Now that we're more comfortable talking about mental health, it's time to address some misconceptions.Is depression REALLY a chemical imbalance in the brain? What's the difference between being depressed and distressed? And are psychedelics the solution we've been waiting for?Today, Professor Ian Hickie breaks it all down and reveals the biggest myths about depression.

What does it take to go from second place, to first? Good, to great?This episode was first broadcast in July 2023. It's part one of our two parter on performance psychology. Part two is called Visualisation and values — goal setting like a winner.

A founding member of the band Gang of Youths. A single mum from Adelaide. A dad of two in Brisbane. What do all these people have in common?They all have young kids, and they all sing to them constantly!This week we ask: why do babies turn us into non-stop singing machines? Where does this instinct come from and what purpose does it serve?This episode was first broadcast in August 2023.

ARIA-nominated musician Parvyn knows what it's like to lose touch with reality.Delusions, mania, psychosis — she's experienced it all, often while on tour.Despite processing these experiences on her debut solo album 'Sa', she's never spoken publicly about her mental health — until now.This episode was first broadcast in March 2023.

As a teen, Hunter Johnson wanted to be the best at sport, the best at getting girls, and the best at getting attention. But one moment would change everything for him — forcing him to rethink his ideas about masculinity. Now, he's paying it forward.Last week, we explored why toxic masculinity is tricky to talk about. Today, we hear from someone having that conversation daily — shifting the focus from toxic behaviours and beliefs … to emotional intelligence.This episode was first broadcast in February 2023.

Do you get defensive when you hear the term toxic masculinity?You wouldn't be the only one, if so.In this episode, we follow one dad's attempts to understand where internet algorithms are sending his son… and ask, how do we deal with toxic masculinity, when the very term has become contested?This episode was first broadcast in February 2023.

Sex, scandal, money and misdeeds. All elements of good gossip.So why do we love the gossip, but not the gossiper?And why are we invested in the secrets of celebrities, even though they're strangers?This episode was first broadcast in February 2023.

The best grades, the best schools, the best sports programs, the best universities – sure, it's great for students to strive for success. But when does the pressure to succeed become too much?American journalist Jennifer Wallace says 'toxic achievement culture' is harming the mental health of many students.Is this a uniquely American phenomenon?

We all tend to get a bit cranky when the weather turns super hot, but did you know heatwaves can worsen certain mental health conditions?We explore the troubling ways heat can affects our mental health and behaviour.Just a heads up, this episode touches on the topic of suicide. Please take care.

Talking about death and grief is hard for anyone, let alone children.But children do experience grief and often have questions they want to ask.Today, how to talk to kids about death, loss and grief. 

Aiming for perfect sounds like a good thing, right?But when perfectionism grows into hurtful self-criticism and unrelenting standards, it can be damaging for your mental health. And it turns out, perfectionism is linked to an already complex group of mental illnesses.Today, the role perfectionism plays in eating disorders.Please take care while listening if this topic is sensitive for you. And if you would like support, the Butterfly Foundation has a national support helpline for body image issues or eating disorders. You can reach them on 1800 33 4673 or head to their website. 

Pulitzer prize finalist Meg Kissinger grew up in the 1960's and 70's, steeped in feelings of shame and guilt about the mental illness that plagued her family.Now a journalist covering mental health, she's made it her mission to share stories of lost loved ones and the systems that failed them.This episode explores the topic of suicide. Please take care while listening and don't hesitate to reach out for support if you need it. You can reach Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Social media abounds with mindset mentors, spiritual healers, influencers and more — many of who offer life coaching. Does anyone know what they're talking about?

To imagine the future of artificial intelligence, it's important to reflect on some of the big moments in it's past. This week, James Purtill from Science Friction brings us a story of competition, surprise and thinking machines. This is the only time you'll hear Science Friction in the All in the Mind feed. To hear the full six-part series on AI, Hello AI Overlords, search for Science Friction in your podcast feed.

TikTok is a mixed bag when it comes to mental health content. Great at raising awareness and building community, but not always accurate or evidence based. Journalist Matilda Boseley sees both sides – but she says TikTok was the push she needed to seek out a formal diagnosis.

Concussions are hard to diagnose, often get missed, and not always taken seriously. And if you're not a professional athlete, it can be surprisingly hard to get clear information on how to manage and recover afterwards. Why? The brain is your most important organ, after all! This week, we try and make sense of the confusion around concussions.

Artist Matt Ottley has been experiencing hallucinations since he was a child.  Today, Matt takes us on a journey to understand what psychosis can feel like, through storytelling and musical composition. 

As a toddler, Nicole's son was extremely aggressive. As he got older, his behaviour worsened. In this episode from our archives, we examine 'callous unemotional traits' — the early warning signs of psychopathy that emerge in childhood. This episode was first broadcast in December 2022. 

What happens when we let our most destructive emotion dominate? On All in the Mind this week, we explore why we get angry, how you might control aggression and whether it can ever be ... useful. This episode was first broadcast in February 2022. 

In part two of our look at introversion and extroversion, we dive into the science and psychology of personality. How do we develop these traits? How much are our genes responsible?  The way brains of introverts and extroverts differ will probably surprise you. This episode was first broadcast in August 2022. 

Jessica Pan was a life-long shy introvert and for the most part she was happy with this aspect of her personality – until the loneliness crept it. This week on All in the Mind, the first of two episodes exploring introversion and extroversion. The benefits and downsides of each, how these traits impact our mental health and whether we change, if we want to. This episode was first broadcast in August 2022.

1 in 10 dads experience perinatal depression and anxiety, and more seem to be willing to reach out for help. Chris Jephcott wishes he'd been one of them. If this episode raises any issues for you, you can reach out to: Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) 1300 726 306

Nature is good for our wellbeing. But how much green space does a community need, before you can see a wellbeing boost? And how do we encourage people to spend more time outdoors?

A bank heist, a hostage drama and a dubious diagnosis. It's 50 years since the robbery that inspired the term 'Stockholm Syndrome', and today we explore the origins of the proposed condition  - and probe the many problems with that label. 

Chris Hadnagy’s job involves breaking into break into banks. But he’s not after money, gold or jewels. He’s searching for weaknesses – in systems, in security, and in people.  And he doesn’t use weapons or threats of violence to get past guards and into vaults. He uses a smile - and a few tricks from his toolbox of psychology and social engineering techniques. Chris is the founder and CEO of Social Engineer LLC and lectures about social engineering around the globe. On All in the Mind this week, the psychology of influence and what makes some people more vulnerable to being ‘hacked’ than others.  This episode was first broadcast in August 2021. 

A founding member of the band Gang of Youths. A single mum from Adelaide. A dad of two in Brisbane. What do all these people have in common? They all have young kids, and they all sing to them constantly! As part of our exploration of sound and noise for Science Week, we ask: why do babies turn us into non-stop singing machines? Where does this instinct come from and what purpose does it serve? For more Science Week stories, head to abc.net.au/science

Fashion can embody a lot: status, identity, belonging... A great outfit makes us feel confident, but the fashion industry can be harmful to our self esteem.  So what does fashion say about us? And why as humans do we even care about clothes?

For years, psychologist Patricia Harney avoided true crime podcasts and docos. They hit too close to home. Recently she's been testing the waters, and noticing these whodunnit shows often leave out a crucial element of the story.

We're urged to stay positive and keep up a cheerful disposition ... but sometimes things are just awful, aren’t they? On All in the Mind this week we look at why we engage in toxic positivity, why it's so damaging when we do and whether something called 'tragic optimism' could be the antidote. This episode was first broadcast in February 2022. 

In your mind's eye, can you see yourself achieving your dream goal? Can you imagine what it would feel like? Who you'd be talking to when you achieve it? Turns out the more you can imagine, the better your shot at achieving you goal. But that's not the whole story… This is part two of our two-parter on performance psychology.

What does it take to go from second place, to first? Good, to great? This is part one of our two parter on performance psychology.

What's your favourite smell? And why is it your favourite? Maybe it reminds you of a special moment, a particular place or a loved one. But can you use these scents to make yourself… Happier? And what happens if we lose our sense of smell altogether?

Whether you're 19 and never given it a thought, or 40 and starting to wonder, menopause is an unavoidable part of life for half the population. But many of us are shaky on the details of what to expect — apart from hot flashes/flushes, maybe. Former model Ali Daddo was one of those people: totally unprepared, and caught off guard when it hit. She's on a mission to make sure other women are more informed – and therefrom more empowered – than she was. Just a heads up, this episode touches on mental health struggles and suicide. Please take care while listening.

Sky diving. Racing cars. Abseiling. Jumping into an ice bath. Depending on who you are, those activities either delight or horrify you. High sensation seekers love the thrill, and that leads some to extreme sports, others to crime. Marley Duncan can tell you first hand: option one is way better. Just a note, this episode contains strong language and swear words.

Spicy food, scary movies, BDSM … why do humans sometimes chase painful experiences and how are they linked to pleasure? This episode was first broadcast in March 2022.

Laura would spend weeks feeling normal — even happy. But like clockwork, every month, suddenly she would feel intense depression, making her unrecognisable to herself and friends. It took her nearly two decades to identify what was causing this rollercoaster of mood: PMDD, AKA Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. So what is it about hormones that make some people feel such intense emotions? And why is PMDD still so misunderstood? This episode touches on the topic of suicide. Please take care while listening. 

What's the most catchy song you can think of? Is there a moment that makes you suddenly pay attention, mesmerised by the melody or beat? You're probably reflecting on a song's hook. But why do hooks capture our minds and memories? A music psychologist and musicologist share their thoughts on the power of hooks. In this episode you'll hear Tim and Jadey cover pop songs which Sana credits at the end of the episode. To see the written credits, head to our website. 

Lynne Malcolm is used to being in the host's seat, but today, the tables are turned. She's back on All in the Mind to discuss her new book, appropriately titled All in the Mind. So what did she learn through 9 years of interviews? How did the show help her process her own mental health? Lynne reflects on her expansive career at the ABC and the personal connections she made along the way.

This episode was first broadcast in September 2021. Have you heard of ASMR? Whispery, clicky, crinkly videos are massive on YouTube - racking up millions of views. The idea is that these sounds elicit a certain tingly, calming sensation in some people. So what is ASMR and what does the science tell us about it? Is it real … or pseudoscience? And why do some people get the opposite reaction – irritation rather than these pleasant tingles?

This episode deals with descriptions of abuse. Please take care while listening. Michael Baldwin cycled through seven therapists over 22 years. No one could help him overcome the trauma of his childhood — until he tried EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy). But why would eye movements help a person process their trauma? It sounds fantastical. Is it?

It's human nature to form groups — families, friends, online communities. We love to be surrounded by people similar to us. But that can also make us discriminatory and defensive. And social media makes that instinct worse. In this episode, we look at how our brains evolved to connect and divide, and what that means for the problems we face in our modern world.

A magical kingdom with ogres and fairies. A post-apocalyptic world ruled by machines. An underwater monster that resembles a dragon. These fictional worlds might only be described by words, but the images they create in our minds feel so real. Why are our brains so good at creating imaginary images? Producer Rose Kerr explores how an author's words translate into the mind's of readers.

Journalist Elfy Scott grew up in a loving and tight knit family, but there was one topic they never spoke about, for a long time: her mother's schizophrenia. Now, Elfy is sharing her family's story, and interrogating why stigma so often silences conversations about complex mental health disorders.

This episode was first broadcast in June 2021.  Have you ever tried a self-help book? Did it… well, help? On All in the Mind this week, why self-help sometimes falls short ... and the problem with pop psychology more generally.

This episode was first broadcast in June 2021.  Have you ever tried a self-help book? Did it… well, help? On All in the Mind this week, why self-help sometimes falls short ... and the problem with pop psychology more generally.

A lot of us would like to think we could spot a scam a mile away. Spelling errors, suspicious email addresses and requests for money… all tip offs that something isn't right. But none of us are immune to scammers' psychological tricks – not even psychologists. In this episode, forensic neuropsychologist Dr Stacey Wood reveals the tricks and techniques scammers use, and what makes us most vulnerable to their tactics.

A lot of us would like to think we could spot a scam a mile away. Spelling errors, suspicious email addresses and requests for money… all tip offs that something isn't right. But none of us are immune to scammers' psychological tricks – not even psychologists. In this episode, forensic neuropsychologist Dr Stacey Wood reveals the tricks and techniques scammers use, and what makes us most vulnerable to their tactics.

Do you wake up each morning refreshed and well slept? Or are you the kind of person who tosses and turns for ages before falling asleep, ruminating on all of your missteps and stresses from the day? If you chose option two, this episode is for you. We get advice on making nighttime more restful — beyond the standard 'don't look at your phone before bed.' (Though that's important too).

Do you wake up each morning refreshed and well slept? Or are you the kind of person who tosses and turns for ages before falling asleep, ruminating on all of your missteps and stresses from the day? If you chose option two, this episode is for you. We get advice on making nighttime more restful — beyond the standard 'don't look at your phone before bed.' (Though that's important too).

Doing something that goes against your beliefs feels pretty bad, right? But what if those beliefs are stopping you from doing something good for you? Producer Rose Kerr investigates the role cognitive dissonance plays in our lives: how it can lead to some creative mental gymnastics, and when it can be harnessed for good.

Doing something that goes against your beliefs feels pretty bad, right? But what if those beliefs are stopping you from doing something good for you? Producer Rose Kerr investigates the role cognitive dissonance plays in our lives: how it can lead to some creative mental gymnastics, and when it can be harnessed for good.

ARIA-nominated musician Parvyn knows what it's like to lose touch with reality. Delusions, mania, psychosis — she's experienced it all, often while on tour. Despite processing these experiences on her debut solo album 'Sa', she's never spoken publicly about her mental health — until now.

ARIA-nominated musician Parvyn knows what it's like to lose touch with reality. Delusions, mania, psychosis — she's experienced it all, often while on tour. Despite processing these experiences on her debut solo album 'Sa', she's never spoken publicly about her mental health — until now.

This episode was first broadcast in February 2022.  Most of us have an inner voice – it reminds you to pick up milk on your way home, helps problem solve, or rehearse what you’re going to say. But there are times that helpful voice veers into harmful chatter.

This episode was first broadcast in February 2022.  Most of us have an inner voice – it reminds you to pick up milk on your way home, helps problem solve, or rehearse what you’re going to say. But there are times that helpful voice veers into harmful chatter.

As a teen, Hunter Johnson wanted to be the best at sport, the best at getting girls, and the best at getting attention. But one moment would change everything for him — forcing him to rethink his ideas about masculinity. Now, he's paying it forward. Last week, we explored why toxic masculinity is tricky to talk about. Today, we hear from someone having that conversation daily — shifting the focus from toxic behaviours and beliefs … to emotional intelligence.

As a teen, Hunter Johnson wanted to be the best at sport, the best at getting girls, and the best at getting attention. But one moment would change everything for him — forcing him to rethink his ideas about masculinity. Now, he's paying it forward. Last week, we explored why toxic masculinity is tricky to talk about. Today, we hear from someone having that conversation daily — shifting the focus from toxic behaviours and beliefs … to emotional intelligence.

Do you get defensive when you hear the term toxic masculinity? You wouldn't be the only one, if so. In this episode, we follow one dad's attempts to understand where internet algorithms are sending his son… and ask, how do we deal with toxic masculinity, when the very term has become contested?

Do you get defensive when you hear the term toxic masculinity? You wouldn't be the only one, if so. In this episode, we follow one dad's attempts to understand where internet algorithms are sending his son… and ask, how do we deal with toxic masculinity, when the very term has become contested?

From phantom limbs to Alice in Wonderland syndrome — why does the brain sometimes mess up its awareness and understanding of the body it belongs to? Neuroscientist and author of Body Am I, Moheb Costandi explains.

From phantom limbs to Alice in Wonderland syndrome — why does the brain sometimes mess up its awareness and understanding of the body it belongs to? Neuroscientist and author of Body Am I, Moheb Costandi explains.

Sex, scandal, money and misdeeds. All elements of good gossip. So why do we love the gossip, but not the gossiper? And why are we invested in the secrets of celebrities, even though they're strangers?

