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

What should we know about Psychopharmacology?

Psychopharmacology is the study of how drugs and medications affect the mind and behavior. It involves examining the mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, and potential side effects of psychoactive substances. Here are some key points to know about psychopharmacology:

1. Psychoactive drugs: Psychopharmacology focuses on drugs that have an impact on the central nervous system, altering brain function and affecting mental processes. These drugs can be categorized into various classes, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics (anti-anxiety drugs), stimulants, hallucinogens, and sedatives.
2. Mechanisms of action: Psychopharmacologists study how drugs interact with the brain to produce their effects. Different drugs target specific neurotransmitter systems in the brain, influencing the transmission of signals between neurons. For example, antidepressants often work by increasing the availability of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation.
3. Therapeutic applications: Psychopharmacology plays a crucial role in the treatment of various mental health conditions. Medications are commonly prescribed to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other psychiatric conditions. Psychopharmacologists work closely with psychiatrists to develop treatment plans and select the most appropriate medications for individual patients.
4. Side effects: Like any medication, psychotropic drugs can have side effects. These effects may vary depending on the drug class, individual physiology, dosage, and other factors. Common side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Psychopharmacologists closely monitor patients for side effects and adjust medication regimens as necessary.
5. Efficacy and limitations: While psychopharmacology has greatly improved the treatment of mental health disorders, it is important to recognize that not all individuals respond equally to medication. The effectiveness of psychotropic drugs varies from person to person, and finding the right medication and dosage may involve a process of trial and error. Additionally, psychopharmacology is not a standalone treatment; it is often combined with other therapeutic approaches, such as psychotherapy, to achieve the best outcomes.
6. Research and development: Psychopharmacologists are involved in ongoing research to develop new medications and improve existing treatments. This includes investigating the underlying neurobiology of mental health disorders, exploring novel drug targets, and studying the long-term effects of psychotropic medications. Advances in psychopharmacology aim to enhance treatment efficacy, minimize side effects, and improve overall patient well-being.

It’s important to note that psychopharmacology is a specialized field of study and practice, typically pursued by medical doctors, psychiatrists, and researchers with expertise in neuroscience and pharmacology.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is the Positive psychology theory?

Positive psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on studying and promoting human well-being and flourishing. It emphasizes the positive aspects of human experience, such as happiness, fulfillment, and optimal functioning. Positive psychology seeks to understand what makes life worth living and how individuals can cultivate their strengths and virtues to lead meaningful and satisfying lives.

Key Concepts in Positive Psychology:

1. Subjective Well-Being: Positive psychology places importance on subjective well-being, which encompasses an individual’s overall evaluation of their life satisfaction and happiness. It includes both cognitive evaluations (how satisfied one is with their life) and affective experiences (positive emotions and absence of negative emotions).
2. Character Strengths and Virtues: Positive psychology recognizes that individuals possess a range of character strengths and virtues that contribute to their well-being. These strengths, such as kindness, courage, gratitude, and curiosity, are considered inherent qualities that can be developed and cultivated.
3. Flow and Engagement: Flow refers to a state of complete absorption and focus in an activity, where individuals experience a sense of timelessness and effortless involvement. Positive psychology explores the conditions that foster flow and engagement in various areas of life, such as work, hobbies, and relationships.
4. Positive Relationships: Positive psychology emphasizes the significance of positive relationships and social connections in promoting well-being. Healthy relationships and social support networks contribute to happiness, resilience, and overall life satisfaction.
5. Mindfulness and Resilience: Positive psychology recognizes the importance of cultivating mindfulness, which involves being fully present and non-judgmentally aware of one’s thoughts, emotions, and sensations. Mindfulness practices are believed to enhance well-being and resilience, allowing individuals to effectively cope with challenges and setbacks.
6. Meaning and Purpose: Positive psychology emphasizes the pursuit of meaning and purpose as essential components of a fulfilling life. It involves aligning personal values and goals with actions and contributing to something larger than oneself, whether it be through work, relationships, or community involvement.

