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

Assessing Suicidality:

Assessing suicidality is a critical and sensitive task that should be taken seriously. Suicidality refers to the presence of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. It’s essential to identify and address these concerns to prevent self-harm or suicide. Here are some steps to assess suicidality:

1. Establish a Safe Environment: Ensure the person’s immediate safety. If there’s an imminent threat, call emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately.
2. Engage in Active Listening: Create a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for the person to talk. Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings.
3. Ask Direct Questions: It’s essential to ask direct questions about suicidal thoughts and intentions. For example, you can ask, “Have you been thinking about suicide?” or “Do you have a plan to harm yourself?”
4. Assess Intent and Plan: Inquire about the severity and specificity of their thoughts. Ask if they have a plan, the means to carry it out, and a timeline.
5. Explore Triggers: Determine what may have led to their suicidal thoughts. Are there recent life events, stressors, or mental health issues that contributed to their feelings?
6. Assess Access to Lethal Means: Inquire if they have access to any lethal methods, such as firearms, medication, or other dangerous objects. If so, take steps to secure these items.
7. Identify Protective Factors: Identify any factors that may act as protective buffers, such as a support system, coping skills, or reasons for living.
8. Evaluate Mental Health History: Assess their mental health history, including any previous suicide attempts or self-harm. Knowing their history can help gauge their risk.
9. Determine Substance Use: Substance abuse can increase the risk of suicidality. Inquire about the use of drugs or alcohol.
10. Consult a Mental Health Professional: If the person is at risk, it’s crucial to involve a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist, for a more comprehensive evaluation.
11. Safety Plan: Work with the individual to create a safety plan. This plan should include coping strategies, contact information for support people, and steps to take in a crisis.
12. Stay Connected: Encourage the person to stay connected with friends, family, or a crisis helpline. Regular check-ins can provide ongoing support.
13. No Secrecy: Encourage open communication with loved ones. If necessary, involve friends or family to ensure the person’s safety.
14. Follow-Up: Arrange for follow-up care with a mental health professional to address the underlying issues contributing to suicidality.
15. Emergency Contacts: Provide the person with emergency contact numbers, such as crisis hotlines, and encourage them to use them if they feel overwhelmed.

Remember, assessing suicidality should be done with compassion, respect, and without judgment. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional help if you’re unsure about the person’s safety. Suicidal thoughts are a serious concern, and early intervention can save lives.

Shervan K Shahhian

Emotional support animals, what do they do:

Emotional support animals (ESAs) play a crucial role in providing comfort and companionship to individuals who have mental health conditions or emotional disorders. While they are not the same as service animals, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired, ESAs are still considered a legitimate form of support for people with specific emotional or psychological needs.

Here’s what emotional support animals do:

1. Emotional Comfort: ESAs provide emotional comfort and support to their owners. Their presence alone can help reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, offering a sense of security and companionship.
2. Stress Reduction: Interacting with an ESA can lead to reduced stress levels, lower blood pressure, and decreased heart rate. The act of petting, playing with, or simply being near an ESA can trigger the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin.
3. Alleviating Symptoms: For individuals with conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other emotional disorders, ESAs can help alleviate symptoms and provide a sense of stability and routine.
4. Social Interaction: ESAs can encourage their owners to engage in more social interactions, as taking the animal for walks or participating in pet-related activities often leads to meeting other people with similar interests.
5. Routine and Responsibility: Taking care of an ESA requires a daily routine, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who might otherwise struggle with structure in their lives. It instills a sense of responsibility and purpose.
6. Reducing Isolation: ESAs can reduce feelings of isolation and withdrawal in people who may be reluctant to engage with others. The need to care for the animal can motivate individuals to engage with the outside world.
7. Distraction: Focusing on the needs and activities of an ESA can serve as a healthy distraction from intrusive or negative thoughts.

It’s important to note that to qualify for an emotional support animal, an individual typically needs a letter from a licensed mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, stating that the presence of the animal is necessary to manage their mental health condition. ESAs are not required to perform specific tasks or skills like service animals, but they are protected by laws that allow their owners to have them in housing and travel situations that might otherwise prohibit pets. The specific laws and regulations related to emotional support animals can vary by region and country.