Sex, scandal, money and misdeeds. All elements of good gossip. So why do we love the gossip, but not the gossiper? And why are we invested in the secrets of celebrities, even though they're strangers?

Where do you draw the line between brainwashing… and influence? Thought control… and mere suggestion? From the Korean War, to The Beatles, to current day, we trace the sometimes scary/sometimes weird history of brainwashing.

Where do you draw the line between brainwashing… and influence? Thought control… and mere suggestion? From the Korean War, to The Beatles, to current day, we trace the sometimes scary/sometimes weird history of brainwashing.

This episode was first broadcast in September 2022.  You might not think of yourself as a negotiator but big or small we all negotiate daily. Getting better at it could make your life easier. So what's the most effective way to negotiate? Is playing hardball ever a useful strategy? And what do you do when you're at a power disadvantage?

This episode was first broadcast in September 2022.  You might not think of yourself as a negotiator but big or small we all negotiate daily. Getting better at it could make your life easier. So what's the most effective way to negotiate? Is playing hardball ever a useful strategy? And what do you do when you're at a power disadvantage?

This episode was first broadcast in May 2022.  On All in the Mind this week, the early history of autism. With historian of science Professor Marga Vicedo we learn about the blame that was cast on mothers, the fight to get adequate help and support for families, and the movement that one mother, Clara Park, helped spark.

This episode was first broadcast in May 2022.  On All in the Mind this week, the early history of autism. With historian of science Professor Marga Vicedo we learn about the blame that was cast on mothers, the fight to get adequate help and support for families, and the movement that one mother, Clara Park, helped spark.

This episode was first broadcast in March 2022.  Why do we laugh, and what makes something funny? A psychologist, a neuroscientist and satirist Mark Humphries weigh in on humour and the brain.

This episode was first broadcast in March 2022.  Why do we laugh, and what makes something funny? A psychologist, a neuroscientist and satirist Mark Humphries weigh in on humour and the brain.

Over summer, we're sharing some of our favourite episodes of the year. This one was first broadcast in April 2022.  Anxiety and alcohol misuse are a common pairing. How do the two egg each other on and what can be done to halt the cycle? Plus, the personality traits that shape our likelihood of harmful alcohol use.

Over summer, we're sharing some of our favourite episodes of the year. This one was first broadcast in April 2022.  Anxiety and alcohol misuse are a common pairing. How do the two egg each other on and what can be done to halt the cycle? Plus, the personality traits that shape our likelihood of harmful alcohol use.

This summer, we're sharing some of our favourite episodes of the year. This episode was first broadcast in April.  What are the constructive things our minds do when they wander? And when does mindwandering cross over … into not-so-constructive territory? Guests: Professor Moshe Bar Cognitive Neuroscientist, Bar-Ilan University; Author, Mindwandering: How It Can Improve Your Mood and Boost Your Creativity Producer: James Bullen Sound Engineer: Roi Huberman

This summer, we're sharing some of our favourite episodes of the year. This episode was first broadcast in April.  What are the constructive things our minds do when they wander? And when does mindwandering cross over … into not-so-constructive territory? Guests: Professor Moshe Bar Cognitive Neuroscientist, Bar-Ilan University; Author, Mindwandering: How It Can Improve Your Mood and Boost Your Creativity Producer: James Bullen Sound Engineer: Roi Huberman

As a toddler, Nicole's son was extremely aggressive. As he got older, his behaviour worsened. In our final episode of the year, we examine 'callous unemotional traits' — the early warning signs of psychopathy that emerge in childhood.

As a toddler, Nicole's son was extremely aggressive. As he got older, his behaviour worsened. In our final episode of the year, we examine 'callous unemotional traits' — the early warning signs of psychopathy that emerge in childhood.

This episode was first broadcast in November 2021.  Are your colleagues rude? Do people regularly ignore each other or dismiss opinions in meetings? Ever gotten an all caps email? On All in the Mind this week, we examine the toxic effects of rude behaviour. And are we getting more rude as a society?

This episode was first broadcast in November 2021.  Are your colleagues rude? Do people regularly ignore each other or dismiss opinions in meetings? Ever gotten an all caps email? On All in the Mind this week, we examine the toxic effects of rude behaviour. And are we getting more rude as a society?

If you open any social media app, you're likely to eventually come across videos of people discussing trauma.  The hashtag TraumaTok has billions of views...   So how did trauma take over the internet? And what effect is it having on our mental health? Technology Reporter Ariel Bogle investigates. 

If you open any social media app, you're likely to eventually come across videos of people discussing trauma.  The hashtag TraumaTok has billions of views...   So how did trauma take over the internet? And what effect is it having on our mental health? Technology Reporter Ariel Bogle investigates. 

When you get nervous, can you feel it in your stomach?  The gut-brain connection is something many of us have experienced but probably not given much thought to.  Research into this connection has led to the rise of a seemingly unexpected treatment for IBS: hypnotherapy.  Producer Danni Stewart investigates how Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be treated. 

When you get nervous, can you feel it in your stomach?  The gut-brain connection is something many of us have experienced but probably not given much thought to.  Research into this connection has led to the rise of a seemingly unexpected treatment for IBS: hypnotherapy.  Producer Danni Stewart investigates how Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be treated. 

If the only certainty is uncertainty, how do we manage our anxieties about the unknown? Today we explore why the mind struggles with uncertainty and what we can do to manage it. 

If the only certainty is uncertainty, how do we manage our anxieties about the unknown? Today we explore why the mind struggles with uncertainty and what we can do to manage it. 

Before she was Dr Alix Woolard, Alix was a teenager grappling with a traumatic event in her family. It would affect her mental health dramatically, leaving her unsure of her path ahead. Now, Dr Alix Woolard researches childhood trauma and it's lifelong impacts. This episode deals with mental health and discusses suicide. Please listen with care. 

Before she was Dr Alix Woolard, Alix was a teenager grappling with a traumatic event in her family. It would affect her mental health dramatically, leaving her unsure of her path ahead. Now, Dr Alix Woolard researches childhood trauma and it's lifelong impacts. This episode deals with mental health and discusses suicide. Please listen with care. 

Have you ever thought, I wonder what it's like being famous? Maybe it's something you've always dreamed of, or maybe it's your worst nightmare. Being famous is something many people aspire to, but the reality can be isolating. This week, producer Jennifer Leake looks at what fame does to a person's psychology.

Have you ever thought, I wonder what it's like being famous? Maybe it's something you've always dreamed of, or maybe it's your worst nightmare. Being famous is something many people aspire to, but the reality can be isolating. This week, producer Jennifer Leake looks at what fame does to a person's psychology.

What makes people do evil things? Psychologist Stanley Milgram wanted to understand if people could be led to do awful things, just by being told to do them. The experiment he would devise to test this would become one of the most infamous examples of unethical studies in the field of psychology: The Milgram Shock Experiment. But Professor Alex Haslam says that's not the full picture… And the findings are misunderstood.

What makes people do evil things? Psychologist Stanley Milgram wanted to understand if people could be led to do awful things, just by being told to do them. The experiment he would devise to test this would become one of the most infamous examples of unethical studies in the field of psychology: The Milgram Shock Experiment. But Professor Alex Haslam says that's not the full picture… And the findings are misunderstood.

Learning chess with his young daughter kickstarted a life-long journey of learning for Tom Vanderbilt. Here's what he discovered about being an adult beginner, its benefits, and how kids and adults learn differently.

Learning chess with his young daughter kickstarted a life-long journey of learning for Tom Vanderbilt. Here's what he discovered about being an adult beginner, its benefits, and how kids and adults learn differently.

With relatively benign intentions, Wendell Johnson devised an experiment that would go on to be dubbed the Monster Study, inflicting terrible harm on a group of vulnerable and unsuspecting children.

With relatively benign intentions, Wendell Johnson devised an experiment that would go on to be dubbed the Monster Study, inflicting terrible harm on a group of vulnerable and unsuspecting children.

Popular culture is endlessly fascinated with cults, and they have to capacity to make ordinary people do unthinkable things. So how do cults reel people in and what does it take to leave?

Popular culture is endlessly fascinated with cults, and they have to capacity to make ordinary people do unthinkable things. So how do cults reel people in and what does it take to leave?

What goes on in the multilingual mind? And what does it mean to 'lose' your language?

What goes on in the multilingual mind? And what does it mean to 'lose' your language?

You might not think of yourself as a negotiator but big or small we all negotiate daily and getting better at it could make your life easier.

You might not think of yourself as a negotiator but big or small we all negotiate daily and getting better at it could make your life easier.

Addiction has long been a problem for humans, but smart phones and the internet have changed the game. So how can we find balance in a dopamine overloaded world? 

Addiction has long been a problem for humans, but smart phones and the internet have changed the game. So how can we find balance in a dopamine overloaded world? 

You've probably heard of unconscious bias but how are they formed and what can we do to stop the damage they can cause?

You've probably heard of unconscious bias but how are they formed and what can we do to stop the damage they can cause?

What does neuroscience and psychology tell us about how these traits are developed?

What does neuroscience and psychology tell us about how these traits are developed?

Are you outgoing or shy? there are pros and cons of each but is it possible to switch sides?

Are you outgoing or shy? there are pros and cons of each but is it possible to switch sides?

Few sensations are as primal, as fundamental to our very survival, as pain. But for a fifth of Australian adults, that useful protective mechanism lingers as chronic pain — persistent aching, searing, stabbing sensations, which can be incredibly stressful and debilitating.  What if you could dial down that pain — or even extinguish it altogether — by retraining your brain?

Few sensations are as primal, as fundamental to our very survival, as pain. But for a fifth of Australian adults, that useful protective mechanism lingers as chronic pain — persistent aching, searing, stabbing sensations, which can be incredibly stressful and debilitating.  What if you could dial down that pain — or even extinguish it altogether — by retraining your brain?

Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use, and how you can apply them to everyday life.

Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use, and how you can apply them to everyday life.

How many times in a day are you doing just one thing? Or is it more common that you’re multitasking – maybe texting and walking? Reading while listening to music? We all multitask to some degree, but do any of us do it well? And is that even possible? This week on All in the Mind, we look into the science of multitasking – why we struggle to do it, why some of us are better at it than others – and how to do it effectively if you must. First broadcast 19 December 2021.

How many times in a day are you doing just one thing? Or is it more common that you’re multitasking – maybe texting and walking? Reading while listening to music? We all multitask to some degree, but do any of us do it well? And is that even possible? This week on All in the Mind, we look into the science of multitasking – why we struggle to do it, why some of us are better at it than others – and how to do it effectively if you must. First broadcast 19 December 2021.

Would you be able to tell the difference between a bargain bin red and a top drop? Or how about what separates a duck paté … from one made of dog food? Perception is everything when it comes to marketing, and decades of neuroscience and psychology research have given businesses ever greater insights into how we can make decisions and how they can subtly shape our expectations so that yes – even dog food paté can become appealing. But the ramifications of this power may be pushing companies into unethical territory. First broadcast on 22 August 2021.

Would you be able to tell the difference between a bargain bin red and a top drop? Or how about what separates a duck paté … from one made of dog food? Perception is everything when it comes to marketing, and decades of neuroscience and psychology research have given businesses ever greater insights into how we can make decisions and how they can subtly shape our expectations so that yes – even dog food paté can become appealing. But the ramifications of this power may be pushing companies into unethical territory. First broadcast on 22 August 2021.

Over the past two decades, our cultural understanding of autism and what it means to be autistic has grown - though we have a long way to go. But there are entire generations of people who grew up when the popular conception of autism was a far cry from how it’s now understood. It meant a whole host of people who grew up feeling like they didn’t fit in, but never quite knowing why. They were autistic, but undiagnosed. And when a diagnosis did come as an adult – it was often revelatory and life-changing. On All in the Mind this week, 'hidden histories’ of late-diagnosed autistic adults. First broadcast 8 August 2021.

Over the past two decades, our cultural understanding of autism and what it means to be autistic has grown - though we have a long way to go. But there are entire generations of people who grew up when the popular conception of autism was a far cry from how it’s now understood. It meant a whole host of people who grew up feeling like they didn’t fit in, but never quite knowing why. They were autistic, but undiagnosed. And when a diagnosis did come as an adult – it was often revelatory and life-changing. On All in the Mind this week, 'hidden histories’ of late-diagnosed autistic adults. First broadcast 8 August 2021.

Our brains are easily distracted or overwhelmed. And that can make getting stuff done harder than it needs to be. This week, we look at methods and strategies for avoiding unnecessary stress by managing your priorities, your focus, and your energy with organisational psychologist Dr Amantha Imber.

Our brains are easily distracted or overwhelmed. And that can make getting stuff done harder than it needs to be. This week, we look at methods and strategies for avoiding unnecessary stress by managing your priorities, your focus, and your energy with organisational psychologist Dr Amantha Imber.

Imagine getting a diagnosis in adulthood that suddenly made so much of your life make sense. It explains why you’ve always had trouble being on time, starting things you don’t finish, avoiding difficult projects. Producer Jennifer Leake explores the impact of an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood.

Imagine getting a diagnosis in adulthood that suddenly made so much of your life make sense. It explains why you’ve always had trouble being on time, starting things you don’t finish, avoiding difficult projects. Producer Jennifer Leake explores the impact of an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood.

Michael Slepian researches the psychology of secrets. But what he didn't know — until about a decade ago — was that his family had a major secret they were keeping from him. One they planned never to reveal. Until …

Michael Slepian researches the psychology of secrets. But what he didn't know — until about a decade ago — was that his family had a major secret they were keeping from him. One they planned never to reveal. Until …

Guilt and shame are often used interchangeably, but researchers in emotion and psychology say they are distinct – and often motivate people into very different paths of behaviour. For the feeling of guilt, at least, that might even push you into making unexpected positive changes.

Guilt and shame are often used interchangeably, but researchers in emotion and psychology say they are distinct – and often motivate people into very different paths of behaviour. For the feeling of guilt, at least, that might even push you into making unexpected positive changes.

In the uncertain times we live in, how exactly are we meant to make up our minds? How do we weigh up pros, cons and risk factors, and how do stress and fear bear on our capacity for critical thinking? And how often are we even aware of the decisions we’re making? On All in the Mind this week, a special panel discussion recorded at the Sydney Writers’ Festival.

In the uncertain times we live in, how exactly are we meant to make up our minds? How do we weigh up pros, cons and risk factors, and how do stress and fear bear on our capacity for critical thinking? And how often are we even aware of the decisions we’re making? On All in the Mind this week, a special panel discussion recorded at the Sydney Writers’ Festival.

Music is central to the human experience. We celebrate with it, commiserate through it - often some of our strongest memories are tied to it. On All in the Mind this week, how music affects us from the womb through the rest of our lives - and what new research tells us about its measurable impact on our mental health. Plus, the 'plink' test - how our musical memories can identify a track from just a sliver of song, and the power of music to shape our emotions.

Music is central to the human experience. We celebrate with it, commiserate through it - often some of our strongest memories are tied to it. On All in the Mind this week, how music affects us from the womb through the rest of our lives - and what new research tells us about its measurable impact on our mental health. Plus, the 'plink' test - how our musical memories can identify a track from just a sliver of song, and the power of music to shape our emotions.

On All in the Mind this week, the early history of autism. With historian of science Professor Marga Vicedo we learn about the blame that was cast on mothers, the fight to get adequate help and support for families, and the movement that one mother, Clara Park, helped spark.

On All in the Mind this week, the early history of autism. With historian of science Professor Marga Vicedo we learn about the blame that was cast on mothers, the fight to get adequate help and support for families, and the movement that one mother, Clara Park, helped spark.

Have you ever wanted to change your personality? Many people do - studies find we're keen to become more extroverted, more agreeable and more conscientious. But what does the evidence say about whether people do change? And can you tweak your personality deliberately?

Have you ever wanted to change your personality? Many people do - studies find we're keen to become more extroverted, more agreeable and more conscientious. But what does the evidence say about whether people do change? And can you tweak your personality deliberately?

Two disasters, two years apart - the ongoing mental health impact on survivors and what the research can tell us about the different ways people respond to these life-changing events.

