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

Serious health consequences of Loneliness:

Loneliness can have serious health consequences, both physical and mental. Research has shown that chronic loneliness can be detrimental to a person’s well-being in several ways:

Mental Health Issues: Loneliness is strongly associated with mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and increased stress. Prolonged loneliness can lead to feelings of hopelessness and a sense of worthlessness.

Cognitive Decline: Some studies have suggested that lonely individuals may be at a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia as they age. Social engagement and mental stimulation are important for maintaining cognitive function.

Cardiovascular Problems: Loneliness has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. The stress associated with loneliness can lead to elevated blood pressure and other risk factors.

Weakened Immune System: Chronic loneliness can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Sleep Disturbances: Loneliness can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or poor-quality sleep. Sleep is essential for overall health, and sleep disturbances can have negative effects on physical and mental well-being.

Altered Stress Response: Loneliness can alter the body’s stress response, leading to increased production of stress hormones like cortisol. This can contribute to chronic inflammation and other health issues.

Unhealthy Behaviors: People who are lonely may be more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, excessive drinking, or overeating, which can further exacerbate health problems.

Increased Mortality: Numerous studies have shown that chronic loneliness is associated with an increased risk of premature death. Social isolation can have as significant an impact on mortality as smoking or obesity.

Poorer Health Habits: Loneliness can lead to neglect of one’s health, as individuals may be less likely to seek medical care or engage in preventive health behaviors when they lack social support.

Mental Health Medication Overuse: Some individuals turn to medication, including prescription drugs and alcohol, to cope with the emotional pain of loneliness, which can lead to substance abuse issues.

It’s important to note that loneliness is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including individual personality, social support networks, and life circumstances. Addressing loneliness often requires a multifaceted approach that may include therapy, social connections, and lifestyle changes.

If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness and its associated health consequences, it’s important to seek help and support from mental health professionals, support groups, or friends and family. Loneliness is a significant public health concern, and efforts to reduce it can have a positive impact on individuals’ overall health and well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

The Importance of Recognizing Psychology as a Science:

Recognizing psychology as a science is of paramount importance for several reasons:

Objectivity and Empirical Evidence: Science relies on the systematic collection and analysis of empirical evidence to test hypotheses and make conclusions. Psychology, when conducted as a science, adheres to these principles by using controlled experiments, surveys, and observations to gather objective data about human behavior and mental processes. This objectivity helps in developing a better understanding of human behavior.

Validity and Reliability: By following scientific methods, psychologists strive to ensure the validity and reliability of their findings. Validity refers to the accuracy of a measurement or experiment in assessing what it intends to measure, while reliability refers to the consistency and repeatability of results. Recognizing psychology as a science ensures that the research conducted meets these rigorous standards.

Predictive Power: Scientific psychology allows researchers to develop theories and models that can predict and explain human behavior. These predictions are based on empirical evidence and are essential for understanding and addressing various psychological phenomena, such as mental illnesses, cognitive processes, and social behavior.

Evidence-Based Practices: Acknowledging psychology as a science helps in the development of evidence-based practices. This means that psychological interventions and treatments are based on scientific research, ensuring that they are effective and safe for individuals seeking help for mental health issues.

Advancements in Knowledge: The scientific approach in psychology promotes the accumulation of knowledge over time. Researchers build upon existing findings, refine theories, and develop new perspectives. This process leads to a deeper understanding of human behavior and mental processes.

Ethical Considerations: Scientific psychology emphasizes ethical considerations in research and practice. Ethical guidelines ensure the well-being and rights of research participants and clients. Recognizing psychology as a science helps maintain ethical standards and promotes responsible conduct in the field.

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Psychology as a science often collaborates with other scientific disciplines, such as neuroscience, biology, and sociology. This interdisciplinary approach leads to a more comprehensive understanding of complex psychological phenomena and their connections to other fields.

Problem-Solving and Innovation: Scientific psychology contributes to problem-solving and innovation in various domains, including education, healthcare, business, and public policy. It provides insights into how to improve mental health, optimize human performance, and address social issues.

Academic and Professional Credibility: Acknowledging psychology as a science enhances its academic and professional credibility. This recognition encourages more individuals to pursue careers in psychology and supports the establishment of academic programs and professional standards.

In summary, recognizing psychology as a science is crucial for advancing our understanding of human behavior, promoting evidence-based practices, and addressing various psychological, social, and health-related challenges. It ensures that the field is grounded in empirical evidence and maintains high standards of objectivity and reliability.

