All In The Mind
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All In The Mind is ABC RN's weekly podcast looking into the mental universe, the mind, brain and behaviour — everything from addiction to artificial intelligence.
Do your hate yourself?
Join us for a live episode of All in the Mind at Podfest in Adelaide this March. You can enter to win tickets here.Many of us have felt self loathing at some point in our lives — maybe when you've failed at an important task at work, or lost an important relationship.But some people hate themselves all the time — their inner monologue is a constant drumbeat of self-criticism and self-loathing. Where does this kind of all-encompassing self-hate come from? And is there a way to unlearn it?We speak
'Bad behaviour' or just misunderstood? What to know about kids' mental health
Developmental paediatrician Dr Billy Garvey has seen a lot of kids with behavioural issue over the years, and there are ten things he wishes all parents understood about their kids mental health.From insecure attachment to separation anxiety to emotional difficulties – he gives us the low down on why kids get labelled ‘bad’ – and what’s really going on (usually).Looking for something to listen to next? Check out our episode, Wanted: Unicorns. Mission: Mars.All in the Mind is heading to Podfest i
The baby decision — how to decide when you can't decide
There are some decisions in life that can be trickier to navigate. Do you want to get married? Should you change careers? Do you want a baby?Parenthood is a choice more vexed than ever in a world threatened by climate change, political instability and cost-of-living crises. So how can people approach this choice? And if you're lucky enough to have a choice, how do you make peace with your decision?Decision coach Merle Bombardieri has been working with couples on this very topic for decades — tod
'My brain snapped': Harry's sudden psychosis
Harry had been lucky. He'd never struggled with his mental health.Then, when he was 18, seemingly out of nowhere — he had his first psychotic episode.It was an abrupt change, with ripple effects across his family.Today, the shock of experiencing psychosis, why you're most likely to get it when you're young, and how you can recognise the signs and support a loved one.If you'd like to hear more about this topic, we have an episode called A musician processes her bipolar diagnosis.Extra resources:S
Age of rage: the psychology behind our moral outrage
Politics, war, abortion, gun control — why do some topics make us so outraged?One theory is that our preoccupation with preventing harm is to blame.So today, we examine how humans developed morality, why we differ in what we consider right and wrong, and how that drives us to moral outrage.And after all of that, we'll find out how to have better conversations with people you disagree with (even if you're feeling outraged).If you want to hear more about that, check out The skill
The promise and perils of manifesting
If you could manifest anything into your life, what would it be? A perfect partner, your dream house, winning the lottery?Manifesting promises a limitless potential of dreams to achieve — through methods like vision boards and affirmations.But does manifesting actually help us realise our goals? Is it harmless fun? Healthy positive thinking? Or can manifestation lead the brain down some dark alleys that you might not expect?In this episode we mention another episode called Visu
"Scarier than killer robots": why your brain isn't ready for AI
The AI revolution is coming. Your mind isn't ready for it.Cognitive neuroscientist Joel Pearson walks us through the many ways artificial intelligence is messing — and will mess — with our psychology.From falling in love with AI to unforgettable deep fakes, we dive into an uncertain future and what you can do to prepare for it.This episode was first broadcast in April 2024.If you'd like to hear more from Joel, he featured on our episode about intuition called When to trust your
What influences your inner voice?
That voice inside your head - where does it come from? We bring back a topic that was one of our most popular for a long awaited part two. Today, what shapes your internal chatter.This episode was first released in March 2024.Our original episode on chatter is called Controlling the chatter in your head, if you liked this episode you'll love that one!
Inside a sociopath's mind: "I'm capable of almost anything"
Patric Gagne is a sociopath, but she doesn’t fit the stereotype.From a violent kid, to a PhD and author - we track the unusual story of a sociopath who learned to be 'good'.Plus, there's been some controversy and questions about the veracity of her PhD - so, we fact checked it.This episode was first released in May 2024.Need something to listen to next? Check out our episode Why heartbreak hurts so bad.
The skills supercommunicators use (and how you can learn them)
What do working for the CIA, navigating hot button topics and talking to teenagers all have in common? They're all situations that supercommunicators excel at.Today, we explore how you can become a supercommunicator too. This episode was first broadcast in February 2024. Why not check out Introversion vs Extroversion. If you enjoyed this episode, you'll love that one too.
The design tricks brands use to get you to buy
What influences your shopping behaviour? Well, it's likely a mix of what you need, what's presented to you in store and probably some neuromarketing (which we've covered on our program before).But what about the role of product designers? Today, we get into the psychology of design and the battle designers face balancing innovation with our human need for the familiar. And given all the ways design can manipulate us into wanting something, what role will AI play in the future o
When life is too loud: what are sound sensitivities?
How do you feel as you move through a busy space — like an airport, a city street or a crowded shopping centre?For some of us, these spaces are energising — being among the rush of people and the noise of the crowds. But for others, these situations can be a little much. And for some neurodivergent people — especially those with sensory issues — being in these public spaces can be utterly overwhelming, even harmful. That's a problem when you want or need to use them just like e
Should you do a 'dopamine detox'?
Dopamine feels great, but is it always good for us?The answer is complicated, so today, we get into what dopamine actually does in the brain.How does it affect our motivation, movement and behaviour? And how does our environment influence that?Plus, should we be detoxing from dopamine ... and why are people raw dogging flights?If you're looking for something to listen to next, check out our episode, Nine big myths about depression — busted.
Trauma or a tough time? How our mental health labels are changing over time
We've come a long way in how we talk about mental health.But while diagnoses like depression and anxiety can empower people to seek help and support — they also influence how we see ourselves and how others might see us, too.Today, we investigate 'concept creep.' It's the idea that the labels we use to describe mental health are expanding and being applied to an ever-wider array of human behaviours.We look at what's causing this, the impacts it might have (both positive and neg
Anauralia: what's it like to have no inner monologue?
How clear is your inner voice? Do you internally narrate your life? And do you get songs stuck in your head?Almost all of us can imagine sounds in our minds. But a small part of the population don't have internal auditory imagery — a phenomenon called anauralia.Today, we explore the experience of anauralia, in an episode from Radio New Zealand's Our Changing World.Our Changing World is produced and presented by Claire Concannon and Ellen Rykers for RNZ.The original version of t
Can you recognise a love song in any language?
Music is a universal feature of the human experience — present from our very first cultures and civilisations.But do the features of particular songs and styles translate across cultural boundaries? Like, is a lullaby recognisable even when it's from a different culture? Can you identify a love song in another language?Today, we explore the special relationship between music and our minds, in an episode from Radio New Zealand's Our Changing World.Our Changing World is produced
Girl, Interrupted: the extreme emotions of PMDD
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 ta
Spooky science: What's behind a paranormal experience?
Professor Chris French has been studying the paranormal for decades. But — he’s a sceptic.In an All in the Mind Halloween special, we explore the psychology behind our spooky encounters.What's going on in your brain when you see a ghost? How do people talk to the dead?And why would a sceptic study the paranormal?
Sick of scrolling? Digital minimalism could help
How many hours have you spent on your phone today? And do you feel like it's too many?A growing movement of people are going without their smartphones and computers in favour of just about anything that doesn't have a screen.They say it's giving their lives more meaning — and improving their mental health.This week, meet the digital minimalists ditching their devices, and how you can do it too.Want to hear more about the impact social media is having on your mental health? Chec
Can we trust our memories?
