I read something last night that got me pretty concerned. The article stated there is practically an epidemic of “Brain BS” out there! The authors state that more non-scientists have become interested in this topic. As a result, some information presented is not quite accurate, and in some cases, is completely wrong. Unfortunately, some writers are taking liberties to advance an agenda, such as a book or exercise plan. And in so doing, they are perpetuating some brain myths.
In general, the authors took issue with a few things.
Learn More About Brain Myths
First, that many writers seem to oversimplify complex theories, or misquote results. They went into detail about areas where this is happening.
Two topics they noted were mindfulness and meditation, both of which are popular in the positive psychology arena right now.
This is concerning.
Many folks are desperate to find ways to mitigate depression, anxiety, and symptoms related to PTSD. They deserve the best and only the best information on measures that may help alleviate their suffering.
The authors mentioned brain myths that are actually outright falsehoods that have been promoted by the non-scientific community. These got me thinking:
- We only use 10% of our brains: No scientist has ever made this claim and there is absolutely no science to support it.
- Creative people tend to be right-brained: The hemispheres of the brain, while, distinct, mostly work together to carry out complex tasks. Actual dominance of one side of the brain over the other remains unproven and unclear.
- Crosswords help prevent brain aging: No such luck. You may get better at crossword puzzles, but there’s no evidence to show doing them will improve the health of your brain or stave off aging.
- Our brains grow until adulthood and then brain cells die off: good news here! In 1998, a study proved that new brain cells form throughout our lifetime, at least in parts of the brain.
The message I came away with was that it’s really important to check your sources.
Especially if you are experiencing mental health or brain health issues, be sure to consult your medical provider before engaging in new practices advertised in the mainstream media.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a health care executive and 15 years (and counting) as a consultant. The common thread through Joan’s professional life has been a commitment to lead, mentor and coach current and future leaders, and women from all walks of life. KindCompassCoach provides information and advice grounded in Joan’s personal experience; however, all articles are backed by research and provide facts and advice from a wide variety of experts. Joan also serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
4 Responses
Oh this is very true. Any neurological illness has the potential to have bad brain science associated with it. For example, many sources say that Migraine is caused by a restriction of blood vessels. The truth is that they don’t know but it is inconclusive because many Migraine patients are given relief with Triptan medications that restrict blood vessels. So that theory, is just that…a theory!
Great post!
Thank so much Jen!
I love this! People love to strike terror in society to make us do/buy things for profit. Who knows, maybe the crossword puzzle myth was to make us buy more crosswords?? This was amazing x
I’m so glad you enjoyed it Kelsey!