There’s no question that adversity can lead to all kinds of hardship—from pain and isolation to a general sense of overwhelm. But the research is clear: It can also create a deep capacity for empathy, especially in relation to those who are struggling with similar challenges.

So what is empathy? While we often think of it as “putting ourselves in someone else’s shoes,” it’s actually something much more complex and powerful. 

As you’re about to hear from Dr. Helen Riess, empathy is both an emotional and neurological process; it’s distinct from sympathy and compassion; and it can even be developed through practice and training.

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