Shervan K Shahhian

Moral injury, what does it mean: Moral injury is a term used to describe the psychological and emotional distress that occurs when a person’s deeply held moral or ethical beliefs are violated or compromised. It is often associated with situations in which individuals are exposed to actions or events that go against their personal values, principles, or sense of right and wrong. Moral injury is a concept that has been primarily discussed in the context of certain professions and experiences, such as the military, healthcare, law enforcement, and first responders, but it can apply to anyone who faces moral dilemmas or experiences events that challenge their moral integrity. Key aspects of moral injury include: Moral conflict: Individuals may find themselves in situations where they have to make difficult moral decisions or are exposed to actions that conflict with their moral values. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and inner turmoil. Betrayal of trust: Moral injury often involves a sense of betrayal, either by oneself or by others. This can result from actions that are perceived as unethical or immoral, whether committed by the individual or witnessed in others. Emotional and psychological consequences: Experiencing moral injury can lead to a range of emotional and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, anger, and a loss of meaning or purpose in life. It can also contribute to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Spirituality and existential impact: Moral injury can also have a profound impact on a person’s sense of spirituality and existential beliefs. It may cause individuals to question their faith, values, and the meaning of life. It’s important to note that moral injury is distinct from traditional PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), although they can overlap. While PTSD is typically associated with exposure to life-threatening events, moral injury focuses on the moral and ethical aspects of trauma and distress. Treatment for moral injury often involves therapy and support aimed at helping individuals process their moral conflicts and find ways to heal emotionally and spiritually. Moral injury has gained attention in recent years, particularly in the context of addressing the well-being of individuals who have experienced traumatic events in the line of duty, but it is a concept that has relevance to a wide range of human experiences.

Shervan K Shahhian

International Classification of Diseases (ICD):

The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is a standardized system for classifying and coding medical conditions, diseases, and other health-related issues. It is maintained and published by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is widely used worldwide for a variety of purposes, including:

Clinical Documentation: Healthcare professionals use ICD codes to document and communicate diagnoses and medical conditions in patient records, allowing for standardized and consistent record-keeping.

Healthcare Billing: Health insurance companies and healthcare providers use ICD codes to bill for services rendered, as each code corresponds to a specific diagnosis or medical procedure.

Epidemiology and Public Health: ICD codes are crucial for tracking and monitoring disease prevalence, outbreaks, and trends, which is vital for public health surveillance and research.

Healthcare Research: Researchers use ICD codes to analyze healthcare data, conduct epidemiological studies, and investigate the causes, treatment, and outcomes of various diseases.

Healthcare Policy and Planning: Governments and health organizations use ICD data to inform healthcare policy decisions, allocate resources, and plan healthcare services.

The ICD system is periodically updated to reflect advances in medical knowledge and changes in healthcare practices. Each version of the ICD includes a set of codes and descriptions for different diseases, conditions, and medical procedures. The most recent version as of my last knowledge update in September 2021 was the ICD-10. However, the ICD-11 was in development at that time and may have been adopted since then or is in the process of being implemented in various countries.

The ICD coding system typically consists of alphanumeric codes that provide detailed information about a specific medical condition or procedure.

ICD is an essential tool in the healthcare industry, ensuring consistency in data collection, billing, and research across different countries and healthcare settings. It plays a crucial role in improving healthcare quality, patient safety, and the overall understanding of diseases and health-related issues.
Shervan K Shahhian

Emotional support animals, what is their purpose:

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Psychiatric Service Dogs, what is their purpose:

Psychiatric service dogs, also known as mental health service dogs, are specially trained dogs that provide assistance and support to individuals with psychiatric disabilities or mental health conditions. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that help their handlers manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Here are some key points about psychiatric service dogs:

Types of Conditions: Psychiatric service dogs are typically trained to assist individuals with a wide range of psychiatric disabilities or disorders, including but not limited to:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Autism spectrum disorders (for individuals with co-occurring psychiatric conditions)

Tasks and Support: These dogs are trained to perform various tasks that can help their handlers cope with their conditions. Some common tasks include:

• Providing deep pressure therapy to alleviate anxiety or panic attacks
• Alerting their handler to signs of an impending episode
• Interrupting self-harming behaviors
• Reminding their handler to take medication
• Providing a sense of security and comfort in public settings

Legal Protections: In the United States, psychiatric service dogs are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which grants individuals with disabilities the right to have a service dog accompany them in public places. This includes places like restaurants, stores, and public transportation.

