Author Archives: Shervan K Shahhian, LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, The Most Comprehensive Online Library Regarding Mental Health, Psychology and Parapsychology in the World.

Internal locus of control, what is it:

An internal locus of control refers to the belief that individuals have control over their own lives and the outcomes of their actions. People with a strong internal locus of control tend to believe that their success or failure is largely a result of their own abilities, efforts, and choices. They believe that they can influence events and shape their destiny through their actions.

In contrast, an external locus of control is the belief that external factors, such as luck, fate, or powerful others, have a greater influence on one’s life. Individuals with an external locus of control may feel that they have less control over their circumstances and that external forces play a significant role in determining their outcomes.

The concept of locus of control was developed by psychologist Julian B. Rotter in the 1950s. Locus of control is a continuum, and individuals may fall somewhere between having a predominantly internal or external locus of control, depending on the situation or aspect of their lives. This concept is often used in psychology to understand personality traits, motivation, and behavior.

Shervan K Shahhian

External locus of control, what is it:

External locus of control is a concept in psychology that refers to the extent to which individuals believe that they can control events that affect them. People with an external locus of control tend to believe that their lives are primarily influenced by external factors, such as luck, fate, chance, or powerful others. In other words, they feel that they have little control over the outcomes of their actions and that external forces play a significant role in shaping their lives.

Individuals with an external locus of control may attribute their successes or failures to luck, destiny, or the actions of others rather than their own abilities or efforts. This belief system can influence various aspects of a person’s behavior, motivation, and decision-making. In contrast, individuals with an internal locus of control believe that they have control over their own lives and that their actions can significantly impact their outcomes.

The concept of locus of control was developed by psychologist Julian B. Rotter in the 1950s, and it has been widely used in research and clinical psychology to understand personality traits and behavior. The degree of internal or external locus of control can influence how individuals cope with challenges, handle stress, and pursue their goals.

Shervan K Shahhian

The Psychological concept called the locus of control:

The concept of “locus of control” is a psychological construct that refers to an individual’s belief about the extent to which they can control events in their lives. It was originally developed by psychologist Julian B. Rotter in the 1950s. The locus of control is a continuum ranging from internal to external, and it reflects the perceived source of control over life events.

Internal Locus of Control:

• Individuals with a strong internal locus of control believe that their actions and decisions directly influence the outcomes in their lives. They feel a sense of personal responsibility and control over their destiny. These individuals are more likely to attribute success or failure to their own abilities and efforts.

External Locus of Control:

• On the other hand, individuals with a strong external locus of control believe that external factors, such as luck, fate, or powerful others, control their lives. They may feel that they have little influence over the outcomes and that events happen due to forces beyond their control. This perspective can lead to a sense of helplessness or reliance on external sources.

People may not fall strictly into one category or the other, and individuals may have different loci of control in various aspects of their lives. The concept is often used in personality psychology, counseling, and organizational psychology to understand how individuals perceive and respond to events.

The locus of control can have implications for various aspects of life, including motivation, achievement, mental health, and coping strategies. It’s important to note that having a more internal or external locus of control does not imply superiority or inferiority; rather, it describes a person’s cognitive orientation toward perceived control in their life.

Shervan K Shahhian

Perceived control refers to an individual’s subjective belief or sense that they have the ability to influence or control outcomes in their life. It is a psychological concept that relates to how people perceive their level of influence over events, circumstances, or their own behavior. This perception may not always align with actual control or influence; it’s about one’s beliefs and feelings regarding their ability to shape their environment.

The concept of perceived control is often associated with theories of motivation and psychological well-being. Individuals who feel a higher sense of control may experience greater confidence, motivation, and resilience in the face of challenges. On the other hand, those who perceive a lack of control may feel more stress, anxiety, or a diminished sense of well-being.

Perceived control can be influenced by various factors, including personal experiences, past successes or failures, social support, and cultural factors. Researchers often study perceived control to better understand its impact on behavior, mental health, and overall life satisfaction.

Shervan K Shahhian

The perception of control plays a significant role in how individuals experience and respond to stress. Generally, a sense of control over one’s life and environment can have a positive impact on well-being, while a lack of control or the perception of helplessness can contribute to stress.

Here are some key points regarding the relationship between perception of control and stress:

Perceived Control and Stress Resilience:

• Individuals who believe they have control over their lives often exhibit higher levels of stress resilience. They may view challenges as manageable and feel more confident in their ability to cope with stressors.

Lack of Control and Stress:

• Conversely, when people perceive a lack of control, especially in situations that are important to them, it can lead to increased stress. The feeling of helplessness or inability to influence outcomes can contribute to a sense of vulnerability and distress.