We don't remember everything that happens to us — so why do we remember what we remember?And the memories we do lock away aren't always accurate or trustworthy.This week, we're talking about the fallibility of memory and why sometimes it's healthy to forget.We'll also get into how to remember special moments more clearly, and here's a hint — you might want to put down your camera sometimes.If you're looking for something to listen to next, check out our episode Overcoming resen
Grit and a goal: tricking your brain into loving running
We know running is good for the body, but what about the brain? Hear from people who love running about the psychological tools they use to stay active, including some advice from a professor who's taught their entire class to run a marathon. Looking for something to listen to next? Check out our episode Why being a beginner is good for you.
Once taboo, now good for you: the psychology of masturbation
This week we're talking about something intimate … And at-times taboo … Masturbation.From self-love, to disordered behaviour, and back again, how our perceptions of masturbation have changed over the course of history and why it's still linked to shame and confusion for some.Also — why do humans (and other animals) masturbate in the first place?Just a heads up, if the topic didn't give it away, this episode may not be suitable for little ones.After listening, why not check out
Mates vs strangers — why humans connect and divide
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.Today, we look at how our brains evolved to connect and divide, and what that means for the problems we face in our modern world.This episode was first broadcast in April 2023.Looking for something to listen to next? Check out another All in the Mind episode,
Cranky and depressed: Why bad sleep equals bad mental health
When you think about pillars of health a few things might come to mind — nutrition, exercise, connectedness. But there's something many of us miss off that list — sleep.Insomnia does so much more than make us cranky, it's closely tied to our mental health. Not just how we feel on a day to day basis, but our likelihood of developing depression.This week, what happens when you don't get enough sleep; the effect on your brain and why it's so impactful on your mental health.If you'
The five types of stalker and how to spot them
Earlier this year, the Netflix program Baby Reindeer brought stalking firmly back into the zeitgeist - sparking discussion about the psychology of people who stalk and the impact it has on victims.So what goes on in the mind of a stalker? How do the various types, from incompetent suitor to intimacy seeker, differ? And what should you do if you think you have a stalker?
What we get wrong about attachment styles
Attachment theory is a foundation of modern psychology — a framework for understanding human relationships and how we connect other people.But has social media taken this concept — grounded in decades of research — too far?Scroll through Instagram or TikTok for too long, and you might think that if you have a certain attachment style, you're fundamentally unlovable — or that you need to steer clear of people who are avoidant, anxious or not secure enough.Today, what we get wron
The false promise of love languages
Do you know your love language? Maybe you've done an online test — tested your partner — spent time talking it over — even made decisions about your relationship on the basis of your love language.But where did this concept of love languages even come from? And how good is the evidence that backs it up?Today, two research psychologists go deep on the concept of love languages — and what they really mean for your relationships.Want more relationship content from All in the Mind?
The damage done by emotionally immature parents
How would you describe your parents?Nobody's perfect, of course, but some parents leave more of a mark than others.Today, we revisit the life-long impact of having 'emotionally immature' parents, as Dr Lindsay Gibson's book hits bestseller lists.This episode was first broadcast in May 2021.If you're looking for another episode to listen to, why not check out Milgram Shock and Stanford Prison — what we misunderstand about the most infamous experiments in psychology.
Turning sleeplessness into stargazing
Can't sleep? Worries keeping you up at night? It might be time to look to the stars.For National Science Week, we're investigating the relationship between the night sky and mental wellbeing.So can spending time under the night sky give you a mood boost? And if it does … why?Looking for more nature in your life? Check out our episode Nature prescriptions — just what the doctor ordered.
The Tetris effect: How we learnt to manipulate dreams
It sounds like fantasy, but the manipulation of dreams is now possible — and it's thanks to a well known video game, Tetris.So what does Tetris have to do with dreaming, and could companies use this to shape what we see when we sleep?Want to learn more about dreams? Check out our episode 'As real as waking life' — exploring lucid dreams.Hear our first episode about Tetris: Why people are playing Tetris to treat their trauma.
Why people are playing Tetris to treat their trauma
For people with PTSD, flashbacks can be an unwelcome and distressing experience. To tackle this problem, researchers have turned to Tetris. Yep - the falling blocks puzzle game from the '80s.Today, we discover how Tetris can be used to treat trauma. If you'd like to listen to more All in the Mind, check out our episode The confusion around concussions.
Why do athletes choke under pressure?
The siren has sounded. The scores are even. A footy player has one final chance to kick an easy goal to get his team into the finals.He’s right in front of the goals. He lines up. Kicks. Misses. The pressure of such a moment was phenomenal, and the player choked under it.So what happens in the brain during such intense periods? Why can some people remain calm while others can’t handle it?If you're keen to listen to another episode, check out Wanted: Unicorns. Mission: Mars.
Conspiracies: why people change their mind
What if your entire understanding of the world — your beliefs, how you parent, how you work, how you interact with friends at the pub — all came crashing down?For Stephanie, Jules and Joel — who are all former conspiracy theorists — that was their reality.And digging their way out of the conspiracy rabbit hole came with a whole lot of challenges.Today on All in the Mind: falling into and out of conspiracy ... and rebuilding your life after breaking free.And if you enjoyed liste
How bystanders (like you) can help stop domestic violence
After enduring years of abuse, Robyn Westgate was jailed for the murder of her husband. Now out of prison, she runs training programs that aim to reduce domestic violence.Robyn says the key is empowering people to be better bystanders.Today, one woman's story from domestic violence survivor to domestic violence consultant, and the importance of speaking up.Please note this episode includes graphic descriptions of sexual assault and domestic violence. It may be distressing for s
Dark tourism + selfie sticks = moral outrage
Since the days of gladiator battles and public hangings, dark tourism — our attraction to places linked to death and despair — has been a part of human behaviour.But there's something in the 21st century that's causing debate… Selfies.Digital media isn't all bad though. It's also creating opportunities for authentic storytelling.Today, we examine what dark tourism is, if it's ethical, and when it is (and isn't) appropriate to snap a selfie.If you're keen for another episode of
How to win the battle for better sleep
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. Two sleep experts share advice on making night-time more restful — beyond the standard 'don't look at your phone before bed.' (Though that's important too).This episode was first broadcast in March 2023.Looking for something to listen
Can music inspire mania?
Long before Bieber fever and Swifties, there was Lisztomania.Franz Liszt was a Hungarian composer who inspired such intense fandom and frenzy that it was dubbed mania.So, was it true mania? What caused fans to respond to him so passionately? And what can Lisztomania reveal about the way we talk about female obsession?If you're looking for something to listen to next, check out our episode; Hook me baby one more time: the psychology of pop music.
When doom scrolling leads to actual harm
For 8 months, images and videos of the carnage in Gaza have been flooding social media. They give a powerful view of what's happening to Palestinians on the ground – but they also have the potential to cause vicarious trauma.Today – what is vicarious trauma, and why doomscrolling doesn't help.
Gender euphoria and an untold story of joy
Trans non-binary performer Dax has spent most of her life not loving who she sees in the mirror. That is, until earlier this year.A few months ago, Dax finally experienced a particular kind of joy — gender euphoria. And it's transformed the way she sees herself.So what is gender euphoria? Why is it so powerful for trans and non-binary people? And why are researchers keen to flip the script and talk about trans joy?If you're looking for something to listen to next, check out our
Inside a female sociopath's mind: "I'm capable of almost anything"
Patric Gagne is a sociopath, but she doesn’t fit the stereotype.From a violent kid, to now a PhD and author - we track the unusual story of a sociopath who learned to be 'good'.Plus, there's been some controversy and questions about the veracity of her PhD - so, we fact checked it.Need something to listen to next? Check out our episode Why heartbreak hurts so bad.Guest:Patric Gagne, Author, Sociopath: A Memoir.Credits:Presenter/Producer: Sana QadarProducer: Rose KerrSound engin
No control, no agency. The housing crisis is warping people's view of the future
Madi's had 25 rental applications rejected. Seen absolute horror houses while searching for a rental. It's all driving her to despair.Today, how housing insecurity can alter our sense of agency and how we perceive the world around us.If you're looking for something to listen to next, check out our episode, Is life coaching legit?
