What Is Post-Pandemic Growth? A Neuroscientist On This Mental Health Phenomenon

As we begin heading into post-pandemic life, think about changes you can make to nurture these five areas of PTG.

I generally recommend spending 10 to 20 minutes a day in meditation or prayer. Not only could this help you get in touch with your spiritual side, but they’re also both fantastic stress-reduction tools. In fact, one brain-imaging study from UCLA researchers found the hippocampus (which is involved in memory and mood) and the frontal cortex were significantly larger in people who meditate regularly. I recommend this practice to all of my patients for better brain health and mental well-being.

I also advise focusing on positive thoughts as much as possible, to trigger a release of feel-good neurochemicals—this can help with the possibilities and appreciation aspects of PTG, among other constructive impacts on well-being. Establishing a consistent gratitude practice can be beneficial, as well.

These are just a few examples of useful practices, but this experience will, of course, look different for everyone. The important thing is to find what works best for you personally, and hopefully take steps towards a more positive, meaningful future.