Positive psychology research focuses on understanding the factors that contribute to well-being, developing interventions and strategies to enhance positive experiences, and promoting mental health and flourishing across different populations and contexts. It seeks to complement traditional psychology, which traditionally focused more on addressing mental illness and psychopathology.

Shervan K Shahhian

What exactly is “yo-yo dieting”?

Yo-yo dieting, also known as weight cycling, refers to the pattern of losing weight through strict diets or extreme calorie restriction, followed by regaining the lost weight, and then repeating the cycle. It is characterized by the repetitive cycle of weight loss and weight regain, resembling the up-and-down motion of a yo-yo.

Individuals who engage in yo-yo dieting typically experience a fluctuation in weight, with periods of weight loss followed by weight regain. This pattern often occurs as a result of following fad diets or engaging in extreme weight loss methods that are not sustainable in the long term.

Yo-yo dieting can have negative effects on both physical and mental health. The constant weight fluctuations can put a strain on the body, potentially leading to metabolic changes, muscle loss, and nutrient deficiencies. It may also have psychological effects, such as decreased self-esteem, increased stress, and a negative relationship with food.

While the term “yo-yo dieting” generally refers to weight cycling, it’s important to note that not all weight fluctuations fall into this category. Some individuals may naturally experience slight weight fluctuations due to factors like water retention, hormonal changes, or temporary lifestyle changes, without following a specific dieting pattern.

Shervan K Shahhian

What are the dangers of Anorexia nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. The disorder is associated with severe restriction of food intake, leading to extreme weight loss and a range of physical and psychological dangers. Here are some of the dangers associated with anorexia nervosa:

1. Malnutrition: The inadequate intake of nutrients can lead to severe malnutrition, affecting multiple organs and systems in the body. Malnutrition can cause muscle wasting, organ dysfunction, weakened immune system, and hormonal imbalances.
2. Cardiac complications: Anorexia nervosa can lead to cardiac abnormalities due to malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, and low body weight. These complications may include abnormal heart rhythms, low blood pressure, heart failure, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.
3. Osteoporosis and bone fractures: Inadequate nutrition and hormonal imbalances in anorexia can lead to decreased bone density, making individuals with anorexia more prone to fractures and developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.
4. Gastrointestinal problems: Anorexia nervosa can cause various gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, and gastroparesis (delayed emptying of the stomach). These problems can arise due to the body’s adaptive response to starvation.
5. Electrolyte imbalances: Electrolytes are essential for proper functioning of the body, including the heart, muscles, and nerves. Anorexia can disrupt electrolyte balance, which can lead to irregular heart rhythms, muscle weakness, fatigue, and even seizures.
6. Endocrine system disruption: The hormonal changes resulting from anorexia can disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system. This can lead to menstrual irregularities in females, including the absence of periods (amenorrhea), and may contribute to infertility. Hormonal imbalances can also affect bone health, metabolism, and overall well-being.
7. Psychological complications: Anorexia nervosa is associated with significant psychological distress. People with anorexia often experience depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, social withdrawal, and a distorted body image. In severe cases, individuals may develop self-harming behaviors or suicidal ideation.
8. Increased mortality risk: Anorexia nervosa has one of the highest mortality rates among psychiatric disorders. The dangers associated with severe weight loss, malnutrition, and medical complications can lead to organ failure or severe physical and psychological deterioration.

It is crucial for individuals with anorexia nervosa to seek professional help and receive comprehensive treatment, which may include medical, nutritional, and psychological interventions. Early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach are important for improving outcomes and reducing the risks associated with the disorder.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding the complexity of Bulimia nervosa?

