Core Insights - The article highlights the significant achievements of Professor Hu Hailan, who was elected as an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, emphasizing her contributions to neuroscience and depression research [3]. Research Contributions - Professor Hu's team has published nine representative research papers in prestigious journals, including two in Cell, three in Nature, and four in Science, focusing on depression and social competition [4]. Depression Research - A study published in Science in 2013 identified that the expression of βCaMKII in the lateral habenula (LHb) is significantly upregulated in depression models and downregulated by antidepressants, indicating its role as a key regulator of LHb neuron function and a critical factor in depression [5][7]. - In 2018, two papers in Nature revealed that ketamine can block bursting in the LHb, providing rapid relief from depression, and identified T-type calcium channels as a novel antidepressant target [8][11]. - A 2023 Nature paper further explained the sustained antidepressant effects of ketamine through NMDAR trapping in the LHb, which prevents rapid metabolism and maintains its therapeutic effects [13][16]. - Another study in 2024 explored neuron-astrocyte coupling in the LHb, revealing a dynamic interaction mechanism that contributes to depressive-like behaviors [21][22]. Social Competition Research - A 2011 study in Science demonstrated that social hierarchy in mice is stable and can be influenced by synaptic efficacy in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), suggesting that social status can be modulated through changes in synaptic strength [24][25]. - In 2017, research identified a neural circuit mediating the "winner effect," which facilitates future victories based on past experiences, providing insights into the formation and stability of social hierarchies [27]. - A 2023 study in Cell uncovered the neurological mechanisms linking social status loss to depression, showing that decreased social status triggers negative reward prediction errors, activating the LHb and inducing depressive behaviors [29].

Core Idea - The article discusses the concept of "victory effect," emphasizing how past successes can enhance future performance and self-confidence, leading to a cycle of continuous improvement and happiness. Group 1: Personal Victories - Individuals shared their small yet significant victories, such as recognizing personal needs and asserting them, which contributes to self-acceptance and growth [6][14] - Overcoming fears in confrontational situations, such as standing up to uncomfortable gazes, illustrates personal empowerment and the ability to face challenges [15][19] - Achievements in personal development, like learning new skills or taking responsibility for oneself, are highlighted as moments of triumph that foster a sense of maturity and capability [25][27] Group 2: Growth Through Challenges - The narrative includes experiences of overcoming mental health struggles and asserting one's voice in difficult situations, showcasing resilience and personal strength [10][36] - The importance of continuous self-improvement is emphasized, with individuals reflecting on their progress and the belief that each day can be a victory if it is better than the last [43][56] - The article illustrates that victories are not always grand but can be found in everyday challenges and personal growth, reinforcing the idea that success is a part of daily life [50][52]