The Brain
The brain is the command centre for our thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and decisions. It plays a key role in every aspect of mental health – from mood and memory to reactions and regulation. Below, we explore different brain regions and systems, and how each one contributes to our mental and emotional wellbeing.
Brain Hemispheres
The brain is divided in half, through the middle, and we call these hemispheres.
The Left Hemisphere (Blue)
This half is often associated with:
- Language processing (for most people)
- Logical reasoning
- Analytical tasks
- Controlling the right side of the body
Both hemispheres work closely together, and most activities involve networks across the whole brain.
The Right Hemisphere (Purple)
This half is often associated with:
- Spatial awareness
- Facial recognition
- Processing tone and emotional context in language
- Controlling the left side of the body
Creativity and problem-solving involve both hemispheres working together rather than one side alone.
The Lobes
The brain is divided into 4 lobes. Each lobe is responsible for separate processes.
The Frontal Lobe (Blue)
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The Parietal Lobe (Yellow)
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The Occipital Lobe (Red)
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The Temporal Lobe (Green)
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Cerebrum
The cerebrum controls higher brain functions like thinking, action, and decision-making.
Cerebral Cortex
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Frontal Cortex
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Motor Cortex
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Somatosensory Cortex
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Visual Cortex
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Auditory Cortex
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Cerebellum
The cerebellum coordinates movement, posture, and balance. It refines motor skills and enables smooth, controlled motion.
Brainstem
Connects the brain to the spinal cord and controls vital life functions.
Midbrain
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Pons
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Medulla Oblongata
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The Limbic System
This system processes emotions, memory, and arousal. It includes several interconnected parts:
Amygdala
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Hippocampus
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Thalamus
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Hypothalamus
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Cingulate Gyrus
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Basal Ganglia
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Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
Controls involuntary functions like heartbeat, digestion, and breathing.
- Heart rate
- Digestion
- Respiratory rate
- Blood pressure
Split into two main branches:
- Sympathetic (Fight or Flight)
- Parasympathetic (rest and digest)
Sympathetic Nervous System
Prepares the body for stress — raises heart rate, sharpens alertness. Overactivation is linked to anxiety and panic.
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Helps the body recover and restore balance after stress. Promotes calm, digestion, and rest.
Neurotransmitters
Chemical messengers that pass signals between neurons. Each one affects mood, motivation, and more.
Dopamine
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Serotonin
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Acetylcholine
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GABA
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