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

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

The Dangers of Psychoactive drugs:

Psychoactive drugs are substances that alter an individual’s mental state, mood, or perception. While some of these drugs can be used responsibly and have legitimate medical applications, there are various potential dangers associated with their use, including:

1. Addiction and Dependence: Many psychoactive drugs can be habit-forming, leading to addiction and dependence. Drugs like opioids, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines are particularly notorious for their addictive potential.
2. Health Risks: The use of psychoactive drugs, especially when abused or taken in large quantities, can lead to a range of physical health problems. For example, the abuse of alcohol can result in liver disease, while smoking marijuana may have adverse effects on lung health.
3. Mental Health Issues: Some individuals are at risk of developing or exacerbating mental health problems when using psychoactive drugs. This includes the potential for increased anxiety, depression, or even psychotic episodes, particularly with substances like marijuana, hallucinogens, and amphetamines.
4. Overdose: Taking excessive amounts of certain psychoactive drugs, such as opioids or stimulants, can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. Overdose risk is particularly high when drugs are mixed or when potent synthetic drugs are involved.
5. Impaired Judgment and Behavior: Psychoactive drugs can impair cognitive function and decision-making, leading to risky behaviors such as reckless driving, unprotected sex, or violence. This can result in accidents, injuries, or legal consequences.
6. Social and Relationship Problems: Substance abuse can strain relationships with friends and family, potentially leading to isolation and a breakdown in social support networks.
7. Legal Consequences: The use, possession, or distribution of many psychoactive drugs is illegal in various jurisdictions. Legal repercussions can range from fines and probation to imprisonment, depending on the specific drug and local laws.
8. Economic Burden: The misuse of psychoactive drugs can be financially burdensome, as individuals often spend significant amounts of money on acquiring these substances. Additionally, the associated health problems may result in increased healthcare costs.
9. Tolerance and Withdrawal: Over time, the body may develop a tolerance to certain psychoactive drugs, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. When individuals attempt to stop using these drugs, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can be physically and psychologically distressing.
10. Risk of Accidental Poisoning: In some cases, psychoactive drugs may be mixed or adulterated with other substances, increasing the risk of accidental poisoning or overdose.

It’s important to note that not all psychoactive drugs are inherently dangerous, and some have legitimate medical uses when prescribed by healthcare professionals. Responsible use and awareness of the risks associated with these substances are essential. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, seeking professional help is strongly advised.

Shervan K Shahhian

Good therapy explained:

Good therapy, often referred to as effective therapy, is a form of psychological treatment or counseling that helps individuals address and manage emotional, mental, and behavioral challenges. It is a collaborative process between a trained therapist or counselor and the client. Here are some key aspects that contribute to good therapy:

1. Therapist-Client Relationship: A strong and trusting therapeutic relationship is fundamental to effective therapy. Clients should feel safe, respected, and understood by their therapist. This rapport creates an environment where clients can open up and share their concerns without judgment.
2. Therapist’s Qualifications: A qualified and licensed therapist or counselor should conduct therapy. These professionals have undergone extensive training and have the necessary credentials to provide therapy effectively. The therapist’s approach, whether it’s cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, or another modality, should align with the client’s needs.
3. Clear Goals: Good therapy typically involves setting clear, achievable goals. Clients and therapists work together to define the issues that need to be addressed and develop a treatment plan that outlines the steps to reach those goals.
4. Evidence-Based Practices: Effective therapy is often based on evidence-backed methods and techniques. Therapists use well-established approaches that have been shown to be effective for specific issues. These approaches might include cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or psychodynamic therapy, among others.
5. Confidentiality: A fundamental aspect of therapy is confidentiality. Clients should feel confident that what they discuss in therapy will remain private, except in situations where the therapist is legally obligated to report harm to self or others.
6. Active Listening: Therapists engage in active listening, paying close attention to what the client is saying, both verbally and non-verbally. They ask probing questions to better understand the client’s thoughts and feelings.
7. Empathy and Support: A good therapist demonstrates empathy and provides emotional support to clients. They help clients explore their emotions and navigate challenges while offering a safe and non-judgmental space.
8. Feedback and Guidance: Therapists offer feedback, insights, and guidance to help clients gain perspective on their issues. They may teach coping strategies and problem-solving skills.
9. Flexibility: Effective therapy is adaptable to the client’s changing needs and progress. The therapist may adjust the treatment plan and approach as needed.
10. Results-Oriented: Therapy should lead to positive outcomes. Clients should see improvements in their mental health, coping skills, and overall well-being over time.
11. Client Involvement: Clients have an active role in therapy, and their commitment to the process is essential. Open and honest communication with the therapist is crucial for success.
12. Regular Assessments: Therapists often assess progress and make adjustments as needed. Periodic reviews ensure that therapy remains on track and effective.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of therapy can vary from person to person. What works for one individual may not work for another, so finding the right therapist and therapeutic approach is key to achieving success. Good therapy can lead to personal growth, improved mental health, and enhanced quality of life.

Shervan K Shahhian