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

How to cultivate Mental Toughness:

Cultivating mental toughness is a valuable skill that can help you navigate life’s challenges and perform at your best, whether in sports, work, or daily life. Mental toughness involves resilience, perseverance, and the ability to stay focused and confident in the face of adversity. Here are some strategies to help you cultivate mental toughness:

1. Set Clear Goals: Define specific, achievable goals for yourself. Having clear objectives gives you a sense of purpose and direction, making it easier to stay motivated and resilient in the face of setbacks.
2. Develop a Growth Mindset: Embrace the idea that challenges and failures are opportunities for growth. Instead of seeing setbacks as failures, view them as learning experiences that can help you improve.
3. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Pay attention to your inner dialogue. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Encourage yourself, even in difficult situations. This can boost your self-confidence and resilience.
4. Visualization: Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse success and overcoming challenges. This can enhance your confidence and reduce anxiety in real-life situations.
5. Focus on Process, Not Outcome: Concentrate on the steps you need to take to achieve your goals rather than fixating on the end result. This helps you stay focused on what’s in your control.
6. Stay Committed: Commit to your goals and values, even when faced with adversity or temptation. Mental toughness often involves doing what needs to be done, even when you don’t feel like it.
7. Develop Emotional Regulation: Learn to manage your emotions effectively. This means not letting anger, frustration, or fear control your actions. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation can help.
8. Build Resilience: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity. To build it, face challenges head-on and learn from them. Surround yourself with a support network that can provide encouragement and perspective.
9. Challenge Comfort Zones: Growth occurs outside of your comfort zone. Push yourself to take on new challenges and gradually expand your comfort zone. This builds mental toughness over time.
10. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep can significantly impact your mental toughness. Physical well-being contributes to mental resilience.
11. Learn from Role Models: Study individuals who demonstrate mental toughness in their fields. Read about their experiences and strategies for overcoming obstacles.
12. Seek Professional Help: If you struggle with issues like anxiety or low self-esteem, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor. They can provide strategies and tools to help you build mental toughness.
13. Stay Persistent: Understand that building mental toughness is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and keep working on developing these skills.

Remember that mental toughness is not about suppressing emotions or denying difficulties. It’s about facing challenges with a positive and resilient mindset. With practice and commitment, you can cultivate mental toughness and become more resilient in the face of life’s trials.

Shervan K Shahhian

Is Prolonged sadness Depression:

Prolonged sadness can be a symptom of depression, but it is not necessarily the same as depression. Depression is a complex and multifaceted mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. It often involves a range of physical and emotional symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s daily life and functioning. To be diagnosed with clinical depression, an individual typically needs to meet specific criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). These criteria include experiencing symptoms like a depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, along with other symptoms such as changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of death or suicide. Prolonged sadness, on the other hand, may refer to feelings of sadness that last for an extended period but may not necessarily meet all the diagnostic criteria for clinical depression. It’s important to note that everyone experiences sadness from time to time, and sadness is a normal emotion. However, when sadness becomes persistent, severe, and interferes with a person’s ability to function in daily life, it could be indicative of a depressive disorder. If you or someone you know is experiencing prolonged sadness or any symptoms of depression, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these approaches. Depression is a treatable condition, and getting the right help can make a significant difference in a person’s quality of life.

Shervan K Shahhian

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy:

Possibly Dangerous Psychedelic-assisted therapy is an emerging field of mental health treatment that involves the use of Possibly Dangerous psychedelic substances, such as Possibly Dangerous psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), Possibly Dangerous MDMA (often referred to as ecstasy), Possibly Dangerous LSD, or Possibly Dangerous ayahuasca, in conjunction with psychotherapy. These Possibly Dangerous substances are sometimes called entheogens, that might cause Life Long Hallucinations, and they have been used in some cultures for certain rituals.

Here are some key aspects of Possibly Dangerous psychedelic-assisted therapy:

Clinical Setting: Possibly Dangerous Psychedelic therapy sessions typically take place in a controlled and supervised clinical or therapeutic setting, often with trained therapists or guides present to help clients navigate their Hallucinations and experiences.