Two disasters, two years apart - the ongoing mental health impact on survivors and what the research can tell us about the different ways people respond to these life-changing events.

The quirks of psychology that influence when we give to charity … and when we don't.

The quirks of psychology that influence when we give to charity … and when we don't.

Dolls can tell us a lot about how kids see the world – especially when it comes to race. One American researcher spent months watching pre-schoolers play with dolls and what she observed shocked her. Plus, did you know the very first study of children and their thoughts about dolls actually changed the course of American history? First broadcast 4 April 2021.

Dolls can tell us a lot about how kids see the world – especially when it comes to race. One American researcher spent months watching pre-schoolers play with dolls and what she observed shocked her. Plus, did you know the very first study of children and their thoughts about dolls actually changed the course of American history? First broadcast 4 April 2021.

Anxiety and alcohol misuse are a common pairing. How do the two egg each other on and what can be done to halt the cycle? Plus, the personality traits that shape our likelihood of harmful alcohol use.

Anxiety and alcohol misuse are a common pairing. How do the two egg each other on and what can be done to halt the cycle? Plus, the personality traits that shape our likelihood of harmful alcohol use.

Grief is deeply painful but it's something the majority of us …eventually … find ways to live with. But research is starting to emerge on how the pandemic may have changed the way we grieve - making the experience more intense, more debilitating.  As places like Australia and the US move on from the harshest restrictions of the last two years… is how we grieve returning to baseline? Or is it still too early to know? On All in the Mind this week, how the COVID pandemic has changed the nature of grief. 

Grief is deeply painful but it's something the majority of us …eventually … find ways to live with. But research is starting to emerge on how the pandemic may have changed the way we grieve - making the experience more intense, more debilitating.  As places like Australia and the US move on from the harshest restrictions of the last two years… is how we grieve returning to baseline? Or is it still too early to know? On All in the Mind this week, how the COVID pandemic has changed the nature of grief. 

About one in five Australians experience a mental illness in any given year. But what about when mental health issues occur ... together? On All in the Mind this week, we look at a massive Scandinavian epidemiological study series which considers why having one mental illness puts you at greater risk of developing subsequent ones, and explore what that might mean for the treatment and prevention of mental health issues.

About one in five Australians experience a mental illness in any given year. But what about when mental health issues occur ... together? On All in the Mind this week, we look at a massive Scandinavian epidemiological study series which considers why having one mental illness puts you at greater risk of developing subsequent ones, and explore what that might mean for the treatment and prevention of mental health issues.

What are the constructive things our minds do when they wander? And when does mindwandering cross over … into not-so-constructive territory?

What are the constructive things our minds do when they wander? And when does mindwandering cross over … into not-so-constructive territory?

If you’re lucky enough to have fallen in love at some point in your life, you’ve  probably also had your heart broken. The experience can be excruciating, protracted, disorienting … but can it cause you lasting psychological – even physical – harm? 

If you’re lucky enough to have fallen in love at some point in your life, you’ve  probably also had your heart broken. The experience can be excruciating, protracted, disorienting … but can it cause you lasting psychological – even physical – harm? 

Chris Hadnagy’s job involves breaking into banks. But he’s not after money, gold or jewels. He’s searching for weaknesses – in systems, in security, and in people.  And he doesn’t use weapons or threats of violence to get past guards and into vaults. He uses a smile - and a few tricks from his toolbox of psychology and social engineering techniques. Chris is the founder and CEO of Social Engineer LLC and lectures about social engineering around the globe. On All in the Mind this week, the psychology of influence and what makes some people more vulnerable to being ‘hacked’ than others. [This episode originally aired on 01 August 2021]

Chris Hadnagy’s job involves breaking into banks. But he’s not after money, gold or jewels. He’s searching for weaknesses – in systems, in security, and in people.  And he doesn’t use weapons or threats of violence to get past guards and into vaults. He uses a smile - and a few tricks from his toolbox of psychology and social engineering techniques. Chris is the founder and CEO of Social Engineer LLC and lectures about social engineering around the globe. On All in the Mind this week, the psychology of influence and what makes some people more vulnerable to being ‘hacked’ than others. [This episode originally aired on 01 August 2021]

Why do we laugh, and what makes something funny? A psychologist, a neuroscientist and satirist Mark Humphries weigh in on humour and the brain.

Why do we laugh, and what makes something funny? A psychologist, a neuroscientist and satirist Mark Humphries weigh in on humour and the brain.

An excerpt from a new ABC podcast called What the Duck?! Each week the ABC's resident nature nerd Ann Jones explores the most unusual elements of our natural world — the ones that make you go What the Duck?!

An excerpt from a new ABC podcast called What the Duck?! Each week the ABC's resident nature nerd Ann Jones explores the most unusual elements of our natural world — the ones that make you go What the Duck?!

Spicy food, scary movies, BDSM … why do humans sometimes chase painful experiences and how are they linked to pleasure?

Spicy food, scary movies, BDSM … why do humans sometimes chase painful experiences and how are they linked to pleasure?

Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, is tricky to pick up at the doctor's office and impossible to cure. And for those who live with the condition, their families and their carers, the situation can be very challenging. On All in the Mind this week, we hear from those people and a researcher who has spent decades working on the condition.

Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, is tricky to pick up at the doctor's office and impossible to cure. And for those who live with the condition, their families and their carers, the situation can be very challenging. On All in the Mind this week, we hear from those people and a researcher who has spent decades working on the condition.

What happens when we let our most destructive emotion dominate? On All in the Mind this week, we explore why we get angry, how you might control aggression and whether it can ever be ... useful.

What happens when we let our most destructive emotion dominate? On All in the Mind this week, we explore why we get angry, how you might control aggression and whether it can ever be ... useful.

We're urged to stay positive and keep up a cheerful disposition ... but sometimes things are just awful, aren’t they? On All in the Mind this week we look at why we engage in toxic positivity, why it's so damaging when we do and whether something called 'tragic optimism' could be the antidote.

We're urged to stay positive and keep up a cheerful disposition ... but sometimes things are just awful, aren’t they? On All in the Mind this week we look at why we engage in toxic positivity, why it's so damaging when we do and whether something called 'tragic optimism' could be the antidote.

Most of us have an inner voice – it reminds you to pick up milk on your way home, helps problem solve, or rehearse what you’re going to say. But there are times that helpful voice veers into harmful chatter.  

Most of us have an inner voice – it reminds you to pick up milk on your way home, helps problem solve, or rehearse what you’re going to say. But there are times that helpful voice veers into harmful chatter.  

You’ve heard of adrenaline, oxytocin and cortisol, but what about glutamate and GABA? And how much do you really know about the chemicals coursing through your brain? On All in the Mind this week, we take a whistle stop tour through your brain to learn how various chemicals influence our behaviour.

You’ve heard of adrenaline, oxytocin and cortisol, but what about glutamate and GABA? And how much do you really know about the chemicals coursing through your brain? On All in the Mind this week, we take a whistle stop tour through your brain to learn how various chemicals influence our behaviour.

Having a baby is supposed to be a joyous time, despite the sleep deprivation and constant crying. But for many women, it can be a dark time. We know one in six suffer post partum depression, but there's another condition that affects women during this period that you may not have heard of. It's called post-partum psychosis. It's rare, but for those who get it, it can be utterly debilitating. This episode was first broadcast on 25 April 2021.

Having a baby is supposed to be a joyous time, despite the sleep deprivation and constant crying. But for many women, it can be a dark time. We know one in six suffer post partum depression, but there's another condition that affects women during this period that you may not have heard of. It's called post-partum psychosis. It's rare, but for those who get it, it can be utterly debilitating. This episode was first broadcast on 25 April 2021.

How would you describe your parents? Nobody's perfect, of course, but some parents leave more of a mark than others. On All in the Mind this week, we look at the life-long impact of having 'emotionally immature' parents. This episode was first broadcast on 30 May 2021.

How would you describe your parents? Nobody's perfect, of course, but some parents leave more of a mark than others. On All in the Mind this week, we look at the life-long impact of having 'emotionally immature' parents. This episode was first broadcast on 30 May 2021.

Have you ever tried a self-help book? Did it… well, help? On All in the Mind this week, why self-help sometimes falls short ... and the problem with pop psychology more generally.

Have you ever tried a self-help book? Did it… well, help? On All in the Mind this week, why self-help sometimes falls short ... and the problem with pop psychology more generally.

One spring weekend a few years back, around 15 people gathered in a south Melbourne office space. They were mostly neuroscience and maths types and there for something super niche and somewhat nerdy — the Australian Memory Championships. Anastasia Woolmer was a first time competitor — but she’d go on to win. On All in the Mind, she explains the techniques memory athletes use, and how you can apply them to everyday life. This episode was first broadcast on 30 May 2021.

One spring weekend a few years back, around 15 people gathered in a south Melbourne office space. They were mostly neuroscience and maths types and there for something super niche and somewhat nerdy — the Australian Memory Championships. Anastasia Woolmer was a first time competitor — but she’d go on to win. On All in the Mind, she explains the techniques memory athletes use, and how you can apply them to everyday life. This episode was first broadcast on 30 May 2021.

It’s the lightest metal on the periodic table. Its origins lie in the very beginnings of our universe. And it's taken, in the form of a pill, by thousands of Australians every day. Join us as we dive deep into the story of this wonder element lithium — the magic ion, as it's sometimes called — and its remarkable impact on mood. This episode was first broadcast on 28 March 2021.

It’s the lightest metal on the periodic table. Its origins lie in the very beginnings of our universe. And it's taken, in the form of a pill, by thousands of Australians every day. Join us as we dive deep into the story of this wonder element lithium — the magic ion, as it's sometimes called — and its remarkable impact on mood. This episode was first broadcast on 28 March 2021.

How many times in a day are you doing just one thing? Or is it more common that you’re multitasking – maybe texting and walking? Reading while listening to music? We all multitask to some degree, but do any of us do it well? And is that even possible? This week on All in the Mind, we look into the science of multitasking – why we struggle to do it, why some of us are better at it than others – and how to do it effectively if you must

How many times in a day are you doing just one thing? Or is it more common that you’re multitasking – maybe texting and walking? Reading while listening to music? We all multitask to some degree, but do any of us do it well? And is that even possible? This week on All in the Mind, we look into the science of multitasking – why we struggle to do it, why some of us are better at it than others – and how to do it effectively if you must

Major trials are bringing us a step closer to seeing psychedelic substances used in therapy practice for PTSD, anxiety and depression. On this episode of All in the Mind, we take a look at where the research is currently at. 

Major trials are bringing us a step closer to seeing psychedelic substances used in therapy practice for PTSD, anxiety and depression. On this episode of All in the Mind, we take a look at where the research is currently at. 

We all have resentments in our lives, big or small. How can we move past the feeling and even repair relationships that get bogged down in resentment? The answer may have something to do with ... gratitude.

We all have resentments in our lives, big or small. How can we move past the feeling and even repair relationships that get bogged down in resentment? The answer may have something to do with ... gratitude.

What role does dopamine play in cycles of addiction — and how might we use that knowledge to break them?

What role does dopamine play in cycles of addiction — and how might we use that knowledge to break them?

Career, family, relationships - how do we think about big decisions and in turn how do they shape our lives? And what makes a 'good decision?' On All in the Mind this week, we hear from three people who have faced big life decisions and an expert who researches life's choices and how we can make better ones.

Career, family, relationships - how do we think about big decisions and in turn how do they shape our lives? And what makes a 'good decision?' On All in the Mind this week, we hear from three people who have faced big life decisions and an expert who researches life's choices and how we can make better ones.

Are your colleagues rude? Do people regularly ignore each other or dismiss opinions in meeting? Ever gotten an all caps email? On All in the Mind this week, we examine the toxic effects of rude behaviour. And are we getting more rude as a society?

Are your colleagues rude? Do people regularly ignore each other or dismiss opinions in meeting? Ever gotten an all caps email? On All in the Mind this week, we examine the toxic effects of rude behaviour. And are we getting more rude as a society?

What goes on in the multilingual mind? And what does it mean to 'lose' your language? Author and linguist Julie Sedivy with a story of losing – and re-discovering – her native language.

What goes on in the multilingual mind? And what does it mean to 'lose' your language? Author and linguist Julie Sedivy with a story of losing – and re-discovering – her native language.

Habits are notoriously hard to change—exercising more often, practising calmness, getting healthy—it all takes time and effort. So perhaps you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a way to get habits into your routine. We talk with Bernard Balleine, Director of the Decision Neuroscience Lab at UNSW; and with B J Fogg, founder of the Behaviour Design Lab at Stanford University about his new book Tiny Habits. 

Habits are notoriously hard to change—exercising more often, practising calmness, getting healthy—it all takes time and effort. So perhaps you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a way to get habits into your routine. We talk with Bernard Balleine, Director of the Decision Neuroscience Lab at UNSW; and with B J Fogg, founder of the Behaviour Design Lab at Stanford University about his new book Tiny Habits. 

With restrictions easing around the country, we wanted to know how you've survived the past year and a half - what's gotten you through and what you can't wait to do next. On All in the Mind this week, we turn the show over to you, our listeners, and hear your pandemic survival stories.

With restrictions easing around the country, we wanted to know how you've survived the past year and a half - what's gotten you through and what you can't wait to do next. On All in the Mind this week, we turn the show over to you, our listeners, and hear your pandemic survival stories.

Have you ever realised you were dreaming ... while in the middle of a dream? Lucid dreams are a common phenomenon, but many people don't realise that these surreal experiences of slumber can be influenced or controlled. On All in the Mind this week, we explore the world of dreams, hear some of the latest research in the area and learn the best ways to induce lucid dreaming.

Have you ever realised you were dreaming ... while in the middle of a dream? Lucid dreams are a common phenomenon, but many people don't realise that these surreal experiences of slumber can be influenced or controlled. On All in the Mind this week, we explore the world of dreams, hear some of the latest research in the area and learn the best ways to induce lucid dreaming.

Are you the kind of person who loves chatting to strangers? Like people in cafes, parks or the train? Or does the thought of small talk make you cringe? On All in the Mind this week, we cover a growing body of research on how talking to strangers can make you feel happier, more connected to your community and less lonely.

Are you the kind of person who loves chatting to strangers? Like people in cafes, parks or the train? Or does the thought of small talk make you cringe? On All in the Mind this week, we cover a growing body of research on how talking to strangers can make you feel happier, more connected to your community and less lonely.

Wellbeing' has become a bit of a buzz word recently, but what does it really mean? It's not the same as simply being happy, or experiencing pleasure -  it's something deeper and broader  than that. It has to do with how we connect with others, how we feel about ourselves, and much more. So what do we need in order to achieve wellbeing?

Wellbeing' has become a bit of a buzz word recently, but what does it really mean? It's not the same as simply being happy, or experiencing pleasure -  it's something deeper and broader  than that. It has to do with how we connect with others, how we feel about ourselves, and much more. So what do we need in order to achieve wellbeing?

We're working on an episode about how Australians have been coping through the pandemic, and we want your stories. We want to know what’s been getting you through the tough times, and what you’re most looking forward to when this is all behind us. How can you tell us?  You just need to use your smartphone to record yourself telling a story. It can be sad, happy, funny, weird -- like maybe you got a new hobby, or re-discovered an old one, or made an unexpected friend, and that helped get you through. Maybe you’re looking forward to travelling the world, seeing your children again … or just a cold beer at the pub. Whatever it is, put it into a voice recording, and we’ll share it in a special episode of All in the Mind. To record: Find a quiet room and open up the voice memo app on your smartphone. If you don't have one installed, search for a voice memo app in your app store. Hold the phone's microphone (located at the base of the phone) about 15-20cm from your mouth. Press the red 'record' button and share your thoughts. Once you're finished, hit the record button again to stop, then press done and save the recording with a name. If you're unhappy with what you've recorded, just re-do it. When you've got your recording, you should be able to 'send' or 'share' it via email to mind_rn@abc.net.au. Remember to include your name and the area you live so we can credit you on the podcast.

