More than a mood disorder: A closer look at motor symptoms in depression

Globally, around 280 million people are affected by depression. This disorder is mostly known for its affective symptoms, like deep sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and diminished self-worth. But did you know that depression can also affect motor function?

Emily Soraya Hülskamp, Paula Carmona Osorio and Marit Ruitenberg • June 06, 2024

The nexus between artificial intelligence and neuroscience: The Connectome Project

Neuroscience (NS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have historically worked in synergy with one inspiring advancements in the other. In this post, I will briefly walk you through the grounds of this symbiosis using the example of the Connectome Project.

Dorota Moravčiková • May 02, 2024

Exploring the boundaries of empathy. Lessons from a crowded train

Empathy drives prosocial behaviour… in the lab, anyway, with no other people involved. In real-life scenarios, however, when we are exposed to the behaviour of others, empathy alone is often not enough.

Maria Lojowska • March 28, 2024

Progressive men, watch out for your own underlying biases!

Progressive men can play a crucial role in promoting gender equality and psychological safety. But to do so effectively, they must also face up to their own subtle biases.

Daan Scheepers • March 07, 2024

A third of new mothers quit science

"What is this?" A male hand reaches out and pulls a leaky container from my bag. "Breast milk." He makes a face. "Tasty and nutritious", I counter.

Mariska Kret • March 05, 2024

Who cares for the carers? Stress reduction in healthcare workers using MBSR

40% of nurses quit working in healthcare within 2 years of graduation. But with life expectancy on the rise, demand for specialised healthcare professionals will rise. How can we improve nurses’ work environment and keep them in the profession?

Kirsten Buitelaar • March 04, 2024

What Antarctica can tell us about loneliness and our brains

Antarctica is cold, hazardous, and lonely – and it changes your brain. Not many people have set foot on this icy continent, but the scientists in polar research stations reveal insights into the impact of expeditions to the South Pole on the mind and brain.

Greta Sandow • February 26, 2024

Stress doesn’t need an outlet. A persistent myth exposed

There is no 'outlet' for negative emotions (stress). Instead, it will just pass if the source of frustration stops. Revenge may help. But it may be wiser to put it into perspective, meditate on it, seek distraction, or wait until your brain stops mulling it over.

Jos Brosschot • February 12, 2024

The pathway to Clinical Neuropsychology

This story gives insight into the journey of being a student at Leiden University to what is like to be a clinical neuropsychologist. It shows that a career path after graduation is full of challenges that we can see as opportunities to grow.

Bianca Maria Wiersema • January 18, 2024

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What causes your depression? Perspectives from young people and their parents