Workplace Stress:

• In the workplace, employees who have a sense of autonomy and control over their tasks and decisions may experience lower levels of stress. On the other hand, a lack of control, micromanagement, or unclear expectations can contribute to stress among workers.

Health Implications:

• The perception of control can also impact physical health. Studies have suggested that individuals with a higher sense of control may have better cardiovascular health and a reduced risk of certain illnesses.

Cognitive Appraisal:

• The way individuals appraise and interpret situations influences their stress levels. Perceiving a situation as controllable can lead to a more positive appraisal, reducing the impact of stressors.

Personal Control vs. External Factors:

• It’s important to note that while individuals may not always have control over external events, they can control how they respond to and cope with these events. The perception of control may involve a sense of personal agency and the ability to make choices in response to stressors.

Coping Strategies:

• A perceived lack of control may lead individuals to adopt less effective coping strategies, such as avoidance or denial. On the other hand, those who believe they have some control are more likely to engage in problem-solving and adaptive coping mechanisms.

In summary, the perception of control influences how individuals experience and respond to stress. Cultivating a sense of control, even in challenging situations, and adopting adaptive coping strategies can contribute to better stress management and overall well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

Some tips for managing Bipolar I:

Managing Bipolar I disorder involves a combination of medical treatment, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. It’s important to note that managing bipolar disorder is a complex process, and individuals should work closely with their healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Here are some general tips that may help:

Medication Compliance:

Take prescribed medications regularly and as directed by your healthcare provider. Don’t make changes to your medication without consulting your doctor.
Regular Medical Check-ups:

Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor medication effectiveness, adjust dosages if needed, and address any concerns.
Therapy and Counseling:

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy, can be beneficial in managing mood swings, identifying triggers, and developing coping strategies.
Create a Routine:

Establish a daily routine to help stabilize your mood. Consistent sleep patterns, meal times, and exercise can contribute to stability.
Healthy Lifestyle:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle by engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol or substance use.
Sleep Hygiene:

Ensure you get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule. Lack of sleep can trigger manic episodes.
Stress Management:

Learn and practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress and anxiety.
Identify Triggers:

Keep track of your mood changes and identify triggers that may contribute to mood swings. This awareness can help you manage and prevent episodes.
Social Support:

Build a support system of friends, family, and mental health professionals who understand your condition and can offer support during challenging times.
Education:

Educate yourself about bipolar disorder to better understand your condition, treatment options, and potential side effects of medications.
Emergency Plan:

Develop a crisis plan with your healthcare provider that outlines steps to take in case of a mood episode, including emergency contacts and a plan for accessing help.
Avoid Alcohol and Recreational Drugs:

Substance use can exacerbate mood swings and interfere with the effectiveness of medications. It’s important to avoid these substances.
Remember, everyone’s experience with bipolar disorder is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Tailor your management plan in collaboration with your healthcare team to address your specific needs and challenges. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, seek immediate help from a healthcare professional or emergency services.

Shervan K Shahhian

An possible effective treatment plan for bipolar I:

Treatment for bipolar I typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Here’s a brief overview:

Medication:

• Mood Stabilizers: Medications like lithium, valproate, or lamotrigine are often prescribed to help stabilize mood swings and prevent manic or depressive episodes.
• Antipsychotics: Second-generation antipsychotics such as quetiapine, olanzapine, or risperidone may be used to manage manic symptoms.
• Antidepressants: In some cases, antidepressants may be prescribed cautiously, often in combination with a mood stabilizer to address depressive symptoms. However, they should be used with caution to avoid triggering manic episodes.

Psychotherapy:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with mood episodes.
• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): This therapy focuses on stabilizing daily routines and addressing interpersonal issues to help regulate mood.
• Family-focused therapy: Involving family members in therapy can provide support and help create a stable and understanding environment.

Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Sleep Hygiene: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial, as disruptions in sleep patterns can trigger mood episodes.
• Stress Management: Learning and practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises, can be beneficial.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity has been shown to have positive effects on mood and can be an important component of managing bipolar disorder.

Regular Monitoring:

• Regular monitoring of mood symptoms, medication adherence, and potential side effects is important. This may involve keeping a mood chart or journal.

Support System:

• Building a strong support system with friends, family, and mental health professionals is essential for managing bipolar I disorder.

It’s important to note that treatment plans may need to be adjusted over time based on an individual’s response and the course of the illness. Additionally, medication should be taken as prescribed, and any concerns or side effects should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.

