Digest for 12/2/2025

Rana el Kaliouby demonstrates her company's emotion recognition technology, which uses AI to analyze facial expressions and detect emotions, potentially aiding in mental health applications.

Thomas Insel discusses how advancements in brain science and technology are transforming our approach to mental illnesses, paving the way for innovative treatments.

Nearly 450 million people are affected by mental illness worldwide. In wealthy nations, just half receive appropriate care, but in developing countries, close to 90 percent go untreated because psychiatrists are in such short supply. Vikram Patel outlines a highly promising approach -- training members of communities to give mental health interventions, empowering ordinary people to keep an eye on their loved ones.

Dan Buettner shares insights from Blue Zones, regions where people live the longest, revealing nine common habits that promote longevity.

Cambridge researcher Aubrey de Grey argues that aging is merely a disease — and a curable one at that, outlining strategies to extend healthy human life.

Nir Barzilai studies the science of aging and shares discoveries about genetic factors and drugs that could lead to longer, healthier lives.

For all that's ever been said about climate change, we haven't heard nearly enough about the psychological impacts of living in such an uncertain time. TED Fellow Britt Wray shares insights on 'climate grief' and how it affects our mental health.

Public health researcher Kristie Ebi explains how rising CO2 levels are reducing the nutritional value of staple crops, potentially leading to widespread malnutrition and health issues.

Physician Jonathan Patz discusses how climate change exacerbates health problems like heat-related illnesses and infectious diseases, and proposes solutions through sustainable practices.