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Episode 23: Antidepressants Unpacked – What They Are, How They Work, and What You Should Know

 In Episode 23 of Psychology for Students, we take a deep dive into one of the most widely discussed—and misunderstood—tools in mental health treatment: antidepressants. From SSRIs to MAOIs, we explore how these medications work in the brain, when they’re most effective, and what the research really says about their benefits and limitations. You'll also learn why consulting a licensed mental health professional is crucial before starting medication, and why quick prescriptions from non-specialists may do more harm than good. This episode cuts through the noise to give you clear, thoughtful insight on how antidepressants fit into the broader journey of healing.

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 The Truth About Depression: Pain, Healing, and the Power to Stay 

In this deeply personal and compassionate episode, Professor Jeff Hastings takes an unflinching look at depression—what it is, why it happens, and most importantly, how healing begins. Drawing on science, personal stories, and the wisdom of thought leaders like the Dalai Lama and Dr. Carol Dweck, this episode explores the biology, psychology, and lived experience of depression with clarity, empathy, and hope.

Whether you're struggling yourself, supporting someone you love, or simply want to understand mental health more deeply, this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and practical tools. You’ll learn how depression distorts thinking, how to interrupt the spiral, and why small steps—like mindfulness, movement, and reaching out—can be truly life-changing.

This isn’t just about coping. It’s about transformation. About rediscovering the parts of you that pain has buried, and believing that joy isn’t gone—it’s just waiting.

If you or someone you love is in crisis, please reach out. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone.

Carol Dweck: "The power of believing that you can improve"
 

Martin Seligman: "The new era of positive psychology"
 

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 Episode 21: The Future of Education Starts Now—A Call to Action for Faculty, Leaders, and Institutions

Mental health is at crisis levels. Students are overwhelmed, disconnected, and drowning in the noise of tech addiction, trauma, and social pressure—while academic systems remain largely unchanged. In this urgent follow-up to Episode 20, Professor Jeff Hastings speaks directly to educators, administrators, and institutional leaders about what must change—and what’s possible if we rise to meet this moment.

From rethinking outdated curriculum models to embracing generative AI as a bridge—not a threat—this episode offers real, creative solutions to make learning more human, more flexible, and more transformational. If we want to prepare students for life after college, we must act now—with boldness, compassion, and the willingness to break the mold.

Whether you're in the classroom, a dean’s office, or a leadership team meeting, this is your call to lead.

Because if we don’t evolve, we fail the very people we’re here to serve.

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Short Chapter Summary Example: https://youtu.be/KYL1VStGfHY?si=f4HXQE1ilgATiYFu

Chapter Review Example with Avatar: https://youtu.be/eX6Sd2mGNiE?si=Ibmu31m8joR_J_Ib

Welcome Video: https://youtu.be/5dzGze1ED38?si=JPv5sOkxI-Wvnh_S

Week 1 Review: https://youtu.be/Nt6l2ROcNVw?si=6w3zVFJNkGH_p-0R

Week 2 Review: https://youtu.be/0PGWhuOqcEc?si=y4j-wtY6sxEho5_t

Week 3 Review: https://youtu.be/9rW84zB7siE?si=rMvcXUht8EC7TRCb

Week 4: Review: https://youtu.be/0uep3nULYE8?si=hhNmh-qkscnirP-a

Week 5: Review: https://youtu.be/6_GR_d-2yzQ?si=ZUFrLJ9PeeTEdgjv

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Episode 20: Student Mental Health, Identity, and the Hidden Crisis of Exploitation — A Conversation for Parents and Students 

In this powerful episode of Psychology for Students, Professor Jeff Hastings shines a light on the escalating mental health crisis facing teens and young adults today. As we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, we unpack the alarming rise in anxiety, depression, and suicide rates—and explore what’s really driving this surge, from tech addiction and social media to family instability and academic pressure. You’ll learn how to recognize the warning signs, how schools and families can step up, and practical steps to support mental health every day. Professor Hastings tackles the harsh realities of rising anxiety, depression, identity struggles, bullying, and the impact of social media and tech addiction—issues many parents may not fully understand. If your loved one has shared this episode with you, it’s a clear sign they are reaching out for connection and support.