Integration: The therapy doesn’t just involve taking the Possibly Dangerous psychedelic substances; it includes extensive preparation and integration sessions. These help individuals understand and make sense of their Possibly Dangerous psychedelic Hallucinations, and experiences.

Targeted Conditions: Possibly Dangerous Psychedelic-assisted therapy has shown to produce Hallucinations, promise in treating some of mental health conditions and existential distress in patients with “Terminal Illnesses”.

Neurobiological Mechanisms: Researchers have been studying the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the Possibly Dangerous and therapeutic effects of Possibly Dangerous psychedelics. These Possibly Dangerous substances can alter brain connectivity permanently and promote experiences of Life Long Hallucinations, ego dissolution, which can lead to Possibly Dangerous, profound insights and therapeutic breakthroughs.

Legality: The legal status of Possibly Dangerous psychedelics varies by country and or jurisdiction. Some regions have decriminalized or legalized certain Possibly Dangerous psychedelics for therapeutic or personal use, while others strictly prohibit their use.

Ongoing Research is needed: Research into possibly Dangerous psychedelic-assisted therapy has been growing among some individuals, and early clinical trials have shown some results. Some organizations and research institutions are exploring the Possibly Dangerous and possibly therapeutic potential of Possibly Dangerous psychedelics and seeking regulatory approvals for their use this Possibly Dangerous substance in therapy.

Safety Concerns: Psychedelics are Dangerous and powerful substances that can lead to intense, challenging experiences and possibly Life Long Hallucinations. Safety is a significant concerns about the use of these substances could be very Dangerous.

It’s important to note that while there is interest and in these possibly Dangerous and therapeutic potential of psychedelics, the field is still in its early stages, and more research is needed to fully understand their Dangers, safety and efficacy. Additionally, the use of psychedelics in therapy is not suitable for most and should be approached with a lot of caution.

Always consult with a professional and a legal healthcare provider or therapist for personalized advice and to determine if the possibly Dangerous psychedelic-assisted therapy is appropriate for your specific needs and circumstances.

Shervan K Shahhian

What are Mental health diagnosis based on:

Mental health diagnoses are based on a combination of clinical assessment, observations, and criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Here are the key components that contribute to mental health diagnoses:

1. Clinical Assessment: Mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, conduct clinical assessments by evaluating a person’s mental and emotional state. This assessment often includes interviews, discussions about symptoms and life experiences, and the collection of relevant information from the individual and sometimes from their family or close contacts.
2. Observation: Clinicians observe the individual’s behavior, thoughts, feelings, and interactions to gather information about their mental health. These observations can provide valuable insights into a person’s condition.
3. Diagnostic Criteria: The DSM (used primarily in the United States) and the ICD (used globally) provide standardized sets of diagnostic criteria for various mental health disorders. These criteria outline specific symptoms, duration, and other factors required for a diagnosis. Clinicians compare the individual’s symptoms and experiences to these criteria to determine if they meet the diagnostic threshold for a particular disorder.
4. Medical History: A person’s medical history, including any previous mental health diagnoses or treatment, can be crucial in making an accurate diagnosis. It helps clinicians understand the individual’s overall health and whether there are any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to their symptoms.
5. Psychological Testing: In some cases, clinicians may use psychological assessments and standardized tests to gather more objective data about a person’s mental health. These tests can measure cognitive functioning, personality traits, and specific symptoms associated with certain disorders.
6. Differential Diagnosis: Mental health professionals consider other potential explanations for an individual’s symptoms before arriving at a final diagnosis. This process, known as differential diagnosis, involves ruling out other medical or psychological conditions that may mimic the symptoms of the suspected disorder.
7. Collaboration: In many cases, mental health diagnoses are arrived at through collaboration among a team of professionals. This interdisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive assessment and accurate diagnosis.

It’s important to note that mental health diagnoses are not always clear-cut, and there can be overlap in symptoms between different disorders. Additionally, the accuracy of a diagnosis can depend on the skill and experience of the clinician conducting the assessment. Mental health professionals use their clinical judgment and expertise to make the best possible diagnosis based on the available information and guidelines. Diagnoses are dynamic and subject to revision as new information becomes available or as an individual’s condition changes over time.