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or the misuse of laxatives or diuretics. Understanding the complexity of bulimia nervosa involves considering several factors:

1. Psychological Factors: Bulimia nervosa often involves underlying psychological issues. Individuals with bulimia may have low self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, and distorted body image. They may also struggle with perfectionism, impulsivity, and mood disorders such as depression or anxiety.
2. Biological Factors: There is evidence to suggest that biological factors play a role in the development of bulimia nervosa. Genetic predisposition, imbalances in neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain), and alterations in appetite regulation may contribute to the development and maintenance of the disorder.
3. Sociocultural Factors: Societal pressures and cultural influences can contribute to the development of bulimia nervosa. Societies that emphasize thinness and equate it with beauty and success can create a fertile ground for body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors.
4. Family and Environmental Factors: Family dynamics and environmental factors can also contribute to the development of bulimia nervosa. Factors such as a history of dieting or disordered eating within the family, childhood trauma, and critical or perfectionistic parenting styles may increase the risk of developing the disorder.
5. Cognitive Factors: Distorted thoughts and beliefs about body shape, weight, and food play a significant role in the maintenance of bulimia nervosa. Negative self-perception, dichotomous thinking (e.g., viewing food as “good” or “bad”), and rigid rules around eating can perpetuate the cycle of bingeing and purging.
6. Health Consequences: Bulimia nervosa can have severe physical and psychological consequences. Frequent episodes of binge eating and purging can lead to electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, gastrointestinal problems, dental issues, and electrolyte disturbances. Additionally, individuals with bulimia may experience shame, guilt, and emotional distress associated with their eating behaviors.
7. Treatment and Recovery: The treatment of bulimia nervosa typically involves a multidisciplinary approach. It may include psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), nutritional counseling, and medical management. Support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends is crucial in the recovery process.

It’s important to note that this is a general overview, and every individual’s experience with bulimia nervosa is unique. Seeking professional help from healthcare providers experienced in eating disorders is essential for accurate assessment, diagnosis, and personalized treatment.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding the complexity of Bing eating?

Understanding the complexity of binge eating involves exploring various aspects of this disorder, including its definition, causes, symptoms, consequences, and potential treatment options. Here’s an overview to help you understand the complexity of binge eating:

1. Definition: Binge eating is a type of eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food within a short period, accompanied by a feeling of loss of control. These episodes are often marked by a sense of guilt, shame, and distress.
2. Causes: Binge eating can be influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Biological factors may include genetic predispositions, hormonal imbalances, and neurotransmitter abnormalities. Psychological factors may involve emotional distress, low self-esteem, body image issues, or a history of trauma. Social factors such as cultural norms, family dynamics, and societal pressures can also contribute.
3. Symptoms: Key symptoms of binge eating disorder may include:

• Frequent episodes of eating large amounts of food, even when not physically hungry
• Feeling a lack of control over eating during binge episodes
• Eating rapidly and until uncomfortably full
• Eating alone due to embarrassment about food consumption
• Feelings of guilt, shame, or distress after a binge episode

1. Consequences: Binge eating can have various physical, emotional, and social consequences. Physically, it can lead to weight gain, obesity, gastrointestinal issues, and other health problems. Emotionally, individuals may experience depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and body dissatisfaction. Socially, binge eating can lead to social isolation, strained relationships, and difficulties in daily functioning.
2. Treatment: The treatment of binge eating often involves a multidisciplinary approach. This may include:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are commonly used to address the underlying emotional and psychological factors contributing to binge eating.
• Medications: Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be prescribed to help manage symptoms associated with binge eating disorder.
• Nutritional counseling: Working with a registered dietitian can help establish healthy eating habits and develop a balanced meal plan.
• Support groups: Joining support groups or engaging in group therapy can provide a sense of community and understanding.

Understanding binge eating requires considering the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. It is important to approach this disorder with empathy, seeking professional help for diagnosis, treatment, and support.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to conquer Emotional eating?

