Psychology

Sinking, spooky feeling? A subsonic sound may be at fault

Researchers say low-frequency sound from wind, ventilation, and creaking beams can trigger fear, dizziness, and a sensed presence.

Old house versus a new house
Time Passes in a safe room in central Israel.

Lessons from the safe room: Navigating fear, routine, and family togetherness

AI. Illustration.

'Boiling frog': Frequent dependence on AI can erode humanity's mental capabilities, study finds

An outlook for life.

Study: To fight dementia, stay optimistic


Time running out for remaining hostages, freed hostage Ohad Ben Ami warns

Ben Ami shared his message via recorded video at a rally for the return of all the hostages on Saturday at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv.

 Ohad Ben Ami addresses a rally at Hostages Square, February 15, 2025.

The process of healing: Letting go of wartime anger, pain

We must work to leave behind our trauma, and focus on new beginnings. In doing so, we grow together and add greater meaning to our lives. 

 An illustrative image of a phone being put on silent.

Israel's innovative ingenuity can help with our mental health crisis - opinion

By blending human compassion with technological innovation, Israel can create a mental health system that not only heals but uplifts its people.

Mental health [illustrative]

How finding meaning helped Israeli hostages endure 478 days in Hamas captivity

Viktor Frankl's studies on Holocaust survivors share insight into how hope can keep one alive in even the most hellish of situations.

 The four female Israeli soldiers, who had been held in Gaza since the deadly October 7, 2023 attack, are released by Hamas terrorists as part of a ceasefire and a hostage deal between Hamas and Israel, in Gaza City, January 25, 2025.

Hamas' long shadow will require greater investment into mental health resources - opinion

We need to learn to spot the signs of PTSD in ourselves and others and to signpost those who are struggling to the appropriate services.

 Released British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari and released Israeli hostage Doron Steinbrecher are transported to a hospital after being released from Gazan captivity where they were held since the deadly October 7 2023 attack by Hamas, in this handout image obtained by Reuters on January 20, 2025.

Meta-study confirms: Yes, parents do have a favorite child

Parental favoritism can have lasting consequences on children, warns lead author Alexander Jensen.

 Meta-study confirms: Yes, parents do have a favorite child. Illustration.

A grim report: This is what the lives of returning hostages will look like

The report paints a grim picture of the survivors, many of whom returned with multi-system injuries, both physical and psychological.

 The four rescued hostages seen at Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, Israel, on June 8, 2024

Two new shows at the Israel Museum expound on the subconscious

The “Lucid Dreams” exhibition and the Alma Mater sound, video, and light installation will run at the Israel Museum until June.

 Multidisciplinary artist Guy Zagursky’s ‘Step by Step’ references Jacob’s biblical dream.

Lifelong singles less satisfied with life, study of 77,000 Europeans reveals

Lifelong singles score lower in extraversion, openness, and life satisfaction compared to partnered individuals.

 Lifelong singles less satisfied with life, study of 77,000 Europeans reveals. Illustration.

Hanukkah and light: The psychological benefits of positive thinking

Lighting the Hanukkah candles becomes an act of defiance against despair, a symbol of unwavering faith, and a reminder that even in the darkest times, the Jewish people can glow brightly.

 An illustrative image of Hanukkah candles lit.