Shervan K Shahhian

Helping the less privileged is an essential responsibility of all Humanitarians:

Helping the less privileged is indeed considered a fundamental responsibility of many humanitarians and humanitarian organizations. Humanitarianism is a moral and ethical philosophy that emphasizes the value of human life, dignity, and well-being, and it often involves providing assistance to those in need, particularly those who are less fortunate or experiencing hardship. Here are some key points to consider regarding this responsibility:

Ethical and Moral Duty: Many people believe that it is a moral and ethical duty to help those who are less privileged, vulnerable, or suffering. This perspective is often rooted in principles of empathy, compassion, and a belief in the inherent worth of every individual.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948, enshrines the idea that all human beings are entitled to certain fundamental rights and freedoms, regardless of their circumstances. Humanitarians often work to uphold and protect these rights for everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Reducing Suffering and Inequality: Humanitarians seek to reduce suffering and address inequalities in access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, shelter, healthcare, and education. They work to provide relief and support to individuals and communities affected by crises, disasters, or poverty.

Building Resilience: In addition to immediate relief, humanitarians may also work to help disadvantaged communities build resilience and self-sufficiency, empowering them to overcome challenges and improve their own circumstances.

Global Solidarity: Humanitarian efforts often extend beyond borders, as the well-being of individuals and communities in one part of the world can impact the stability and security of the entire global community. Humanitarian work fosters a sense of global solidarity.

It’s important to note that while helping the less privileged is considered a fundamental responsibility by many, the approach to humanitarianism can vary among individuals and organizations. Some may focus on direct assistance, while others may work on policy advocacy or systemic change to address the root causes of poverty and inequality.

Ultimately, the belief in helping the less privileged is a guiding principle for many humanitarians, but the specific actions and methods employed can differ based on the goals and strategies of each humanitarian organization or individual.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Somatic Trauma Healing: Clinicians Trauma Experiential Tool Kit:

I can provide you with some general information about somatic trauma healing and tools that clinicians may use to address trauma.

Somatic trauma healing refers to a therapeutic approach that focuses on the physical and bodily aspects of trauma. Trauma can be stored in the body, leading to symptoms such as tension, pain, and emotional distress. Somatic therapies aim to release this stored trauma and promote healing through physical and body-centered techniques.

Here are some common tools and approaches that clinicians may use in somatic trauma healing:

1. Body Awareness: Clinicians may help clients become more aware of bodily sensations and responses. This often involves techniques like mindfulness and grounding exercises.
2. Breathwork: Techniques such as deep breathing and breath awareness can help clients regulate their nervous system and release physical tension.
3. Movement Therapies: Practices like yoga, tai chi, or somatic experiencing can help clients release tension and trauma through gentle movement.
4. Biofeedback: Biofeedback tools can help clients understand and regulate physiological responses to stress and trauma.
5. Sensory Regulation: Utilizing sensory tools or activities like weighted blankets, essential oils, or soothing music can assist in calming the nervous system.
6. Massage and Bodywork: Therapeutic touch and bodywork can be used to release physical tension and promote relaxation.
7. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): EMDR is a structured therapy that incorporates elements of somatic experiencing and has been effective in helping clients process traumatic memories.
8. Trauma-Informed Yoga: Yoga practices that focus on body awareness and mindfulness can be adapted to help individuals with trauma history.
9. Grounding Techniques: These may include practices like the “5–4–3–2–1” grounding exercise, which helps clients connect with the present moment and reduce the effects of dissociation.
10. Body-Centered Psychotherapy: Therapists may use approaches like Hakomi, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, or Somatic Experiencing to explore and heal trauma through the body.

Please note that the specific tools and techniques used can vary depending on the therapist’s training and the needs of the client. If you are interested in a particular resource or toolkit related to somatic trauma healing, Please consult with a licensed therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma therapy can provide you with more current and personalized information.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Somatic Trauma Healing: Trauma First Aid:

Somatic trauma healing, often referred to as trauma first aid, is an approach to healing and recovery that focuses on the physiological and sensory aspects of trauma. It recognizes that trauma isn’t just a psychological experience; it also leaves an imprint on the body and the nervous system. This approach emphasizes the importance of addressing the physical and sensory aspects of trauma to promote healing and resilience. Here are some key concepts and elements of somatic trauma healing or trauma first aid:

1. Body-Centered Approach: Somatic trauma healing places a strong emphasis on the body as a source of information and a key component in healing. It acknowledges that traumatic experiences can be stored in the body, leading to various physical symptoms and sensations.
2. Nervous System Regulation: Trauma can dysregulate the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms such as hypervigilance, anxiety, and dissociation. Somatic trauma healing seeks to help individuals regulate their nervous systems by using techniques like deep breathing, grounding exercises, and mindfulness.
3. Sensory Awareness: Trauma can alter one’s sensory perception and sensitivity. Somatic trauma healing encourages individuals to become more aware of their sensory experiences, both positive and negative, and use this awareness to regain a sense of safety and control.
4. Trauma Release Exercises (TRE): TRE is a technique that aims to release physical tension and stress stored in the body through a series of exercises. It involves gentle, controlled shaking and trembling to help discharge stored energy and tension.
5. Body-Mind Connection: This approach recognizes the intimate connection between the body and the mind. Emotions and memories are not just stored in the brain; they are also held in the body. Exploring this connection can help individuals process and heal from trauma.
6. Mindfulness and Self-Compassion: Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion can be essential in somatic trauma healing. These techniques help individuals stay present in the moment, reduce self-criticism, and foster self-acceptance.
7. Professional Guidance: While some individuals can benefit from self-help resources and techniques, it’s often recommended to work with a qualified therapist or practitioner trained in somatic trauma healing to ensure that the healing process is safe and effective.
8. Individualized Approaches: Somatic trauma healing recognizes that each person’s experience of trauma is unique. Therefore, healing approaches should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs and preferences.

It’s important to note that somatic trauma healing is just one of many approaches to addressing trauma. Some people may benefit from a combination of somatic approaches and more traditional talk therapy, depending on their needs and preferences. If you or someone you know is dealing with trauma, it’s advisable to seek support from a mental health professional who can help determine the most appropriate approach to healing and recovery.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Somatic Trauma Healing: Applied Polyvegal Theory:

Somatic trauma healing, often grounded in Polyvagal Theory, is an approach to trauma recovery that focuses on the body’s response to traumatic experiences and how to regulate the nervous system to promote healing and resilience. Let’s break down the key components:

1. Somatic Trauma Healing: Somatic means related to the body, and in the context of trauma healing, it refers to the understanding that trauma affects not only the mind but also the body. Trauma can become stored in the body in various ways, leading to physical sensations, symptoms, and emotional distress. Somatic trauma healing aims to address and release this stored trauma from the body.
2. Polyvagal Theory: Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the Polyvagal Theory is a neurobiological framework that explains how the autonomic nervous system (ANS) responds to stress and trauma. It highlights the role of the vagus nerve and how it influences our physiological and emotional responses to threats.
   • Vagus Nerve: The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body and plays a crucial role in regulating our autonomic nervous system. It has two main branches: the ventral vagus (associated with social engagement and safety) and the dorsal vagus (linked to immobilization and shutdown responses). The ventral vagus is responsible for promoting a state of safety and social connection, while the dorsal vagus is associated with freeze and collapse responses.
   • Fight-Flight-Freeze Responses: In response to a threat, the autonomic nervous system can trigger various physiological and emotional responses. These include the fight-or-flight response, characterized by increased heart rate and arousal, and the freeze response, characterized by immobilization and a sense of dissociation. The Polyvagal Theory helps us understand how these responses relate to the vagus nerve’s function.

Applied Polyvagal Theory in Somatic Trauma Healing involves:

1. Regulation of the Nervous System: One of the primary goals is to help individuals regulate their nervous systems. This can involve exercises, practices, and therapies that help activate the ventral vagus, which promotes a sense of safety and connection. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and certain bodywork approaches can be used to help regulate the nervous system.
2. Resourcing: Somatic trauma healing often emphasizes the importance of “resourcing.” This means helping individuals identify and cultivate inner and external resources that can help them feel safe and grounded. This might include developing a supportive social network, finding safe spaces, and engaging in self-care activities.
3. Reconnecting with the Body: Trauma can lead to dissociation from the body, and somatic trauma healing encourages individuals to reconnect with their bodily sensations and emotions. This may involve body-centered therapies, movement practices, and grounding exercises.
4. Trauma Release: Somatic techniques can help individuals release stored trauma from the body. This can be done through practices that encourage the safe expression of emotions and sensations related to the traumatic experiences.
5. Integration: Ultimately, the goal is to integrate the mind and body, allowing individuals to process their trauma and move toward healing and resilience. This may involve various therapeutic modalities, including talk therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and other trauma-informed approaches.

It’s important to note that somatic trauma healing is a comprehensive approach that can be tailored to an individual’s specific needs and experiences. Additionally, it often involves working with trained professionals who have expertise in trauma and somatic therapy.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Somatic Trauma Healing: Applied Somatic Theory:

Somatic trauma healing, often associated with applied somatic theory, is an approach to trauma recovery that recognizes the intimate connection between the mind and the body. It is rooted in the understanding that traumatic experiences can become trapped or stored in the body, leading to a range of physical and psychological symptoms. This approach is informed by several key principles and practices:

Body-Mind Connection: Somatic trauma healing recognizes that the body and mind are intricately connected. Trauma can lead to physiological changes in the body, such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, and heightened arousal, as well as psychological changes like flashbacks, anxiety, and hypervigilance. These physical and mental aspects of trauma are interrelated and must be addressed holistically.

