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The pandemic's toll on mental health is undeniable, sparking widespread feelings of isolation, sadness, and worry. This week, we’re joined by Dr. Laurie Santos, host of The Happiness Lab and a Yale psychology professor, to explore scientifically proven methods for coping and finding happiness. Tune in to hear her insights on resilience-building techniques like reframing and mindfulness, and how to better identify what truly brings us joy.
Dr. Santos, a Yale psychology professor and Silliman College head, specializes in human cognition and the biases that hinder better decision-making. Her course, “Psychology and the Good Life,” has become Yale’s most sought-after class in over three centuries.
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Key Moments from This Week’s Episode
Insights from the Dr. Laurie Santos Interview:
Identifying which online social interactions best support mental well-being:
One approach is to consider how closely an activity aligns with our natural tendencies. Alternatively, we can reflect mindfully on what truly feels rewarding. For instance, after spending an hour scrolling through Instagram, how do you feel? Personally, I often feel a bit drained or indifferent. On the other hand, after a Zoom happy hour, the experience might vary—some days leave me energized, while others, especially after back-to-back work meetings, leave me restless and in need of movement. The key is to stay attuned to how these interactions affect us, as our predictions about what will feel good don’t always match reality.
Exploring emotional resilience strategies rooted in Greek stoic philosophy:
Epictetus introduced his philosophy by distinguishing between what we can and cannot control. For instance, the slow vaccine rollout, students’ uncertainty about staying on campus, or being unable to meet friends are beyond our control. However, we can control our responses—whether we reach out to a friend, practice yoga, or engage in activities that uplift us. The Stoics emphasize that focusing on controllable aspects shields us from negative emotions.
On the common mistakes in pursuing happiness:
The issue with chasing happiness isn’t the pursuit itself but how we approach it. True happiness often stems from simpler actions—being present, fostering social connections, exercising, or ensuring adequate sleep. These activities don’t feel like a chase; they’re natural human behaviors that ultimately lead to well-being.
For deeper insights into the science of happiness, we encourage you to listen to the full episode.
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