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

What are Depression symptoms:

Depression is a mood disorder that can affect how a person feels, thinks, and behaves. It’s essential to recognize that depression symptoms can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience the same set of symptoms. However, some common symptoms of depression include:

Persistent sadness: Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless for an extended period, often without a clear reason.

Loss of interest: Losing interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, such as hobbies, socializing, or spending time with loved ones.

Fatigue: Feeling constantly tired, even after getting enough rest and sleep.

Changes in sleep patterns: Experiencing insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness).

Appetite or weight changes: Significant changes in appetite or weight, either increased or decreased.

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: Feeling worthless, excessively guilty, or blaming oneself for things beyond their control.

Difficulty concentrating: Finding it challenging to focus, make decisions, or remember things.

Irritability: Being easily agitated or annoyed over minor issues.

Physical aches and pains: Experiencing unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches, body aches, or digestive problems.

Withdrawal from others: Pulling away from friends, family, and social activities, preferring to isolate oneself.

Thoughts of death or suicide: Having thoughts about death, dying, or self-harm, or engaging in self-destructive behaviors.

It’s important to note that experiencing a few of these symptoms occasionally does not necessarily mean someone has depression. However, if several of these symptoms persist for an extended period (usually more than two weeks) and significantly interfere with daily life, it may be indicative of clinical depression. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional help from a mental health provider or a healthcare professional. Depression is a treatable condition, and seeking help early can lead to better outcomes.

Shervan K Shahhian

The psychoanalytic theory of Transactional analysis explained:

It appears that there is a slight confusion in your question. Transactional Analysis (TA) is not a psychoanalytic theory but rather a distinct psychological theory developed by Eric Berne in the mid-20th century. However, it does have some connections to psychoanalytic concepts, as Berne was influenced by psychoanalytic ideas and incorporated them into TA.

Transactional Analysis is a theory of personality and communication that aims to understand human behavior, communication patterns, and relationships. It is widely used in psychotherapy, counseling, and organizational development. The central concept of TA revolves around the idea that individuals have three ego states that determine their behavior in social interactions. These ego states are:

Parent Ego State: This ego state represents the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that individuals have internalized from their parents or other authority figures. It includes both nurturing and caring aspects (Nurturing Parent) and controlling and critical aspects (Critical Parent).

Adult Ego State: The Adult ego state is associated with rational thinking, problem-solving, and objective decision-making. It involves processing information in a logical and unbiased manner.

Child Ego State: The Child ego state is linked to emotions, feelings, and behaviors that were experienced during childhood. It can be further divided into three sub-states: the Natural Child (spontaneous and playful), the Adapted Child (compliant and conforming), and the Rebellious Child (defiant and resistant).

In any social interaction, individuals communicate with each other by exchanging “transactions,” which are verbal and non-verbal exchanges of messages. These transactions can occur within the same ego state (called “ultraswitching”) or between different ego states. Miscommunications and conflicts often arise when individuals engage in crossed transactions, where they respond from a different ego state than the one the other person is addressing.

Additionally, Berne identified various “life scripts” that individuals develop in childhood, based on their early life experiences and interactions with caregivers. These scripts shape an individual’s beliefs about themselves and others, as well as their behaviors and decisions throughout life.

Transactional Analysis helps individuals gain insight into their own patterns of behavior, communication styles, and emotional responses. It also aids in understanding the dynamics in relationships and can be used to improve communication and resolve conflicts effectively.

While TA shares some common ground with psychoanalysis, it is more focused on observable behaviors, communication, and interpersonal interactions rather than unconscious processes and early childhood experiences, which are the primary focus of traditional psychoanalysis. Nonetheless, both approaches contribute valuable insights to the understanding of human behavior and emotional well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Structuralism in Psychology:

Structuralism was one of the earliest schools of thought in psychology, founded by Wilhelm Wundt and developed further by Edward Titchener in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It focused on understanding the human mind and consciousness by analyzing its basic elements or structures. Structuralism played a significant role in the history of psychology and laid the foundation for the development of modern psychology.

