S1E11. Unchain Your Mind Pt 1

Summary

In this episode, Amber and Ryan explore the themes of learned helplessness, the impact of social media on mental health, and the importance of community and communication. They discuss how societal and political factors contribute to feelings of powerlessness and examine the cognitive distortions that can perpetuate these feelings.

The conversation also touches on the Menendez brothers as a case study in learned helplessness and emphasizes the need for optimism and self-reflection in overcoming negative thought patterns.

Keywords

learned helplessness, social media, mental health, community, cognitive distortions, optimism, self-talk, personal growth, politics, communication

Resources

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Basics of Learned Helplessness: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/learned-helplessness

Shock Experiment:
https://www.science.org/content/article/people-would-rather-be-electrically-shocked-left-alone-their-thoughts

Learned Optimism: https://positivepsychology.com/learned-optimism/

Cognitive Distortions: https://www.todaywellspent.com/blogs/articles/3-mental-traps-we-fall-into-all-the-time

Books Referenced:

Angela Duckworth - Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
- Check out this 3 Pack: Grit, How I Built This, Champion Thinking

Chapters

00:00 Introduction & The Social Dilemma
08:12 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
15:26 The Menendez Brothers: A Case Study in Learned Helplessness
22:31 The Pervasiveness of Negativity in Daily Life
28:22 The Rapid Onset of Learned Helplessness
36:51 Learned Helplessness: Understanding the Cycle
45:48 The Role of Community in Overcoming Negativity