We're working on an episode about how Australians have been coping through the pandemic, and we want your stories. We want to know what’s been getting you through the tough times, and what you’re most looking forward to when this is all behind us. How can you tell us?  You just need to use your smartphone to record yourself telling a story. It can be sad, happy, funny, weird -- like maybe you got a new hobby, or re-discovered an old one, or made an unexpected friend, and that helped get you through. Maybe you’re looking forward to travelling the world, seeing your children again … or just a cold beer at the pub. Whatever it is, put it into a voice recording, and we’ll share it in a special episode of All in the Mind. To record: Find a quiet room and open up the voice memo app on your smartphone. If you don't have one installed, search for a voice memo app in your app store. Hold the phone's microphone (located at the base of the phone) about 15-20cm from your mouth. Press the red 'record' button and share your thoughts. Once you're finished, hit the record button again to stop, then press done and save the recording with a name. If you're unhappy with what you've recorded, just re-do it. When you've got your recording, you should be able to 'send' or 'share' it via email to mind_rn@abc.net.au. Remember to include your name and the area you live so we can credit you on the podcast.

Have you heard of ASMR? Whispery, clicky, crinkly videos are massive on YouTube - racking up millions of views. The idea is that these sounds elicit a certain tingly, calming sensation in some people. So what is ASMR and what does the science tell us about it? Is it real … or pseudoscience? And why do some people get the opposite reaction – irritation rather than these pleasant tingles?

Have you heard of ASMR? Whispery, clicky, crinkly videos are massive on YouTube - racking up millions of views. The idea is that these sounds elicit a certain tingly, calming sensation in some people. So what is ASMR and what does the science tell us about it? Is it real … or pseudoscience? And why do some people get the opposite reaction – irritation rather than these pleasant tingles?

Do you consider yourself a shrewd manipulator? Are you cynical about the nature of human beings? If so, you might rank highly in Machiavellianism - a personality trait that's based on the writing and views of Niccolo Machiavelli, the 16th-century Italian political philosopher. We look at what makes a Machiavellian personality, and how it fits into the so called ‘dark triad’ of traits.

Do you consider yourself a shrewd manipulator? Are you cynical about the nature of human beings? If so, you might rank highly in Machiavellianism - a personality trait that's based on the writing and views of Niccolo Machiavelli, the 16th-century Italian political philosopher. We look at what makes a Machiavellian personality, and how it fits into the so called ‘dark triad’ of traits.

During pregnancy and then in childbirth, new mums experience some dramatic hormonal changes. But while these changes in women are relatively well studied … there’s a growing body of evidence finding that biological changes - shifts in hormones and brain activity - happen in men, too. And these shifts are just one part of the picture. Men can also experience mental health issues when they become a new dad, like postnatal depression. On All in the Mind this week, the psychological and biological changes that happen during the transition to fatherhood.

During pregnancy and then in childbirth, new mums experience some dramatic hormonal changes. But while these changes in women are relatively well studied … there’s a growing body of evidence finding that biological changes - shifts in hormones and brain activity - happen in men, too. And these shifts are just one part of the picture. Men can also experience mental health issues when they become a new dad, like postnatal depression. On All in the Mind this week, the psychological and biological changes that happen during the transition to fatherhood.

As the pandemic continues, the long-term effects of COVID-19 are a growing concern. Much is still unknown, but one major study suggests up to a third of people who get COVID-19 will go on to develop a psychiatric or neurological condition. Then there's the anxiety, depression and stigma that come with a diagnosis of the disease. On All in the Mind this week, how COVID can affect the brain.

As the pandemic continues, the long-term effects of COVID-19 are a growing concern. Much is still unknown, but one major study suggests up to a third of people who get COVID-19 will go on to develop a psychiatric or neurological condition. Then there's the anxiety, depression and stigma that come with a diagnosis of the disease. On All in the Mind this week, how COVID can affect the brain.

ECT has a chequered history, but its modern iteration is nothing like the scenes depicted in films like One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Used to treat severe depression and psychosis, ECT's side effects include some degree of memory loss. We delve into the discussion around benefits vs side effects, and speak to three patients about their varying degrees of success with the treatment.

ECT has a chequered history, but its modern iteration is nothing like the scenes depicted in films like One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Used to treat severe depression and psychosis, ECT's side effects include some degree of memory loss. We delve into the discussion around benefits vs side effects, and speak to three patients about their varying degrees of success with the treatment.

Would you be able to tell the difference between a bargain bin red and a top drop? Or how about what separates a duck paté … from one made of dog food? Perception is everything when it comes to marketing, and decades of neuroscience and psychology research have given businesses ever greater insights into how we can make decisions and how they can subtly shape our expectations so that yes – even dog food paté can become appealing. But the ramifications of this power may be pushing companies into unethical territory.

Would you be able to tell the difference between a bargain bin red and a top drop? Or how about what separates a duck paté … from one made of dog food? Perception is everything when it comes to marketing, and decades of neuroscience and psychology research have given businesses ever greater insights into how we can make decisions and how they can subtly shape our expectations so that yes – even dog food paté can become appealing. But the ramifications of this power may be pushing companies into unethical territory.

You’re no doubt familiar with 'hostile sexism' – blatantly negative or restrictive attitudes towards women. But there's another type of sexism it co-exists with - ‘benevolent sexism’ - which is sometimes harder to detect. Benevolent sexism can be well-meaning and positive – describing women as natural nurturers or brilliant carers. It's linked to notions of chivalry and romance - research suggests some women even find benevolent sexism attractive. But these attitudes can still cause major harm to women in the workplace and the home.

You’re no doubt familiar with 'hostile sexism' – blatantly negative or restrictive attitudes towards women. But there's another type of sexism it co-exists with - ‘benevolent sexism’ - which is sometimes harder to detect. Benevolent sexism can be well-meaning and positive – describing women as natural nurturers or brilliant carers. It's linked to notions of chivalry and romance - research suggests some women even find benevolent sexism attractive. But these attitudes can still cause major harm to women in the workplace and the home.

Over the past two decades, our cultural understanding of autism and what it means to be autistic has grown - though we have a long way to go. But there are entire generations of people who grew up when the popular conception of autism was a far cry from how it’s now understood. It meant a whole host of people who grew up feeling like they didn’t fit in, but never quite knowing why. They were autistic, but undiagnosed. And when a diagnosis did come as an adult – it was often revelatory and life-changing. On All in the Mind this week, 'hidden histories’ of late-diagnosed autistic adults.

Over the past two decades, our cultural understanding of autism and what it means to be autistic has grown - though we have a long way to go. But there are entire generations of people who grew up when the popular conception of autism was a far cry from how it’s now understood. It meant a whole host of people who grew up feeling like they didn’t fit in, but never quite knowing why. They were autistic, but undiagnosed. And when a diagnosis did come as an adult – it was often revelatory and life-changing. On All in the Mind this week, 'hidden histories’ of late-diagnosed autistic adults.

Chris Hadnagy’s job involves breaking into banks. But he’s not after money, gold or jewels. He’s searching for weaknesses – in systems, in security, and in people.  And he doesn’t use weapons or threats of violence to get past guards and into vaults. He uses a smile - and a few tricks from his toolbox of psychology and social engineering techniques. Chris is the founder and CEO of Social Engineer LLC and lectures about social engineering around the globe. On All in the Mind this week, the psychology of influence and what makes some people more vulnerable to being ‘hacked’ than others.

Chris Hadnagy’s job involves breaking into banks. But he’s not after money, gold or jewels. He’s searching for weaknesses – in systems, in security, and in people.  And he doesn’t use weapons or threats of violence to get past guards and into vaults. He uses a smile - and a few tricks from his toolbox of psychology and social engineering techniques. Chris is the founder and CEO of Social Engineer LLC and lectures about social engineering around the globe. On All in the Mind this week, the psychology of influence and what makes some people more vulnerable to being ‘hacked’ than others.

It’s a condition which affects some patients who end up in intensive care …  and can continue after they’re released from hospital. People often experience paranoia and fear, sometimes believing doctors are trying to kill them or that ghostly figures have visited during the night. Disrupted sleep, bright lights, the endless beeping of alarms — all are thought to play a role in bringing on the condition. On All in the Mind this week, delirium in the ICU – and how our hospital system might be redesigned to reduce it. 

It’s a condition which affects some patients who end up in intensive care …  and can continue after they’re released from hospital. People often experience paranoia and fear, sometimes believing doctors are trying to kill them or that ghostly figures have visited during the night. Disrupted sleep, bright lights, the endless beeping of alarms — all are thought to play a role in bringing on the condition. On All in the Mind this week, delirium in the ICU – and how our hospital system might be redesigned to reduce it. 

Tom Vanderbilt didn’t know how to play chess. That fact had never bothered him – until his four-year-old daughter decided she wanted to have a go. Within a couple of months, they’d recruited a teacher and both Tom and his daughter combo were battling it out over 64 squares. Tom found the experience of being an adult beginner so challenging and interesting he thought he'd give it a proper go - with a range of different skills and hobbies. Over the next year he embarked on learning multiple new skills, from surfing to singing. On All in the Mind this week, we hear what Tom learnt from his journey, the benefits of lifelong learning, and how kids and adults learn differently.

Tom Vanderbilt didn’t know how to play chess. That fact had never bothered him – until his four-year-old daughter decided she wanted to have a go. Within a couple of months, they’d recruited a teacher and both Tom and his daughter combo were battling it out over 64 squares. Tom found the experience of being an adult beginner so challenging and interesting he thought he'd give it a proper go - with a range of different skills and hobbies. Over the next year he embarked on learning multiple new skills, from surfing to singing. On All in the Mind this week, we hear what Tom learnt from his journey, the benefits of lifelong learning, and how kids and adults learn differently.

More than a year after the novel coronavirus pushed much of the world into lockdown, a generation of new mothers are still coming to terms with having been pregnant - and giving birth - in a pandemic. And if you consider the uncertainty of the past year, the stress, the isolation - there are lots of reasons to be concerned about the impact that might have had on new mums, as well as their babies. On All in the Mind this week, we delve into new research on the impact of the pandemic on new mothers, and hear from mums about the trials, and occasional triumphs, of life in a lockdown limbo.

More than a year after the novel coronavirus pushed much of the world into lockdown, a generation of new mothers are still coming to terms with having been pregnant - and giving birth - in a pandemic. And if you consider the uncertainty of the past year, the stress, the isolation - there are lots of reasons to be concerned about the impact that might have had on new mums, as well as their babies. On All in the Mind this week, we delve into new research on the impact of the pandemic on new mothers, and hear from mums about the trials, and occasional triumphs, of life in a lockdown limbo.

From 2008 to 2018, the prescription of antidepressants in young people grew by 66 per cent. There’s data to suggest that last year, among the lockdowns and anxiety of the pandemic, that figure ticked even higher. In last week’s episode we looked at how the mental health of teenagers fared through the first year of the coronavirus pandemic. This week, another big issue among teenagers and young people - antidepressant medications. We hear from young people themselves about their mental health journeys, what it’s like to be on anti-depressants and their hopes for the future. And we cover the findings from a major review into antidepressant use in young people. 

From 2008 to 2018, the prescription of antidepressants in young people grew by 66 per cent. There’s data to suggest that last year, among the lockdowns and anxiety of the pandemic, that figure ticked even higher. In last week’s episode we looked at how the mental health of teenagers fared through the first year of the coronavirus pandemic. This week, another big issue among teenagers and young people - antidepressant medications. We hear from young people themselves about their mental health journeys, what it’s like to be on anti-depressants and their hopes for the future. And we cover the findings from a major review into antidepressant use in young people. 

Your teenage years can be tumultuous, but did you know that half of all mental conditions in adulthood emerge by the age of 14? And on top of regular stressors like school and relationships, teens today have social media to contend with – and a little something called the global coronavirus pandemic. On All in the Mind this week, we speak to experts – and teens – about how young people fared last year.

Your teenage years can be tumultuous, but did you know that half of all mental conditions in adulthood emerge by the age of 14? And on top of regular stressors like school and relationships, teens today have social media to contend with – and a little something called the global coronavirus pandemic. On All in the Mind this week, we speak to experts – and teens – about how young people fared last year.

There's a condition so bizarre and rare that most doctors haven't even heard of it. It causes people to hear their own blood moving, bones creaking, lungs breathing -  even eyeballs moving. Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome can have a profound impact on a person's life and mental health... so can it be fixed? We go into a hospital operating room to learn about this little-known condition. Warning: this episode contains a description of a surgical operation. This episode first aired on 29 March 2020.

There's a condition so bizarre and rare that most doctors haven't even heard of it. It causes people to hear their own blood moving, bones creaking, lungs breathing -  even eyeballs moving. Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome can have a profound impact on a person's life and mental health... so can it be fixed? We go into a hospital operating room to learn about this little-known condition. Warning: this episode contains a description of a surgical operation. This episode first aired on 29 March 2020.

Have you ever tried a self-help book? Did it… well, help? On All in the Mind this week, why self-help sometimes falls short ... and the problem with pop psychology more generally.

Have you ever tried a self-help book? Did it… well, help? On All in the Mind this week, why self-help sometimes falls short ... and the problem with pop psychology more generally.

On All in the Mind this week, the guru playbook and why we should get smart to their tactics.

On All in the Mind this week, the guru playbook and why we should get smart to their tactics.

Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use to recall names, facts and figures, and how you can apply them to everyday life.

Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use to recall names, facts and figures, and how you can apply them to everyday life.

Are you good at recognising voices?

Are you good at recognising voices?

From the Beatles to the Backstreet Boys, Taylor Swift to BTS – music changes, but screaming fans never seem to fade.

From the Beatles to the Backstreet Boys, Taylor Swift to BTS – music changes, but screaming fans never seem to fade.

How would you describe your parents? Nobody's perfect, but some parents leave more of a mark than others.

How would you describe your parents? Nobody's perfect, but some parents leave more of a mark than others.

Virtual reality technology is increasingly being used as a form of therapy – treating everything from the depressive symptoms of dementia to the paranoia people develop as part of psychosis.

Virtual reality technology is increasingly being used as a form of therapy – treating everything from the depressive symptoms of dementia to the paranoia people develop as part of psychosis.

Having a baby is supposed to be a joyous time, despite the sleep deprivation and constant crying. But for many women, it's an extremely vulnerable period.

Having a baby is supposed to be a joyous time, despite the sleep deprivation and constant crying. But for many women, it's an extremely vulnerable period.

Dr Richard Taylor is a forensic psychiatrist — and he’s assessed well over a hundred accused killers in his career.

Dr Richard Taylor is a forensic psychiatrist — and he’s assessed well over a hundred accused killers in his career.

For two decades of Hannah Byford’s life, she kept a secret. When things at home got too much to bear, she’d retreat to an imagined life, inside her head — an elaborate daydream.

For two decades of Hannah Byford’s life, she kept a secret. When things at home got too much to bear, she’d retreat to an imagined life, inside her head — an elaborate daydream.

A few years back, Dr Toni Sturdivant was looking for a preschool for her three-year-old daughter. After considering a few schools around their Texas suburb, she thought she’d found the perfect place.

A few years back, Dr Toni Sturdivant was looking for a preschool for her three-year-old daughter. After considering a few schools around their Texas suburb, she thought she’d found the perfect place.

It’s the lightest metal on the periodic table. Its origins lie in the very beginnings of our universe. And it's taken, in the form of a pill, by thousands of Australians every day.

It’s the lightest metal on the periodic table. Its origins lie in the very beginnings of our universe. And it's taken, in the form of a pill, by thousands of Australians every day.

Graham doesn't think I am broken, but I still suspect I might be.

Graham doesn't think I am broken, but I still suspect I might be.

How to collect your tears, the existential angst of the shampoo aisle, and the boy returns.

How to collect your tears, the existential angst of the shampoo aisle, and the boy returns.

We have 60,000 thoughts each day. I will try to track every single one of them.

We have 60,000 thoughts each day. I will try to track every single one of them.

There are no good snack options in psych hospital. And it’s really hard to not look crazy.

There are no good snack options in psych hospital. And it’s really hard to not look crazy.

Hunting for a psychiatrist is a lot like hunting for 'The One'. Only much more expensive and with a tiny dating pool.

Hunting for a psychiatrist is a lot like hunting for 'The One'. Only much more expensive and with a tiny dating pool.