Shervan K Shahhian

Mental health professionals and the diagnoses of Mental health disorders:
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​Mental health professionals play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Here are some key points to understand about their role in the diagnostic process:

Training and Qualifications: Mental health professionals can include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, and psychiatric nurses, among others. Each of these professions has specific training and qualifications for diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.

Assessment: The diagnostic process typically begins with an assessment, where the mental health professional gathers information about the individual’s symptoms, history, and current life circumstances. This can involve interviews, questionnaires, and sometimes medical tests to rule out physical causes of symptoms.

Diagnostic Criteria: Mental health professionals use diagnostic criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) to make a diagnosis. These manuals provide standardized criteria for various mental health disorders.

Multidisciplinary Approach: In many cases, mental health professionals work in multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care. For example, a psychiatrist might prescribe medication, while a psychologist provides therapy. Social workers can assist with accessing community resources, and nurses can monitor medication compliance and physical health.

Cultural Sensitivity: Mental health professionals must be culturally sensitive when making diagnoses. Cultural factors can influence how symptoms are expressed and perceived, and it’s important to consider these when evaluating an individual’s mental health.

Differential Diagnosis: Mental health professionals consider other potential causes for symptoms, such as medical conditions or substance abuse, before making a mental health diagnosis. They aim to rule out other possible explanations.

Treatment Planning: Once a diagnosis is made, mental health professionals work with the individual to develop a treatment plan. Treatment may include therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychotherapy), medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: Mental health professionals continue to monitor the individual’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to track improvement or address any new symptoms.

Confidentiality and Ethics: Mental health professionals are bound by ethical guidelines that include maintaining confidentiality and respecting the autonomy and dignity of their clients. This confidentiality helps create a safe space for individuals to discuss their mental health concerns.

Advocacy and Education: Mental health professionals often play a role in advocating for improved mental health services and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues. They may also provide education to clients and the community about mental health and wellness.

It’s important to note that the field of mental health is evolving, and there are ongoing discussions and debates about the nature of mental health diagnoses and the best approaches to assessment and treatment. Collaboration between professionals and a client-centered approach are essential to providing effective mental health care. Additionally, seeking help from a qualified mental health professional is crucial if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns.
​Shervan K Shahhian

Normal or abnormal mental health, is there a standard:

​The concept of “normal” or “abnormal” mental health is complex and can vary depending on cultural, societal, and individual factors. There is no universally agreed-upon standard for what constitutes normal or abnormal mental health because mental health exists on a spectrum, and what is considered normal in one context may be different in another.

Here are some key points to consider:

Cultural and Societal Variability: What is considered normal or abnormal can vary significantly across cultures and societies. Cultural norms, values, and expectations play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of mental health. Behavior or emotional expressions that might be seen as normal in one culture could be viewed as abnormal in another.

Individual Differences: Every person is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all definition of normal mental health. What is normal for one individual may not be the same for another. Factors such as genetics, upbringing, life experiences, and personal temperament all influence an individual’s mental health.

Context Matters: The context in which a person’s mental health is evaluated is essential. What might be considered a normal reaction to a traumatic event could be seen as abnormal if it occurs in the absence of such an event. Contextual factors, including life circumstances and stressors, can influence mental health.

Diagnosis and Mental Disorders: In clinical psychology and psychiatry, professionals use diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) to classify and diagnose mental disorders. These criteria help define what is considered a mental disorder, but they do not necessarily define normal mental health.

Stigma and Social Perceptions: Stigma and social attitudes about mental health can also influence perceptions of what is normal or abnormal. People may hesitate to seek help or disclose their mental health struggles due to fear of being labeled as abnormal or mentally ill.

In summary, there is no absolute standard for normal or abnormal mental health. It is a highly subjective and context-dependent concept influenced by cultural, societal, and individual factors. Mental health should be viewed as a continuum, with everyone having their unique mental health profile. The focus should be on promoting mental well-being, reducing stigma, and providing support and resources to individuals who may be experiencing distress or impairment in their daily lives, regardless of whether their experiences fit into a specific “normal” or “abnormal” category.
​Shervan K Shahhian

Can PTSD improve with time:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event. The course and prognosis of PTSD can vary from person to person. While some individuals may experience improvement in their symptoms over time, others may continue to struggle with PTSD for an extended period.

