Introduction In the fast-paced world of university life, where academic pressures often mount, the allure of gaining a mental edge can be tempting. Enter the world of cognitive enhancers, colloquially termed ‘smart drugs’—substances like Modafinil that are used off-label by some students to boost concentration, memory, and mental stamina. But how safe are these drugs […]
Month: January 2021
The Mental Blueprint of Future Adoptive Parents
Introduction Have you ever considered what goes on in the minds of those who choose the path of adoption? It’s intriguing to ponder how prospective adoptive parents prepare themselves emotionally and mentally for the arrival of an adopted child. The subtle yet profound concept of reflective functioning—our ability to understand and interpret the thoughts and […]
Exploring the Unseen: How Invisible Invaders Might Shape Adopted Children’s Minds
Introduction: Unlocking New Insights into Childhood Development Imagine arriving in a new country with a world of possibilities ahead, but unbeknownst to you, an invisible intruder threatens your well-being. This is the reality faced by many internationally adopted children who bring with them not only a suitcase of belongings but also uninvited guests—intestinal parasites. While […]
The Unseen Pulse of Decision-Making: How Our Bodies React in Conversations
Introduction Imagine sitting across a table from your partner, discussing the possibility of moving to a new city or perhaps debating which film to watch on a cozy Friday night. While you might be focusing on the words and expressions, something more profound is happening under the radar—your body’s subtle yet significant physiological dance. This […]
Decoding the Autism Phenotype, Cognitive Control, and Rumination: Understanding Their Impact on Suicide Risk
Introduction: Opening the Door to Complex Minds Imagine the human mind as a vast tapestry, woven with threads of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Within this intricate tapestry, certain patterns may appear that lead individuals down darker paths, sometimes culminating in the ultimate tragedy of suicide. Understanding these patterns, especially in people with autism spectrum disorder […]
The Mindful Duo: Unlocking the Potential of Focused Attention and Open Monitoring in Tackling Emotional Turbulence
Introduction Imagine you’re caught in a whirlwind of thoughts, with anxiety and stress tightening their grip on your mind. It’s a scenario many of us know all too well. But what if the key to calming this storm lies in the ancient practice of mindfulness? Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) has emerged as a beacon of […]
Mind Over Matter: How Mindfulness Keeps Weight Off by Altering Brain Connectivity**
Introduction: The Battle of Mind and Waist Picture this: you’ve set out on a weight loss journey, shed those extra pounds, and now face the steeper challenge of keeping them off. If this rings true for you or someone you know, you’re not alone. Weight loss is a well-traveled path for many, but maintenance feels […]
Rediscovering Balance: The Power of Mindfulness in Everyday Life
Introduction: The Mindful Revolution in Mental Health Imagine waking up each morning with a calm mind, free from the racing thoughts that often accompany us throughout the day. This is not just a dream but a possibility, thanks to the growing popularity of mindfulness-based programmes (MBPs). In recent years, the conversation around mental health has […]
Reading Minds: How Infrared Light is Helping Us Decode Emotions
## Unlocking the Secrets of the Mind Imagine a world where therapists and doctors can understand your emotions without you having to say a word. Sounds like science fiction, right? Well, with the help of cutting-edge technology, we are getting closer to making that a reality. A groundbreaking research paper titled ‘Subject-independent decoding of affective […]
Sleep Soundly: Harnessing the Power of Mindfulness to Beat Sleep Disturbances
Introduction Imagine, after another sleepless night, you wake up groggy, your body feeling like it’s dragging through molasses. Many of us know this narrative all too well—tossing, turning, and staring at the ceiling as the minutes creep by. If only there was a simple solution to combat this stubborn insomnia that continually hampers our days. […]