We all have that voice in our head. The one that is brutally honest. It’s a good thing, right? Except when it really isn’t.

We all have that voice in our head. The one that is brutally honest. It’s a good thing, right? Except when it really isn’t.

On All in the Mind, we look at the problems in Victoria's mental health system and what needs to change going forward.

On All in the Mind, we look at the problems in Victoria's mental health system and what needs to change going forward.

Our relationship with music begins at birth, if not before, and plays a role in the formation of our identity when we are young. Now a heart-warming movement called Music & Memory is creating personalised music playlists for residents with dementia in nursing homes—who use their mobile device to hear it.

Our relationship with music begins at birth, if not before, and plays a role in the formation of our identity when we are young. Now a heart-warming movement called Music & Memory is creating personalised music playlists for residents with dementia in nursing homes—who use their mobile device to hear it.

The corpus callosum links one side of our brain to the other. It’s not essential for survival, but in some people it’s missing or malformed, causing quite mild to extreme disabilities. The good news is that research is now revealing that it holds intriguing secrets about brain plasticity. This program was first broadcast in May 2016.

The corpus callosum links one side of our brain to the other. It’s not essential for survival, but in some people it’s missing or malformed, causing quite mild to extreme disabilities. The good news is that research is now revealing that it holds intriguing secrets about brain plasticity. This program was first broadcast in May 2016.

Most people tend to think of autism as a male disorder, and the character in the film Rain Man often comes to mind. But emerging research shows that girls often have different symptoms which cause them to slip through the net. This program was originally broadcast in June 2015,

Most people tend to think of autism as a male disorder, and the character in the film Rain Man often comes to mind. But emerging research shows that girls often have different symptoms which cause them to slip through the net. This program was originally broadcast in June 2015,

Warning: some listeners may find aspects of this program confronting. The compelling account of a woman who lived with dissociative identity disorder—and how she eventually became integrated.

Warning: some listeners may find aspects of this program confronting. The compelling account of a woman who lived with dissociative identity disorder—and how she eventually became integrated.

If you were given a date from the last five years could you say what day of the week it was? One young woman in Australia can remember every single day of her life since she was born. We hear about her life and the research she’s involved with—as a single participant.

If you were given a date from the last five years could you say what day of the week it was? One young woman in Australia can remember every single day of her life since she was born. We hear about her life and the research she’s involved with—as a single participant.

Turn on, tune in and drop out … that was the catch cry of U.S. psychologist Timothy Leary in the 1960s. By 1966 psychedelics were demonised and banned, but now—in controlled scientific settings—there's a psychedelic 'renaissance' in mental health therapy. Early research on the use of ecstasy in the treatment of stress disorders looks promising.

Turn on, tune in and drop out … that was the catch cry of U.S. psychologist Timothy Leary in the 1960s. By 1966 psychedelics were demonised and banned, but now—in controlled scientific settings—there's a psychedelic 'renaissance' in mental health therapy. Early research on the use of ecstasy in the treatment of stress disorders looks promising.

Being a parent can be very rewarding, but if you are managing your own mental health you may not be able to be the parent you’d like to be. It can be sad and confusing for kids too—and they often take on a caring role.

Being a parent can be very rewarding, but if you are managing your own mental health you may not be able to be the parent you’d like to be. It can be sad and confusing for kids too—and they often take on a caring role.

For some people the number six is red and music evokes a range of colours and shapes. Seeing sounds and hearing colours is one type of synesthesia—where the senses are crossed.  Meet an 11-year-old girl who was surprised to find out that not everyone sees colourful auras around people, and who feels that numbers have colours and personalities.

For some people the number six is red and music evokes a range of colours and shapes. Seeing sounds and hearing colours is one type of synesthesia—where the senses are crossed.  Meet an 11-year-old girl who was surprised to find out that not everyone sees colourful auras around people, and who feels that numbers have colours and personalities.

Anxiety is an essential human emotion—it kicks in to protect us from threats—but sometimes those threats are only perceived. When worries start to become overwhelming, approximately 25 per cent of us experience clinical anxiety. But it is highly treatable. A ten-year-old girl and a 30-year-old man share their anxious thoughts and their strategies to manage them. 

Anxiety is an essential human emotion—it kicks in to protect us from threats—but sometimes those threats are only perceived. When worries start to become overwhelming, approximately 25 per cent of us experience clinical anxiety. But it is highly treatable. A ten-year-old girl and a 30-year-old man share their anxious thoughts and their strategies to manage them. 

At the age of 12 Martin Pistorius developed a mysterious neurological illness. He fell into a coma and was unable to move or communicate. It was assumed he had no awareness but a couple of years later he began to wake up—yet no-one knew. He was trapped inside his body for almost 10 years until he found a way to communicate. Using computer-generated voice technology he tells us about how he coped with this terrifying ordeal, and how he found the love of his life.

At the age of 12 Martin Pistorius developed a mysterious neurological illness. He fell into a coma and was unable to move or communicate. It was assumed he had no awareness but a couple of years later he began to wake up—yet no-one knew. He was trapped inside his body for almost 10 years until he found a way to communicate. Using computer-generated voice technology he tells us about how he coped with this terrifying ordeal, and how he found the love of his life.

Scientists and philosophers have been perplexed by our sense of the self for millennia. Now, by investigating neurological conditions which disrupt the self—such as body identity disorder, schizophrenia, and the doppelganger effect—neuroscience is finding new clues.

Scientists and philosophers have been perplexed by our sense of the self for millennia. Now, by investigating neurological conditions which disrupt the self—such as body identity disorder, schizophrenia, and the doppelganger effect—neuroscience is finding new clues.

As part of our program about Resilience, Lynne spoke with former Olympian - and now medical doctor - Jana Pittman. We thought you'd like to hear the full interview.

As part of our program about Resilience, Lynne spoke with former Olympian - and now medical doctor - Jana Pittman. We thought you'd like to hear the full interview.

As Lynne Malcolm gets ready for life outside the ABC, she’s been thinking about how all of us cope with changes and challenges, and how our sense of ourselves is influenced by our surroundings. This has become even more relevant for us as we get through the COVID-19 pandemic.

As Lynne Malcolm gets ready for life outside the ABC, she’s been thinking about how all of us cope with changes and challenges, and how our sense of ourselves is influenced by our surroundings. This has become even more relevant for us as we get through the COVID-19 pandemic.

What happens in our brain when we make assumptions about people who don’t seem to be like us – when they may look, speak, or behave differently. And can brain science help us to override our potential prejudices? I explore some research on this topic, which specifically looks at how we perceive other people, animals, and things outside ourselves - such as technology.

What happens in our brain when we make assumptions about people who don’t seem to be like us – when they may look, speak, or behave differently. And can brain science help us to override our potential prejudices? I explore some research on this topic, which specifically looks at how we perceive other people, animals, and things outside ourselves - such as technology.

The rate of suicide in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is double that of non-Indigenous people in Australia, and it’s reached a crisis point – particularly amongst the young.  In this NAIDOC week 2020 we hear from researchers and practitioners, and those with lived experience about the best strategies to stem the tide of indigenous suicide  

The rate of suicide in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is double that of non-Indigenous people in Australia, and it’s reached a crisis point – particularly amongst the young.  In this NAIDOC week 2020 we hear from researchers and practitioners, and those with lived experience about the best strategies to stem the tide of indigenous suicide  

Folk wisdom suggests that playing ‘hard to get’ can help you attract a potential partner. But many psychologists have been skeptical about whether it does have an effect in dating. Over the past few years several new studies on the effect have aimed to pin down the rare circumstances where it might actually be effective.

Folk wisdom suggests that playing ‘hard to get’ can help you attract a potential partner. But many psychologists have been skeptical about whether it does have an effect in dating. Over the past few years several new studies on the effect have aimed to pin down the rare circumstances where it might actually be effective.

Lynne Malcolm's extended interview with Timothy Carey about how he applies his perspective on control to address inequality in Rwandan society.

Lynne Malcolm's extended interview with Timothy Carey about how he applies his perspective on control to address inequality in Rwandan society.

We all have a natural need for a sense of control in our lives – but the over-controlling kind can get out of hand. People with a psychopathic personality disorder are highly skilled in manipulative techniques – which can wreak havoc if you’re on the receiving end. But every-day controlling behaviour may be getting an unfair bad rap – and may be essential for our wellbeing.

We all have a natural need for a sense of control in our lives – but the over-controlling kind can get out of hand. People with a psychopathic personality disorder are highly skilled in manipulative techniques – which can wreak havoc if you’re on the receiving end. But every-day controlling behaviour may be getting an unfair bad rap – and may be essential for our wellbeing.

Claims about human psychology and behaviour in top international journals are largely based on the WEIRDest people in the world. People from Western Educated Industrialised Rich Democratic - or WEIRD - societies are widely used as research subjects, but the assumption that they represent a universal human population may be vastly wrong, and skew psychological research. More cultural psychology could be the answer.

Claims about human psychology and behaviour in top international journals are largely based on the WEIRDest people in the world. People from Western Educated Industrialised Rich Democratic - or WEIRD - societies are widely used as research subjects, but the assumption that they represent a universal human population may be vastly wrong, and skew psychological research. More cultural psychology could be the answer.

The mind contains everything we think and feel – our experiences are created by the brain, mostly without our awareness. This makes it pretty much impossible to fully know the mind of others. Research shows that, to ensure our survival, the brain constantly attempts to predict what will happen next.

The mind contains everything we think and feel – our experiences are created by the brain, mostly without our awareness. This makes it pretty much impossible to fully know the mind of others. Research shows that, to ensure our survival, the brain constantly attempts to predict what will happen next.

When you're near coriander or parmesan cheese, do you smell fresh sweetness or vomit and soap?

When you're near coriander or parmesan cheese, do you smell fresh sweetness or vomit and soap?

Can you rewire your brain to recover from depression?

Can you rewire your brain to recover from depression?

What small changes can we make in our daily lives to improve our mental health?

What small changes can we make in our daily lives to improve our mental health?

When two strangers meet, how do they figure out whether to trust one another?

When two strangers meet, how do they figure out whether to trust one another?

Tara Lal was engulfed by grief after the loss of her mother and brother, but found in her brother's diaries her reason to keep going.

Tara Lal was engulfed by grief after the loss of her mother and brother, but found in her brother's diaries her reason to keep going.

Even big diseases start small... PATIENT ZERO is a new podcast that tells the stories of disease outbreaks: where they begin, why they happen and how we found ourselves in the middle of a really big one. Over four episodes the team follow the aftermath of a natural disaster, reset the timeline of one of Australia's most devastating epidemics, get to the bottom of a shocking medical mystery, and do their best to keep pace with the new normal. PATIENT ZERO is a co-production of ABC Science and Radio National. To check it out, search for "RN Presents Patient Zero" on the ABC Listen app, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Even big diseases start small... PATIENT ZERO is a new podcast that tells the stories of disease outbreaks: where they begin, why they happen and how we found ourselves in the middle of a really big one. Over four episodes the team follow the aftermath of a natural disaster, reset the timeline of one of Australia's most devastating epidemics, get to the bottom of a shocking medical mystery, and do their best to keep pace with the new normal. PATIENT ZERO is a co-production of ABC Science and Radio National. To check it out, search for "RN Presents Patient Zero" on the ABC Listen app, or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you’re having particularly vivid dreams during this CoVID pandemic then you’re not alone. But your dreams may collectively say something about broader society. Across the globe from Italy to Australia, social dreamers have been meeting in Zoom matrices, to share dreams and gain insights. It’s like a megaphone from the unconscious..

If you’re having particularly vivid dreams during this CoVID pandemic then you’re not alone. But your dreams may collectively say something about broader society. Across the globe from Italy to Australia, social dreamers have been meeting in Zoom matrices, to share dreams and gain insights. It’s like a megaphone from the unconscious..

Many of us have had more vivid dreams and nightmares during this global pandemic. A multinational study is set to find out how COVID-19 is affecting our dreams, and whether changes to our inner consciousness could affect our mental health. Along the way researchers will investigate the mysteries of why we dream, why they are often so bizarre, and whether there’s really a difference between dreams during sleep and mind wandering. 

Many of us have had more vivid dreams and nightmares during this global pandemic. A multinational study is set to find out how COVID-19 is affecting our dreams, and whether changes to our inner consciousness could affect our mental health. Along the way researchers will investigate the mysteries of why we dream, why they are often so bizarre, and whether there’s really a difference between dreams during sleep and mind wandering. 

Shame is a painful feeling of humiliation caused by bad or foolish behaviour and can affect our mental health. This is seen particularly in the rise of anxiety and of self-harm. But public shame - especially in our digital age - can be a strong tool to regulate our social behaviour. 

Shame is a painful feeling of humiliation caused by bad or foolish behaviour and can affect our mental health. This is seen particularly in the rise of anxiety and of self-harm. But public shame - especially in our digital age - can be a strong tool to regulate our social behaviour. 

An extra to our recent episode about spinal cord injury research where we heard from surfer Sam Bloom. Sam's beautiful and lively personality made us want to share the whole interview.

An extra to our recent episode about spinal cord injury research where we heard from surfer Sam Bloom. Sam's beautiful and lively personality made us want to share the whole interview.

Around 350 Australians are affected by spinal cord injury each year. Sam leant against a balcony railing and fell six meters; James had a rare injury while learning to surf. Both were left paraplegic. But cutting-edge research may bring back sensation, and even assist people like them walk again.  A baby magpie and a commitment to investigation help to bring hope.

Around 350 Australians are affected by spinal cord injury each year. Sam leant against a balcony railing and fell six meters; James had a rare injury while learning to surf. Both were left paraplegic. But cutting-edge research may bring back sensation, and even assist people like them walk again.  A baby magpie and a commitment to investigation help to bring hope.

As mentioned in yesterday's program, here’s a taste of one of the Culture Dose sessions called 'Joy in everyday life'. Head to our program webapge for a brief meditative exercise with Katherine Boydell from the Black Dog Institute, then Access Programs Producer at the Art Gallery of NSW, Danielle Gullotta, guides the viewer through the painting.

As mentioned in yesterday's program, here’s a taste of one of the Culture Dose sessions called 'Joy in everyday life'. Head to our program webapge for a brief meditative exercise with Katherine Boydell from the Black Dog Institute, then Access Programs Producer at the Art Gallery of NSW, Danielle Gullotta, guides the viewer through the painting.

In this time of social isolation, many of us have turned to getting creative...baking bread, picking up a paintbrush, or checking out online theatre performances and virtual gallery tours. Now there’s research on whether prescribing art could help with mental health conditions, such as depression. Take a dose of culture for your wellbeing. 

In this time of social isolation, many of us have turned to getting creative...baking bread, picking up a paintbrush, or checking out online theatre performances and virtual gallery tours. Now there’s research on whether prescribing art could help with mental health conditions, such as depression. Take a dose of culture for your wellbeing. 

Charles Bonnet Syndrome is sometimes called the ‘plaything of the brain’ for the blind and visually impaired. The syndrome isn’t associated with mental illness or dementia, yet people with it are able to ‘see’ things — like little wriggling children in pink and white pyjamas, or a goat riding on a bike through their lounge room.

Charles Bonnet Syndrome is sometimes called the ‘plaything of the brain’ for the blind and visually impaired. The syndrome isn’t associated with mental illness or dementia, yet people with it are able to ‘see’ things — like little wriggling children in pink and white pyjamas, or a goat riding on a bike through their lounge room.

We could never have guessed the impact that the Covid-19 pandemic would have on us. We’re all affected in different ways but the need to stay physically distant from one another has highlighted the importance of human connection, empathy, and kindness. We hear about the research showing that strong social networks will keep us living longer than any fitness tracker or superfood. And one man’s determination to promote kindness throughout the world after a family tragedy.