Trauma as Survival Response: Trauma is seen as a survival response to an overwhelming and life-threatening situation. The body’s natural response to threat, often referred to as the “fight or flight” response, can become dysregulated in the presence of trauma, leading to chronic stress and health issues.

Embodiment: The approach emphasizes the importance of becoming more in tune with one’s body and its sensations. This involves learning to recognize physical sensations and patterns associated with trauma and using the body as a resource for healing.

Safety and Regulation: Somatic trauma healing places a strong emphasis on establishing a sense of safety and emotional regulation. This involves techniques for grounding, breathing exercises, and other practices that help individuals manage their arousal and anxiety.

Release and Integration: The process of healing involves releasing stored traumatic energy from the body. Techniques such as bodywork, mindfulness, and movement therapies (like yoga and dance) can help facilitate this release. Once the trauma energy is discharged, the goal is to integrate the experience, allowing the individual to reclaim a sense of wholeness and well-being.

Mindfulness and Presence: Mindfulness practices are often a central component of somatic trauma healing. By bringing mindful attention to bodily sensations and emotions, individuals can develop greater self-awareness and self-compassion, which can be integral to the healing process.

Therapeutic Relationships: The therapeutic relationship is crucial in somatic trauma healing. A skilled therapist can provide support and guidance to help individuals work through their traumatic experiences and facilitate the release and integration of stored trauma.

It’s important to note that somatic trauma healing is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and different modalities and techniques may be used depending on an individual’s unique needs and preferences. Some popular approaches that fall under the somatic trauma healing umbrella include Somatic Experiencing (SE), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga, among others.

The goal of somatic trauma healing is to help individuals recover from the effects of trauma and regain a sense of safety, connection, and well-being in both their bodies and minds. If you’re interested in exploring this approach, it’s advisable to seek out a qualified and experienced therapist or practitioner who specializes in somatic trauma healing.

Shervan K Shahhian

The importance of Preventing unnecessary suffering:

Preventing unnecessary suffering is an important ethical and humanitarian principle that underlies many aspects of human behavior, morality, and social organization. Here are some key reasons why it is important:

1. Ethical and Moral Imperative: Preventing unnecessary suffering is a fundamental moral and ethical principle. It reflects a concern for the well-being and dignity of all living beings. Many ethical systems, including utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, emphasize the importance of reducing suffering.
2. Compassion and Empathy: Human beings are inherently compassionate and empathetic creatures. The sight of suffering, whether in humans or animals, often triggers a natural response to help or alleviate that suffering. This compassion is a driving force behind charitable acts and humanitarian efforts.
3. Human Rights and Social Justice: Preventing unnecessary suffering is closely tied to human rights and social justice. It involves protecting people from physical and psychological harm, ensuring access to basic necessities, and striving for equality and fairness in society. Social justice movements aim to address systemic sources of suffering, such as discrimination and inequality.
4. Healthcare and Medicine: In the field of healthcare and medicine, the principle of preventing unnecessary suffering is a guiding ethical framework. Medical professionals take an oath to “do no harm” and prioritize patient well-being. Palliative care, pain management, and mental health support are essential components of healthcare designed to reduce suffering.
5. Animal Welfare: Preventing unnecessary suffering extends to the treatment of animals. Ethical concerns about animal cruelty and the push for animal welfare regulations reflect our moral responsibility to minimize the suffering of sentient beings.
6. Psychological Well-Being: Suffering can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and psychological. Efforts to prevent unnecessary suffering include promoting mental health awareness, providing support for those facing mental health challenges, and reducing stigma associated with seeking help.
7. Global Cooperation: On a global scale, preventing unnecessary suffering is a shared goal among nations. International organizations, such as the United Nations, work to alleviate suffering in conflict zones, provide humanitarian aid, and address issues like poverty and disease.
8. Societal Stability: Suffering can lead to social unrest, conflict, and instability. Reducing unnecessary suffering can contribute to societal stability by addressing root causes of discontent and inequality.
9. Personal Growth: Individuals who actively work to prevent unnecessary suffering often find personal growth and fulfillment. Engaging in acts of kindness and compassion can foster a sense of purpose and well-being.
10. Long-term Benefits: Preventing unnecessary suffering is not just a short-term goal. It can lead to long-term benefits for individuals and society, such as improved mental and physical health, reduced crime rates, and greater overall well-being.