Searching for awe, when you've never felt it
Have you ever experienced the feeling of awe?Maybe it was sparked by an awesome view, a moving artwork or witnessing the birth of a child.Today we follow one person's attempt at finding awe when she's never felt it before.What does awe do to us? What benefits can it offer?If you'd like to listen to more of All in the Mind, check out our episode Does guilt have a silver lining?
How to help a conspiracy theorist: an ex believer and an expert weigh in
So you've got a loved one who's fallen deep down the conspiracy rabbit hole. Are they destined to stay there forever?Today, we hear from a former conspiracy theorist and a social psychologist on what fuels these beliefs, how likely people are to change their minds, and what you can (and can't) do to help.Want to listen to more All in the Mind? Check out our episode, The Certainty Myth.
Stigma, shame and schizophrenia
Over the last couple of weeks, schizophrenia has been appearing in headlines across the country as details of the Bondi Junction attack unfold.Coverage of mental health conditions, especially one as complex as schizophrenia, can be shrouded in stigma.So today, we revisit our conversation with journalist Elfy Scott, sharing the one thing her family never spoke about - her mother's schizophrenia. This episode was first broadcast in April 2023. If you're looking for what to listen
"Scarier than killer robots": why your mind isn't ready for AI
The AI revolution is coming. Your mind isn't ready for it.Cognitive Neuroscientist Joel Pearson walks us through the many ways artificial intelligence is messing — and will mess — with our psychology.From falling in love with AI to unforgettable deep fakes, we dive into an uncertain future and what you can do to prepare for it.If you'd like to hear more from Joel, he featured on our episode about intuition called When to trust your gut instinct, and when to ignore it.And if you
Being a human lab rat for 30 years: what happens next
Researchers knew Susannah better than her own parents.They may have even known her better than herself.Today, how spending thirty years in a psychological study warped journalist Susannah Breslin's life.If you enjoyed this episode and want to check out another, take a listen to Trauma, OCD and a PhD.
The unspoken rules that govern our behaviour
Whether it's shaking hands or which side of the road to drive on, social norms dominate the way we behave.But when norms change suddenly, you get chaos.Just ask Sweden.If you'd like to hear more from today's expert, Matt featured in an episode in 2021 called Neuromarketing — how brands target your brain. Check it out!
Are animals conscious?
Have you ever looked at your pet and thought, what is going on inside your brain?Today, we're heading to the World Science Festival Brisbane for All in the Mind live to discuss animal consciousness.If you enjoyed this episode and are keen to listen to another, check out How our brain chemicals drive our behaviour. This episode was recorded live at the World Science Festival Brisbane.
Cults and coercive control
Popular culture is endlessly fascinated with cults, and they have the capacity to make ordinary people do unthinkable things.Today - how cults reel people in, how coercive control keeps them there and what it takes to get out.This episode was first broadcast in October 2022. And if you enjoyed listening, you should check out our episode The History of Brainwashing.
What influences your inner voice? Controlling 'chatter' part two
That voice inside your head - where does it come from? We bring back a topic that was one of our most popular for a long awaited part two. Today, what shapes your internal chatter.Our original episode on chatter is called Controlling the chatter in your head, if you liked this episode you'll love that one!
How (not) to manifest a million dollars
If you could manifest anything into your life, what would it be? A perfect partner, your dream house, winning the lottery?Manifesting promises a limitless potential of dreams to achieve — through methods like vision boards and affirmations.But does manifesting actually help us realise our goals? Is it harmless fun? Healthy positive thinking? Or can manifestation lead the brain down some dark alleys that you might not expect?In this episode we mention another episode called Visu
Wanted: Unicorns. Mission: Mars.
NASA wants to send humans to Mars in the next decade or so. But can our minds handle it?We talk to a NASA psychologist and retired astronaut about the psychological challenges people already face on long-duration space missions — and find out what it will take to get to Mars.If you liked this episode, you might like one of our past episodes about the isolation we all experienced during the pandemic. It's called The brain in isolation.
The skills supercommunicators use, which you can learn too
What does working for the CIA, navigating hot button topics and talking to teenagers all have in common? They're situations that supercommunicators excel at.Today, we explore how you can become a supercommunicator too. In this episode we touch on a previous story, Introversion vs Extroversion. If you enjoyed this episode, you'll love that one too.
PRESENTS – Quick Smart
The tables are turned when our own Sana Qadar joins Tegan Taylor on Quick Smart to talk about one of our favourite topics: Introverts v Extroverts. We tackle some big ideas on All in the Mind — and so wanted to let you know there's a show that's taking on some of the big chunky topics and distilling them down into bite-sized pieces. Quick Smart is your weekly guide to all things health, psychology, personal finance, history, pop culture and more in just ten minutes! Check it out!
Moog became a Youtube megastar — and it messed with his mental health
Parasocial relationships can be intense — and we all have them to some degree. Whether you're a Swiftie, a fan of the Matildas or just watch the local news every night.But what its like to be on the receiving end of millions of parasocial relationships?For Blair Joscelyne AKA Moog, one half of Mighty Car Mods, it took some unexpected steps to cope.If you're interested in what it's like to be famous, you'll love our episode The dark side of fame and what it does to the brain.
When to trust your gut instinct, and when to ignore it
We all have moments in our lives when we feel an unconscious pull towards a certain decision.Should you walk down that dark alley? Does that person seem a bit off? Why is that giving me the heebie-jeebies?For Isla Lucas, a gut feeling while on holiday saved her life… Or did it?We take a look at the science and fantasy of intuition.If you liked this episode, you'll love our episode on The Pleasure Of Pain
Nine big myths about depression — busted
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.
Think like a winner: performance psychology and lessons for everyday life
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.
Babies turn us into non-stop singing machines. Why?
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.
The diagnosis that inspired an album
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.
How The Man Cave talks to teens about toxic masculinity
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 firs
A dad's attempt to understand toxic masculinity
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.
Gossip is fun! Gossip is bad! Gossip is… Good?
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.
Only as good as your grades – why 'toxic achievement culture' can crush kids
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?
Hot and bothered
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.
The 5 things kids ask when they're grieving
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.
How the drive to be perfect is linked to eating disorders
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 f
Mental illness ran in Meg's family. Suicide forced them to talk about it.
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 o
Is life coaching legit?
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?
The decades long feud of mind vs brain in AI
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.
ADHD, TikTok, Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria — meet Matilda's brain
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.
The confusion around concussions
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.
What psychosis feels like: The Tree of Ecstasy and Unbearable Sadness
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.
A kid can't be diagnosed as a psychopath. Why?
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.
Seeing red — anger and aggression
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.
Introversion vs Extroversion Part II: Genes, gender and leadership
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.
Introversion vs Extroversion
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.
Its not just mums that get perinatal depression and anxiety
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:Lifeline13 11 14Beyond Blue1300 22 4636PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)1300 726 306
Nature prescriptions — just what the doctor ordered
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?
Is Stockholm Syndrome a sexist myth?
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.
Hacking humans: social engineering and the power of influence
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
Why do we sing to babies?
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
The psychology of fashion — it's more than just clothes
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?
The psychology of fashion — it's more than just clothes
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?
Murder, trauma and a different kind of grief — what true crime pods often overlook
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.
Murder, trauma and a different kind of grief — what true crime pods often overlook
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.
Toxic positivity — when happiness becomes harmful
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.
Toxic positivity — when happiness becomes harmful
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.
Visualisation and values — goal setting like a winner
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.