We could never have guessed the impact that the Covid-19 pandemic would have on us. We’re all affected in different ways but the need to stay physically distant from one another has highlighted the importance of human connection, empathy, and kindness. We hear about the research showing that strong social networks will keep us living longer than any fitness tracker or superfood. And one man’s determination to promote kindness throughout the world after a family tragedy.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) has a chequered history, but its modern iteration is nothing like the scenes depicted in films like One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Used to treat severe depression and psychosis, ECT's side effects include some degree of memory loss. We delve into the discussion around benefits vs side effects, and speak to three patients about their varying degrees of success with the treatment.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) has a chequered history, but its modern iteration is nothing like the scenes depicted in films like One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Used to treat severe depression and psychosis, ECT's side effects include some degree of memory loss. We delve into the discussion around benefits vs side effects, and speak to three patients about their varying degrees of success with the treatment.

It’s hard to know how to look after your mental health at a time like this. But what happens if that’s something you were already struggling with, before the pandemic hit? 

It’s hard to know how to look after your mental health at a time like this. But what happens if that’s something you were already struggling with, before the pandemic hit? 

In Zimbabwe mental health has become a very big challenge, yet there are fewer than 20 psychiatrists in a population of over 14 million people. To help create accessible and effective care, psychiatrist Dr Dixon Chibanda began a talk-based cognitive behavioural therapy called Friendship Benches: training grandmothers to become health workers for their communities. Presenter Kim Chakanetsa hears the grandmothers are having astounding results, and recent clinical trials found they are more effective than conventional medical treatments. Dixon Chibanda is also moving his idea online and giving the world access to a virtual Friendship Bench. A BBC World Service program produced for The Documentary Part of the ABC's Your Mental Health initiative, in partnership with Lifeline and Kids Helpline, to support Australians during this challenging time.

In Zimbabwe mental health has become a very big challenge, yet there are fewer than 20 psychiatrists in a population of over 14 million people. To help create accessible and effective care, psychiatrist Dr Dixon Chibanda began a talk-based cognitive behavioural therapy called Friendship Benches: training grandmothers to become health workers for their communities. Presenter Kim Chakanetsa hears the grandmothers are having astounding results, and recent clinical trials found they are more effective than conventional medical treatments. Dixon Chibanda is also moving his idea online and giving the world access to a virtual Friendship Bench. A BBC World Service program produced for The Documentary Part of the ABC's Your Mental Health initiative, in partnership with Lifeline and Kids Helpline, to support Australians during this challenging time.

If recently you’ve been poring over old photos and reminiscing, then you’re not alone. Take heart in learning that nostalgic reminiscing may be an effective strategy to cope with isolation, and perhaps to combat anxiety. But it’s a paradoxical emotion because it can be both sad and uplifting.

If recently you’ve been poring over old photos and reminiscing, then you’re not alone. Take heart in learning that nostalgic reminiscing may be an effective strategy to cope with isolation, and perhaps to combat anxiety. But it’s a paradoxical emotion because it can be both sad and uplifting.

At night our brain can have adventures. Even if they're fully asleep, some people end up sleep walking or sleep driving! The neuroscience of nightmares and dreaming—and what they can tell us about the workings of our brain. This program was originally broadcast in June 2019.

At night our brain can have adventures. Even if they're fully asleep, some people end up sleep walking or sleep driving! The neuroscience of nightmares and dreaming—and what they can tell us about the workings of our brain. This program was originally broadcast in June 2019.

Do you consider yourself a shrewd manipulator? Are you cynical about the nature of human beings? If so, you might rank highly in Machiavellianism - a personality trait that's based on the writing and views of Niccolo Machiavelli, the 16th-century Italian political philosopher. We look at what makes a Machiavellian personality, and how it fits into the so called ‘dark triad’ of traits.

Do you consider yourself a shrewd manipulator? Are you cynical about the nature of human beings? If so, you might rank highly in Machiavellianism - a personality trait that's based on the writing and views of Niccolo Machiavelli, the 16th-century Italian political philosopher. We look at what makes a Machiavellian personality, and how it fits into the so called ‘dark triad’ of traits.

Dr Mark Cross understands anxiety viscerally. Not only is he a psychiatrist, he’s also lived with the condition nearly all his life. And he’s made the decision to be open about his struggle – a rare move for a doctor. His latest book is called ‘Anxiety: Expert Advice from a Neurotic Shrink Who’s Lived With Anxiety All His Life’'.

Dr Mark Cross understands anxiety viscerally. Not only is he a psychiatrist, he’s also lived with the condition nearly all his life. And he’s made the decision to be open about his struggle – a rare move for a doctor. His latest book is called ‘Anxiety: Expert Advice from a Neurotic Shrink Who’s Lived With Anxiety All His Life’'.

All in the Mind has become a big fan of the new ABC audio series Nature Track. It's been made by ABC producer Ann Jones - who, as well as making the Radio National program Off Track, has been collecting wildlife and nature recordings from all over Australia and the world. And now you can hear these pristine sounds wherever you are ... anywhere. Nature Track comprises five soundscapes of varying durations, five chances to give yourself the space you need. No music, no voice, just nature. Sana talks with Ann about her wish to share her recordings, and she brings us a sample of the first one - from Wiluna, WA, on the lands of the Martu people. It’s gorgeous, arid country about 960km east of Perth. You can find more on the ABC Science You Tube channel - and via the Off Track podcast feed.

All in the Mind has become a big fan of the new ABC audio series Nature Track. It's been made by ABC producer Ann Jones - who, as well as making the Radio National program Off Track, has been collecting wildlife and nature recordings from all over Australia and the world. And now you can hear these pristine sounds wherever you are ... anywhere. Nature Track comprises five soundscapes of varying durations, five chances to give yourself the space you need. No music, no voice, just nature. Sana talks with Ann about her wish to share her recordings, and she brings us a sample of the first one - from Wiluna, WA, on the lands of the Martu people. It’s gorgeous, arid country about 960km east of Perth. You can find more on the ABC Science You Tube channel - and via the Off Track podcast feed.

In Australia there are an estimated 17,000 Stolen Generations survivors, and a lack of culturally relevant mental health services is a major barrier to healing for many of them. Now programs led by Indigenous communities themselves are helping people to confront and move past their trauma. We talk with Stolen Generations survivor Aunty Lorraine Peeters, whose life experience led to a pioneering healing program, and became part of a groundswell of Indigenous-led solutions to address trauma. And Indigenous psychologist Kelleigh Ryan describes the challenges to supporting culturally appropriate healing. Presented as part of Reconciliation Week 2020, and the ABC's Walking Together initiative.

In Australia there are an estimated 17,000 Stolen Generations survivors, and a lack of culturally relevant mental health services is a major barrier to healing for many of them. Now programs led by Indigenous communities themselves are helping people to confront and move past their trauma. We talk with Stolen Generations survivor Aunty Lorraine Peeters, whose life experience led to a pioneering healing program, and became part of a groundswell of Indigenous-led solutions to address trauma. And Indigenous psychologist Kelleigh Ryan describes the challenges to supporting culturally appropriate healing. Presented as part of Reconciliation Week 2020, and the ABC's Walking Together initiative.

Last week we heard about the different shades of boredom that people can experience in a dull moment. Although it’s considered a broadly negative emotion, believe it or not, it seems boredom can sometimes be beneficial - especially when it lets us daydream. Some research suggests it can even promote our creativity. But do people differ in how they experience boredom? Are some more likely to be able to benefit from getting bored? 

Last week we heard about the different shades of boredom that people can experience in a dull moment. Although it’s considered a broadly negative emotion, believe it or not, it seems boredom can sometimes be beneficial - especially when it lets us daydream. Some research suggests it can even promote our creativity. But do people differ in how they experience boredom? Are some more likely to be able to benefit from getting bored? 

Many Australians have reported a higher level of boredom during the long stretch of isolation brought about by COVID-19. So, if you have felt some boredom, was it good or bad? Psychologists believe they’ve classified several different shades of the beast and not all are bad. So we check out ways to embrace the better versions.

Many Australians have reported a higher level of boredom during the long stretch of isolation brought about by COVID-19. So, if you have felt some boredom, was it good or bad? Psychologists believe they’ve classified several different shades of the beast and not all are bad. So we check out ways to embrace the better versions.

What ultimately drives human behaviour? A leading professor of psychology, Michele Gelfand, suggests that culture is one of the last uncharted frontiers. From her pioneering research into cultural and social norms she’s found an important distinction between tight and loose cultures, and their tendency to make or break rules. These social norms or informal rules of conduct determine whether we co-operate or come into conflict, at both the collective and individual levels. This program was first broadcast in June 2019

What ultimately drives human behaviour? A leading professor of psychology, Michele Gelfand, suggests that culture is one of the last uncharted frontiers. From her pioneering research into cultural and social norms she’s found an important distinction between tight and loose cultures, and their tendency to make or break rules. These social norms or informal rules of conduct determine whether we co-operate or come into conflict, at both the collective and individual levels. This program was first broadcast in June 2019

Over the past few weeks many of us have been living more isolated lives than we’re used to. We might not be in government-mandated quarantine but there’s no doubt that COVID-19 has upended our social lives. Yet isolation can be deeply troubling for humans because we’re social animals; and that’s just as true in our current circumstances as it is in very extreme forms of isolation.

Over the past few weeks many of us have been living more isolated lives than we’re used to. We might not be in government-mandated quarantine but there’s no doubt that COVID-19 has upended our social lives. Yet isolation can be deeply troubling for humans because we’re social animals; and that’s just as true in our current circumstances as it is in very extreme forms of isolation.

Sharing with you one of the ABC's other great podcasts. Join Jan Fran and friends as they take life’s prickly bits and make them sweeter and easier to deal with.

Sharing with you one of the ABC's other great podcasts. Join Jan Fran and friends as they take life’s prickly bits and make them sweeter and easier to deal with.

If you’ve noticed a change in your mental well-being over the past few weeks you’re not alone.  As the effects of the pandemic and the conditions of isolation begin to be take hold, many Australians are searching for support for the first time in their lives. So if you choose to ask for help, how do you take the first steps. 

If you’ve noticed a change in your mental well-being over the past few weeks you’re not alone.  As the effects of the pandemic and the conditions of isolation begin to be take hold, many Australians are searching for support for the first time in their lives. So if you choose to ask for help, how do you take the first steps. 

The uncertainty, isolation, and danger posed by the Coronavirus pandemic affects the mental health of many people - but for those on the frontline, all of those feelings can be heightened. We talk to health professionals who have been managing their own panic attacks and anxiety. 

The uncertainty, isolation, and danger posed by the Coronavirus pandemic affects the mental health of many people - but for those on the frontline, all of those feelings can be heightened. We talk to health professionals who have been managing their own panic attacks and anxiety. 

Growing older is something we only get to do if we’re lucky, so why are so many of us unenthusiastic about the prospect of ageing? We speak to neuroscientist and author Dan Levitin about his new book The Changing Mind, which looks at the ways the brain actually improves as we age, and how we can help it. 

Growing older is something we only get to do if we’re lucky, so why are so many of us unenthusiastic about the prospect of ageing? We speak to neuroscientist and author Dan Levitin about his new book The Changing Mind, which looks at the ways the brain actually improves as we age, and how we can help it. 

Design and creativity really can work together. We talk with a design critic and a product design educator who both have an interest in toys - their history, and how they’re created and assessed in the real world. Get your blocks ready to play along. 

Design and creativity really can work together. We talk with a design critic and a product design educator who both have an interest in toys - their history, and how they’re created and assessed in the real world. Get your blocks ready to play along. 

There's a condition so bizarre and rare that most doctors haven't even heard of it - it's called Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome and it causes people to hear their blood moving, bones creaking, lungs breathing and even eyeballs moving. It can have a profound impact on a person's life and mental health. So can it be fixed? We go into a hospital operating room to learn about this little-known condition. Warning: this episode contains a description of a surgical operation.

There's a condition so bizarre and rare that most doctors haven't even heard of it - it's called Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome and it causes people to hear their blood moving, bones creaking, lungs breathing and even eyeballs moving. It can have a profound impact on a person's life and mental health. So can it be fixed? We go into a hospital operating room to learn about this little-known condition. Warning: this episode contains a description of a surgical operation.

Believe it or not … a Formula 1 car can be driven by someone just using their brain. We consider the neurogeneration: people who in the future are likely to be using some kind of brain-powered technology to do their job or to extend their knowledge. But we don’t leave the past behind, there’s also a peek into the brain collection of Cornell University.

Believe it or not … a Formula 1 car can be driven by someone just using their brain. We consider the neurogeneration: people who in the future are likely to be using some kind of brain-powered technology to do their job or to extend their knowledge. But we don’t leave the past behind, there’s also a peek into the brain collection of Cornell University.

We all know that certain diseases are contagious, but sometimes behaviour is contagious as well. We take a look at some historical examples—such as the Tanganyika laughter epidemic of 1962, and the 1518 case of uncontrollable dancing—and we consider what might drive copycat crimes. There's also the possibility of suicide contagion. Trigger warning: this episode touches on the subject of suicide, please take care while listening.

We all know that certain diseases are contagious, but sometimes behaviour is contagious as well. We take a look at some historical examples—such as the Tanganyika laughter epidemic of 1962, and the 1518 case of uncontrollable dancing—and we consider what might drive copycat crimes. There's also the possibility of suicide contagion. Trigger warning: this episode touches on the subject of suicide, please take care while listening.

Habits are notoriously hard to change—exercising more often, practising calmness, getting healthy—it all takes time and effort. So perhaps you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a way to get habits into your routine. We talk with Bernard Balleine, Director of the Decision Neuroscience Lab at UNSW; and with B J Fogg, founder of the Behaviour Design Lab at Stanford University about his new book Tiny Habits. 

Habits are notoriously hard to change—exercising more often, practising calmness, getting healthy—it all takes time and effort. So perhaps you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a way to get habits into your routine. We talk with Bernard Balleine, Director of the Decision Neuroscience Lab at UNSW; and with B J Fogg, founder of the Behaviour Design Lab at Stanford University about his new book Tiny Habits. 

How good are you at imagining or hearing music in your head? Can you think of the tune to ‘Happy Birthday’ and bring the notes to mind without actually singing? We consider the mind’s musical ear and what it reveals about us. And ... earworms—those pesky songs stuck in your head—where they come from and persuading them to leave.

How good are you at imagining or hearing music in your head? Can you think of the tune to ‘Happy Birthday’ and bring the notes to mind without actually singing? We consider the mind’s musical ear and what it reveals about us. And ... earworms—those pesky songs stuck in your head—where they come from and persuading them to leave.

When it comes to pseudoscience you might consider yourself to be a sceptic But don’t give yourself too much credit because we’re all vulnerable to believing dubious claims. This is because of powerful cognitive biases in the brain—and we could actually be satisfied with quite shallow explanations for things—and for being suckers for pseudoscience. 

When it comes to pseudoscience you might consider yourself to be a sceptic But don’t give yourself too much credit because we’re all vulnerable to believing dubious claims. This is because of powerful cognitive biases in the brain—and we could actually be satisfied with quite shallow explanations for things—and for being suckers for pseudoscience. 

Indigenous people in Australia are having a very difficult time finding a psychologist who understands Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history. Sometimes Indigenous patients seeking treatment have been denied a voice, and the reality of their situation. There are about 800,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia, but only 218 Indigenous psychologists. Australia needs more of them—and we look at what many mainstream psychologists fail to understand about Indigenous patients.

Indigenous people in Australia are having a very difficult time finding a psychologist who understands Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history. Sometimes Indigenous patients seeking treatment have been denied a voice, and the reality of their situation. There are about 800,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia, but only 218 Indigenous psychologists. Australia needs more of them—and we look at what many mainstream psychologists fail to understand about Indigenous patients.

Dr Rebecca Gelding is a cognitive scientist who investigates what is going on in the brain as people imagine musical pitch and rhythm. As part of the series This Sounds Like Science, you can explore music on a different level in a free lunchtime event by Dr Gelding, presented by City Recital Hall and Inspiring Australia. In an upcoming program, All in the Mind will feature an interview by Sana Qadar with Dr Gelding, so stay tuned—in the meantime, here's a short extract about some topics being discussed at her talk on Tuesday, 18 February, at the City Recital Hall.

Dr Rebecca Gelding is a cognitive scientist who investigates what is going on in the brain as people imagine musical pitch and rhythm. As part of the series This Sounds Like Science, you can explore music on a different level in a free lunchtime event by Dr Gelding, presented by City Recital Hall and Inspiring Australia. In an upcoming program, All in the Mind will feature an interview by Sana Qadar with Dr Gelding, so stay tuned—in the meantime, here's a short extract about some topics being discussed at her talk on Tuesday, 18 February, at the City Recital Hall.

