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Can You Really Choose to Be Happy? A Conversation About Brain Chemistry, Resilience & Real Joy
Manage episode 497038812 series 3677366
Happiness sounds simple… until it’s not. In this episode, Kim and Jake unpack whether happiness is a choice or a complex mix of biology, mindset, and circumstances. Featuring research on brain chemistry, gratitude, teen emotions, and even how happiness may extend your life — this episode is packed with insights and real strategies.
🎧 You’ll learn:
✅ How serotonin and dopamine affect your mood
✅ Why “just be happy” isn’t helpful — especially for people with depression
✅ Real strategies to rewire your brain for happiness
✅ How gratitude and optimism create lasting joy
✅ The science-backed link between happiness and longer life
✅ How teens’ emotional changes relate to brain development
💬 Connect With Us
Keep the conversation going and follow us for more insights, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates:
🌐 Website: www.themothersonpodcast.com
📸 Instagram: @themothersonpodcast
▶️ YouTube: The Mother-Son Podcast Channel
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📚 References (with links)
- Shawn Achor & Michelle Gielan – Is Happiness a Choice?
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/spotting-opportunity/201705/is-happiness-a-choice - Hannah Owens, LMSW – Why “Happiness Is a Choice” Is a BS Concept
https://www.verywellmind.com/is-happiness-really-a-choice-8722216 - The Jackson Laboratory – Happy or Sad: The Chemistry Behind Depression
https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression - Emma McAdam, LMFT – How to Be Happier
https://therapyinanutshell.com/how-to-be-happier - The Sensory Path – Teach Kids How to Find Happiness and Joy
https://thesensorypath.com/teach-kids-how-to-find-happiness-and-joy - Honey Lake Clinic – Is Depression a Symptom of Puberty?
https://www.honeylake.clinic/blog/is-depression-a-symptom-of-puberty - NIH – Happiness and Mortality
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4724393 - Centre for Optimism – Optimism and Happiness Connection
https://www.centreforoptimism.com
⚠️ Disclaimer:
The Mother-Son Podcast shares personal stories and lived experiences. We are not medical professionals, and this episode is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare prov
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