Here are some factors that can influence whether PTSD symptoms improve with time:

Early Intervention: Receiving appropriate treatment and support soon after the traumatic event can have a significant impact on the course of PTSD. Early intervention can help individuals process the trauma and develop coping strategies, potentially leading to better outcomes.

Type and Severity of Trauma: The type and severity of the traumatic event can influence the course of PTSD. Traumas that are more severe or involve ongoing exposure to stressors may be associated with a more chronic course of the disorder.

Personal Resilience: Individual differences in coping skills, resilience, and psychological makeup can affect how a person responds to trauma and whether they are more likely to recover over time.

Social Support: Strong social support networks, including friends and family, can play a crucial role in the recovery process. Having a support system in place can help individuals feel understood, validated, and less isolated.

Access to Treatment: Access to evidence-based treatments for PTSD, such as psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy) and medication, can greatly improve the chances of symptom improvement and recovery.

Co-Occurring Conditions: The presence of other mental health conditions, such as depression or substance use disorders, can complicate the course of PTSD and may require integrated treatment.

Personal Effort: An individual’s willingness to engage in treatment, practice self-care, and work on coping strategies can also influence the course of PTSD.

It’s important to note that some individuals may experience a reduction in symptoms and achieve full recovery, while others may continue to have some residual symptoms or experience occasional flare-ups. For some, PTSD may become a chronic condition that requires ongoing management.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, it’s essential to seek professional help. Effective treatments are available, and early intervention can lead to better outcomes. Remember that recovery is a unique and individual process, and there is no one-size-fits-all timeline for improvement.

Shervan K Shahhian

Is there a main Cause of Bipolar Disorder:

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully understood, and it is likely the result of a combination of factors. These factors can be broadly categorized into genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors. Here’s an overview:

Genetic Factors: There is a significant genetic component to bipolar disorder. Individuals with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk of developing it themselves. Researchers have identified specific genes that may be associated with an increased susceptibility to bipolar disorder, although the genetics of the disorder are complex and not fully understood.

Neurobiological Factors: Changes in brain structure and function are often observed in individuals with bipolar disorder. Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are thought to play a role in the disorder. Abnormalities in brain circuits that regulate mood, emotion, and behavior are also implicated.

Environmental Factors: Environmental factors can trigger the onset of bipolar disorder or exacerbate its symptoms. These factors include:

• Stress: High levels of stress or traumatic events can trigger episodes of mania or depression in susceptible individuals.
• Substance Abuse: The use of drugs or alcohol can contribute to the development or worsening of bipolar disorder symptoms.
• Sleep Disruption: Irregular sleep patterns or chronic sleep disturbances can influence mood stability in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Biological Clock: Circadian rhythm disruptions may play a role. Many individuals with bipolar disorder experience changes in their mood and energy levels that follow a distinct pattern, often linked to the biological clock.

Hormonal Changes: Some hormonal changes or imbalances can trigger mood episodes in susceptible individuals.

It’s important to note that bipolar disorder is a complex and heterogeneous condition, meaning it varies from person to person. Not all individuals with bipolar disorder will have the same combination of risk factors or triggers, and the interplay of these factors can differ greatly.

Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle management, and support. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help individuals manage their symptoms effectively and lead fulfilling lives despite the challenges posed by bipolar disorder. If you or someone you know is struggling with bipolar disorder, it is important to seek professional help from a mental health specialist.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Crisis Counseling:

Crisis counseling is a specialized form of psychological support and intervention provided to individuals who are experiencing a crisis or a highly distressing situation. It aims to help people cope with immediate emotional, psychological, and situational difficulties, while also promoting their overall well-being and resilience. Crisis counselors typically work in various settings, including crisis hotlines, mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, and disaster relief organizations. Here are some key aspects of crisis counseling:

Immediate Response: Crisis counselors provide immediate assistance to individuals in distress. They are trained to assess the severity of the crisis and prioritize safety concerns.

Active Listening: A fundamental skill of crisis counseling is active listening. Counselors listen attentively and empathetically to the individual’s thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment. This helps individuals feel heard and understood.

Assessment: Crisis counselors assess the individual’s mental and emotional state to determine the appropriate level of intervention. This may involve evaluating the risk of self-harm or harm to others.