Visualisation and values — goal setting like a winner
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.
A winning mindset — how top athletes think
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.
A winning mindset — how top athletes think
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.
Can you smell yourself happy?
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?
Can you smell yourself happy?
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?
Demystifying menopause
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 menta
Demystifying menopause
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 t
Danger and thrills: inside the mind of a high sensation seeker
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.
Danger and thrills: inside the mind of a high sensation seeker
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.
The pleasure of pain
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.
The pleasure of pain
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.
'Like a bereavement every month' — the extreme emotions of PMDD
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 ta
'Like a bereavement every month' — the extreme emotions of PMDD
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 whil
Hook me baby one more time: the psychology of pop music
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.
Hook me baby one more time: the psychology of pop music
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.
What's been on Lynne Malcolm's mind (since leaving All in the Mind)
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.
What's been on Lynne Malcolm's mind (since leaving All in the Mind)
Lynne Malcom 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.
Whispers, taps and tingles — what is ASMR?
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?
Whispers, taps and tingles — what is ASMR?
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?
What's the deal with EMDR?
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?
What's the deal with EMDR?
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?
The human drive to connect – and divide
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.
The human drive to connect – and divide
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.
Fantasy and make believe — how our brains interpret fiction
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.
Fantasy and make believe — how our brains interpret fiction
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.
The one thing we've never spoken about
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.
The one thing we've never spoken about
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.
Does self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychology
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.
Does self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychology
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.
Scam psychology – how scammers get in our heads (and wallets)
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.
Scam psychology – how scammers get in our heads (and wallets)
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.
The battle for better sleep
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).
The battle for better sleep
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).
Cognitive dissonance and mental gymnastics
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.
Cognitive dissonance and mental gymnastics
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.
A musician processes her bipolar diagnosis
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.
A musician processes her bipolar diagnosis
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.
Controlling the chatter in your head
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.
Controlling the chatter in your head
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.
Teen boys, modern masculinity and The Man Cave
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.
Teen boys, modern masculinity and The Man Cave
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.
Why talking about toxic masculinity is getting trickier
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?
Why talking about toxic masculinity is getting trickier
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?
Your body, your brain, your self
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.
Your body, your brain, your self
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.
The Paradoxes of Gossip
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?
The Paradoxes of Gossip
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?
The 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.
The 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.
The Art of Negotiation: mind games and emotional intelligence
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?
The Art of Negotiation: mind games and emotional intelligence
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?
'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
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.
'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
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.
Humour me: why we laugh and what counts as funny
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.
Humour me: why we laugh and what counts as funny
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.
The vicious cycle of alcohol and anxiety
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.
The vicious cycle of alcohol and anxiety
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.
What happens when our minds wander?
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
What happens when our minds wander?
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 BarCognitive Neuroscientist, Bar-Ilan University; Author, Mindwandering: How It Can Improve Your Mood and Boost Your CreativityProducer:James BullenSound Engineer:Roi Huberman
A kid can't be diagnosed as a psychopath. Why?
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.
A kid can't be diagnosed as a psychopath. Why?
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.
The toxic effects of rudeness
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?
The toxic effects of rudeness
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?
#TraumaTok: How trauma took over the internet
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.
#TraumaTok: How trauma took over the internet
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.
Treating IBS with... Hypnotherapy?
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.
Treating IBS with... Hypnotherapy?
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.
The Certainty Myth
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.
The Certainty Myth
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.
Trauma, OCD and a PhD
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.
Trauma, OCD and a PhD
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.
The dark side of fame and what it does to the brain
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.
The dark side of fame and what it does to the brain
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.
Milgram Shock and Stanford Prison — what we misunderstand about the most infamous experiments in 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.
Milgram Shock and Stanford Prison — what we misunderstand about the most infamous experiments in 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.
Childhood attachment, animal rights and the 'pit of despair': Harry Harlow's unethical experiments
...
Childhood attachment, animal rights and the 'pit of despair': Harry Harlow's unethical experiments
Why being a beginner is good for you
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.
Why being a beginner is good for you
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.
Unethical experiments: the Monster Study
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.
Unethical experiments: the Monster Study
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.
The psychological tricks that make cults so dangerous
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?
The psychological tricks that make cults so dangerous
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?
Language and loss
What goes on in the multilingual mind? And what does it mean to 'lose' your language?
Language and loss
What goes on in the multilingual mind? And what does it mean to 'lose' your language?
The Art of Negotiation: mind games and emotional intelligence
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.
The Art of Negotiation: mind games and emotional intelligence
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.
Pleasure, pain, dopamine and the brain
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?
Pleasure, pain, dopamine and the brain
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?
Busting bias: what works and what doesn't
You've probably heard of unconscious bias but how are they formed and what can we do to stop the damage they can cause?
Busting bias: what works and what doesn't
You've probably heard of unconscious bias but how are they formed and what can we do to stop the damage they can cause?
Introversion vs Extroversion Part II: Genes, gender and leadership
What does neuroscience and psychology tell us about how these traits are developed?
Introversion vs Extroversion Part II: Genes, gender and leadership
What does neuroscience and psychology tell us about how these traits are developed?
Introversion vs Extroversion
Are you outgoing or shy? there are pros and cons of each but is it possible to switch sides?
Introversion vs Extroversion
Are you outgoing or shy? there are pros and cons of each but is it possible to switch sides?
Can we 'unlearn' chronic pain?
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?
Can we 'unlearn' chronic pain?
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?
The making of a magnificent memory
Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use, and how you can apply them to everyday life.
The making of a magnificent memory
Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use, and how you can apply them to everyday life.
Misadventures in multitasking
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.
Misadventures in multitasking
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.
Neuromarketing — how brands target your brain
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 int
Neuromarketing — how brands target your brain
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
The 'hidden histories' of 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 revel
The 'hidden histories' of 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
Taking back control of your time
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.
Taking back control of your time
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.
Not broken, just wired differently: ADHD 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.
Not broken, just wired differently: ADHD 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.
The secret life of secrets
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 …
The secret life of secrets
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 …
Does guilt have a silver lining?
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.
Does guilt have a silver lining?
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.
Does guilt have a silver lining?
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.
How we make up our minds: 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.
How we make up our minds: 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.
You've got the music in you
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.
You've got the music in you
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.
'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
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.
'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
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.
Can you change your personality?
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?
Can you change your personality?
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?
Natural disasters: how floods and fires shape the psyche
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.
Natural disasters: how floods and fires shape the psyche
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 psychology of charitable giving
The quirks of psychology that influence when we give to charity … and when we don't.
The psychology of charitable giving
The quirks of psychology that influence when we give to charity … and when we don't.
'I'm going to cook my baby'
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.
'I'm going to cook my baby'
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.
The vicious cycle of alcohol and anxiety
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.
The vicious cycle of alcohol and anxiety
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 and the pandemic
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 and the pandemic
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
Co-morbidity: why one mental illness can lead to more
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.
Co-morbidity: why one mental illness can lead to more
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 happens when our minds wander?
What are the constructive things our minds do when they wander?
And when does mindwandering cross over … into not-so-constructive territory?
What happens when our minds wander?
What are the constructive things our minds do when they wander?
And when does mindwandering cross over … into not-so-constructive territory?
Why heartbreak hurts so bad
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?
Why heartbreak hurts so bad
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?
Hacking humans: social engineering and the power of influence
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 w
Hacking humans: social engineering and the power of influence
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 psy
Humour me: why we laugh and what counts as funny
Why do we laugh, and what makes something funny? A psychologist, a neuroscientist and satirist Mark Humphries weigh in on humour and the brain.
Humour me: why we laugh and what counts as funny
Why do we laugh, and what makes something funny? A psychologist, a neuroscientist and satirist Mark Humphries weigh in on humour and the brain.