Key Concepts of Structuralism:

Introspection: The primary method used in structuralism was introspection, which involved trained individuals reporting their conscious experiences in response to specific stimuli. Participants would be presented with a stimulus, such as an object or a thought, and they would then describe their subjective thoughts, emotions, and sensations associated with that stimulus.

Consciousness: Structuralists believed that the study of consciousness was the key to understanding human behavior. They focused on breaking down conscious experiences into their elemental components, such as sensations, feelings, and images.

Basic Elements: Structuralists aimed to identify the basic elements of consciousness, such as colors, shapes, sounds, and other sensory experiences. By analyzing these elements, they believed they could understand the complex nature of the human mind.

Objective Measurement: While introspection relied on self-reporting, structuralists tried to make their methods as objective as possible. They sought to standardize their procedures and trained observers to be consistent in their reports.

Critiques and Decline of Structuralism:

Despite its contributions to the early development of psychology, structuralism faced several criticisms and challenges:

Subjectivity: Introspection relied on self-reporting, which made it difficult to verify or reproduce results. Different individuals often described their experiences differently, leading to questions about the reliability and objectivity of the method.

Lack of Practical Applications: Structuralism’s focus on analyzing the elements of consciousness did not lead to practical applications or solutions to real-world problems. As a result, its relevance and popularity declined over time.

Behaviorism’s Rise: The rise of behaviorism, spearheaded by psychologists like John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner, shifted the focus of psychology from the mind and consciousness to observable behavior. Behaviorism gained popularity due to its emphasis on objective measurement and practical applications.

Despite its decline, structuralism remains historically significant as the first systematic approach to studying the human mind. Its emphasis on introspection and the study of consciousness paved the way for later psychological movements and methodologies. Today, contemporary psychology draws on various perspectives and approaches, reflecting the diversity of human experiences and behavior.

Shervan K Shahhian

How can we combat negative thoughts:

Combatting negative thoughts can be challenging, but with consistent effort and practice, it is possible to develop healthier thought patterns. Here are some strategies to help you effectively manage and reduce negative thoughts:

1. Recognize and acknowledge the negative thoughts: Start by becoming aware of when negative thoughts arise. Pay attention to the triggers or patterns that lead to these thoughts. Acknowledging them is the first step in addressing them.
2. Challenge negative thoughts: Once you identify negative thoughts, challenge their validity. Ask yourself if there is evidence to support or refute these thoughts. Often, negative thoughts are distorted and exaggerated, so questioning their accuracy can help put them into perspective.
3. Practice positive affirmations: Counteract negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Repeating positive statements about yourself and your abilities can gradually shift your mindset and build self-confidence.
4. Cultivate gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your life and practice gratitude. Regularly identify and appreciate the things you are thankful for. This can help shift your focus away from negativity.
5. Limit exposure to negative influences: Be mindful of the media, social media, or individuals who consistently spread negativity. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people, content, and environments.
6. Engage in physical activity: Exercise can have a positive impact on your mood and mental well-being. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood elevators.
7. Practice mindfulness and meditation: Mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts without judgment. Meditation can bring a sense of calm and help you let go of negative thought patterns.
8. Challenge cognitive distortions: Cognitive distortions are biased ways of thinking that can contribute to negative thoughts. Common distortions include all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and personalization. Learn to recognize these distortions and challenge them.
9. Seek professional help: If negative thoughts are persistent and significantly impacting your daily life, consider seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor.
10. Engage in activities you enjoy: Participate in hobbies and activities that bring you joy and a sense of fulfillment. Doing things you love can help shift your focus away from negativity.
11. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and treat yourself with the same understanding and compassion you would offer a friend. Remember that everyone experiences negative thoughts, and it’s okay to have them occasionally.

