Mind

What Good Is Thinking About Death?

We're all going to die and we all know it. This can be both a burden and a blessing.

• Julie Beck
• May 28, 2015

Is Depression a Symptom of Parkinson's Disease?

A new study suggests depression is an early manifestation of the neurodegenerative disease, not just a byproduct of being chronically ill.

• Adrienne LaFrance
• May 20, 2015

The Mechanics of Preventing Procrastination

A new study finds that thinking about far-off events in terms of days, rather than years, makes people get started sooner.

• Olga Khazan
• May 12, 2015

Mixed Signals: Why People Misunderstand Each Other

The psychological quirks that make it tricky to get an accurate read on someone's emotions

• Emily Esfahani Smith
• April 23, 2015

Setting Limits for Testing Brains

A neuroscientist discusses a new White House report on ethical questions for the future of human brain research.

• Cari Romm
• April 7, 2015

Making Theater Autism-Friendly

Reduced sounds, brighter lights, and an opportunity to learn about the show ahead of time make plays a more pleasant experience for those with autism. But the most important thing is a non-judgmental environment.

• Vidya Viswanathan
• April 6, 2015

Overcoming an Eating Disorder With Instagram

Many patients post photos of their meals and changing bodies to document their recovery—and in the process, some have found an online community of supporters.

• Molly Mirhashem
• April 1, 2015

For a More Creative Brain, Travel

How international experiences can open the mind to new ways of thinking

• Brent Crane
• March 31, 2015

Depressed Doesn't Mean Dangerous

News reports are focusing on the Germanwings pilot's possible depression, following a familiar script in the wake of mass killings. But the evidence shows violence is extremely rare among the mentally ill.

• Julie Beck
• March 27, 2015

When HIV Infects the Brain

A new study reports that the virus can infiltrate the central nervous system within months of infection.

• Andrew Giambrone
• March 26, 2015

When Fatigue Boosts Creativity

Most of the time, we do better on tasks when we're most awake. But some problems require a mind that's just a bit tired—or otherwise impaired.

• Olga Khazan
• March 20, 2015

Infectious Psychology

As the Ebola epidemic subsides, global leaders look to the next outbreak.

• James Hamblin
• March 18, 2015

The Computer Will See You Now

A growing number of people are turning to online counseling, possibly at the expense of their privacy or the quality of the mental-health care they receive.

• David R. Wheeler
• March 18, 2015

How Uncertainty Fuels Anxiety

An inability to live with life's unknowns can lead to worry and distress.

• Julie Beck
• March 18, 2015

The Healthiest Typeface

A new study adds more support to the idea that the right font can help sway health behavior.

• Cari Romm
• March 17, 2015

Why a Healthy Person's Perception of Time Is Inaccurate

People with normal brains feel the hours pass more slowly than they really do, but new research illuminates the ways this can be manipulated.

• Cody C. Delistraty
• March 16, 2015

How to Teach Doctors Empathy

"Being a good doctor requires an understanding of people, not just science."

• Sandra G. Boodman
• March 15, 2015

An Overnight Nursing Home for Dementia Patients

Many with Alzheimer's are at their most active after dark. A New York care facility has launched an after-hours camp-style program to entertain them until the morning—and help their caregivers get some sleep.

• Rachel Gotbaum
• March 12, 2015

Objects in Brain May Be Bigger Than They Appear

Scientists still don't know what causes the mysterious Alice in Wonderland Syndrome, in which people, usually children, suddenly see things change size.

• Robin Tricoles
• March 9, 2015

To Make Roads Safe, Make Them Feel Dangerous

A new study adds weight to the idea that heightening drivers' sense of risk may actually cut down on traffic collisions.

• Cari Romm
• February 27, 2015