Understanding the biological basis of mental functions is essential for advancing mental health care. This book bridges neuroscience and mental health, detailing how brain structure, neurochemistry, and genetic factors influence behavior and emotion. It covers neurological pathways linked to mood, cognition, and psychiatric disorders. Key topics include brain imaging, neurotransmitter systems, and neuroplasticity in conditions like schizophrenia, depression, and addiction. The integration of neuroscientific evidence with clinical practice is emphasized throughout. Readers gain a clearer view of how scientific insights can inform diagnostics and therapy. It is intended for advanced students and professionals in psychology, psychiatry, and neuroscience.
Yulan Shen is a neuroscientist with a dual background in neurobiology and psychiatric research, bringing insight into brain-behavior relationships and mental illness. She holds academic appointments in neuropsychiatry and cognitive neuroscience and has authored influential studies on neuroplasticity and neurotransmitter function. Her scientific contributions have supported the development of neurobiological models of mood and anxiety disorders. She regularly reviews for neuroscience journals and participates in collaborative neuroimaging projects. Her research centers on neural circuit modulation and biomarkers for psychiatric diagnosis.