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

Neuroplasticity, what is it:

Neuroplasticity, also known as brain plasticity or neural plasticity, refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This process involves the strengthening or weakening of existing neural pathways and the creation of new synapses (connections between neurons). Neuroplasticity occurs at different scales, ranging from cellular changes (involving individual neurons) to large-scale cortical remapping.

Key aspects of neuroplasticity include:

Synaptic Plasticity: This involves changes in the strength of connections between neurons (synapses). Synaptic plasticity is crucial for learning and memory processes. Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) are two forms of synaptic plasticity that play essential roles in memory formation.

Structural Plasticity: This refers to the physical changes in the structure of neurons and their connections. Structural plasticity includes the formation of new dendritic spines, the growth of axons, and even the generation of new neurons (neurogenesis) in certain regions of the brain, such as the hippocampus.

Functional Plasticity: This involves the brain’s ability to move functions from damaged areas to undamaged areas. For example, if one part of the brain is injured, another part might take over some of its functions. This is particularly evident in cases of brain injury or stroke rehabilitation.

Neuroplasticity is not limited to a specific age range but is most prominent during periods of development, such as childhood and adolescence. However, it continues throughout adulthood, allowing the brain to adapt to new experiences, learn new skills, and recover from injuries. Researchers and clinicians explore ways to harness neuroplasticity for therapeutic purposes, such as in rehabilitation after brain injuries or to aid in the recovery of cognitive function.

Shervan K Shahhian

The relationship between the mind and the brain is a complex and dynamic one. The mind refers to the subjective experiences, thoughts, emotions, and consciousness, while the brain is the physical organ responsible for processing information, controlling bodily functions, and generating thoughts and emotions.

There is evidence to suggest that the mind can influence the structure and function of the brain through a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This process can occur in response to learning, experience, and environmental changes.

Here are a few ways in which the mind can potentially influence the brain:

Learning and Experience: Engaging in new activities, acquiring new skills, and gaining knowledge can lead to changes in the brain’s structure and function. This is often associated with synaptic plasticity, where the strength of connections between neurons can be modified.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices such as mindfulness meditation have been associated with changes in brain structure and function. Studies suggest that regular meditation may lead to increased gray matter density in areas of the brain associated with learning, memory, and emotional regulation.

Cognitive Therapy: Certain forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), aim to change patterns of thinking and behavior. Research suggests that CBT can lead to changes in the brain that are associated with improvements in mood and mental health.

Emotional Regulation: The way individuals regulate their emotions can impact the brain. Chronic stress, for example, has been linked to changes in the structure of the brain, particularly in areas related to memory and emotional processing.

While there is evidence supporting the idea that the mind can influence the brain, it’s important to note that the relationship is bidirectional. Changes in the brain can also affect the mind, and there is ongoing research to better understand the intricacies of this relationship.

It’s worth mentioning that the field of neuroscience is continually evolving, and our understanding of the mind-brain connection is still developing.

Shervan K Shahhian

Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of Felony Drug Offenders:

Cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that has been applied in various settings, including the criminal justice system, to address the needs of individuals with felony drug offenses. The goal of CBT is to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their criminal behavior. Here are some key components of CBT in the context of felony drug offenders:

Cognitive Restructuring:

Identification of Irrational Thoughts: CBT helps individuals identify distorted or irrational thoughts related to drug use and criminal behavior. This involves recognizing negative thought patterns that contribute to substance abuse and criminal activities.
Challenge and Change: Once identified, individuals work with therapists to challenge and change these irrational thoughts. This process helps them develop more realistic and positive thinking patterns.
Skill Building:

Coping Skills: Felony drug offenders may lack effective coping skills to deal with stress, cravings, and other triggers for substance abuse. CBT teaches practical coping strategies to manage these challenges without resorting to drug use or criminal activities.
Problem-Solving Skills: Learning how to address life problems and conflicts in a constructive way is crucial. CBT helps individuals develop problem-solving skills to handle challenges without resorting to illegal activities.
Behavioral Strategies:

