The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How to Get Good at It

by Kelly McGonigal

Surprisingly, pills clearly labeled “Placebo” have provided relief from migraine headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and depression, often with benefits comparable to the best real treatments. Asking patients to be in on the trick—by explaining how the placebo effect works—does not reduce the placebo’s effectiveness. It may even enhance the