All In The Mind presents... 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?!
All In The Mind presents... 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?!
The pleasure of pain
Spicy food, scary movies, BDSM … why do humans sometimes chase painful experiences and how are they linked to pleasure?
The pleasure of pain
Spicy food, scary movies, BDSM … why do humans sometimes chase painful experiences and how are they linked to pleasure?
'Utterly catastrophic' — life with frontotemporal dementia
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.
'Utterly catastrophic' — life with frontotemporal dementia
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.
Seeing red — anger and aggression
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.
Seeing red — anger and aggression
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.
Toxic positivity — when happiness becomes harmful
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.
Toxic positivity — when happiness becomes harmful
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.
Controlling the chatter in your head
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.
Controlling the chatter in your head
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.
How our brain chemicals drive 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.
How our brain chemicals drive 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.
Post-partum psychosis
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.
Post-partum psychosis
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.
The damage done by emotionally immature parents (and how to heal)
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.
The damage done by emotionally immature parents (and how to heal)
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.
Does self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychology
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.
Does self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychology
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.
The making of a magnificent memory
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.
The making of a magnificent memory
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.
Mood and the magic ion
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.
Mood and the magic ion
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.
Misadventures in multitasking
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
Misadventures in multitasking
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
Psychedelics for mental illness
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.
Psychedelics for mental illness
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.
Overcoming resentment 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.
Overcoming resentment 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.
How dopamine drives our addictions
What role does dopamine play in cycles of addiction — and how might we use that knowledge to break them?
How dopamine drives our addictions
What role does dopamine play in cycles of addiction — and how might we use that knowledge to break them?
Making big decisions
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.
Making big decisions
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.
The toxic effects of rudeness
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?
The toxic effects of rudeness
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?
Language and loss
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.
Language and loss
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 and making them stick
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 and making them stick
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.
Tears, fears and hope — your pandemic life
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.
Tears, fears and hope — your pandemic life
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.
'As real as waking life' — exploring lucid dreams
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.
'As real as waking life' — exploring lucid dreams
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.
The peculiar power of talking to strangers
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.
The peculiar power of talking to strangers
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.
The building blocks of 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?
The building blocks of 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?
Hey you! Tell us about your pandemic life
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 thro
Hey you! Tell us about your pandemic life
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 help
Whispers, taps and tingles — what is ASMR?
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?
Whispers, taps and tingles — what is ASMR?
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?
Machiavellianism, and the 'dark triad' of personality
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.
Machiavellianism, and the 'dark triad' of personality
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.
Forget dad bod ... what about dad brain?
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 c
Forget dad bod ... what about dad brain?
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 an
COVID and 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.
COVID and 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.
Electroconvulsive therapy — they still do that?
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 — they still do that?
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.
Neuromarketing — how brands target your brain
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
Neuromarketing — how brands target your brain
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
The 'benevolent' brand of sexism
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 t
The 'benevolent' brand of sexism
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 caus
The 'hidden histories' of 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 revel
The 'hidden histories' of 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-c
Hacking humans: social engineering and the power of influence
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 psycho
Hacking humans: social engineering and the power of influence
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 w
Delirium in the ICU
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 syste
Delirium in the ICU
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 rede
Why being a beginner is good for you
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 m
Why being a beginner is good for you
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 sk
On becoming a mother in a pandemic
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 pandem
On becoming a mother in a pandemic
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 mother
Antidepressants and 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 m
Antidepressants and 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 jou
Are the teens alright?
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.
Are the teens alright?
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.
When your eyeballs become audible
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
When your eyeballs become audible
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
Does self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychology
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.
Does self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychology
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.
The guru playbook
On All in the Mind this week, the guru playbook and why we should get smart to their tactics.
The guru playbook
On All in the Mind this week, the guru playbook and why we should get smart to their tactics.
The making of a magnificent memory
Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use to recall names, facts and figures, and how you can apply them to everyday life.
The making of a magnificent memory
Anastasia Woolmer explains the techniques memory athletes use to recall names, facts and figures, and how you can apply them to everyday life.
Super-voice-recognisers
Are you good at recognising voices?
Super-voice-recognisers
Are you good at recognising voices?
Screaming fans and overzealous stans — the psychology of fandom
From the Beatles to the Backstreet Boys, Taylor Swift to BTS – music changes, but screaming fans never seem to fade.
Screaming fans and overzealous stans — the psychology of fandom
From the Beatles to the Backstreet Boys, Taylor Swift to BTS – music changes, but screaming fans never seem to fade.
The damage done by emotionally immature parents (and how to heal)
How would you describe your parents? Nobody's perfect, but some parents leave more of a mark than others.
The damage done by emotionally immature parents (and how to heal)
How would you describe your parents? Nobody's perfect, but some parents leave more of a mark than others.
Phobias, paranoia – and how VR can help
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.
Phobias, paranoia – and how VR can help
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.
Post-partum 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.
Post-partum 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.
The mind of a murderer
Dr Richard Taylor is a forensic psychiatrist — and he’s assessed well over a hundred accused killers in his career.
The mind of a murderer
Dr Richard Taylor is a forensic psychiatrist — and he’s assessed well over a hundred accused killers in his career.
The dark side of daydreams
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.
The dark side of daydreams
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.
'I'm going to cook my baby'
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.
What dolls reveal about race
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.
'I'm going to cook my baby'
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.
Mood and the magic ion
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.
Mood and the magic ion
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.
Mood and the magic ion
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.
No Feeling Is Final — 06 | Now Is The Time For Cake
Graham doesn't think I am broken, but I still suspect I might be.
No Feeling Is Final — 06 | Now Is The Time For Cake
Graham doesn't think I am broken, but I still suspect I might be.
No Feeling Is Final — 06 | Now Is The Time For Cake
Graham doesn't think I am broken, but I still suspect I might be.
No Feeling Is Final — 05 | Emotionally Deluxe
How to collect your tears, the existential angst of the shampoo aisle, and the boy returns.
No Feeling Is Final — 05 | Emotionally Deluxe
How to collect your tears, the existential angst of the shampoo aisle, and the boy returns.
No Feeling Is Final — 05 | Emotionally Deluxe
How to collect your tears, the existential angst of the shampoo aisle, and the boy returns.
No Feeling Is Final — 04 | 60,000 Thoughts
We have 60,000 thoughts each day. I will try to track every single one of them.
No Feeling Is Final — 04 | 60,000 Thoughts
We have 60,000 thoughts each day. I will try to track every single one of them.
No Feeling Is Final — 04 | 60,000 Thoughts
We have 60,000 thoughts each day. I will try to track every single one of them.
No Feeling Is Final — 03 | A Good Patient
There are no good snack options in psych hospital. And it’s really hard to not look crazy.
No Feeling Is Final — 03 | A Good Patient
There are no good snack options in psych hospital. And it’s really hard to not look crazy.
No Feeling Is Final — 03 | A Good Patient
There are no good snack options in psych hospital. And it’s really hard to not look crazy.
No Feeling Is Final — 02 | The Vast Wasteland
Hunting for a psychiatrist is a lot like hunting for 'The One'. Only much more expensive and with a tiny dating pool.
No Feeling Is Final — 02 | The Vast Wasteland
Hunting for a psychiatrist is a lot like hunting for 'The One'. Only much more expensive and with a tiny dating pool.
No Feeling Is Final — 02 | The Vast Wasteland
Hunting for a psychiatrist is a lot like hunting for 'The One'. Only much more expensive and with a tiny dating pool.
No Feeling Is Final — 01 | The Voice
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.
No Feeling Is Final — 01 | The Voice
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.
