The Brain: The Story of You

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“We’re using an adult yardstick to understand teenagers,” Galinsky says in the documentary. “We wouldn’t say that infants are deficit toddlers, but yet we think of teenagers as, you know, not quite adults, and we measure them that way. And that really affects how we talk to them.” Every decision we make is underpinned by this kind of neural conflict.

To avoid brain fog from vitamin B12 deficiency, doctors recommend that adults get around 2.4 micrograms per day. Although brain fog may not be as serious as a bad case of scurvy, it can be quite disruptive to your everyday life. The good news is that, if it’s a result of vitamin deficiency, you may be able to cure it rather quickly by adjusting your diet. If you’re seriously deficient in a specific brain-boosting vitamin, you may want to consider a supplement. However, note that you should always consult your doctor before adding a supplement to your diet.

Our brain is a complex and fascinating organ that controls every aspect of our being. From the way we think and feel to how we move and interact with the world around us, our brains are truly remarkable. This article delves into the intricacies of the brain and explores how it shapes who we are.

Producing better images is one of the major challenges of these systems. Hawn, who founded Mind Up in 2003, said she hopes the documentary gives a new perspective on being a teenager. “A lot of it is like a roller coaster,” one teen girl says in the documentary. By creating an account, you acknowledge that PBS may share your information with our member stations and our respective service providers, and that you have read and understand the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Withdrawal symptoms include depression, insomnia, anger, irritability and, of course, intense cravings to get high again. Today’s marijuana is nothing like the flowers and leaves that filled the joints smoked at Woodstock in 1969. Today, THC content in the most popular strains of weed falls between 17% and 28%.

Unlike any other part of your body, if you damage a small piece of the brain, who you are is likely to change radically. Impaired attention, problems with memory and difficulty learning are all potential side effects of early exposure to marijuana. Nearly 80% of cannabis users try the drug for the first time as a teenager. In the years following its legalization in Colorado via a 2012 referendum, marijuana use among 12- to 17-year-olds increased 65%. And let’s not get suckered into the cannabis industry’s focus on medical utility.

And he found that the mPFC was less active when they looked at a homeless person. To find out, I invited a second group of people to the lab — all of whom had been exposed to the most lethal toxin on the planet. This is the Botulinum toxin, derived from a bacterium, and it’s commonly marketed under the brand name Botox. When injected into facial muscles, it paralyses them and thereby reduces wrinkling. Once people get hooked, marijuana can be incredibly difficult to quit.

The circle slowly sneaks back into a rectangular structure and closes it behind; meanwhile, the large triangle chases the smaller triangle away. The large triangle then comes menacingly to the door of the structure, pries it open and comes in after the circle, which frenetically (and unsuccessfully) looks for other ways to escape. Just when the situation looks its darkest, the little triangle returns. Together they shut the door, trapping the large triangle inside. Outside, the little triangle and the circle spin around one another.

Understanding the Brain

At its core, the brain is a network of billions of neurons that communicate with each other through electrical impulses. These neurons form connections called synapses, which allow information to be transmitted throughout the brain. Different regions of the brain are responsible for various functions, such as memory, emotion, and movement.

The Power of Neuroplasticity

One of the most incredible aspects of the brain is its ability to adapt and change in response to experiences. This phenomenon, known as neuroplasticity, allows the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This flexibility enables us to learn new skills, recover from injuries, and even overcome trauma.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Brain

  1. What is the role of neurotransmitters in the brain?
  2. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons. They play a crucial role in regulating mood, cognition, and behavior.

  3. How does stress impact the brain?
  4. Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on the brain, leading to cognitive impairments and mental health issues. It is essential to practice stress-reducing techniques to protect brain health.

  5. Can the brain regenerate cells?
  6. While the brain cannot regenerate neurons like other parts of the body, it can generate new neurons in specific regions through a process called neurogenesis. Engaging in activities like exercise and learning can promote neurogenesis.

Overall, the brain is a marvel of nature, constantly shaping and defining who we are. By understanding its complexities and harnessing its potential, we can unlock the true story of ourselves.

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