At some point in your career there’s a good chance that you’ll cross paths with a workplace bully. If you do, it can have a profound impact on your well-being and mental health. But why do bullies do it and what motivates them? And do corporate psychopaths fit into the picture? We take a look at the personality and organisational factors that play a role in workplace bullying.

At some point in your career there’s a good chance that you’ll cross paths with a workplace bully. If you do, it can have a profound impact on your well-being and mental health. But why do bullies do it and what motivates them? And do corporate psychopaths fit into the picture? We take a look at the personality and organisational factors that play a role in workplace bullying.

While presenter Lynne Malcolm takes a short break, the program will be presented by Sana Qadar—looking forward to your continued company for 2020.

While presenter Lynne Malcolm takes a short break, the program will be presented by Sana Qadar—looking forward to your continued company for 2020.

We used to believe that babies and young children had irrational and naive thinking skills. Developments in psychology and neuroscience now reveal that infants are actually smarter, more thoughtful, and have a different consciousness to adults. Children’s exploratory and creative style of thinking may even inform improved AI design.

We used to believe that babies and young children had irrational and naive thinking skills. Developments in psychology and neuroscience now reveal that infants are actually smarter, more thoughtful, and have a different consciousness to adults. Children’s exploratory and creative style of thinking may even inform improved AI design.

Questions about whether we are masters of our own destiny and if we really have free will have puzzled philosophers and scientists for many years. Now neuroscience is challenging much of what we thought we knew about ourselves—from how much our pre-birth experience affects our later lives, to how we make decisions and form our own reality.

Questions about whether we are masters of our own destiny and if we really have free will have puzzled philosophers and scientists for many years. Now neuroscience is challenging much of what we thought we knew about ourselves—from how much our pre-birth experience affects our later lives, to how we make decisions and form our own reality.

When you’re waiting in a queue there are various ways to bide your time: chat to someone, gaze off into the distance, or check your phone. The science of human interaction tells us that the impact on your brain and body is vastly different depending on your choice. Live person-to-person connection changes us and the society we live in, so it’s in our best interests to use technology sensibly. This program was first broadcast in June 2019.

When you’re waiting in a queue there are various ways to bide your time: chat to someone, gaze off into the distance, or check your phone. The science of human interaction tells us that the impact on your brain and body is vastly different depending on your choice. Live person-to-person connection changes us and the society we live in, so it’s in our best interests to use technology sensibly. This program was first broadcast in June 2019.

Picture this—an Australian journalist sitting near a squat toilet under the only light in the prison cell he shares with 140 others, writing pages of notes about happiness. After 15 months in a notorious Cambodian prison, for a crime he denies, James Ricketson shares his insights into his personal experience in Prey Sar prison—and his new reflections on the state of happiness. Please note that this episode contains a small amount of strong language This program was first broadcast in July 2019

Picture this—an Australian journalist sitting near a squat toilet under the only light in the prison cell he shares with 140 others, writing pages of notes about happiness. After 15 months in a notorious Cambodian prison, for a crime he denies, James Ricketson shares his insights into his personal experience in Prey Sar prison—and his new reflections on the state of happiness. Please note that this episode contains a small amount of strong language This program was first broadcast in July 2019

Would you be comfortable with a Huntsman spider crawling on your arm, or a python slithering over your shoulder? Not many of us would, but when this discomfort causes you so much anxiety that it interferes with your daily life – it’s become a phobia. But there is treatment, and virtual reality can assist.

Would you be comfortable with a Huntsman spider crawling on your arm, or a python slithering over your shoulder? Not many of us would, but when this discomfort causes you so much anxiety that it interferes with your daily life – it’s become a phobia. But there is treatment, and virtual reality can assist.

Smart people are not only just as prone to making mistakes as everyone else—they may even be more susceptible to them. This idea has been dubbed the Intelligence Trap. It explains the flaws in our understanding of intelligence and expertise, and how the decisions of even the brightest minds and talented organisations can backfire.

Smart people are not only just as prone to making mistakes as everyone else—they may even be more susceptible to them. This idea has been dubbed the Intelligence Trap. It explains the flaws in our understanding of intelligence and expertise, and how the decisions of even the brightest minds and talented organisations can backfire.

The connection between our minds and bodies determines our health and well-being, and the rate at which our cells age and die can be influenced by lifestyle choices. We hear about keeping our genes in good order by protecting our telomeres—a buffer zone at each end of our chromosomes. We'll also hear about a mindfulness-based intervention which could really help millions of extremely traumatised displaced people around the world. This program was first broadcast in August 2019

The connection between our minds and bodies determines our health and well-being, and the rate at which our cells age and die can be influenced by lifestyle choices. We hear about keeping our genes in good order by protecting our telomeres—a buffer zone at each end of our chromosomes. We'll also hear about a mindfulness-based intervention which could really help millions of extremely traumatised displaced people around the world. This program was first broadcast in August 2019

Dementia affects around 450,000 Australians, and it comes in hundreds of forms. New research reveals that one form of dementia takes away the ability to daydream, and this has implications for improved care. Sleep disruption in middle age also emerges as another risk factor. And we hear how, after diagnosis, one person found a meaningful role in breaking down the stigma of dementia.

Dementia affects around 450,000 Australians, and it comes in hundreds of forms. New research reveals that one form of dementia takes away the ability to daydream, and this has implications for improved care. Sleep disruption in middle age also emerges as another risk factor. And we hear how, after diagnosis, one person found a meaningful role in breaking down the stigma of dementia.

Music deeply affects us emotionally, and individually—and now we know that our relationship with music provides a unique opportunity to gain further insight into the workings of the brain itself. We discuss the latest in music research with one of the editors of The Oxford Handbook of Music and the Brain. Hear about why we may prefer particular types of music, how being a musician can change the brain over time, and what happens to our musicality as we age. 

Music deeply affects us emotionally, and individually—and now we know that our relationship with music provides a unique opportunity to gain further insight into the workings of the brain itself. We discuss the latest in music research with one of the editors of The Oxford Handbook of Music and the Brain. Hear about why we may prefer particular types of music, how being a musician can change the brain over time, and what happens to our musicality as we age. 

There’s more and more scientific evidence that climate change is having a major impact on our planet. Recently more than 11,000 scientists across the world declared a climate emergency, and many of us are experiencing grief, anxiety and powerlessness about the future. We discuss the connection between climate change and mental health, and the strategies we need to maintain hope and take action.

There’s more and more scientific evidence that climate change is having a major impact on our planet. Recently more than 11,000 scientists across the world declared a climate emergency, and many of us are experiencing grief, anxiety and powerlessness about the future. We discuss the connection between climate change and mental health, and the strategies we need to maintain hope and take action.

What we see, hear, and feel as a child affects us later in life—and our brain is changed by childhood traumas. A leading Canadian psychiatrist is working to understand how childhood harm can impair brain development and affect mental health, in the hope of effective treatment. And we hear about an intervention which can improve educational outcomes for vulnerable children.

What we see, hear, and feel as a child affects us later in life—and our brain is changed by childhood traumas. A leading Canadian psychiatrist is working to understand how childhood harm can impair brain development and affect mental health, in the hope of effective treatment. And we hear about an intervention which can improve educational outcomes for vulnerable children.

Even when it gets the go-ahead, research on sex and the brain is still highly stigmatised—yet there is still so much to learn. Sometimes a brain injury or disease causes hypersexuality, or a change of sexual preference; orgasm can cause a brain aneurysm to rupture, and the latter becomes more likely if it’s sex with someone other than your usual partner.

Even when it gets the go-ahead, research on sex and the brain is still highly stigmatised—yet there is still so much to learn. Sometimes a brain injury or disease causes hypersexuality, or a change of sexual preference; orgasm can cause a brain aneurysm to rupture, and the latter becomes more likely if it’s sex with someone other than your usual partner.

The trauma of war and displacement has a negative impact on the mental health of hundreds of thousands of refugees around the world. Australian researchers recently travelled to a large refugee camp in Bangladesh* where around 500,000 Rohingya people are living. The researchers found that sports and exercise programs make a huge difference to these refugees' physical and mental health, and to their well-being. *There are around 900,000 Rohingya refugees now living in Bangladesh

The trauma of war and displacement has a negative impact on the mental health of hundreds of thousands of refugees around the world. Australian researchers recently travelled to a large refugee camp in Bangladesh* where around 500,000 Rohingya people are living. The researchers found that sports and exercise programs make a huge difference to these refugees' physical and mental health, and to their well-being. *There are around 900,000 Rohingya refugees now living in Bangladesh

In English there's no single word to describe an anxiety about how much aeroplane flight is damaging our environment. But in Swedish the word for this anxiety is 'flygskam'. And perhaps, having a word for this specific emotion may change the way we think about it  Come on our tour of culture and language to explore some strange destinations and untranslatable emotions.

In English there's no single word to describe an anxiety about how much aeroplane flight is damaging our environment. But in Swedish the word for this anxiety is 'flygskam'. And perhaps, having a word for this specific emotion may change the way we think about it  Come on our tour of culture and language to explore some strange destinations and untranslatable emotions.

Our guest, Rhonda Macken, tells her remarkable story—a testament to the power of human creativity and resilience in the face of unimaginable childhood trauma. Rhonda created a complex jigsaw of multiple personalities as protection against her harsh reality. Now in her 70s, and after years of intense psychotherapy, she's fully integrated and enjoying the love of her family.

Our guest, Rhonda Macken, tells her remarkable story—a testament to the power of human creativity and resilience in the face of unimaginable childhood trauma. Rhonda created a complex jigsaw of multiple personalities as protection against her harsh reality. Now in her 70s, and after years of intense psychotherapy, she's fully integrated and enjoying the love of her family.

Is an enlightened planet possible? Co-writers of a new film and book called The Portal say it is—through the power of collective meditation. They share personal stories of inspiring individuals who have come through adversity by reflecting inwards, using meditation.  Hope for humankind may lie in the cumulative effect of individual meditation and whether mindfulness can promote empathy.

Is an enlightened planet possible? Co-writers of a new film and book called The Portal say it is—through the power of collective meditation. They share personal stories of inspiring individuals who have come through adversity by reflecting inwards, using meditation.  Hope for humankind may lie in the cumulative effect of individual meditation and whether mindfulness can promote empathy.

The Big Anxiety festival uses the arts and lived experience to re-imagine mental health. Through creativity and innovative technology, empathy replaces fear and stigma. Virtual reality worlds open up to an optimistic future and offer insight from ancient indigenous stories.

The Big Anxiety festival uses the arts and lived experience to re-imagine mental health. Through creativity and innovative technology, empathy replaces fear and stigma. Virtual reality worlds open up to an optimistic future and offer insight from ancient indigenous stories.

Gabby was on an emotional roller-coaster, feeling empty and needy. After lashing out in anger, she’d regret it and say sorry over and over again. Her partner, Eliza, felt like she was walking on eggshells, always fearful of arousing Gabby’s intense emotions. Gabby was diagnosed with the highly stigmatised Borderline Personality Disorder. They share their journey together to a calmer and happier life. ** Trigger warning: please note that this interview contains references to self-harm, abuse, and violence**

Gabby was on an emotional roller-coaster, feeling empty and needy. After lashing out in anger, she’d regret it and say sorry over and over again. Her partner, Eliza, felt like she was walking on eggshells, always fearful of arousing Gabby’s intense emotions. Gabby was diagnosed with the highly stigmatised Borderline Personality Disorder. They share their journey together to a calmer and happier life. ** Trigger warning: please note that this interview contains references to self-harm, abuse, and violence**

When Tim was 11 years old he created his own superhero. Laser Beak Man now appears in colourful artworks showing Tim’s unique sense of humour connected to his literal understanding of language. And when Oakley was 5 years old he drew a pirate, inspiring his mother to write a kids’ book to raise understanding about autism and difference.

When Tim was 11 years old he created his own superhero. Laser Beak Man now appears in colourful artworks showing Tim’s unique sense of humour connected to his literal understanding of language. And when Oakley was 5 years old he drew a pirate, inspiring his mother to write a kids’ book to raise understanding about autism and difference.

Meet an Australian philosopher and cultural analyst who spent 20 years of his life addicted to just about every drug you could imagine. His best work was done when he was enveloped in haze of cannabis smoke, he prowled local pharmacies to score large doses of codeine, and drank until he lost consciousness. Amazingly he lives to eloquently share his insights into the thought processes of an addict.

Meet an Australian philosopher and cultural analyst who spent 20 years of his life addicted to just about every drug you could imagine. His best work was done when he was enveloped in haze of cannabis smoke, he prowled local pharmacies to score large doses of codeine, and drank until he lost consciousness. Amazingly he lives to eloquently share his insights into the thought processes of an addict.

Anxiety is an essential human emotion—it kicks in to protect us from threats—but sometimes those threats are only perceived. When worries start to become overwhelming, approximately 25 per cent of us experience clinical anxiety. But it is highly treatable. A ten-year-old girl and a 30-year-old man share their anxious thoughts and their strategies to manage them. 

Anxiety is an essential human emotion—it kicks in to protect us from threats—but sometimes those threats are only perceived. When worries start to become overwhelming, approximately 25 per cent of us experience clinical anxiety. But it is highly treatable. A ten-year-old girl and a 30-year-old man share their anxious thoughts and their strategies to manage them. 

The art of talking and listening in therapy can be powerful and transformative. The talking cure has changed since Freudian psychoanalysis, but evidence is building that the therapeutic relationship can have deep and lasting benefits. Two leading psychotherapists reveal the common dynamics that can interrupt our sense of well-being, through characters based on real-life case studies.

The art of talking and listening in therapy can be powerful and transformative. The talking cure has changed since Freudian psychoanalysis, but evidence is building that the therapeutic relationship can have deep and lasting benefits. Two leading psychotherapists reveal the common dynamics that can interrupt our sense of well-being, through characters based on real-life case studies.

Our perception of the world is significantly affected by the language we speak. Indigenous languages from around Australia pose a vastly different perspective of the world than that of English. We explore how these languages influence perceptions of self, kinship and the natural world.

Our perception of the world is significantly affected by the language we speak. Indigenous languages from around Australia pose a vastly different perspective of the world than that of English. We explore how these languages influence perceptions of self, kinship and the natural world.

Are you paying attention? It’s not as simple as it sounds because our focus is constantly being pulled in different directions. Good attention skills are crucial for the development of other cognitive abilities, but a concerning number of children have difficulties to a clinical level, such as those seen in ADHD and autism. The common treatment is medication but there are training interventions which are proving effective. 

Are you paying attention? It’s not as simple as it sounds because our focus is constantly being pulled in different directions. Good attention skills are crucial for the development of other cognitive abilities, but a concerning number of children have difficulties to a clinical level, such as those seen in ADHD and autism. The common treatment is medication but there are training interventions which are proving effective. 

Watson and Crick saw the structure of DNA in a spiral staircase, and Newton understood gravity in the falling of an apple—but all human beings regularly experience flashes of inspiration, seemingly out of nowhere. Insight researchers want to know more about the nature of the so-called ‘a-ha moment’, so they are setting us a citizen science challenge. Find out what they know already, and how you can contribute to the science of creativity. And we hear from a neuroscientist whose recent research shows that the most creative people have superior connectivity between three distinct brain regions. 

Watson and Crick saw the structure of DNA in a spiral staircase, and Newton understood gravity in the falling of an apple—but all human beings regularly experience flashes of inspiration, seemingly out of nowhere. Insight researchers want to know more about the nature of the so-called ‘a-ha moment’, so they are setting us a citizen science challenge. Find out what they know already, and how you can contribute to the science of creativity. And we hear from a neuroscientist whose recent research shows that the most creative people have superior connectivity between three distinct brain regions. 

The connection between our minds and bodies determines our health and well-being, and the rate at which our cells age and die can be influenced by lifestyle choices. We hear about keeping our genes in good order by protecting our telomeres—a buffer zone at each end of our chromosomes. We'll also hear about a mindfulness-based intervention which could really help millions of extremely traumatised displaced people around the world.

