There are many routes to mental well-being. In this groundbreaking book, neuroscientist Camilla Nord offers a fascinating tour of the scientific developments that are revolutionising the way we think about mental health, showing why and how events--and treatments--can affect people in such different ways.In The Balanced Brain: The Science of Mental Health (Princeton UP, 2024), Nord explains how our brain constructs our sense of mental health--actively striving to maintain balance in response to our changing circumstances. While a mentally healthy brain deals well with life's turbulence, poor mental health results when the brain struggles with disruption. But just what is the brain trying to balance? Nord describes the foundations of mental health in the brain--from the neurobiology of pleasure, pain and desire to the role of mood-mediating chemicals like dopamine, serotonin and opioids. She then pivots to interventions, revealing how antidepressants, placebos and even recreational drugs work; how psychotherapy changes brain chemistry; and how the brain and body interact to make us feel physically (as well as mentally) healthy. Along the way, Nord explains how the seemingly small things we use to lift our moods--a piece of chocolate, a walk, a chat with a friend--work on the same pathways in our brains as the latest treatments for mental health disorders.Understanding the cause of poor mental health is one of the crucial questions of our time. But the answer is unique to each of us, and it requires finding what helps our brains rebalance and thrive. With so many factors at play, there are more possibilities for recovery and resilience than we might think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology

Join Barbara Sahakian, a Clinical Neuropsychology Professor at the University of Cambridge, and Christelle Langley, a Cognitive Neuroscientist, as they delve into the essential connection between mental and physical health. They discuss how exercise and diet can boost cognitive function and the importance of social connections in reducing loneliness. Mindfulness emerges as a powerful tool for mental well-being, while the duo also explores cutting-edge treatments for cognitive enhancement. Their insights shed light on practical habits for a happier, healthier life.

In this discussion featuring Alette Smeulers, a law professor specializing in mass violence, the complexities of perpetrators are unraveled. Smeulers examines the motivations behind mass atrocities, distinguishing between ideological 'fanatics' and psychologically troubled individuals. The conversation delves into personal backgrounds influencing violent behavior, while exploring concepts like compromised perpetrators and the psychological effects of violence. Smeulers emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics for accountability and prevention in both society and education.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Joel Whitebook, a philosopher and psychoanalyst at Columbia University, discusses his book on Freud's complex life and work. He argues that Freud's insights remain relevant, revealing the interplay between his personal struggles and theoretical contributions. The dialogue highlights Freud's relationship with maternal absence, the evolution of psychoanalytic thought, and the shift from Oedipal to pre-Oedipal frameworks. Whitebook also examines Freud's hidden traumas and their impact on his theories, providing a nuanced portrait of the father of psychoanalysis.

Camille Robcis, a historian at Columbia University and author of "Disalienation," delves into the fascinating world of radical psychiatry in postwar France. She explores the dual nature of psychiatric institutions, revealing their potential for both oppression and liberation. The discussion highlights the interplay between political regimes and psychiatric practices, emphasizing the importance of collective care. Robcis also connects historical movements to current global political struggles, showcasing how these ideas can transform contemporary mental health discourse.

In a compelling discussion, Rachel Louise Moran, an associate professor at the University of North Texas, delves into her book on postpartum depression's complex history in America. She reveals how early stigmas shaped women's mental health narratives and how maverick advocates fought to legitimize their experiences. Moran highlights the evolution from trivializing 'baby blues' to recognizing severe mental health challenges, emphasizing the role of women’s activism and the intersection of health, culture, and politics in reshaping perceptions of motherhood.

Frederick Crews, an Emeritus professor of English at UC Berkeley and a noted critic of Freudian theories, dives deep into Sigmund Freud's controversial legacy. He argues that Freud was not just brilliant but also a flawed individual driven by greed and ambition. Crews examines Freud’s early life through personal letters, critiques the dichotomy of myth and reality surrounding psychoanalysis, and questions its scientific validity today. The conversation contrasts empirical research with therapeutic practice, challenging long-held beliefs in the psychotherapy community.

Dive into the psychological depths of James Baldwin's 'Going to Meet the Man.' The discussion unpacks the turmoil of Jesse, a white police officer, as he navigates trauma, racial violence, and impotence. Learn how projective identification influences his relationships and reveals the burden of systemic racism. The interplay of racism and sexuality sheds light on the emotional toll of intergenerational trauma. Discover how Baldwin's critique of societal brutality illuminates power dynamics and their psychological repercussions.

Harry Max, a fractional executive in product design and development and an executive coach, discusses his insights from his book on prioritization. He emphasizes that effective prioritization brings freedom and reduces stress. Max shares practical strategies like the DEGAP® method and the 'daily boot' ritual to clarify goals. He also educates listeners on popular prioritization frameworks, such as the Eisenhower Matrix. By connecting personal experiences with corporate decision-making, he illustrates the psychological complexities involved in both solo and team priorities.

Charles Foster, a legal scholar, veterinary surgeon, and naturalist, delves into human evolution in his latest work. He shares experiences living as a Cro-Magnon hunter-gatherer, engaging in shamanic journeys, and exploring the significance of our senses. The conversation delves into the transition from nomadic lifestyles to agriculture, examining freedom versus security. Foster reflects on humanity's complex relationship with nature and our consciousness, urging a return to meaningful narratives that foster empathy and responsibility for the environment.