Here in Colorado we recently legalized recreational marijuana. I think that was a good decision. Grownups don’t need babysitters, and on my list of societal ills pot falls somewhere between stray dogs and people who drive slowly in the fast line. …
Five Reasons Why Marijuana Is a Real Jerk SometimesRead More »
We all have those lazy days we look back upon with regret. Today, for example, I donated a paltry four hours to the animal shelter, wrote only two chapters of my book on pre-Renaissance psychiatric interventions, and barely finished reshingling my roof. Some days I just can’t get myself moving. …
Q: If I feed my brain with a certain positive thought every time it wanders in a negative direction, does it eventually believe the thought? For example, suppose my mom tries to stop me from playing video games by telling me that it wastes time. My mind doubts her, and and I have thoughts that she’s just being overly protective. But if I keep repeating to myself that she’s right, would my mind eventually believe it and have no more doubts? – Michele …
The mind seems to be wired for negative thoughts. Common wisdom says that pessimism is a problem. The anti-pessimists warn us: “don’t think like that or you’ll doom yourself to failure!” But common wisdom can be wrong, and pessimism can be helpful – if it is done correctly. So cinch up your belt and suspenders, and let’s find the positive side of negative thinking! …
Q: Can I really get addicted to the Internet? How is that possible? Do I need to mainline my Internet cable? And can you tell me how to do that? -A.J.
Q: Is it just me, or have you also noticed everyone seems to have an addiction of some sort? Or are my acquaintances of questionable mental health? -Spike …
In Part 1, we discussed why the primal mind is uninterested in providing us with an endless stream of endorphins. It is more interested in keeping us alive than keeping us happy. In Part 2, we looked at the modular design of the mind and a few of the ways in which cryptic, nonverbal messages emanate from its deeper systems. …
What Is The Mind? Part 3: Living With An Unruly MindRead More »
Q: What’s behind the “deer in the headlights” phenomenon? I understand fight or flight is necessary during dangerous situations, but why do people “freeze” when they’re scared? It seems like the worst thing to do when your life is in danger. – Mindy, New York …
Why Do People Freeze During Stressful Situations and Faint at the Sight of Blood?Read More »
Q: What’s up with triskaidekaphobia? Is it contagious? Why would somebody dream up such a silly disease? – Mathgirl …
Q: How does depression work? Is it often connected with social anxiety? What can be done about it (other than prescription drugs)? – Anonymous …