Remember, combating negative thoughts is a gradual process, and it’s essential to be patient and gentle with yourself as you work towards cultivating a more positive mindset. Consistency and perseverance in applying these strategies can lead to lasting changes in your thought patterns and overall well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

Is mood improvement possible:

Yes, mood improvement is possible. Human emotions and moods are complex and can be influenced by various internal and external factors. While some people may naturally have a more stable and positive mood, others may struggle with mood fluctuations or experience negative emotions more frequently. However, there are several strategies and techniques that individuals can use to improve their mood:

1. Physical Activity: Regular exercise has been shown to release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Engaging in physical activity, even if it’s just a brisk walk, can help improve mood and reduce stress.
2. Healthy Diet: Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining a balanced mood. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, have been linked to better emotional well-being.
3. Adequate Sleep: Getting enough restful sleep is essential for mood regulation. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability and decreased emotional resilience.
4. Social Support: Spending time with loved ones and building a strong support network can provide emotional comfort and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation.
5. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation techniques can help individuals become more aware of their emotions and reduce stress and anxiety.
6. Engaging in Hobbies: Doing activities that bring joy and fulfillment can positively impact mood and overall well-being.
7. Limiting Stress: Finding effective ways to manage stress, such as through relaxation techniques or time management, can prevent mood dips.
8. Seeking Professional Help: If someone is struggling with persistent mood issues, seeking support from a mental health professional can be beneficial. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been proven effective in treating mood disorders.
9. Gratitude Practice: Cultivating a sense of gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of life can lead to increased happiness and contentment.

It’s important to remember that mood improvement is a journey, and different strategies work for different people. Additionally, some individuals may experience mood disorders that require professional attention and treatment. If mood issues are severe or interfering with daily life, it’s essential to reach out to a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and support.

Shervan K Shahhian

What are some common barriers to good sleep:

There are several common barriers to good sleep that many people face. These barriers can lead to sleep difficulties and impact overall sleep quality. Some of the most prevalent ones include:

Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress or anxiety can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Racing thoughts and worry can keep the mind active, making it hard to switch off at bedtime.

Poor Sleep Routine: Inconsistent sleep schedules, irregular bedtime habits, and erratic wake-up times can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to sleep disturbances.

Electronic Devices: The use of electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers before bedtime can interfere with sleep due to the blue light emitted by these devices, which suppresses the production of the sleep hormone melatonin.

Caffeine and Stimulants: Consuming caffeine and other stimulants close to bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns and make it challenging to fall asleep.

Environmental Factors: An uncomfortable sleep environment, such as excessive noise, extreme temperatures, or an uncomfortable mattress, can hinder sleep quality.

Physical Discomfort or Pain: Pain from injuries, chronic conditions, or uncomfortable sleeping positions can prevent individuals from getting restful sleep.

Alcohol and Substance Use: While alcohol may initially induce drowsiness, it can negatively impact sleep quality and disrupt sleep later in the night.

Medications: Some medications can interfere with sleep patterns or cause insomnia as a side effect.

Overthinking and Rumination: Dwelling on problems or overthinking situations while lying in bed can prevent the mind from relaxing and falling asleep.

Sleep Disorders: Conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy can significantly disrupt sleep.

Shift Work and Jet Lag: Irregular work hours and frequent travel across time zones can disrupt the body’s internal clock, leading to sleep difficulties.

Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles and lack of regular exercise can negatively affect sleep quality.

Irregular Napping: While short daytime naps can be beneficial, irregular or lengthy naps can interfere with nighttime sleep.

Eating Before Bed: Consuming large or heavy meals close to bedtime can cause discomfort and disrupt sleep.

To improve sleep quality, it’s essential to identify and address these barriers. Creating a consistent sleep schedule, practicing relaxation techniques before bedtime, maintaining a comfortable sleep environment, and limiting caffeine and electronic device use before bed are some strategies that can promote better sleep. If sleep problems persist, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

Shervan K Shahhian

How can Hypnotherapist help those who have experienced harm to their mental wellbeing at work:

Hypnotherapy can be a useful tool in helping individuals who have experienced harm to their mental wellbeing at work. It’s important to note that hypnotherapy should be conducted by a trained and licensed professional, as it involves guiding the person into a state of deep relaxation and heightened focus to access their subconscious mind. Here are some ways a hypnotherapist can assist individuals with work-related mental health issues:

Stress Reduction: One of the most common issues in a workplace is stress, which can have a significant impact on mental wellbeing. Through hypnotherapy, a therapist can help the individual learn relaxation techniques, manage stress more effectively, and build resilience to cope with workplace challenges.