Whether you’re a student searching for the words to explain your struggles or a parent trying to understand what’s really going on, this episode offers guidance, empathy, and practical steps to help heal, support, and strengthen your relationship.

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🎙️ Episode 19: Chapter 4 Review – Psychology Across the Lifespan

In this special review episode, Angela takes you on a clear, engaging walkthrough of everything you need to know from Chapter 4: Psychology Across the Lifespan. From Piaget’s stages of cognitive development to Erikson’s psychosocial theory, we’ll explore how we grow, think, and change from infancy through adulthood. You’ll hear key concepts like object permanence, identity vs. role confusion, the impact of brain development in adolescence, and how early attachment influences lifelong relationships — all explained in simple, relatable language.

Perfect for students prepping for a quiz or anyone wanting to better understand human development, this review ties together theory, real-life examples, and helpful summaries. Listen in to boost your confidence, sharpen your understanding, and get ready to ace that test!

✅ Quiz prep made easy
✅ Key terms clearly explained
✅ Examples that make it stick

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Episode 18: Love, Attraction, and Why We Choose the Wrong People

In Episode 18, Professor Hastings and Angela dive into the psychology of attraction, love, and the hidden forces that influence our relationship choices. Why do smart, thoughtful people end up with partners who hurt them? How do attachment styles, trauma, and self-worth shape who we’re drawn to? And how can we break unhealthy patterns to build love that lasts? This episode blends insight, humor, and hope for anyone navigating the complicated world of relationships.

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Chapter 4: Development Across the Lifespan
Becoming You: Navigating Identity, Love, and Growth in Emerging Adulthood

In this episode, Professor Jeff Hastings explores the emotional highs and lows of young adulthood — from brain development and identity struggles to choosing the right friends and partners. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, lost, or unsure of your path, you’re not alone. Learn how to build self-awareness, choose relationships that support your growth, and take powerful steps toward the life you truly want. 

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Chapter 4: Development Across the Lifespan
From Birth to Adulthood — Psychology Across the Life Span

In this episode, Professor Jeff Hastings walks us through the incredible journey of human development — from the very first moments of life to late adulthood. We’ll explore how our bodies grow, how our minds evolve, and how early experiences can shape the way we see ourselves and others. From prenatal development and attachment theory to Piaget, Erikson, parenting styles, and early trauma, this episode lays the foundation for understanding how we become who we are — and why it matters for your life today. 

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 In this review of Chapter 3, Angela (Jeff's AI Teaching Assistant) breaks down everything you need to know about consciousness — from attention, sleep, and dreaming to altered states like hypnosis and meditation. Learn how your brain creates awareness, why sleep is critical for memory and mental health, and how selective attention shapes your experience of reality. Plus, test your knowledge with a quick interactive quiz at the end. Whether you're prepping for a test or just want to understand your mind better, this review has you covered! 

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Chapter 3: Consciousness
Dreams, Nightmares, and the Science of Sleep: What Your Brain’s Up to While You Snooze

We spend about one-third of our lives asleep — but what exactly is happening in the brain during all those hours of shut-eye? In this episode of Psychology for Students, we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of sleep and dreams.

Join Professor Jeff Hastings and teaching assistant Angela as they explore the science behind why we sleep, what’s going on in the brain during different sleep stages, and why your dreams might be doing more emotional and mental work than you realize.

From Freud’s early theories about hidden desires to modern research on memory consolidation and emotional regulation, this episode breaks down what we know — and don’t know — about dreams, nightmares, and brain activity at night. We’ll also tackle some of the most common myths about dreaming, discuss the strange and sometimes terrifying experience of sleep paralysis, and even cover rare cases like violent sleepwalking.

Most importantly, we’ll focus on how understanding your dreams can support your mental health. Learn practical strategies like dream journaling and dream rescripting to help turn unsettling dreams into powerful tools for self-awareness, emotional healing, and personal growth.

Whether your dreams leave you curious, confused, or a little spooked — this episode will give you the science (and the stories) behind what’s really going on while you snooze.

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Psychology for Students — understanding your mind, your world, and your future — one episode at a time.