Functional Analysis: Therapists and individuals work together to understand the antecedents and consequences of drug use and criminal behavior. This involves identifying triggers, behaviors, and the outcomes of those behaviors.
Behavioral Interventions: CBT employs behavioral techniques such as reinforcement and punishment to encourage positive behaviors and discourage negative ones. This may involve setting goals for abstinence and rewarding progress.
Relapse Prevention:

Identification of Triggers: Understanding the factors that contribute to drug use and criminal behavior is essential. CBT helps individuals identify high-risk situations and triggers that may lead to relapse.
Developing a Relapse Prevention Plan: Individuals work on creating a personalized plan to prevent relapse. This plan may include coping strategies, social support, and steps to take if faced with high-risk situations.
Social and Environmental Factors:

Addressing Social Influences: CBT explores the social and environmental factors that contribute to criminal behavior, such as peer influences and family dynamics. Strategies are developed to navigate these influences positively.
Building a Support System: Encouraging individuals to establish and maintain a supportive network is crucial. This network can include family, friends, and other positive influences that contribute to rehabilitation.
Motivational Enhancement:

Increasing Motivation for Change: CBT incorporates motivational techniques to enhance an individual’s readiness and commitment to change. This involves exploring personal values, goals, and the potential benefits of leading a drug-free life.
Incorporating CBT into the treatment of felony drug offenders within the criminal justice system can contribute to reducing recidivism and promoting rehabilitation. It’s often implemented in conjunction with other interventions, such as individual counseling, group therapy, and educational programs. Additionally, the integration of CBT principles in probation or parole supervision can provide ongoing support for individuals as they transition back into the community.

Shervan K Shahhian

Failures: Lessons learned:

Failure can be a powerful teacher, providing valuable lessons that contribute to personal and professional growth. Here are some common lessons learned from failure:

Resilience: Failure often tests one’s resilience and ability to bounce back. It teaches individuals to endure setbacks, adapt to challenges, and persevere in the face of adversity.

Self-awareness: Failure prompts introspection, encouraging individuals to reflect on their actions, decisions, and behaviors. This self-awareness can lead to a better understanding of strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

Adaptability: Failure often results from unforeseen circumstances or changing environments. Learning from failure can enhance one’s ability to adapt to new situations, make adjustments, and stay agile in the face of uncertainty.

Creativity: Failure can stimulate creative thinking by pushing individuals to explore alternative solutions and think outside the box. It encourages a willingness to take risks and try new approaches.

Humility: Experiencing failure can humble individuals by making them recognize their limitations and acknowledge that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. This humility fosters a mindset of continuous improvement.

Decision-making skills: Analyzing the factors that contributed to failure helps develop better decision-making skills. It encourages a more thoughtful and strategic approach to future choices.

Persistence: Failure teaches the importance of persistence and the determination to overcome obstacles. It reinforces the idea that success often requires ongoing effort and a willingness to push through difficulties.

Empathy: Having faced failure, individuals may develop greater empathy and understanding toward others who are going through challenging times. This can enhance interpersonal relationships and teamwork.

Goal setting: Failure can prompt a reevaluation of goals, helping individuals set more realistic and achievable objectives. It encourages the development of a clear and actionable plan for success.

Lifelong learning: Embracing failure as a part of the learning process fosters a mindset of continuous improvement. It encourages individuals to seek new knowledge, acquire new skills, and stay open to learning throughout their lives.

It’s important to note that the lessons learned from failure are not automatic; they require reflection, introspection, and a willingness to grow from the experience. Embracing failure as a stepping stone to success can lead to valuable insights and long-term personal and professional development.

Shervan K Shahhian

Value-Based Care in Mental health, what does that mean:

Value-based care in mental health refers to a healthcare delivery model that prioritizes the outcomes achieved for patients relative to the cost of delivering those outcomes. This approach contrasts with the traditional fee-for-service model, where providers are paid based on the volume of services they deliver, regardless of the effectiveness of those services.

In the context of mental health, value-based care emphasizes achieving positive outcomes for patients, such as improved mental health, reduced symptoms, and enhanced quality of life. It encourages healthcare providers to focus on preventive care, early intervention, and evidence-based treatments to promote better mental health outcomes for individuals.

Key components of value-based care in mental health may include:

Outcome Measurement: Providers track and measure patient outcomes to assess the effectiveness of treatments. This may involve using standardized assessment tools to gauge changes in mental health symptoms and overall well-being.

