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✨February 2026 Newsletter✨
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Dear ,
In 2026, we have a renewed and urgent sense of purpose that drives our research and programs in support of a kinder, wiser, more compassionate world. In our first “New at the Center” newsletter of the year, you’ll find inspiring and hopeful Center for Healthy Minds updates, events and news curated for you.
Together, we can make a difference in global wellbeing and flourishing. Thank you for being a part of the Healthy Minds community!
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Researchers at UW–Madison Receive Major Grant to Study the Link Between Mental Health and the Microbiome
The Center for Healthy Minds, Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, Precision Health Research, Singapore (PRECISE), and Massachusetts Institute of Technology have launched a project that investigates the microbiome’s central role in human wellbeing and the power of interdisciplinary research. Combining genomics, data science, behavioral health, and international collaboration, the research project is advancing a global understanding of how microbes shape the mind.
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Parents’ Excessive Internet Use May Be Linked to Depression in Their Teenagers
A study co-authored by Dr. Simon Goldberg, CHM core faculty, examined the association between an adolescent’s depression and their parents' excessive internet use. Read the full story.
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Get to Know CHM Experts in 5 Recent Podcast Episodes
Get to know Center for Healthy Minds experts and their innovative work! These recent podcast episodes feature CHM faculty and scientists, including Dr. Tawni Tidwell, Dr. Dan Grupe, Dr. Cortland Dahl, Dr. John Dunne and Dr. Melissa Rosenkranz!
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Dr. Hadley Rahrig, Tony DelaRosa, and community partners Chelsea Blake and Matthew Veland. [Photos by Isabella Toledo]
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Reframing Wellbeing Through the Lens of Indigenous Filipino Psychology
CHM researchers Dr. Hadley Rahrig, Dr. Christy Wilson-Mendenhall, and Tony DelaRosa work alongside community partners on the Usap Tayo study, which aims to promote wellbeing in Filipino American communities using methods grounded in Sikolohiyang Pilipino (Indigenous Filipino Psychology). Read more about the talk they recently gave.
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Credit: The Neuroscience of Kindness
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The Neuroscience of Kindness
What does kindness look like in the brain, and why does it matter now? You can join The Neuroscience of Kindness conference – in person in New York or virtually on March 3 – to explore the biological, psychological, and social foundations of compassion and cooperation. CHM Visiting Scientist Dr. Dalal Abu Amneh will be a speaker at the event, and CHM Founder and Director Dr. Richie Davidson is part of the Scientific Organizing Committee for the conference.
Note: There’s a fee to attend. Learn more about pricing and registration.
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Loka Initiative Relaunches Psychology of Deep Resilience Course
The Psychology of Deep Resilience course relaunched – with expanded content, including more contemplative practices! The four-part online edX course is free, with a paid certificate option. Register now!
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New Online Course Coming Soon! Art and Science of Human Flourishing: Essentials for Educators
Are you ready to learn more and incorporate the Art and Science of Human Flourishing (ASHF) into your higher education curriculum? The Student Flourishing Initiative team at CHM will launch an online course in April to help you do just that! The edX course will introduce the ASHF framework, teaching best practices, research outcomes and more. Registration starts in early March – stay tuned!
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Healthy Minds Innovations is Now ‘Humin’
CHM’s affiliate nonprofit, formerly known as Healthy Minds Innovations, is now Humin. Humin partners with the world's leading scientists and research institutions, especially CHM. Together, we turn breakthrough discoveries into practical resources that enable individuals, organizations, and communities to improve their wellbeing. Learn more on their new website!
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Read more in the article featuring Dr. Richie Davidson. (Subscription required)
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Watch now as Dr. Simon Goldberg speaks with hosts Dr. Cortland Dahl and Dr. Richie Davidson in this episode of their podcast.
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Watch now in this video talk by CHM Director of Community Wellbeing Dr. Tony Chambers.
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Meet the people behind the Center in our CHM staff/faculty spotlight feature!
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Wendy Lau
Research Associate
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🔶 How long have you worked at the Center?
I've been with the Center since 2022.
🔶 What’s something about the Center or your role you think most people might not know?
I started as a Research Specialist, transitioned to a Postdoctoral Research Associate, and now serve as a Research Program Coordinator, growing and shifting along the way to keep things interesting.
🔶 What’s something interesting about you?
I love exploring tasty restaurants around town, and I'm always on the lookout for new recommendations.
🔶 A favorite quote, lyric or saying?
“Be water, my friend.” - Bruce Lee (1971)
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Our Center relies on the support of competitive federal grants and the generosity of donors and foundations.
A significant portion of our funding is from generous supporters like you who give to the Center to cultivate wellbeing and relieve suffering through a scientific understanding of the mind. To learn more about CHM giving, please visit our webpage and feel free to contact Taeli Turner at Tsturner3@wisc.edu or (608) 263-3672.
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You’re an important part of the Healthy Minds community!
Share the science of wellbeing and flourishing with a friend and remind them to subscribe here. Don't forget to check out our newest social account on Bluesky.
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