Training: Psychiatric service dogs undergo extensive training to ensure they can perform their tasks reliably and safely. This training is often tailored to the specific needs of the individual they will be assisting.

Handler-Dog Bond: The bond between a psychiatric service dog and their handler is crucial. These dogs often provide emotional support and companionship in addition to their practical assistance.

Obtaining a Psychiatric Service Dog: To obtain a psychiatric service dog, individuals typically need to go through a process that includes obtaining a prescription or recommendation from a mental health professional, finding a reputable service dog organization or trainer, and participating in training sessions with the dog.

Responsibilities: Handlers of psychiatric service dogs are responsible for the care, well-being, and behavior of their dogs. They must ensure that their dogs are well-trained, well-behaved in public, and receive appropriate veterinary care.

It’s important to note that psychiatric service dogs are distinct from emotional support animals (ESAs) and therapy animals. While ESAs provide emotional support, they do not have the same level of training as service dogs and do not have the same legal protections. Additionally, therapy animals are typically used in clinical or therapeutic settings to provide comfort and companionship but do not assist specific individuals with disabilities in the same way that service dogs do

Shervan K Shahhian

Without Personal Effort, success is impossible:

The statement “Without personal effort, everything is impossible” is not entirely accurate. While personal effort is often crucial for achieving goals and overcoming challenges, it’s not the only factor at play in determining what is possible or impossible. Many other factors can influence the outcome of a situation, including:

External Circumstances: Sometimes, external circumstances beyond an individual’s control can have a significant impact on the feasibility of a task or goal. For example, economic conditions, natural disasters, or global events can affect what is possible in a given situation.

Collaboration: Achieving certain goals may require collaboration and teamwork. In such cases, it’s not solely about personal effort but also about how well individuals can work together to achieve a common objective.

Resources: The availability of resources, such as time, money, tools, and technology, can greatly influence what is possible. Lack of resources can make some tasks or goals seemingly impossible.

Luck or Chance: In some cases, luck or chance can play a role in whether something succeeds or fails, regardless of personal effort. Some things are beyond our control.

Skill and Knowledge: Personal effort is important, but having the right skills and knowledge is also crucial. Without the necessary expertise, even significant effort may not lead to success.

Timing: Timing can be critical. Sometimes, the same amount of effort applied at different times can yield very different results.

Goal Realism: Not all goals are achievable, no matter how much effort one puts in. Setting realistic and achievable goals is an important aspect of success.

So, while personal effort is often a key ingredient in achieving success, it is not the only factor. The interplay of personal effort with external factors, collaboration, resources, and other elements can determine what is possible in various situations.

Shervan K Shahhian

The importance of a Strong social support network:

Strong social support networks are crucial for various aspects of well-being, mental health, and overall quality of life. They play a vital role in an individual’s life for several reasons:

Emotional Support: Social support networks provide a source of emotional comfort and validation. When facing challenges or difficult situations, having someone to talk to, share feelings with, or simply lend a sympathetic ear can reduce stress and anxiety.

Reduced Stress: Social support can act as a buffer against the negative effects of stress. Knowing that there are people you can turn to in times of stress can help you cope better and reduce the physical and emotional toll that stress can take on your body.

Improved Mental Health: Studies consistently show that strong social support networks are associated with better mental health outcomes. Loneliness and social isolation, on the other hand, are linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety.

Physical Health: Social support can have a positive impact on physical health. People with strong social ties tend to engage in healthier behaviors, like exercising regularly and seeking medical attention when needed. This can lead to better overall health and a longer lifespan.

Resilience: Social support networks can enhance resilience, helping individuals bounce back from adversity more effectively. Knowing that you have people who care about your well-being can boost your confidence and motivation to overcome challenges.

Enhanced Self-Esteem: Positive social interactions and relationships can contribute to a person’s sense of self-worth and self-esteem. Feeling valued and loved by others can foster a positive self-image.

Coping Skills: Friends and family can provide valuable advice, guidance, and different perspectives when you’re facing difficult decisions or dilemmas. This can help you make better choices and develop effective coping strategies.

Sense of Belonging: Being part of a social support network gives individuals a sense of belonging and connectedness. It can counter feelings of isolation and alienation, which are detrimental to mental and emotional well-being.

Social Engagement: Strong social support networks often lead to increased social engagement, which can enrich your life through shared experiences, hobbies, and interests.

Longevity: Research suggests that people with strong social ties tend to live longer than those who are socially isolated. The sense of purpose and support that comes from these relationships may contribute to longevity.

