Dr. Burns is a pioneer in Cognitive Behavior Therapy - a highly effective, scientifically validated approach to mastering emotions and strengthening mental well-being. He teaches at Stanford University and is the founder of the Feeling Good Institute. He has received numerous awards, including the A. E. Bennett Award for his research on brain chemistry, the Distinguished Contribution to Psychology through the Media Award, and the Outstanding Contributions Award from the National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists.

David has also served as Acting Chief of Psychiatry at the Presbyterian / University of Pennsylvania Medical Center (1988) and Visiting Scholar at the Harvard Medical School (1998), and is certified by the National Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. His book, Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy, has sold over four million copies worldwide, and is the most frequently 'prescribed' book for patients of depression by psychiatrists and psychologists in the US and Canada.

In this episode of Intersections, Prof. Hitendra Wadhwa has a conversation with David Burns on the topic “Feeling Good in Uncertain Times”.

It is not just our outer world that is in turmoil today - but our inner world as well. Recent polls show that anxiety and depression rates in America have surged dramatically - from 10% in 2019 to 33% today. Does our mental well-being have to depend on our outer circumstances? How can we take more control over our moods and emotions in today's challenging conditions?

“When two people respect each other, the ability to be vulnerable and to reveal hurt feelings can create a powerful emotional connection that is the source of real intimacy and friendship.”

David Burns

The episode “Feeling Good in Uncertain Times” offers key insights on:

• How to eliminate our resistance to change
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• How to create a joyful sense of connection with ourselves
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• How to use self-acceptance as a tool for personal transformation