The connection between our minds and bodies determines our health and well-being, and the rate at which our cells age and die can be influenced by lifestyle choices. We hear about keeping our genes in good order by protecting our telomeres—a buffer zone at each end of our chromosomes. We'll also hear about a mindfulness-based intervention which could really help millions of extremely traumatised displaced people around the world.

In 1966, as a reaction to disturbing reports of people having bad trips, the psychedelic drug LSD was banned in the U.S. Now some scientists are seeing promising results from studies into the therapeutic benefits of using psychedelic drugs to treat mental illness.

In 1966, as a reaction to disturbing reports of people having bad trips, the psychedelic drug LSD was banned in the U.S. Now some scientists are seeing promising results from studies into the therapeutic benefits of using psychedelic drugs to treat mental illness.

Turn on, tune in, and drop out … that was the catchcry of U.S. psychologist Timothy Leary in the 1960s. By 1966 psychedelics were demonised and banned, but now—in controlled scientific settings—there's a psychedelic 'renaissance' in mental health therapy. Early research on the use of ecstasy in the treatment of stress disorders looks promising.

Turn on, tune in, and drop out … that was the catchcry of U.S. psychologist Timothy Leary in the 1960s. By 1966 psychedelics were demonised and banned, but now—in controlled scientific settings—there's a psychedelic 'renaissance' in mental health therapy. Early research on the use of ecstasy in the treatment of stress disorders looks promising.

Picture this—an Australian journalist sitting near a squat toilet under the only light in the prison cell he shares with 140 others, writing pages of notes about happiness. After 15 months in a notorious Cambodian prison, for a crime he denies, James Ricketson shares his insights into his personal experience in Prey Sar prison—and his new reflections on the state of happiness. Please note that this episode contains a small amount of strong language

Picture this—an Australian journalist sitting near a squat toilet under the only light in the prison cell he shares with 140 others, writing pages of notes about happiness. After 15 months in a notorious Cambodian prison, for a crime he denies, James Ricketson shares his insights into his personal experience in Prey Sar prison—and his new reflections on the state of happiness. Please note that this episode contains a small amount of strong language

Do you prefer ‘vibrate on’ or ‘vibrate off’? Well, either way—heads up, as we explore the world of haptics. To get the best information from whatever you choose to touch, haptic sensing involves a lot of neural effort. We'll hear about how this sensing has been examined in the past, as well as some speculation on where haptics might go in the future.

Do you prefer ‘vibrate on’ or ‘vibrate off’? Well, either way—heads up, as we explore the world of haptics. To get the best information from whatever you choose to touch, haptic sensing involves a lot of neural effort. We'll hear about how this sensing has been examined in the past, as well as some speculation on where haptics might go in the future.

Criminal lawyer Sarah Hopkins' novel The Subjects is about the overcriminalisation and overmedicalisation of young people—and her innovative ideas for youth justice. The protagonist, Daniel, is 16-years-old and has just arrived at a Juvie delinquent centre—but there’s no medication and he doesn’t have to stay. Then he gets the eerie sense that he’s part of an experiment.

Criminal lawyer Sarah Hopkins' novel The Subjects is about the overcriminalisation and overmedicalisation of young people—and her innovative ideas for youth justice. The protagonist, Daniel, is 16-years-old and has just arrived at a Juvie delinquent centre—but there’s no medication and he doesn’t have to stay. Then he gets the eerie sense that he’s part of an experiment.

When you’re waiting in a queue there are various ways to bide your time: chat to someone, gaze off into the distance, or check your phone. The science of human interaction tells us that the impact on your brain and body is vastly different depending on your choice. Live person-to-person connection changes us and the society we live in, so it’s in our best interests to use technology sensibly.

When you’re waiting in a queue there are various ways to bide your time: chat to someone, gaze off into the distance, or check your phone. The science of human interaction tells us that the impact on your brain and body is vastly different depending on your choice. Live person-to-person connection changes us and the society we live in, so it’s in our best interests to use technology sensibly.

It could be that the profession of psychiatry needs a revolution. A UK medical doctor with experience in mental health feels that we’re still trying to understand and come to terms with mental health issues—and how best to provide treatment. He talks with two psychiatrists, a historian, and a service user. They all can imagine a different future for psychiatry.

It could be that the profession of psychiatry needs a revolution. A UK medical doctor with experience in mental health feels that we’re still trying to understand and come to terms with mental health issues—and how best to provide treatment. He talks with two psychiatrists, a historian, and a service user. They all can imagine a different future for psychiatry.

At night our brain can have adventures. Even if they're fully asleep, some people end up sleep walking or even sleep driving! The neuroscience of nightmares and dreaming—and what they can tell us about the workings of our brain. 

At night our brain can have adventures. Even if they're fully asleep, some people end up sleep walking or even sleep driving! The neuroscience of nightmares and dreaming—and what they can tell us about the workings of our brain. 

What ultimately drives human behaviour? A leading professor of psychology, Michele Gelfand, suggests that culture is one of the last uncharted frontiers. From her pioneering research into cultural and social norms she’s found an important distinction between tight and loose cultures, and their tendency to make or break rules. These social norms or informal rules of conduct determine whether we co-operate or come into conflict, at both the collective and individual levels.

What ultimately drives human behaviour? A leading professor of psychology, Michele Gelfand, suggests that culture is one of the last uncharted frontiers. From her pioneering research into cultural and social norms she’s found an important distinction between tight and loose cultures, and their tendency to make or break rules. These social norms or informal rules of conduct determine whether we co-operate or come into conflict, at both the collective and individual levels.

Mental health is a major and highly stigmatised problem in Indonesia. Some villages still practise ‘pasung’ where the mentally ill are kept in cages separate from the family home—because of a taboo. Indonesian PhD candidate Sandy Onie had his own lived experience of mental illness, and so did his father—but psychological help was hard to come by. Now Sandy is determined to make a change.

Mental health is a major and highly stigmatised problem in Indonesia. Some villages still practise ‘pasung’ where the mentally ill are kept in cages separate from the family home—because of a taboo. Indonesian PhD candidate Sandy Onie had his own lived experience of mental illness, and so did his father—but psychological help was hard to come by. Now Sandy is determined to make a change.

What’s the scariest word in the English language? Still highly stigmatised, schizophrenia is the illness that we dare not speak about openly, and this silence may get in the way of recovery.

What’s the scariest word in the English language? Still highly stigmatised, schizophrenia is the illness that we dare not speak about openly, and this silence may get in the way of recovery.

Smart people are not only just as prone to making mistakes as everyone else—they may even be more susceptible to them. This idea has been dubbed the Intelligence Trap. It explains the flaws in our understanding of intelligence and expertise, and how the decisions of even the brightest minds and talented organisations can backfire.

Smart people are not only just as prone to making mistakes as everyone else—they may even be more susceptible to them. This idea has been dubbed the Intelligence Trap. It explains the flaws in our understanding of intelligence and expertise, and how the decisions of even the brightest minds and talented organisations can backfire.

Traumatic events such as mass shootings and natural disasters can cause high proportion of children to suffer mental health problems. We hear how to equip adults to minimise the impact of trauma on children.

Traumatic events such as mass shootings and natural disasters can cause high proportion of children to suffer mental health problems. We hear how to equip adults to minimise the impact of trauma on children.

Parenting can be tough—even when your child is considered so-called ‘normal’. Nine-year-old Lucy looks like a curly haired angel, but she's often strangely manipulative and physically violent. Her mum and dad are still searching for a diagnosis which could make sense of her extreme behaviour. But their patience and love for Lucy is extraordinary.

Parenting can be tough—even when your child is considered so-called ‘normal’. Nine-year-old Lucy looks like a curly haired angel, but she's often strangely manipulative and physically violent. Her mum and dad are still searching for a diagnosis which could make sense of her extreme behaviour. But their patience and love for Lucy is extraordinary.

Dementia affects around 450,000 Australians, and it comes in hundreds of forms. New research reveals that one form of dementia takes away the ability to daydream, and this has implications for improved care. Sleep disruption in middle age also emerges as another risk factor. And we hear how, after diagnosis, one person found a meaningful role in breaking down the stigma of dementia.

Dementia affects around 450,000 Australians, and it comes in hundreds of forms. New research reveals that one form of dementia takes away the ability to daydream, and this has implications for improved care. Sleep disruption in middle age also emerges as another risk factor. And we hear how, after diagnosis, one person found a meaningful role in breaking down the stigma of dementia.

If you were given a date from the last five years could you say what day of the week it was? One young woman in Australia can remember every single day of her life since she was born. We hear about her life and the research she’s involved with—as a single participant.

If you were given a date from the last five years could you say what day of the week it was? One young woman in Australia can remember every single day of her life since she was born. We hear about her life and the research she’s involved with—as a single participant.

In a world fixated on how we look and what we eat, it’s not surprising that body dissatisfaction represents an increasing mental health issue—and it affects all body types, genders, and ages. Whilst anorexia nervosa is still a significant condition for girls and young women, some boys can experience a condition called muscle dysmorphia.

In a world fixated on how we look and what we eat, it’s not surprising that body dissatisfaction represents an increasing mental health issue—and it affects all body types, genders, and ages. Whilst anorexia nervosa is still a significant condition for girls and young women, some boys can experience a condition called muscle dysmorphia.

Loneliness is a growing issue around the world, and a recent national survey reveals that 1 in 4 Australians are lonely.

Loneliness is a growing issue around the world, and a recent national survey reveals that 1 in 4 Australians are lonely.

We would like to share with you an excerpt from a new ABC podcast called The Parenting Spectrum. A show about autism and family life—hosted by Fiona Churchman, Travis Saunders, and their son Patch.They explore issues like safety, lack of sleep, finding the right school, and how to help your child embrace their identity and prepare for adulthood.

We would like to share with you an excerpt from a new ABC podcast called The Parenting Spectrum. A show about autism and family life—hosted by Fiona Churchman, Travis Saunders, and their son Patch.They explore issues like safety, lack of sleep, finding the right school, and how to help your child embrace their identity and prepare for adulthood.

Sophie and Ryan are both on the autism spectrum, and they call themselves ‘Aspies’ even though Asperger’s is no longer an official diagnosis. They also share a passion—even an obsession—for musical theatre, so they’ve teamed up to create a cabaret called ‘The Aspie Hour’. It’s irreverent and funny and it breaks down commonly held misconceptions about autism.

Sophie and Ryan are both on the autism spectrum, and they call themselves ‘Aspies’ even though Asperger’s is no longer an official diagnosis. They also share a passion—even an obsession—for musical theatre, so they’ve teamed up to create a cabaret called ‘The Aspie Hour’. It’s irreverent and funny and it breaks down commonly held misconceptions about autism.

Would you be comfortable with a Huntsman spider crawling on your arm, or a python slithering over your shoulder? Not many of us would, but when this discomfort causes you so much anxiety that it interferes with your daily life – it’s become a phobia. Many people never seek help for them, but treatment can be effective. Whether it’s a fear of birds, dogs, heights, or having injections, exposure and virtual reality can assist.

Imagine somebody being critical of you, putting you down every day. That can be depressing. What’s more, if you do it to yourself over a long period it can cause changes in your brain, your body, and your feelings. Some psychologists say that a focus on compassion can soothe your inner critic and make a real difference. It’s known as Compassion Focussed Therapy.

After the birth of her first child Nicola Redhouse experienced unrelenting post-natal anxiety. She’d grown up in a household steeped in psychoanalytic thought and had expected to gain insight from the Freudian concept of the unconscious mind. Instead she went on to discover neuropsychoanalysis—a field which investigates where the brain ends and the mind begins.

Conditions such as depression, anxiety, obesity, diabetes, and gut problems are common in Australia. British TV presenter Dr. Michael Mosley, who’s known for his Fast diet and exercise programs, says there are effective preventive measures which highlight the crucial connection between body and mind. He shares knowledge from experts and those with lived experience on how to reset your health.

Psychedelic drugs were banned in the US in the late 1960s, which ended the flourishing research into their potential for treating mental illness. Now a leading professor from Imperial College London is re-visiting the field. He’s convinced that psychedelic therapy offers a new paradigm for mental health. His other passion is treatment for addiction, and to discover why some of us are more vulnerable than others.

Socially awkward Professor Don Tillman was the protagonist in the best-selling novel The Rosie Project, a book which built awareness of and helped to reduce the stigma around autism. The final book in author Graeme Simsion's Rosie trilogy has Don and his wife Rosie raising their 11-year-old son, who may have autism.

The Netflix drama ‘Brain on Fire is the story of a young woman in the U.S. who suddenly develops severe psychiatric symptoms. Some clever detective work reveals that she has a rare and mysterious condition causing brain inflammation. We hear from an Australian teenager who’s been through the same ordeal—but once treated has survived and thrived.

Sex robots are here to stay and the technology is developing fast. From the ancient Greeks to the latest science fiction, robots in human form have captured our imagination, but is it possible to form intimate relationships with these inanimate objects? Do we want to? And what about the many ethical concerns sex robots raise?

Embarrassment, guilt, or remorse are difficult emotions and most of us avoid. These excruciating shameful feelings are often masked by addiction, self-loathing or narcissism, but shame can also help uphold societal values, and even help build our self-esteem

We humans have ‘creative software’ in our brains—so says neuroscientist and author David Eagleman. We're driven to invent and innovate, yet at the same time we’re attracted to the familiar—and our creativity lives in that tension.

Having children can be wonderful but there’s no doubt that parenting can be challenging, especially for women with mental illness. We hear about the lives of mothers diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder—it’s a disorder defined by extreme emotional instability and is surrounded by stigma. The treatment can make a real difference to the wellbeing of families.

For some people the number six is red and music evokes a range of colours and shapes. Seeing sounds and hearing colours is one type of synesthesia—where the senses are crossed.  Meet an 11-year-old girl who was surprised to find out that not everyone sees colourful auras around people, and who feels that numbers have colours and personalities.

What does it take to drag yourself off the couch and get motivated on a fitness regime? In all areas of life, to be well motivated we need to feel autonomous and find our own internal rewards. We hear from a renowned motivational psychologist and a personal trainer about what works.

If you love your pet dog, do they love you? This question intrigued Professor of Neuroscience Gregory Berns. He wanted to know what it’s really like to be a dog—if they feel the same emotions and have similar thoughts to us. So he persuaded his own dog to get into an MRI machine for a brain scan. He’s now trained 100 dogs to go into the scanner and they think it’s a fun game.

Neurodiversity is a radical social movement challenging the notion of what’s normal and what’s a disorder. What better place to explore neurodiversity than in the arts and theatre—we hear from actors on the autism spectrum and a synesthete using her perceptions of colour and music to create art.

The recent revolution in technology allows us to peer into the mind as never before—says Dr. Hannah Critchlow. She’s explored what neuroscience can tell us about consciousness, free will, and fate. she’s also investigated the neuroscience leadership to build a more ethical, altruistic work environment.

One Sunday afternoon Mary Pershall received a devastating call from the police that her daughter Anna had murdered someone. Anna had struggled throughout her life with mental illness and drug addiction, and the tragic event lead Mary to ask how society can protect a child in crisis.

Seven-time world surfing champion Layne Beachley discusses the mental health challenges she's faced in her life, how the ocean and surfing have been emotionally healing for her, and the benefits of surf therapy for mental wellbeing.

You might have seen Australian surfers decked out in fluro gear raising awareness for mental health. The OneWave community is all about increasing the visibility of mental illness — and it's part of a growing international community exploring the therapeutic benefits of surfing. What is it about being in the ocean that can benefit your mental health? All In The Mind heads to Bondi Beach.

From old fashioned 'lovesickness' to sex addiction, obsession, and jealousy — how does society decide what's normal in love? Drawing on the latest scientific research into the mechanisms underlying love and romantic attachment, a leading psychotherapist explores the extremes of love.

Pregnancy and early parenthood is an exciting and rewarding time — but for many families, it brings about unexpected challenges. In Australia, one in five expecting or new mums will experience anxiety or depression, some experience both. What's being done to support women as they transition to motherhood?