Conquering emotional eating can be a challenging journey, but with determination and a strategic approach, it is possible to overcome it. Here are some strategies that can help you in your efforts to conquer emotional eating:

1. Raise self-awareness: Pay attention to your eating habits and identify when you are eating due to emotions rather than physical hunger. Keep a food diary to track your emotions, triggers, and eating patterns. This will help you understand your emotional eating patterns better.
2. Identify triggers: Recognize the situations, emotions, or events that trigger your emotional eating. It could be stress, boredom, sadness, loneliness, or any other emotional state. By identifying these triggers, you can develop strategies to address them in healthier ways.
3. Find alternative coping mechanisms: Instead of turning to food when you’re feeling emotional, seek out alternative ways to cope. Engage in activities that help you relax and manage stress, such as exercising, meditating, practicing deep breathing, journaling, talking to a supportive friend, or engaging in a hobby that you enjoy.
4. Practice mindful eating: Slow down and pay attention to your eating experience. Eat without distractions, savor each bite, and listen to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness. Mindful eating can help you become more aware of your body’s needs and distinguish between physical and emotional hunger.
5. Create a supportive environment: Surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who understand your goals and can provide encouragement. Communicate your intentions to them and ask for their support in your journey to conquer emotional eating.
6. Develop a healthy relationship with food: Focus on nourishing your body with balanced and nutritious meals rather than using food as a source of comfort. Build a positive and mindful approach to eating by incorporating whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet.
7. Seek professional help if needed: If you find it challenging to conquer emotional eating on your own, consider seeking help from a registered dietitian, therapist, or counselor who specializes in emotional eating. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you overcome your challenges.

Remember, conquering emotional eating takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. Stay committed to your goal, and with perseverance, you can develop a healthier relationship with food and manage your emotions in more constructive ways.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding the complexity of Chronic dieting?

Chronic dieting refers to a pattern of long-term, repetitive dieting behavior characterized by frequent attempts to lose weight or maintain a lower body weight. It is often associated with an intense preoccupation with food, weight, and body image. While it may seem like a simple concept, chronic dieting is a complex issue with various psychological, physiological, and social factors at play. Let’s delve into the complexity of chronic dieting:

Psychological Factors: Chronic dieting is often driven by psychological factors such as body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and an internalized desire for an ideal body shape or size. Dieting can become a coping mechanism to address these underlying emotional issues, leading to a cycle of restriction, binge eating, guilt, and more restrictive behaviors.

Diet Culture and Societal Pressures: Societal norms and the pervasive influence of diet culture contribute to the complexity of chronic dieting. Society often promotes thinness as an ideal standard of beauty, leading individuals to feel pressured to conform. Messages from media, advertising, and social media platforms can further reinforce the belief that constant dieting is necessary for acceptance and self-worth.

Physiological Factors: The human body has built-in mechanisms to defend against weight loss and protect against starvation. Prolonged or repeated periods of calorie restriction can trigger physiological responses that make it challenging to sustain weight loss. Hormonal changes, altered metabolism, increased hunger signals, and a decreased sense of fullness can result from chronic dieting, making it difficult to maintain the desired weight.

Dieting and Disordered Eating: Chronic dieting can be a gateway to disordered eating patterns and eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder. Restrictive dieting and strict food rules can disrupt the normal relationship with food, leading to an unhealthy preoccupation, obsessions, and a loss of control around eating.

Emotional and Behavioral Consequences: Chronic dieting can have significant emotional and behavioral consequences. The constant focus on food and body can lead to anxiety, depression, social isolation, and a diminished quality of life. It can also contribute to a cycle of weight cycling or “yo-yo dieting,” where individuals repeatedly lose and regain weight, further impacting their physical and mental well-being.

Addressing chronic dieting requires a comprehensive approach that focuses on promoting a healthy relationship with food, fostering body acceptance, and addressing underlying psychological factors. It is crucial to seek support from healthcare professionals, registered dietitians, and therapists who specialize in disordered eating and body image issues.

Shervan K Shahhian

An great explanation of Personality psychology?

Personality psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on understanding and explaining individual differences in people’s patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. It explores the unique and enduring characteristics that define individuals and shape their behavior across various situations and contexts.

At its core, personality psychology seeks to answer questions such as: Why do people behave differently from one another? What are the underlying factors that contribute to individual variations in behavior and personality? How do these traits develop and change over time? By studying personality, psychologists aim to uncover the fundamental dimensions and processes that shape human nature.

