Building on interpersonal neurobiology, this lesson discusses how we thrive when nurtured or develop psychological disorders when we are not.  Kindling the social brain networks in psychotherapy not only promotes mental health, but also general health. The mind’s operating networks may develop dynamic balance and stability or become imbalanced in response to our relationships.  
 
Positive relationships are vital for health as evidenced by impaired cardiovascular reactivity, blood pressure, cortisol levels, serum cholesterol, and natural killer cells. Research shows that early deprivation undermines affect stability later in life; people who are lonely or maintain unhealthy relationships develop neurocognitive problems associated with inflammation and abnormal neurochemistry.