Shervan K Shahhian

Treatments for MDD, Major Depressive Disorder:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly known as depression, is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in daily activities. Treatment for MDD often involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. It’s important to note that the most effective approach varies from person to person, and individuals may need to try different strategies or combinations of treatments to find what works best for them. Here are some common treatments for MDD:

Psychotherapy:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): IPT helps individuals improve their relationships and communication skills, targeting interpersonal issues that may contribute to depression.
• Psychodynamic Therapy: This type of therapy explores unconscious patterns and unresolved conflicts that may be contributing to depressive symptoms.

Medication:

• Antidepressants: These medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and others, work by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain to alleviate depressive symptoms.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): These are older classes of antidepressants that may be prescribed when other medications are not effective.

Brain Stimulation Therapies:

• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): ECT involves the administration of a controlled electric current to induce a seizure, and it is often used when other treatments have not been successful.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain and is considered for individuals who haven’t responded well to antidepressant medications.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and can be an important component of depression treatment.
• Sleep Hygiene: Establishing healthy sleep habits can contribute to overall well-being.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and other nutrients may have a positive effect on mood.

Support Groups and Peer Support:

• Participating in support groups or engaging with peers who have experienced similar struggles can provide emotional support and a sense of community.

Mind-Body Interventions:

• Practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and tai chi can help manage stress and improve mood.

It’s crucial for individuals experiencing symptoms of MDD to seek professional help from mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and tailor a treatment plan to the individual’s specific needs. Additionally, it’s important for individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to monitor progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.

Shervan K Shahhian

Major depressive disorder (MDD), what is it:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly known as depression, is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. It is a serious medical illness that can significantly affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, and overall well-being.

Key features of Major Depressive Disorder include:

Depressed Mood: Individuals with MDD often experience a pervasive and sustained low mood. This can manifest as feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.

Loss of Interest or Pleasure: Anhedonia, or the inability to experience pleasure or interest in activities that were once enjoyable, is a common symptom of depression.

Changes in Appetite and Weight: Significant changes in appetite, leading to weight loss or gain, are common in individuals with depression.

Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleep) are often associated with MDD.

Fatigue or Loss of Energy: People with depression may feel tired, sluggish, or lacking in energy, even after a full night’s sleep.

Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Individuals with depression may experience feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, often without clear cause.

Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions: Cognitive difficulties, such as problems with concentration and decision-making, are common in depression.

Psychomotor Agitation or Retardation: This involves observable physical movements that are either excessively agitated or slowed down.

Recurrent Thoughts of Death or Suicidal Ideation: Some individuals with depression may experience thoughts of death or suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with such thoughts, it is crucial to seek professional help immediately.

To be diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder, these symptoms must persist for at least two weeks and significantly interfere with daily functioning. The exact causes of depression are complex and can involve a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Treatment options typically include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both, and the approach may vary based on the severity of symptoms and individual circumstances. It’s important for individuals experiencing symptoms of depression to seek help from mental health professionals for proper assessment and support.

Shervan K Shahhian

“Unshakeable sadness” typically refers to a deep and persistent feeling of sorrow or unhappiness that seems resistant to change or alleviation. It suggests a profound and enduring emotional state that is difficult to overcome. This type of sadness may be associated with various factors, including personal losses, trauma, chronic stress, or underlying mental health issues such as depression.

It’s important to note that experiencing persistent sadness or emotional distress may warrant seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. These individuals can provide assistance, understanding, and guidance in coping with difficult emotions and working towards emotional well-being. If someone is experiencing unshakeable sadness, it’s recommended that they reach out for professional help to explore and address the underlying causes.

Manic episodes, what are they:

Manic episodes are a key feature of bipolar disorder, which is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings between periods of mania and depression. A manic episode is a distinct period during which a person experiences an elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, along with increased energy and activity levels.

Some common symptoms of a manic episode include:

Increased Energy: Individuals may feel highly energized and may engage in activities for extended periods without feeling tired.

Elevated Mood: A person in a manic episode may feel excessively happy, euphoric, or irritable.

Rapid Speech: Speech may become rapid, with the person talking more than usual, quickly changing topics, and being difficult to interrupt.

Decreased Need for Sleep: Individuals may require less sleep than usual, feeling rested with only a few hours of sleep per night or even going without sleep for extended periods.

Grandiosity: There may be an inflated sense of self-esteem or grandiosity, where the person believes they have special abilities, talents, or a heightened status.

Risky Behavior: Impulsivity and engagement in high-risk activities such as excessive spending, reckless driving, or risky sexual behavior are common during manic episodes.

It’s important to note that not everyone with bipolar disorder experiences manic episodes in the same way, and the severity and duration can vary. Additionally, individuals with bipolar disorder also experience depressive episodes, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low energy.

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that requires medical attention. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatment often involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy to help manage and stabilize mood swings.

Shervan K Shahhian