The BRAIN Initiative
Mission Of The Brain Initiative
The mission of the BRAIN Initiative is to deepen understanding of the inner workings of the human mind and to improve how we treat, prevent, and cure disorders of the brain.
At this moment in time, it appears that human beings understand (at best) about 10% of brain function.
We simply do not understand how the brain works.
There is growing body of literature surrounding neurotransmitters, hormones, and neurobiology in general.
We Have No Clue!
However, when it comes to explaining behavior and human brain development the most common explanation is “it’s complex and it’s multifaceted”.
Which is code for “we have no freaking clue”.
If we understand only 10% of brain functioning, the most responsible thing we can do is simplify our approach.
When it comes to matters of the mind we should focus on first principles.
What do we know to be certain about any given presenting problem-mental health and/or substance use?
Unfortunately, not much. You may think you know. But you don’t, and your arrogance is dangerous.
Transmitters & Hormones
We do know, that most human beings respond in favorable ways to other supportive human beings.
We know that human contact and connection lights up all the “feel good” transmitters and hormones.
Evidenced based practices don’t address the brain.
They address symptom mitigation and other social constructs surrounding a hypothetical “brain-disease state”.
Psychiatry (therapy, counseling etc..) is a medial discipline that does not include “looking at the impacted organ” as standard practice.
Matters Of The Mind
When you mix in things like consciousness, morality, judgement, and sociological perspective we find ourselves wandering in an even darker forest.
Helping people with matters of the mind is more art than science.
We need to embrace this.
It’s likely that everyone can agree on the importance of connection, relationship and rapport.
In reality, therapeutic alliance may represent the true extent of evidenced based behavioral health.
More About The BRAIN Initiative
Learn more about the brain and the latest research advances from documents, images, and multimedia resources curated by Initiative participants and affiliates.
Please visit their website.