No Feeling Is Final — 01 | The Voice
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.
Lived experience, trauma and the 'missing middle': Victoria's mental health royal commission
On All in the Mind, we look at the problems in Victoria's mental health system and what needs to change going forward.
Lived experience, trauma and the 'missing middle': Victoria's mental health royal commission
On All in the Mind, we look at the problems in Victoria's mental health system and what needs to change going forward.
Lived experience, trauma and the 'missing middle': Victoria's mental health royal commission
On All in the Mind, we look at the problems in Victoria's mental health system and what needs to change going forward.
Music of memory
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.
Music of memory
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.
Music of memory
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.
Music of memory
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 mysterious corpus callosum: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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 mysterious corpus callosum: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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 mysterious corpus callosum: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Girls and Autism: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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,
Girls and Autism: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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,
Girls and Autism: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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,
Dissociation and coping with trauma: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Dissociation and coping with trauma: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Dissociation and coping with trauma: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
A highly superior memory: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
A highly superior memory: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
A highly superior memory: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Parenting with a mental illness: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Parenting with a mental illness: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Parenting with a mental illness: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Synesthesia—seeing sounds, hearing colours: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Synesthesia—seeing sounds, hearing colours: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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.
Synesthesia—seeing sounds, hearing colours: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite programs
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, and the 'worry bully': One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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, and the 'worry bully': One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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, and the 'worry bully': One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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.
Locked in: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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.
Locked in: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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.
Locked in: One of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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.
Science of self: In a series of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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.
Science of self: In a series of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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.
Science of self: In a series of Lynne Malcolm's favourite All in the Mind programs
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.
Podcast extra: Jana Pittman extended 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.
Podcast extra: Jana Pittman extended 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.
Podcast extra: Jana Pittman extended 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.
Resilience: What's the buzz?
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.
Resilience: What's the buzz?
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.
Resilience: What's the buzz?
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.
Podcast extra: The question of brain bias
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.
Podcast extra: The question of brain bias
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.
Podcast extra: The question of brain bias
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.
Preventing 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
Preventing 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
Preventing 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
Playing hard to get
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.
Playing hard to get
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.
Playing hard to get
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.
Podcast extra: Timothy Carey extended interview
Lynne Malcolm's extended interview with Timothy Carey about how he applies his perspective on control to address inequality in Rwandan society.
Podcast extra: Timothy Carey extended interview
Lynne Malcolm's extended interview with Timothy Carey about how he applies his perspective on control to address inequality in Rwandan society.
Podcast extra: Timothy Carey extended interview
Lynne Malcolm's extended interview with Timothy Carey about how he applies his perspective on control to address inequality in Rwandan society.
Controlling behaviour
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.
Controlling behaviour
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.
Controlling behaviour
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.
WEIRD psychology
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.
WEIRD psychology
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.
WEIRD psychology
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 predictive mind
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 predictive mind
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 predictive mind
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.
A love letter to smell
When you're near coriander or parmesan cheese, do you smell fresh sweetness or vomit and soap?
A love letter to smell
When you're near coriander or parmesan cheese, do you smell fresh sweetness or vomit and soap?
A love letter to smell
When you're near coriander or parmesan cheese, do you smell fresh sweetness or vomit and soap?
Podcast Extra: Dr Alex Korb offers more techniques out of depression, anxiety
Can you rewire your brain to recover from depression?
Podcast Extra: Dr Alex Korb offers more techniques out of depression, anxiety
Can you rewire your brain to recover from depression?
Podcast Extra: Dr Alex Korb offers more techniques out of depression, anxiety
Can you rewire your brain to recover from depression?
How to stay mentally healthy
What small changes can we make in our daily lives to improve our mental health?
How to stay mentally healthy
What small changes can we make in our daily lives to improve our mental health?
How to stay mentally healthy
What small changes can we make in our daily lives to improve our mental health?
Trusting Strangers - Who Do We Trust and Why?
When two strangers meet, how do they figure out whether to trust one another?
Trusting Strangers - Who Do We Trust and Why?
When two strangers meet, how do they figure out whether to trust one another?
Trusting Strangers - Who Do We Trust and Why?
When two strangers meet, how do they figure out whether to trust one another?
Facing The Dark to See The Light
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.
Facing The Dark to See The Light
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.
Facing The Dark to See The Light
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.
Introducing... Patient Zero
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
Introducing... Patient Zero
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 Ra
Introducing... Patient Zero
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
Sharing dreams and social visions
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..
Sharing dreams and social visions
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..
Sharing dreams and social visions
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..
The bizarre dreaming of COVID-19
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.
The bizarre dreaming of COVID-19
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.
The bizarre dreaming of COVID-19
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.
Reflections on shame
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.
Reflections on shame
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.
Reflections on shame
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.
Podcast extra: Sam Bloom
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.
Podcast extra: Sam Bloom
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.
Podcast extra: Sam Bloom
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.
Spinal cord injury: research and resilience
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.
Spinal cord injury: research and resilience
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.
Spinal cord injury: research and resilience
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.
Podcast extra: Culture Dose views Flowers and Fruit
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.
Podcast extra: Culture Dose views Flowers and Fruit
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.
Podcast extra: Culture Dose views Flowers and Fruit
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.
Prescribing art for mental health
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.
Prescribing art for mental health
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.
Prescribing art for mental health
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.
Seeing when you're blind
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.
Seeing when you're blind
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.
Seeing when you're blind
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.
Kindness, and Longevity
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.
Kindness, and Longevity
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.
Kindness, and Longevity
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.
Electricity and the brain
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.
Electricity and the brain
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.
Electricity and the brain
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.
The anxious type’s guide to 2020
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?
The anxious type’s guide to 2020
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?
The anxious type’s guide to 2020
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?
The 'Grandma Benches' of Zimbabwe
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 effecti
The 'Grandma Benches' of Zimbabwe
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 effecti
The 'Grandma Benches' of Zimbabwe
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 the
The psychology of nostalgia
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.
The psychology of nostalgia
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.
The psychology of nostalgia
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.
(Repeat) Adventures in sleep
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.
(Repeat) Adventures in sleep
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.
(Repeat) Adventures in sleep
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.
Machiavellianism, and the 'dark triad' of personality
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.
Machiavellianism, and the 'dark triad' of personality
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.
Machiavellianism, and the 'dark triad' of personality
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.
The anxious shrink
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’'.
The anxious shrink
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’'.
The anxious shrink
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’'.
We love Nature Track: A podcast extra
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
We love Nature Track: A podcast extra
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 tal
We love Nature Track: A podcast extra
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 t
Healing the trauma of the Stolen Generations
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 I
Healing the trauma of the Stolen Generations
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 add
Healing the trauma of the Stolen Generations
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 I
Can boredom ever be good? Part 2
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?
Can boredom ever be good? Part 2
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?
Can boredom ever be good? Part 2
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?
Can boredom ever be good? Part 1
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.
Can boredom ever be good? Part 1
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.
Can boredom ever be good? Part 1
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.
(Repeat) The power of social norms—rules to make or break
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
(Repeat) The power of social norms—rules to make or break
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
(Repeat) The power of social norms—rules to make or break
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 p
The brain in 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.
The brain in 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.
The brain in 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.
Podcast extra: The pineapple project
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.
Podcast extra: The pineapple project
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.
Podcast extra: The pineapple project
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.
Seeking help for the first time in a crisis
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.
Seeking help for the first time in a crisis
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.
Seeking help for the first time in a crisis
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.
Mental health on the Covid frontline
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.
Mental health on the Covid frontline
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 ageing brain: it ain't all downhill
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.
The ageing brain: it ain't all downhill
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.
A riff on creativity, design, and toys
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.