Safety Planning: In situations involving risk, crisis counselors work with the individual to develop a safety plan. This plan may include identifying support systems, coping strategies, and resources that can help the person stay safe.

Emotional Support: Crisis counselors provide emotional support and validation. They offer reassurance and encouragement, helping individuals to manage their emotions and reduce distress.

Crisis Intervention: Crisis counselors use evidence-based techniques to intervene in the crisis. This may involve techniques such as relaxation exercises, grounding techniques, or problem-solving strategies.

Referrals: If the individual’s crisis requires ongoing or specialized care, crisis counselors can provide referrals to appropriate mental health professionals or community resources.

Resilience Building: Beyond immediate crisis intervention, counselors may help individuals develop resilience skills to better cope with future challenges. This can include teaching stress management techniques and coping strategies.

Cultural Sensitivity: Crisis counselors are trained to be culturally sensitive and respectful of the individual’s background, beliefs, and values. Cultural competence is essential for effective crisis counseling.

Confidentiality: Confidentiality is crucial in crisis counseling to build trust. However, counselors must also adhere to legal and ethical obligations, which may include breaking confidentiality if there is a risk of harm to the individual or others.

Training and Certification: Crisis counselors often undergo specialized training and certification programs. They learn crisis intervention techniques, ethics, and communication skills. Many crisis counseling services also provide ongoing supervision and support for their counselors.

Self-Care: Because crisis counselors deal with highly emotional and distressing situations, they also need to practice self-care to prevent burnout. This includes regular supervision, debriefing, and access to their own support systems.

Crisis counseling is a vital service that helps individuals navigate difficult moments in their lives. It can be provided in various forms, including face-to-face sessions, telephone hotlines, online chat services, and more. The goal is to provide immediate support and guidance to individuals in crisis and to connect them with the appropriate resources for long-term assistance if needed.

Shervan K Shahhian

“Abundance Meditation”

Abundance meditation is a mindfulness practice that focuses on cultivating a mindset of abundance and gratitude. It aims to shift your perspective from scarcity and lack to one of abundance and plenty. This type of meditation involves directing your thoughts and emotions toward the belief that you have an abundance of resources, opportunities, and positive experiences in your life. Here are some of the potential benefits associated with abundance meditation:

1. Reduces Stress: Abundance meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety by shifting your focus away from what you lack and towards what you already have. This shift in perspective can promote feelings of relaxation and contentment.
2. Increases Gratitude: The practice encourages you to appreciate and be grateful for the good things in your life. Gratitude has been linked to improved mental well-being and overall life satisfaction.
3. Enhances Positivity: Abundance meditation promotes positive thinking and a more optimistic outlook on life. By consistently focusing on abundance, you may start to see more opportunities and positive aspects in your daily experiences.
4. Boosts Self-Esteem: It can help boost self-esteem and self-worth as you acknowledge your accomplishments, strengths, and the positive qualities you possess.
5. Enhances Creativity: A mindset of abundance can stimulate creativity and innovation as you become more open to new ideas and possibilities.
6. Improves Relationships: When you practice abundance meditation, you may become more appreciative of the people in your life, leading to improved relationships and better social connections.
7. Motivation and Goal Achievement: Abundance meditation can motivate you to pursue your goals and aspirations with a positive mindset. It can also help you overcome self-limiting beliefs that may be holding you back.
8. Physical Health: Some studies suggest that practicing gratitude and positive thinking can have a positive impact on physical health by reducing stress-related ailments and promoting overall well-being.

To practice abundance meditation, you can follow these steps:

1. Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down.
2. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax.
3. Begin by acknowledging the abundance in your life, whether it’s material possessions, relationships, opportunities, or talents.
4. Express gratitude for these blessings and visualize them in detail.
5. Imagine your abundance expanding and envision positive outcomes and opportunities coming your way.
6. Stay in this state of gratitude and abundance for several minutes.
7. When you’re ready, gently open your eyes and carry this mindset of abundance with you throughout the day.

Consistent practice of abundance meditation can help shift your mindset and improve your overall well-being by fostering a sense of gratitude, positivity, and abundance in your life.

Shervan K Shahhian