Trauma Resolution: For those who have experienced severe harm or trauma in the workplace, hypnotherapy can be used to address and process those traumatic experiences. By accessing the subconscious mind, a hypnotherapist can guide the individual to reframe their perceptions, emotions, and memories associated with the trauma, helping them to heal and move forward.

Confidence and Self-Esteem Building: Harm in the workplace can sometimes lead to a decrease in self-confidence and self-esteem. Hypnotherapy can help individuals boost their self-belief, develop a positive self-image, and regain confidence in their abilities and worth.

Identifying and Changing Negative Thought Patterns: Negative thought patterns can perpetuate mental distress. A hypnotherapist can help the individual recognize these patterns, challenge them, and replace them with more positive and constructive thoughts.

Addressing Anxiety and Depression: Hypnotherapy can complement other therapeutic approaches in managing anxiety and depression caused by workplace-related issues. It can assist in relaxation, reframing negative thought patterns, and increasing motivation to engage in self-care activities.

Enhancing Coping Strategies: A hypnotherapist can work with the individual to develop effective coping strategies to deal with work-related stressors, conflicts, or difficult situations. This might include building emotional resilience, assertiveness training, or improving communication skills.

Setting and Achieving Goals: A hypnotherapist can help the person set realistic and achievable goals for their work and personal life. This can provide a sense of direction and motivation, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Improving Sleep Quality: Harm to mental wellbeing can often result in sleep disturbances. Hypnotherapy can aid in promoting better sleep by addressing underlying stressors and helping the individual relax before bedtime.

It’s important to remember that while hypnotherapy can be beneficial, it is not a standalone solution for severe mental health conditions. In cases of significant mental distress, it is essential to seek comprehensive mental health care, which may include therapy, counseling, or psychiatric support in addition to hypnotherapy.
​Shervan K Shahhian

How to Cultivate gratitude:

Cultivating gratitude is a powerful practice that can significantly improve your overall well-being and outlook on life. Here are some strategies to help you develop and nurture a sense of gratitude:Keep a Gratitude Journal: Take a few minutes each day to write down things you are grateful for. It could be something as simple as a delicious meal, a beautiful sunset, or a kind gesture from a friend. Focusing on the positive aspects of your day helps train your mind to notice and appreciate the good things in life.

Express Gratitude to Others: Don’t keep your gratitude to yourself; share it with others. Express your appreciation verbally or through a heartfelt note or message. Showing gratitude not only strengthens your connection with others but also reinforces positive emotions within yourself.

Practice Mindfulness: Be present and attentive to the current moment. Mindfulness allows you to fully experience and savor the good things around you. When you’re aware of the positive aspects of your life, it becomes easier to feel grateful for them.

Reframe Challenges: When facing difficulties, try to find the lessons or silver linings within them. While it may not always be easy, reframing challenges as opportunities for growth can help you develop a sense of gratitude for the learning experience.

Volunteer and Give Back: Engaging in acts of kindness and volunteering can shift your perspective and make you more appreciative of your own life circumstances. It allows you to see the struggles others may face and feel grateful for what you have.

Practice Thankfulness in Relationships: Express gratitude to the people you care about. Let them know you value their presence in your life and acknowledge the positive impact they have on you.

Limit Comparisons: Avoid constant comparisons with others, as this can lead to feelings of inadequacy or entitlement. Instead, focus on your own journey and progress, appreciating what you have achieved so far.

Use Visual Reminders: Place visual cues around your living or working space to remind yourself to be grateful. It could be a gratitude quote, a picture, or anything that triggers positive thoughts.

Reflect on Past Challenges: Think about difficult times in your life that you have overcome. Recognize the strength and resilience it took to get through those situations, and be grateful for the lessons learned.

Practice Gratitude as a Family or Group: If you’re in a family or group setting, encourage each other to share what you’re grateful for regularly. This can create a supportive and positive atmosphere for everyone involved.

Remember that cultivating gratitude is a practice that takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and try to incorporate these strategies into your daily life. Over time, you may find that you naturally become more appreciative and grateful for the many blessings in your life.Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Anosognosia:

Anosognosia is a neuropsychological condition characterized by a person’s inability to recognize or acknowledge their own illness, disability, or the severity of their condition, even when it is apparent to others. The term “anosognosia” comes from Greek, where “anos” means “without,” “gnosis” means “knowledge,” and “-ia” denotes a condition. In other words, it can be loosely translated as “lack of knowledge about one’s condition.”