A riff on creativity, design, and toys
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.
When your eyeballs become audible
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.
When your eyeballs become audible
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.
Brains old, new, and augmented
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.
Brains old, new, and augmented
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.
Contagious behaviour
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.
Contagious behaviour
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, and making them stick
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, and making them stick
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.
The mind's musical ear
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.
The mind's musical ear
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.
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.
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.
Why we need more Indigenous psychologists
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 u
Why we need more Indigenous psychologists
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 In
Music and imaginary hearing
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 di
Music and imaginary hearing
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 som
Workplace bullies—and corporate psychopaths
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.
Workplace bullies—and corporate psychopaths
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.
Lynne Malcolm takes a short break—and hello to Sana Qadar
While presenter Lynne Malcolm takes a short break, the program will be presented by Sana Qadar—looking forward to your continued company for 2020.
Lynne Malcolm takes a short break—and hello to Sana Qadar
While presenter Lynne Malcolm takes a short break, the program will be presented by Sana Qadar—looking forward to your continued company for 2020.
What is my child thinking?
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.
What is my child thinking?
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.
Fate, and predicting the human mind
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.
Fate, and predicting the human mind
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.
Look up and connect
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.
Look up and connect
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.
On happiness—notes from prison
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
On happiness—notes from prison
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
Facing fears and phobias
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.
Facing fears and phobias
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.
Why smart people do stupid things
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.
Why smart people do stupid things
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.
Telomeres, trauma, and mindfulness
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
Telomeres, trauma, and mindfulness
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, sleep, and daydreaming
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, sleep, and daydreaming
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 and the brain
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 and the brain
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.
Climate change anxiety
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.
Climate change anxiety
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.
Childhood trauma and the brain
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.
Childhood trauma and the brain
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.
Our sexy brain
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.
Our sexy brain
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.
Refugees, sport, and mental health
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
Refugees, sport, and mental health
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
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.
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.
Creating selves to survive
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.
Creating selves to survive
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.
Meditation for the collective good
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.
Meditation for the collective good
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.
Empathy for mental health through the arts
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.
Empathy for mental health through the arts
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.
A roller-coaster of emotion—Borderline Personality Disorder
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
A roller-coaster of emotion—Borderline Personality Disorder
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
Autism and superheroes
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.
Autism and superheroes
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.
A memoir on drugs and addiction
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.
A memoir on drugs and addiction
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—and the 'worry bully'
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—and the 'worry bully'
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.
Inside talking therapy
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.
Inside talking therapy
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.
Indigenous language and perception
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.
Indigenous language and perception
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.
Your attention, please!
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.
Your attention, please!
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.
Creativity and the A-ha moment
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 s
Creativity and the A-ha moment
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 s
Telomeres, trauma, and mindfulness
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.
Telomeres, trauma, and mindfulness
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.
Tripping for depression
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.
Tripping for depression
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
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
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.
On happiness—notes from prison
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
On happiness—notes from prison
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
Getting in touch with our haptic sense
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.
Getting in touch with our haptic sense
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.
Justice for Juvies
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.
Justice for Juvies
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.
Look up and connect
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.
Look up and connect
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.
Psychiatry for the future
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.
Psychiatry for the future
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.
Adventures in sleep
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.
Adventures in sleep
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.
The power of social norms—rules to make or break?
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.
The power of social norms—rules to make or break?
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 in Indonesia
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 in Indonesia
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.
The silence around schizophrenia
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.
The silence around schizophrenia
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.
Why smart people do stupid things
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.
Why smart people do stupid things
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.
Disasters and children's mental health
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.
Disasters and children's mental health
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.
Loving Lucy
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.
Loving Lucy
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, sleep and daydreaming
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.
A highly superior memory
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.
The changing face of eating disorders
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 — a social pain
Loneliness is a growing issue around the world, and a recent national survey reveals that 1 in 4 Australians are lonely.
Loneliness—a social pain
Loneliness is a growing issue around the world, and a recent national survey reveals that 1 in 4 Australians are lonely. Research also shows that loneliness can have a profound impact not just on our mental health but on our physical health as well. In fact, it could be as bad for our bodies as smoking. What’s causing this social pain and how can we reconnect with each other?
All In The Mind presents ... The Parenting Spectrum
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.
Autism and musicals
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.
Facing fears and phobias
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.
The power of compassion
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.
The post-natal mind
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.
Health in body and mind
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.
Psychedelics, addiction, and mental 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.
The autism project
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 mystery of the inflamed brain
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.
Getting sexy with robots
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?
Shame: the ups and downs
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
Creativity and your brain
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.
Mothering and mental illness
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.
Synesthesia: seeing sounds, hearing colours
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.
Carrots, sticks ... and other ways to motivate
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.
On being a dog
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.
The art of neurodiversity
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.
Neuroscience, consciousness, and leadership
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.
A mother's story of madness, murder, and love
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.
Podcast extra: Layne Beachley talks surf therapy
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.
The stoke of surf therapy
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.
The extremes of love
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.
Transitioning to motherhood: Perinatal mental health
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?
The Australian Mental Health Prize winners
Janne McMahon has drawn on her own lived experience of mental illness to advocate for patient-centred care. Professor Gavin Andrews introduced cognitive behaviour therapy to Australia. Meet the dual winners of the 2018 Australian Mental Health Prize.
The mind's eye
Picture an apple. Now picture your favourite character from a novel. And now a loved one's face. Can you see those images in your mind's eye? Some people can't because they have a condition called aphantasia which disrupts their ability to create a mental image.
First impressions: the face bias
The science behind our judgement of faces for their trustworthiness, competency, and character.
Ways to stay alive
When you're overwhelmed by distressing feelings and big emotions, it can feel lonely, particularly if you can't find the help you need in the mental health system. Alternative grassroots approaches to staying alive are now being explored, which focus on connecting with others in a similar space.
Preventing suicide
Each year, around 3,000 people in Australia die at their own hand. More young people die by suicide than in car accidents, and Indigenous Australians are more than twice as likely to take their own lives. Hear some of the latest thinking in prevention.
The enigma of time
When we’re bored time drags, and wouldn’t you swear that time seems to speed up as you get older? Drawing on the latest insights from psychology and neuroscience we explore the mystery of time perception, it’s connection to our sense of self and how we could be the architect of our own perception of time.
Ethics and the brave new brain
Advances in neuroscience and AI could revolutionise medicine but they also pose significant ethical and social challenges. If a brain computer interface can allow a blind person to see, or restore speech to those who’ve lost the ability to communicate, what does this mean for a person’s sense of self, personal responsibility, or privacy?
Psychedelic plants, culture, and rituals Podcast Extra
Kathleen Harrison is an ethnobotanist studying the relationship between plants, people, and culture. She's worked throughout Latin America since the 1960s and informed by long relationships with indigenous healers, naturalists, and her own decades of psychedelic curiosity. She co-founded the organisation Botanical Dimensions with Terence McKenna in 1985.
Tripping for depression
In 1966, as a reaction to disturbing reports of people having bad trips, the Psychedelic drug LSD was banned in the U.S. But now some scientists are seeing promising results from studies into the therapeutic benefits of using psychedelic drugs to treat mental illness.
Psychedelic research in Australia podcast extra
The not-for-profit association Psychedelic Research in Science and Medicine Incorporated (PRISM) was set up over 7 years ago to initiate and progress psychedelic medical research in Australia. PRISM is currently collaborating with the USA-based Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS).
MDMA—its potential therapeutic use podcast extra
Some exciting news was published earlier this year in the Psychiatric Journal JAMA, about the potential mental health benefits of psychedelic drug research. It’s likely that within the next 5 years researchers will know whether the psychoactive drug commonly known as ecstasy—methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA—can be used to treat psychiatric disorders.
