All in the Mind

Jess Robson, founder of 'Run Talk Run', advocates for exercise as a powerful mental health tool. She explores how gentle running fosters community and conversation, helping participants tackle stress. The discussion unveils the intricate link between exercise and conditions like depression. They also examine the endocannabinoid system's role in inducing a 'runner's high', while emphasizing the importance of supportive environments for mental well-being. Insights reveal how exercise can enhance motivation and cognitive function, making it a key ally in mental health.

Professor Francesca Gino, an eminent Harvard researcher in the field of dishonesty, is accused of fraud, sparking discussions on hypocrisy and trust in scientific findings. The podcast also explores the concerning suicide rates among men aged 45-54, emphasizing the need for proactive suicide prevention efforts and safety planning. Additionally, the psychological impact of awe on well-being is discussed, highlighting how experiences of natural wonders can reduce stress and increase happiness.

Dr Karen Kirby, Dr Kevin Mitchell, and Sinéad Moriarty discuss the psychology of hope at the Northern Ireland Science Festival. They explore the role of hope in medical scenarios, learning to be hopeful, and holding onto hope in the modern world. Audience questions include whether we should lower our expectations.

This podcast explores the impact of changing seasons on our moods and behaviors, delving into the research findings. It also discusses the importance of teaching hope as a skill for mental health, showcasing inspiring programs. Additionally, it sheds light on the gender disparity in citing experts in psychology and its implications for diversity in the field.

Dr. Lampros Perogamvros, a psychiatrist from the University of Geneva specializing in dreams and nightmares, explores the intriguing link between overcoming phobias and experiencing vivid nightmares about them. He delves into the complexities of how our subconscious fears manifest during sleep. Additionally, Dr. Maja Bergman shares insights from her research on treating post-cardiac arrest PTSD through mindfulness, fueled by her own heart scare, while also discussing emotional healing narratives from survivors.

These days we see a lot of negative stories related to screen time – how we’re addicted to our phones and social media is damaging our mental health. But is our panic about screens justified? Pete Etchells, professor of psychology and science communication at Bath Spa University, talks Claudia Hammond through the latest evidence in this field – and it turns out it’s all a lot more complicated than we think.Many of us will often get catchy tunes stuck in our head, or have an inner monologue narrating our experiences. But this isn’t the case for everyone – some people have what they describe as a silent inner world. This inability to hear sounds in your head has been named anauralia, which PhD student Sang Hyun Kim experiences, and he describes his inner life to Claudia. We also hear from Professor of Psychology Tony Lambert, who has been running studies into anauralia at the University of Auckland. And Claudia is joined in the studio by Catherine Loveday, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Westminster, who has also recently published a study on anauralia – and puts Claudia’s auditory imagery skills to the test. And Catherine also talks us through a new study on how live music can amplify emotional responses in the brain.Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston Studio Manager: Tim Heffer Production Coordinator: Siobhan Maguire Editor: Holly Squire

The podcast delves into the rising mental health issues among teenage girls, revealing alarming statistics that show a higher prevalence than boys. Social media, academic pressures, and societal expectations are examined as contributing factors. Experts discuss the systemic challenges in youth mental health services, advocating for preventative approaches. Personal stories highlight the unique struggles girls face, emphasizing the need for supportive environments and early interventions to foster resilience.

Dr. Ellen Smith, a researcher from Northumbria University, explores the fascinating connection between diet and brain health, spotlighting Lion's Mane mushrooms and their purported cognitive benefits. She examines how social media is shaping perceptions about food's impact on memory and mood. Additionally, Claudia Hammond discusses the powerful new play, 'This Might Not Be It,' which vividly portrays the struggles of NHS mental health services, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in fostering empathy and bringing attention to mental health challenges.

Researchers study blinking patterns in Mastermind contestants to understand cognitive load and stress. Music can shape how memories are formed and compartmentalized. Anger can be a useful emotion, influencing behavior and decision-making. The podcast explores how to use anger effectively and embrace emotions as a driving force.

Increasing numbers of people are avoiding the news, and a recent update to Ipsos’s Global Trends 2023 report has found that the current state of the world is causing people to focus on their own lives, rather than broader, global problems. Mike Clemence, associate director of trends & futures at Ipsos, talks Claudia Hammond through the findings and the "polycrisis" we find ourselves in. Coverage of these crises can have a psychological impact, Roxane Cohen Silver, distinguished professor of psychological science, medicine, and public health at the University of California Irvine, tells Claudia how media exposure to traumatic events can cause acute symptoms of stress, and what we can do to protect ourselves.Whistleblowers do the important job of calling out wrongdoing in an organisation. So why are so many treated badly, even though they’ve done the right thing? And how can people be encouraged to raise concerns at work? Claudia speaks to Amy Edmondson, professor of leadership and management at the Harvard Business School, about "psychological safety" – the belief that you won’t be punished for speaking up.And Claudia is joined in the studio by Daryl O’Connor, professor of psychology at the University of Leeds, to take us through some of the latest findings in neuroscience and psychology. We discuss whether compassion is a limited resource and if the emotional words we use can affect our heart health. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston Studio Manager: Tim Heffer Production Coordinator: Siobhan Maguire Editor: Holly Squire