New study details the results of tech-free vacations

A new study highlights the effects of a "digital detox" while traveling.

Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images
  • A new study highlights what happens when travelers do not use technology while visiting foreign destinations.
  • Participants initially reported withdrawal symptoms, only to enjoy the experience more as the day progressed.
  • "Digital detox" retreats are growing in popularity, though the cost of many can be prohibitive.
Keep reading Show less
technology depression anxiety travel personal growth addiction

Should cognitive behavioral therapy be taught in school?

This modern therapy technique has been shown to be effective and easy to learn — could teaching it to students help cut off a growing mental health crisis?

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash
  • Adolescents are experiencing higher rates of mental disorders than ever before.
  • One possible solution to this crisis would be to teach students cognitive behavioral therapy, an effective, modern therapeutic technique that focuses on addressing "distorted" thinking.
  • What are the arguments for and against teaching cognitive behavioral therapy in school?
Keep reading Show less
ptsd depression emotions psychology teaching mental health

9 self-actualized historical figures

When he was developing his famous hierarchy of needs, Abraham Maslow cited 9 historical figures that achieved self-actualization.

George Rinhart/Corbis via Getty Images
  • In order to develop his model of self-actualization, Abraham Maslow interviewed friends, colleagues, students, and historical figures.
  • These 9 historical figures demonstrate different aspects of self-actualization that Maslow believed all self-actualized individuals possessed to one degree or another.
  • By studying these figures, we can come to a better understanding of what self-actualization really is.
Keep reading Show less
depression empathy curiosity creativity happiness leadership motivation philosophy self psychology

Humans aren't designed to "be happy." Why do we keep pretending?

A new essay by Rafael Euba questions the goals of the happiness industry.

Photo by Ute Grabowsky/Photothek via Getty Images
  • Biologically speaking, humans are not designed for happiness, writes Rafael Euba on The Conversation.
  • Depression is a natural part of life, fostering problem-solving skills and keeping us out of dangerous situations.
  • Euba says the $11 billion positive thinking industry is a big reason for this focus on happiness.
Keep reading Show less
depression health consumerism mental health happiness

The profound effects of exercise on the brain: A conversation with Dr. John Ratey

The Harvard Medical School's clinical professor of psychiatry wrote the book on the topic.

Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images for IRONMAN
  • Dr. John Ratey's 2008 book, Spark, investigated the many important effects that exercise has on mental health.
  • While physical fitness is essential to good health, moving in a variety of ways is even more important.
  • Recent research suggests that exercise is as effective for treating certain mental health conditions as pharmaceuticals.
Keep reading Show less
mental health depression brain neuroscience addiction health