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

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

How can we overcome Financial shame:

Overcoming financial shame can be a challenging but essential step towards achieving financial well-being and a healthier relationship with money. Here are some strategies to help you address and overcome financial shame:

Recognize and Acknowledge Your Feelings: Start by acknowledging and accepting that you have feelings of financial shame. Understand that it’s a common emotion, and many people experience it at some point in their lives.

Identify the Source of Shame: Try to pinpoint the specific reasons or events that have contributed to your financial shame. Understanding the root causes can help you address and work through these issues.

Seek Professional Help: Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who specializes in financial therapy or mental health. They can help you explore the underlying emotions and behaviors associated with your financial shame.

Educate Yourself: Enhance your financial literacy. Learning more about personal finance and money management can boost your confidence and reduce feelings of shame. There are many books, online courses, and resources available to help you improve your financial knowledge.

Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable financial goals and create a plan to reach them. Having a sense of purpose and direction with your finances can reduce shame and anxiety.

Create a Budget: Develop a budget that aligns with your financial goals. Tracking your income and expenses can give you a better understanding of your financial situation and help you make informed decisions.

Build a Support System: Share your feelings and experiences with a trusted friend or family member. They can provide emotional support and may even have helpful advice or resources.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and forgiving to yourself. Understand that everyone makes financial mistakes, and they can be valuable learning experiences.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Celebrate small victories and improvements in your financial situation. Remember that it’s a journey, and setbacks are a natural part of the process.

Avoid Comparisons: Avoid comparing your financial situation to others. People often present a polished image of their financial lives, which may not reflect reality. Focus on your own progress and goals.

Take Responsibility: While it’s important to be compassionate towards yourself, also take responsibility for your financial actions. Accepting responsibility is a crucial step in making positive changes.

Plan for the Future: Create a financial plan that outlines your long-term goals and how you intend to achieve them. Having a clear vision of your financial future can motivate you to move past shame and take action.

Practice Gratitude: Reflect on the positive aspects of your life and the things you are grateful for. Shifting your focus to gratitude can help counteract negative emotions.

Monitor and Adjust Your Progress: Regularly review your financial situation and adjust your goals and plans as needed. This proactive approach can help you stay on track and reduce feelings of shame.

Remember that overcoming financial shame is a process that takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and seek support when needed. By taking proactive steps and working on your relationship with money, you can gradually reduce financial shame and achieve greater financial well-being.
Shervan K Shahhian

If you believe you’ve encountered a setback or failure in your pursuit of a goal or objective, it’s important to remain resilient and ethical in your approach to success. Here are some steps you can take to pivot and find alternative, ethical paths to achieve your goals:

1. Reflect on the Failure: Take some time to analyze what went wrong and why you consider it a failure. Understanding the root causes can help you avoid making the same mistakes in the future.
2. Set Clear Goals: Reevaluate your goals and clarify what success means to you. Sometimes, the definition of success may need to be adjusted to align better with your values and circumstances.
3. Seek Feedback: Reach out to mentors, colleagues, or friends for feedback and advice. They might provide valuable insights and perspectives that can help you navigate your way to success.
4. Learn and Adapt: Be open to learning from your failures. Use them as opportunities to grow and adapt. Consider what skills, knowledge, or resources you may need to acquire to increase your chances of success in the future.
5. Explore Alternative Strategies: If your initial approach didn’t work, brainstorm and research alternative strategies that align with your ethical principles. Don’t be afraid to pivot and try something different.
6. Network and Collaborate: Building strong relationships with others in your field can open up new opportunities. Collaborative efforts and partnerships can sometimes lead to success where individual efforts fall short.
7. Stay Persistent: Success often requires perseverance. Don’t let a single failure discourage you. Keep pushing forward, and remember that many successful individuals faced setbacks along the way.
8. Maintain Ethical Integrity: While pursuing success, it’s crucial to uphold your ethical principles and values. Shortcuts or unethical practices may lead to short-term gains but can harm your reputation and long-term prospects.
9. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and opportunities that may arise unexpectedly. Sometimes, the path to success takes unexpected turns.
10. Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. A healthy body and mind are better equipped to handle challenges and pursue success ethically.

Remember that success is not always a linear path, and setbacks are a natural part of any journey. It’s how you respond to failure and adversity that ultimately defines your character and your chances of achieving your goals in an ethical and meaningful way.

Shervan K Shahhian