Care Coordination: Value-based care encourages collaboration among different healthcare providers, including mental health professionals, primary care physicians, and specialists, to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to patient care.

Preventive Care: Emphasis is placed on preventive measures, early intervention, and addressing mental health issues before they escalate. This can lead to improved outcomes and reduced long-term costs.

Patient-Centered Care: Patients actively participate in their treatment plans, and their preferences, values, and goals are taken into consideration. Shared decision-making between patients and providers is a key aspect of patient-centered care.

Payment Models: Reimbursement is tied to the achievement of positive outcomes rather than the volume of services provided. This may involve alternative payment models, such as bundled payments or capitation, which incentivize efficiency and quality of care.

Integration of Behavioral and Physical Health: Recognizing the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, value-based care promotes the integration of mental health services with primary care and other healthcare services.

Implementing value-based care in mental health can lead to several benefits, including improved patient outcomes, increased cost-effectiveness, and a shift towards a more holistic and patient-centered approach to mental healthcare. It requires collaboration among healthcare providers, payers, and policymakers to create an environment that supports the transition from fee-for-service to value-based care.

Shervan K Shahhian

Digital Therapeutics (DTx), what are they:

Digital Therapeutics (DTx) refer to a new category of healthcare solutions that leverage digital technologies, such as software, mobile apps, and other digital platforms, to deliver evidence-based therapeutic interventions for the prevention, management, or treatment of medical conditions. Unlike traditional pharmaceuticals or medical devices, DTx interventions are software-driven and often designed to be used in conjunction with standard medical treatments or independently.

Key features of Digital Therapeutics include:

Evidence-Based: DTx solutions are developed based on scientific evidence and clinical research, demonstrating their effectiveness in treating specific health conditions.

Regulatory Approval: Some digital therapeutics undergo regulatory scrutiny and may receive approval from health authorities, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA), similar to traditional drugs or medical devices.

Personalized and Adaptive: Many DTx interventions are designed to be personalized to individual patient needs. They may use data and algorithms to adapt and optimize treatment plans over time, tailoring the intervention to the user’s specific health profile and progress.

Remote Monitoring and Engagement: Digital Therapeutics often involve remote monitoring of patients, allowing healthcare providers to track progress and make adjustments as needed. They also often incorporate features to enhance patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

Chronic Disease Management: DTx solutions are commonly applied in the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, mental health disorders, and respiratory diseases. They aim to provide ongoing support and management outside traditional healthcare settings.

Behavioral Modification: Many digital therapeutics focus on behavior change and lifestyle modifications. They may include components like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness exercises, or habit-forming techniques to address underlying behavioral aspects of health conditions.

Integration with Healthcare Systems: Digital Therapeutics can be integrated into existing healthcare systems, enabling collaboration between healthcare providers and patients. This integration allows for a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

Examples of Digital Therapeutics include mobile apps for mental health, virtual reality interventions for pain management, and software platforms for diabetes management. The field is continually evolving, and as more research is conducted, additional applications for DTx in various healthcare domains are likely to emerge.

Shervan K Shahhian

Social cognition refers to the mental processes that people use to make sense of the social world around them. It involves the ability to perceive, interpret, and understand information about other people and social situations. Social cognition encompasses a wide range of cognitive processes, including:

Perception: The initial gathering of information about the social world through the senses. This includes recognizing facial expressions, body language, and other nonverbal cues.

Attention: The process of selectively focusing on certain aspects of the social environment while ignoring others. People tend to pay attention to information that is relevant to their goals or interests.

Memory: The storage and retrieval of information about social experiences. Memory plays a crucial role in how people form impressions of others and make judgments about social situations.

Attribution: The process of explaining the causes of people’s behavior. This involves making inferences about the intentions, motivations, and dispositions of others.

Theory of Mind: The ability to understand that other people have thoughts, beliefs, desires, and intentions that may be different from one’s own. This is essential for predicting and interpreting others’ behavior.

Perspective-taking: The ability to imagine and understand the world from another person’s point of view. This helps in empathizing with others and navigating social interactions.

