Researchers using advanced brain imaging techniques and investigating the question "Why are we nice to others?" have confirmed what social psychologists have long suspected, because it makes us feel good. Furthermore, we are hard-wired to feel good when we good things for others. »more»

UCLA researchers using brain imaging techniques have found that the parts of the brain associated with happiness are the same ones that get stimulated when subjects feel that they are being treated in a fair manner. In other words, we are hard-wired to feel happy when we perceive that we are being treated equitably. »more»

While the exact numbers are in debate, it is generally accepted that over the past 50 years depression rates in the United States have risen dramatically. Several large epidemiological and family studies have suggested increases in the rates of depression for all ages. »more»

A provocative study on aging and emotional stability was published last summer in the Journal of Neuroscience and reported in the Los Angeles Times. In short it found that healthy, older people "are less bothered by things and are more in control of their reactions to fear." »more»

Editor's Note: As part of LifeTwo's Happiness Week we asked Alvaro Fernandez of neuroscience site SharpBrains to explain what neuroscientists think about the concept of happiness and what their research tells us about our quest to become happier. You'll see that there are significant linkages between the two. »more»

A book just out in paperback says forget all those '70's notions that women are identical to men. Female hormones affect women's brain's in evolutionarily advantageous ways, but they may also spur older women to start new lives -- even if that means leaving their husbands behind. »more»

The toll that chronic stress can take on the body is well-known (see our post " Something Else to Fret About; Worrying can kill you")"and researchers at the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago have found another one--making you more vulnerable to age-related mental decline. »more»

Sick or just sad?

An estimated one in six Americans suffer depression at some point in their lives however that number should be 25 percent lower according to a new study. This change is more than a statistical debate; if you are part of that 25%, the treatment you get could be substantially different. »more»

New research hints that a too-clean environment may contribute to depression. »more»

When you think of Valentine's Day, you probably think of red hearts. This is all wrong. New research is showing that love should be represented by green brains. What's more this same research shows the science behind having a better relationship with your spouse. »more»