and community awareness.

Sophie Scott, a psychotherapist and author known for her insights on mental health, joins the discussion on how to encourage loved ones to seek help when they resist. She shares valuable strategies for compassionate communication and emphasizes the importance of respecting boundaries. The conversation also touches on the psychological benefits of holidays, revealing that disconnecting from work and staying active can extend their positive effects on mental well-being. It's an engaging exploration of support, resilience, and the joys of taking a break.