Happiness: Positive social interactions and supportive relationships are strongly linked to happiness and life satisfaction. Sharing joy, laughter, and meaningful experiences with others can significantly boost your overall happiness.

In summary, strong social support networks are essential for emotional, mental, and physical well-being. They provide a safety net during challenging times, enhance the quality of life, and contribute to overall happiness and resilience. Nurturing and maintaining these relationships should be a priority for individuals seeking a balanced and fulfilling life.

Shervan K Shahhian

The healing science of Active Listening:

Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully engaging with and understanding a speaker by giving them your full attention, showing empathy, and providing feedback. While it may not be considered a “healing science” in the traditional sense, it is a valuable skill that can have therapeutic and positive effects on relationships and well-being. Here’s how active listening can be seen as a form of healing in various contexts:

Therapeutic Relationships: Active listening is a fundamental skill in counseling, therapy, and psychiatry. Therapists use active listening to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to express their thoughts and feelings. This process can help individuals heal by providing them with an opportunity to explore their emotions, gain insight into their concerns, and develop coping strategies.

Conflict Resolution: In conflicts or disputes, active listening can facilitate healing and resolution. When people feel heard and understood, it can reduce tension and lead to a more productive dialogue. By actively listening to each other’s perspectives, parties can work towards finding common ground and healing the rift between them.

Supportive Relationships: In personal relationships, active listening can strengthen emotional bonds and foster healing during difficult times. When a friend or family member actively listens, it can validate one’s feelings, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide comfort. This can be particularly helpful during times of grief, loss, or emotional distress.

Self-Reflection and Self-Healing: Active listening is not limited to listening to others; it also involves listening to oneself. Practicing self-reflection and self-compassion through active listening to your own thoughts and emotions can aid in personal growth, self-discovery, and emotional healing.

Stress Reduction: Actively listening to soothing sounds, such as nature sounds, calming music, or guided meditation, can have a healing effect on stress and anxiety. This form of active listening can help individuals relax, reduce stress hormones, and promote overall well-being.

In summary, while active listening may not be a formal “healing science,” it is a powerful communication skill that plays a crucial role in various healing processes. By fostering understanding, empathy, and connection, active listening can contribute to emotional healing, conflict resolution, and the development of supportive relationships.
​Shervan K Shahhian

How to Focus on Progress, Not Perfection:

Focusing on progress rather than perfection is a valuable mindset that can help you become more productive, reduce stress, and achieve your goals. Here are some strategies to help you make this shift in your thinking:

Set Realistic Goals:

• Break your larger goals into smaller, achievable steps or milestones.
• Ensure that your goals are specific, measurable, and time-bound (SMART goals).

Embrace Imperfection:

• Understand that making mistakes and encountering setbacks are part of the learning process.
• View mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow rather than as failures.

Prioritize Learning:

• Shift your focus from the end result to the journey of learning and improvement.
• Ask yourself what you’ve learned from each experience, even if it didn’t go as planned.

Practice Mindfulness:

• Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help you stay present and reduce anxiety about the future or past failures.
• Focus on the task at hand without worrying about achieving perfection.

Avoid All-or-Nothing Thinking:

• Don’t view success as an all-or-nothing outcome. Progress is a continuum, and even small steps forward are meaningful.
• Avoid self-criticism when things don’t go perfectly.

Celebrate Small Wins:

• Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
• This positive reinforcement can motivate you to keep making progress.

Practice Self-Compassion:

• Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend.
• Remember that everyone makes mistakes and faces challenges.

Set Realistic Expectations:

• Be realistic about what you can accomplish within a given timeframe.
• Avoid overloading yourself with tasks or setting unattainable standards.

Focus on the Process:

• Pay attention to the actions and behaviors that contribute to your progress.
• Trust that consistent effort over time will lead to improvement.

Seek Feedback:

• Solicit feedback from others to gain different perspectives on your progress.
• Use constructive criticism to refine your approach.

Learn from Others:

• Study the journeys of successful people in your field. They likely encountered setbacks and made gradual progress.
• Understand that success rarely happens overnight.

Limit Perfectionism:

• Perfectionism can lead to procrastination and anxiety. Try to recognize when it’s hindering your progress and make an effort to let go of unrealistic standards.

Keep a Progress Journal:

• Document your achievements, no matter how small, in a journal.
• Reflect on your progress regularly to stay motivated.

Remember that progress is a continuous process, and it’s natural to encounter obstacles along the way. By shifting your focus away from perfection and towards improvement, you can reduce stress and increase your overall satisfaction with your personal and professional endeavors.

Shervan K Shahhian