Stereotyping and Prejudice: The formation of generalizations and attitudes about groups of people based on certain characteristics. Social cognition plays a role in the development and perpetuation of stereotypes and prejudices.

Emotion Regulation: The ability to manage and regulate one’s own emotions as well as understand and respond to the emotions of others. Emotional intelligence is a key aspect of social cognition.

Overall, social cognition is crucial for successful social interactions and relationships. It helps individuals navigate the complexities of social life, understand the intentions of others, and adapt to various social situations. Impairments in social cognition can contribute to difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, as seen in conditions like autism spectrum disorders or certain psychiatric disorders. Researchers in psychology and neuroscience study social cognition to better understand the underlying processes and to develop interventions for individuals with social difficulties.

Shervan K Shahhian

However, it is well-documented that substance use disorders and overdose deaths can have significant impacts on maternal and fetal health.

Opioid use, in particular, has been a concern, with increases in opioid-related deaths in various populations, including pregnant and postpartum women. Opioid use during pregnancy can lead to complications such as neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in newborns. NAS occurs when a baby is exposed to opioids in the womb and experiences withdrawal symptoms after birth.

Public health agencies and healthcare providers have been working to address the opioid epidemic and its impact on maternal and child health. Efforts include improved screening and treatment for substance use disorders during pregnancy, increased access to prenatal care, and support for women in recovery.

To obtain the most recent and accurate information on this topic, I recommend checking the latest reports and publications from health agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as recent scientific literature. News sources and medical journals may also provide updates on trends and efforts to address drug overdose deaths among pregnant women and postpartum.

Shervan K Shahhian

“Channeling” can have different meanings depending on the context, but one common use of the term is in the realm of spiritual or metaphysical practices. In this context, channeling refers to the process of receiving and transmitting information or energy from a source beyond one’s individual consciousness.

Spiritual Channeling: Some people claim to be able to channel information, guidance, or messages from spiritual entities, such as angels, spirit guides, or even deceased individuals. The person acting as a channel is often considered a conduit for the communication.

Energy Channeling: In alternative healing practices, such as Reiki, individuals may speak of channeling energy. In this context, practitioners believe they can direct healing or positive energy through their hands to another person for the purpose of promoting physical or emotional well-being.

Creativity Channeling: Artists or writers might use the term more metaphorically to describe the process of tapping into a deeper creative source or inspiration. It implies that the creative work is flowing through the individual from some external or subconscious place.

It’s important to note that beliefs and practices related to channeling can vary widely, and perspectives on the validity or nature of the experiences involved can differ greatly among individuals and cultures. Some people embrace channeling as a valuable and meaningful practice, while others may view it with skepticism.

Shervan K Shahhian

Trauma informed training, what is that:

Trauma-informed training refers to an approach that recognizes and responds to the impact of trauma on individuals. This training is designed to create an environment that is sensitive and supportive for individuals who may have experienced trauma. The goal is to promote safety, trust, and collaboration while avoiding re-traumatization.

Key principles of trauma-informed training include:

Safety: Prioritizing physical and emotional safety for participants.

Trustworthiness and Transparency: Building trust through clear communication and transparent processes.

Peer Support: Encouraging peer support and collaboration as a means of fostering a sense of community.

Collaboration and Mutuality: Recognizing the importance of collaboration and shared decision-making between trainers and participants.

Empowerment, Voice, and Choice: Providing individuals with a sense of control and empowerment by offering choices and respecting their voice.

Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues: Being aware of and sensitive to the cultural, historical, and gender-specific needs of participants.

Understanding the Impact of Trauma: Ensuring trainers have a basic understanding of trauma and its potential effects on individuals.

Resilience and Strengths-Based Approach: Focusing on individual strengths and resilience rather than solely on deficits.

Trauma-informed training is applicable in various settings, including education, healthcare, social services, and other fields where individuals may have experienced trauma. It is particularly important for professionals who work with vulnerable populations or those who may have a higher likelihood of experiencing trauma.

By integrating trauma-informed principles into training programs, organizations aim to create environments that foster healing, recovery, and well-being for individuals who have experienced trauma. This approach recognizes that trauma can have profound and lasting effects on individuals and seeks to provide them with the support and understanding they need.

Shervan K Shahhian