In summary, the importance of preventing unnecessary suffering is deeply ingrained in our ethical, moral, and social systems. It reflects our fundamental values as humans and our commitment to building a more compassionate and just world. By actively working to reduce suffering, individuals, communities, and societies can promote well-being and create a more harmonious and equitable world.

Shervan K Shahhian

Self-silencing, what is it:
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​Self-silencing is a psychological and social concept that refers to the tendency of some individuals, often but not exclusively women, to suppress their thoughts, feelings, and opinions, particularly in interpersonal relationships, to avoid conflict, criticism, or negative reactions from others. It can involve holding back one’s true self and conforming to the expectations or desires of others, often at the expense of one’s own well-being and emotional health.

Key points about self-silencing include:

Gendered Aspect: Self-silencing has been studied in the context of gender dynamics, as some research suggests that women may be more likely to engage in self-silencing behaviors due to societal expectations and gender norms that discourage assertiveness and encourage nurturing and accommodating behaviors.

Communication and Relationships: Self-silencing can have a significant impact on communication in relationships, as individuals who self-silence may struggle to express their needs, desires, and boundaries effectively. Over time, this can lead to relationship dissatisfaction and emotional distress.

Emotional Consequences: Engaging in self-silencing can result in emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and a sense of powerlessness. It can also hinder personal growth and self-fulfillment.

Cultural and Social Influences: Cultural and social factors, including family upbringing and societal expectations, can contribute to self-silencing. People from various backgrounds and genders may experience self-silencing, although it may manifest differently based on individual circumstances.

Empowerment and Therapy: Addressing self-silencing often involves self-awareness and personal growth. Many individuals benefit from therapy or counseling to learn assertiveness skills, build self-esteem, and establish healthier boundaries in their relationships.

It’s important to note that self-silencing is not limited to any specific gender or group, and it can manifest in various ways, including in both personal and professional contexts. Recognizing and addressing self-silencing behaviors can be a valuable step toward healthier, more authentic interpersonal relationships and greater emotional well-being.
​Shervan K Shahhian

Long-term psychological impacts of violence and trauma:

Experiencing violence and trauma can have profound and long-lasting psychological impacts on individuals. These effects can vary widely from person to person, depending on factors such as the nature and severity of the trauma, the individual’s pre-existing mental health, and the availability of support and coping mechanisms. Some of the long-term psychological impacts of violence and trauma include:

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a common psychological disorder that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and avoidance of reminders of the trauma. These symptoms can persist for months or even years.
2. Depression and Anxiety: Trauma can lead to the development or exacerbation of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Individuals may experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, and worry.
3. Dissociation: Some individuals may experience episodes of dissociation, where they feel disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. This can be a way of coping with overwhelming emotions during or after a traumatic event.
4. Substance Abuse: Trauma survivors may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate and numb their emotional pain, which can lead to substance abuse issues.
5. Relationship Difficulties: Trauma can affect one’s ability to form and maintain healthy relationships. Trust issues, emotional distancing, and difficulty with intimacy are common challenges.
6. Self-Esteem and Self-Worth: Trauma can erode an individual’s self-esteem and self-worth, leading to negative self-perception and self-criticism.
7. Survivor’s Guilt: Those who have experienced trauma but survived while others did not may grapple with survivor’s guilt, which can lead to feelings of shame and self-blame.
8. Emotional Regulation: Trauma survivors often struggle with regulating their emotions, which can result in intense mood swings, anger, and difficulty managing stress.
9. Flashbacks and Intrusive Memories: Traumatic memories can intrude into a person’s daily life, leading to flashbacks and distressing intrusive thoughts.
10. Sleep Disturbances: Many trauma survivors experience ongoing sleep disturbances, including nightmares and insomnia.
11. Chronic Pain and Somatic Symptoms: Trauma can manifest physically, leading to chronic pain and other somatic symptoms that may not have a clear medical explanation.
12. Cognitive Impairments: Trauma can impact cognitive functioning, including memory, concentration, and decision-making.
13. Aggression and Violent Behavior: Some individuals who have experienced trauma may become aggressive or engage in violent behavior as a way to cope with their emotions or as a result of learned behavior.

It’s essential to understand that recovery from trauma is possible. Support from mental health professionals, friends, and family can make a significant difference in helping individuals cope with the long-term psychological impacts of violence and trauma. Treatment options such as therapy, medication, and various coping strategies are available to address these challenges and promote healing. The path to recovery is unique to each person, and it often involves a combination of approaches tailored to their specific needs.

Shervan K Shahhian