One key concept in personality psychology is the trait theory, which suggests that personality can be described and understood in terms of a set of stable traits or characteristics. Traits are enduring patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that distinguish individuals from one another. For example, someone may be described as extraverted, conscientious, or emotionally stable. Traits can be measured using various assessment tools, such as personality questionnaires or interviews.

Another important aspect of personality psychology is the study of personality development. Researchers investigate how personality traits emerge and change over the course of a person’s life. They examine the influence of genetic and environmental factors on the development of personality, as well as the interplay between nature and nurture.

Personality psychology also explores the underlying psychological mechanisms that drive behavior and shape individual differences. It examines cognitive processes, such as how people perceive and interpret the world, and how these processes influence their behavior. It also considers emotional factors, motivation, and the interplay between conscious and unconscious processes in shaping personality.

In addition to traits and development, personality psychology examines various theories and approaches to understanding personality. Psychodynamic theories, for example, focus on unconscious processes and early childhood experiences as key determinants of personality. Behavioral theories emphasize the role of environmental reinforcement and conditioning in shaping behavior and personality. Humanistic theories, on the other hand, highlight the importance of self-actualization and personal growth in understanding personality.

Overall, personality psychology seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the unique and enduring qualities that make individuals who they are. By studying personality, psychologists aim to uncover the underlying processes, mechanisms, and factors that contribute to human behavior and individual differences, ultimately shedding light on what makes each person unique.

Shervan K Shahhian

The importance of Pediatric psychology?

Pediatric psychology is a specialized branch of psychology that focuses on the psychological well-being and development of children and adolescents. It plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing the unique mental health needs of young individuals. Here are some reasons highlighting the importance of pediatric psychology:

1. Early intervention: Children’s mental health issues can have long-term consequences if left unaddressed. Pediatric psychologists work with young patients to identify and intervene early in case of developmental delays, learning difficulties, behavioral problems, emotional challenges, and mental disorders. Timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent future complications.
2. Comprehensive assessment: Pediatric psychologists conduct thorough assessments to evaluate a child’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. These assessments help identify potential issues, diagnose mental health conditions, and design appropriate treatment plans. The comprehensive evaluation process provides valuable insights for tailored interventions and support.
3. Holistic approach: Pediatric psychologists take a holistic approach by considering various factors that influence a child’s well-being, including family dynamics, school environment, social interactions, and physical health. They collaborate with other professionals, such as pediatricians, educators, and therapists, to ensure coordinated care and address the child’s needs comprehensively.
4. Support for developmental challenges: Children may face various developmental challenges, such as autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, or emotional disturbances. Pediatric psychologists specialize in understanding and supporting these challenges through evidence-based interventions, therapy, and behavioral management techniques. They help children build essential skills, cope with difficulties, and achieve their full potential.
5. Promotion of mental health and resilience: Pediatric psychologists play a crucial role in promoting positive mental health and resilience in children and adolescents. They teach coping strategies, stress management techniques, and emotional regulation skills to enhance children’s well-being. By addressing early signs of distress or mental health issues, they can help prevent more severe problems in the future.
6. Parental guidance and support: Pediatric psychologists provide guidance and support to parents and caregivers. They help parents understand their child’s unique needs, provide effective parenting strategies, and enhance the parent-child relationship. This support is essential for fostering a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes a child’s psychological well-being.
7. Advocacy and public health: Pediatric psychologists contribute to the broader field of child mental health by conducting research, advocating for policies and programs, and promoting awareness. They contribute to the development of evidence-based interventions, participate in community initiatives, and work towards improving the overall mental health support system for children and families.

In summary, pediatric psychology is of utmost importance as it addresses the specific mental health needs of children and adolescents, supports their healthy development, intervenes early in case of difficulties, and promotes overall well-being. By focusing on the unique aspects of childhood, pediatric psychologists play a vital role in shaping healthier and happier futures for young individuals.

Shervan K Shahhian