Turn on, tune in
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.
Mothering and mental illness
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.
The art of empathy
Empathy is the power of understanding other people, which in turn allows societies to co-operate and function. But a leading British media executive is concerned that it’s lacking in today’s society, and that the arts and popular culture can bridge the gap.
Memory loss and identity
Our memories form the basis of our sense of self. When a brain disorder damages memory, it’s not clear what remains of the person when some of those memories are missing. A neurologist from the UK explores memory and identity through the moving stories of her patients.
Carrots, sticks ... and other ways to motivate
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.
The mental health of refugees
When refugees first arrive in Australia they’re understandably relieved to be relatively safe. But significant trauma—from their past as well as the daily stresses of their lives here—can cause real disruption to their wellbeing. Top 5 scientist in residence Belinda Liddell teams up with us to discuss her research into the refugee experience and its impact on mental health and the brain.
Depression and your sense of self
If you’ve ever been depressed you may have wondered—is this the real me? And if anti-depressants work for you, do they get you back in touch with who you really are or make you feel more inauthentic? The findings from a University of Cambridge study suggest that how authentic you feel when being treated for depression may be relevant to your recovery.
Leadership in mind
We're so bombarded by our mobile devices that our ability to pay attention is declining—and extensive research on leadership shows a crisis of engagement in the workforce. Leaders are not satisfying their employees’ needs to find engagement in what they do. Hear about the three most important qualities a leader needs to help solve the crisis.
On being a dog
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.
Tics, twitches, and Tourette's
Adam Ladell was delighted to be runner-up in The Voice on Australian TV a few years ago. He’s a talented and confident singer—but offstage it’s a slightly different story. He caused a stir at school with his involuntary repetitive movements and loud, inappropriate vocal twitches which are part of his Tourette syndrome. Adam talks to us about working with Tourette’s and developing his performance skills.
Optimism and hope—with Martin Seligman
Are you an optimist or a pessimist? Optimism may protect you from depression. But pessimism could be roughly equivalent to smoking more than 2 packs of cigarettes a day. Known as The Father of Positive Psychology, Professor Martin Seligman continues his talk to an Australian audience about how to promote human flourishing, and positive education.
Positive psychology—with Martin Seligman
During the 1960s the field of psychology focussed on the science of how past trauma creates present symptoms, and how to reduce people’s misery. Professor Martin Seligman wanted to change that focus. He’s become known as the Father of Positive Psychology, and he’s had a profound influence worldwide. In Part 1 of our 2 programs with Martin Seligman, hear him address an exclusive audience in Australia on happiness and human flourishing.
Synesthesia and art
Throughout art history we see a culture of expanded perceptions from artists like Kandinsky, to musicians like Duke Ellington. Artist Nina Norden sees colours and shapes in association with just about everything she experiences. In fact, she can’t imagine how things can exist without a colour and a shape—she has synaesthesia and it forms the basis of her art.
Synesthesia: seeing sounds, hearing colours
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.
Strange brains and rare perceptions
We take it for granted that we have a common understanding of the world. But there are some rare and strange brain disorders which offer a very different insight into our very existence. Their experiences and the latest research illustrate how the brain can shape our lives in unexpected and sometimes brilliant or alarming ways.
Epilepsy and seizure prediction
If you’ve ever witnessed someone having an epileptic seizure you’ll know how frightening it is. And if you have epilepsy you’ll know that the unpredictability of seizures severely impacts your life. It’s like an ‘electrical problem’ in your brain. Researchers are now using AI technology to develop a wearable seizure forecaster.
Creativity and your brain
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.
Memories and fears panel discussion from Big Ideas
An extra from All in the Mind—and RN's Big Ideas program with a panel discussion moderated by Lynne Malcolm.
From at the 2018 World Science Festival—Probing the Eternal Sunshine: Memories and Fears.
Ready for revolution—the psychology of protest
May 1968 saw over a million people protesting on the streets of Paris. Some say it caused a social revolution, and things were never the same again. We look at extensive research on protest behaviour, and what makes community action effective.
Women's brain business
The brain is shaped and changed by our lives, our genes, and our hormones. Neuroscientist Dr Sarah McKay investigates the influence of female biology and hormones on the brains of women as they move through key stages of life.
Compassion therapy for voice-hearing
We all have different sides to ourselves. The angry self, the anxious self, the sad self … and then there’s the compassionate self. We head to a workshop which explores the power of cultivating compassion in those who hear voices, and in their therapists.
The believing brain
Billions of people across the world and throughout time have held strong metaphysical beliefs—whether religious in nature, or more supernatural or spiritual. This year’s World Science Festival dared to ask what science can tell us about religion, spirituality and our belief instinct—without passing judgement.
The kids of today
Some surprises from the updated results of a famous psychological test involving marshmallows—and, when it comes to mood and happiness, teens of today may be on the brink of a mental health crisis—due to the widespread use of smart technology.
Letting go of dad
All in the Mind would like to share with you a story from the ABC podcast Tall Tales and True. Vanessa O'Neill tells the story about being with her father as he gradually declined due to Alzheimer's disease. It was a long, drawn-out period of grief, for the sufferer and for the whole family. Vanessa's story is a heartfelt, first-hand account of losing a parent. And note that the story also contains some strong language.
Placebo power
The placebo effect demonstrates that the mind-body interaction can be powerful. Placebos can turn on the body’s natural biological processes to relieve a range of conditions, and in the future deception may not even be necessary.
Adventures with smart pills and brain hacks
How far would you go to reveal your true, super-smart inner self? Athletes have used substances and techniques to enhance their performance physically. Now there are ways to boost your intelligence—which we don’t suggest you try it at home. But David Adam did—to try and cheat his way into Mensa using smart pills and brain hacks. But this also brought moral dilemmas.
The art of neurodiversity
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.
Podcast extra—MDMA and its potential therapeutic use
Some exciting news has just been published in the Psychiatric Journal JAMA about the potential mental health benefits of psychedelic drug research.
It’s likely that within the next 5 years researchers will know whether the psychoactive drug commonly known as ecstasy—methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA—can be used to treat psychiatric disorders.
Trauma, memory, and mental health
Trauma has a deep impact on the lives of survivors. It’s associated with mental and physical health problems, including substance abuse, and neuroscience is showing that a traumatic memory is quite different from a normal memory. Mental health services now realise that early trauma must be taken into account as an essential part of recovery from mental distress.
Super-recognisers
Do you never forget a face? You might be pretty good—but are you a super-recogniser? Research is trying to identify our face recognition abilities, and how we compare to those of a computer algorithm.
Frontiers of the changeable brain
If something goes wrong with the brain we often assume that things can’t change much—especially with extreme conditions. But neuroplasticity, and the almost limitless capacity of the brain to remould itself, is beginning to turn that assumption on its head.
BPD and healing relationships
Borderline Personality Disorder is a mental illness which causes deep pain and tumultuous relationships. But there is good therapy.
Borderline Personality Disorder: stigma to strength
Borderline Personality Disorder is the cause of deep pain—yet it is steeped in stigma and often not thought of as a legitimate disorder. But with good treatment it’s possible to live a normal and full life.
A highly superior memory
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.
The scientist, the monk, and Ruby Wax
Comedian Ruby Wax has teamed up with a Buddhist monk and a neuroscientist to explore how the mind works—and have a laugh at the same time. Ruby talks about her experience of depression, and whether her traumatic upbringing relates to her hilarious take on the human condition.
Craving
Most of us are vulnerable to forming bad habits and addictive behaviours— to binge eat, to smoke, take harmful drugs, or over-exercise. But if we better understood our craving mind we could mend our ways.