This condition is most commonly associated with certain neurological and psychiatric disorders, particularly:

1. Stroke: Anosognosia can occur after a stroke, particularly when the stroke damages certain brain regions responsible for self-awareness.
2. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Individuals who have suffered from a traumatic brain injury may experience anosognosia due to the disruption of brain function.
3. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias: People with dementia may lose the ability to recognize their cognitive decline and memory impairment.
4. Schizophrenia: Some individuals with schizophrenia may lack insight into their illness, leading them to deny or minimize their symptoms.

The exact mechanisms underlying anosognosia are not fully understood, but it is believed to result from the brain’s inability to process or integrate information about one’s own condition. The condition can be quite puzzling to both the affected individual and their caregivers because the person seems genuinely unaware of their deficits or illness.

There are different levels of anosognosia, ranging from mild denial to a complete lack of awareness. It’s essential to distinguish anosognosia from other psychological defense mechanisms, such as denial, as anosognosia is considered a neurological condition rather than a conscious coping strategy.

Coping with anosognosia can be challenging for both the affected individual and their caregivers. It may affect treatment adherence, as the person may resist therapy or medication due to their lack of awareness of the need for such interventions.

Treatment approaches for anosognosia often involve a combination of medical and psychological interventions. Caregivers and healthcare professionals may use different strategies to increase the person’s awareness of their condition gradually. These approaches can vary based on the underlying cause and severity of anosognosia.

It’s important to consult with qualified medical professionals and specialists if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of anosognosia or any other medical or psychological condition. Early intervention and proper management can improve the overall quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding the risks of a mental health relapses:

Understanding the risks of mental health relapses is crucial for individuals who have experienced mental health challenges, as well as for their loved ones and mental health professionals. A mental health relapse refers to the worsening or recurrence of symptoms after a period of stability or improvement. Here are some key factors and risks associated with mental health relapses:

1. Triggers: Mental health relapses can be triggered by various factors, such as stressful life events (e.g., loss of a loved one, financial problems, job loss), significant changes in routine, trauma, substance abuse, or lack of social support.
2. Non-compliance with Treatment: Not adhering to prescribed medication, therapy sessions, or self-care strategies can increase the risk of relapse. It’s essential for individuals to continue with their treatment plan even during periods of improvement to maintain stability.
3. Lack of Support: A strong support system, including friends, family, and mental health professionals, plays a crucial role in managing mental health conditions. Isolation or a lack of understanding from others can increase the risk of relapse.
4. Co-occurring Disorders: If a person has multiple mental health disorders or a mental health condition along with a physical health issue, the interplay of these conditions can lead to an increased risk of relapse.
5. Substance Use: Substance abuse or dependence can significantly impact mental health and increase the likelihood of relapse or worsen existing symptoms.
6. Poor Coping Skills: Effective coping mechanisms are essential for managing stress and maintaining mental well-being. Individuals with inadequate coping skills may struggle to manage triggers and stressors, leading to relapses.
7. Early Warning Signs Ignored: Recognizing early warning signs of a potential relapse is essential for taking preventive action. Ignoring or not recognizing these signs can lead to a more severe relapse.
8. Sleep and Lifestyle Habits: Poor sleep patterns, an unhealthy diet, and a lack of physical activity can negatively impact mental health and contribute to relapses.
9. Lack of Insight: Some individuals may experience anosognosia, a condition where they lack insight into their mental health condition. This can hinder their ability to seek help or comply with treatment.
10. Past History of Relapses: Previous episodes of relapse may indicate an increased risk of future relapses, particularly if the underlying triggers and risk factors are not effectively addressed.

Managing the risk of mental health relapses involves a combination of self-awareness, adherence to treatment plans, building a strong support system, and developing effective coping strategies. Regular communication with mental health professionals can help monitor and address potential risks effectively.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or relapse, seeking help from a mental health professional or a crisis hotline is crucial. Mental health conditions are treatable, and timely intervention can make a significant difference in recovery.

Shervan K Shahhian