mental health Archives - David R Hamilton PHD

Novelty. Man standing on a large white arrow that bends to the right. The route ahead is a red arrow. The image suggests that we can choose something different. The background is mustard yellow.

Why Your Brain Loves a Little Novelty (And How to Find It)

By Dr David R Hamilton | September 2, 2026

We don’t always need a new life to feel more alive; sometimes we just need something new in the life we already have. Discover why your brain loves novelty and how one tiny change to your routine can completely shift your perspective.

Happiness concept. Happy young woman with long orange curly hair, winking, laughing with radiant joy under a clear blue sky. She is wearing a pink flowery blouse and pink trousers and is leaning in from the side of the image.

The Happiness that Happens Before it Happens

By Dr David R Hamilton | August 12, 2026

Studies show that anticipation of an event often boosts our happiness more than the event itself. In fact, happiness is usually felt 3 times – before, during, and after.

Kindness as a superfood concept. Large pink cartoon hands, one holding a woman with long flowing dark hair, a red blouse and yellow trousers, the other holding a red heart. The background is peach and there's twinkling stars.

Kindness: The Superfood Nobody Puts in a Smoothie

By Dr David R Hamilton | July 27, 2026

Studies show that kindness is like a superfood for your mental wellbeing. It boosts happiness, protects against depression, and can even alleviate anxiety.

A hand outstretched holding three gerbera flowers - one yellow, one light pink and one a darker shade of pink. It's against a pastel blue background.

The Science of Being Thankful

By Dr David R Hamilton | November 25, 2025

One theory goes that we’re wired for connection – and gratitude connects us. And since connection boosts brain health, heart health, and overall physical health and longevity, gratitude is a doorway to all those benefits.