Music and the Brain

I don’t have access behind Jstor’s paywall, despite being an alumni of UBC, and wouldn’t be able to post the article even if I had, but here is the link to an article on the effects of music and the brain for all those interested in music’s healing, expanding, and cognitive effects on the human brain. Caveat: consider Jstor’s cheezy copywriting, and then ignore it. Enjoy all you brain afficianados!

Music and Cognitive Abilities on JSTOR

https://www.jstor.org/stable/20183055?typeAccessWorkflow=login

Interactive Lessons: the Limbic System

Limbic System (neuroanatomy.ca)

Looking for a visual, interactive map of the limbic system? Here is a good start. Produced by the University of British Columbia.

https://www.neuroanatomy.ca/modules/LimbicSystem/story.html

Role of D1 & D2 receptors in Positive and Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia

These are précis of a few books/articles discussing the dopamine hypothesis in schizophrenia. Apparently caffeine, both my nectar and nemesis, works on these receptors when consumed. I kept wondering why I feel better and a little more crazy for the first slough after the high passes.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/dopamine-hypothesis-of-schizophrenia#:~:text=The%20dopamine%20hypothesis%20of%20schizophrenia,to%20hypofunctionality%20of%20dopamine%20D1

And a notable book:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/book/9780128018293/the-neurobiology-of-schizophrenia

A Huberman Lab YouTube vid discusses dopaminergic processes in a wide range of activities from exercise to substance use and abuse. Dr. Huberman also delineates the when, how and why of managing your dopamine highs and troughs.

What the BC United Party Really Think…

Coleman ‘should be embarrassed’ for comparing social assistance to Third World incomes

Rich Coleman reveals true face of a government that has failed to help the poor

In case you lose the links, here are the PDF files of those articles for posterity.

What ChatGPT say

Q:

Why aren’t schizophrenics able to achieve much after the first onset of psychosis?

A:

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition, and the impact of the illness on an individual’s life can vary widely. While it’s not accurate to say that individuals with schizophrenia can’t achieve much after the first onset of psychosis, there are several factors that can make it challenging for them to pursue their goals and ambitions. These factors may include:

  1. Cognitive impairments: Schizophrenia can lead to cognitive deficits, such as difficulties with memory, attention, and problem-solving, which can hinder academic and occupational achievements.
  2. Social and emotional challenges: The disorder often affects an individual’s ability to maintain social relationships and manage their emotions, making it harder to succeed in education or employment.
  3. Medication side effects: Antipsychotic medications, which are commonly prescribed to manage symptoms, can have side effects that may impact a person’s energy levels, motivation, and cognitive functioning.
  4. Stigma and discrimination: Discrimination and social stigma associated with schizophrenia can limit opportunities and create barriers to education and employment.
  5. Lack of access to treatment and support: Adequate access to mental health care and support services is essential for managing schizophrenia and achieving one’s goals. Many individuals may not have access to these resources.

It’s important to note that with proper treatment, support, and accommodations, many individuals with schizophrenia can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their goals. Recovery is possible, and the impact of the illness can be managed. Each person’s journey is unique, and it’s crucial to provide understanding and support to individuals with schizophrenia to help them achieve their potential.

“What ChatGPT said…”

Q: What is apathy?

A: Apathy is a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern about things that would typically evoke emotions or motivation in a person. It often involves a sense of indifference or a feeling of not caring about events, issues, or activities.

Q: Is apathy in schizophrenic people a character flaw or a symptom or side effect?

A: Apathy in people with schizophrenia is typically considered a symptom or side effect of the condition rather than a character flaw. Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder characterized by various symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and, in some cases, negative symptoms like apathy, social withdrawal, and reduced emotional expression. Apathy in schizophrenia can be a result of the underlying neurological and cognitive changes associated with the disorder. It’s important to understand that individuals with schizophrenia are dealing with a serious mental illness, and their symptoms should be approached with understanding and appropriate treatment, rather than judgment.

Q: What makes paranoid schizophrenia so stigmatized?

A: Paranoid schizophrenia, like other forms of schizophrenia, can be stigmatized due to several factors:1. Misunderstanding: Many people lack a proper understanding of what schizophrenia, and specifically paranoid schizophrenia, actually is. This lack of understanding can lead to misconceptions and fear, contributing to stigma. 2. Media Portrayals: Media often portrays individuals with schizophrenia, especially paranoid schizophrenia, in a sensationalized and negative light. These portrayals can perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce stigma. 3. Fear of the Unknown: Symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia may include delusions and hallucinations, which can be difficult for people without personal experience to comprehend. This fear of the unknown can lead to stigmatization. 4. Historical Misconceptions: In the past, individuals with mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, were often treated inhumanely, leading to a historical legacy of stigmatization. 5. Negative Labels: The use of derogatory or dehumanizing language to describe those with schizophrenia can reinforce stereotypes and stigma. 6. Isolation: Stigma can lead to social isolation, making it even more challenging for individuals with paranoid schizophrenia to seek help and treatment.

A: It’s essential to combat stigma through education and empathy, as it can deter individuals from seeking the support and treatment they need to manage their condition effectively. Changing public perceptions and fostering understanding is crucial in reducing the stigma associated with paranoid schizophrenia and mental illnesses in general.

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