Can Becoming Less Attached Reduce Your Suffering and Anxiety?

Can Becoming Less Attached Reduce Your Suffering and Anxiety?

Author: Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa - Neuroscientist and Mindset Coach September 22, 2026 Duration: 47:24

In this episode, the speaker delves into the concept of attachment and how it can cause suffering in our lives. We're often told to "let go" or "detach" from things that are causing us pain, but what does that really mean? Is it about caring less or loving less? Not quite. Attachment is not the enemy, but rather our unhealthy attachment styles that can lead to anxiety, fear, and grief.

Attachment is not just about relationships, but also about our attachment to physical objects, places, and even our identities. 

I talk about studies that show the effectiveness of attachment security priming in improving positive emotions and reducing negative emotions. And how we can apply this concept to our own lives by identifying what we're attached to, where we stand in relation to it, and how we can use perspective to change our attachment. 

If you're struggling with attachment and the pain it can cause, this episode is a must-listen. 

Studies cited in episode 
- The effectiveness of attachment security priming in improving positive affect and reducing negative affect: A systematic review. PMID: 32033183

- Long term effects of secure attachment priming on mental health in a stressful period of working adults. DOI  https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-025-07842-8

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Hosted by cognitive neuroscientist Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa, Do You F*cking Mind? delivers practical, science-backed mindset tools for anyone looking to cut through internal clutter and build a more resilient, self-directed life. This isn't abstract theory; it's applied neuroscience and psychology for your real-world problems. Each Monday, Alexis releases an in-depth episode exploring a single theme, dissecting topics like the mechanics of habit formation, navigating complex friendships, processing heartbreak, or cultivating a genuinely carefree approach to daily pressures. The focus is on actionable strategies, explaining not just what to do but how the brain works to make those changes stick. Then, every Friday, the format shifts to "Head Noise," a dedicated Q&A session where Alexis directly tackles listener-submitted questions, offering personalized insights and clarifications. The tone is direct, unapologetically candid, and free of fluff, mirroring the podcast's title. It’s a blend of rigorous science and street-smart wisdom, all aimed at empowering you to audit your own thoughts and behaviors. For those ready to move past passive listening and into active self-improvement, this podcast serves as a weekly mental toolkit. Listeners are encouraged to engage by sending their own questions for the Friday episodes.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Do You F*cking Mind?
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