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

Why should one: Avoid Alcohol and Drugs:

Avoiding alcohol and drugs is generally recommended for a variety of reasons, primarily related to physical, mental, and social well-being. Here are some key reasons why one should consider avoiding alcohol and drugs:

1. Physical Health:
   • Addiction and Dependency: Alcohol and many drugs have the potential to be addictive, leading to physical and psychological dependency that can be extremely difficult to overcome.
   • Health Risks: Substance abuse can lead to a wide range of health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, lung damage, impaired immune system, and more.
   • Accidents and Injuries: Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of accidents and injuries, both to the person using them and to others.
2. Mental Health:
   • Mood Disorders: Substance abuse can contribute to the development or exacerbation of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.
   • Cognitive Impairment: Alcohol and certain drugs can impair cognitive function, memory, and decision-making abilities, leading to poor judgment and risky behavior.
3. Social and Relationships:
   • Strained Relationships: Substance abuse often strains relationships with family, friends, and colleagues due to erratic behavior, unreliability, and conflict.
   • Isolation: Addiction can lead to social isolation as individuals may prioritize substance use over social interactions and activities.
4. Legal Consequences:
   • Criminal Offenses: The use of illegal drugs or irresponsible alcohol consumption can lead to legal issues, including arrests and criminal charges.
5. Financial Impact:
   • Cost: The financial burden of purchasing alcohol and drugs can be substantial and impact an individual’s overall financial stability.
6. Professional Life:
   • Job Performance: Substance abuse can lead to poor job performance, absenteeism, and even job loss.
7. Personal Development:
   • Stifled Potential: Addiction and substance abuse can hinder personal growth, career advancement, and the pursuit of meaningful goals.
8. Long-Term Consequences:
   • Early Aging: Substance abuse can accelerate the aging process and contribute to premature physical and mental decline.
   • Organ Damage: Long-term alcohol and drug abuse can cause irreversible damage to vital organs such as the liver, brain, and heart.
9. Alternatives: There are healthier ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and other challenges in life. Engaging in physical activity, practicing mindfulness, seeking therapy, and maintaining a supportive social network are some examples.

It’s important to note that some individuals may be more susceptible to the negative effects of alcohol and drugs due to genetics, underlying health conditions, or other factors. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, seeking professional help and support is crucial.

Shervan K Shahhian

Let’s look into Cyber Psychology:

Cyber Psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on how individuals interact with technology and the impact of this interaction on their behavior, thoughts, and emotions. It examines the psychological processes involved in online communication, virtual reality, social media, online gaming, and other digital environments. Here are some key aspects of Cyber Psychology:

1. Online Identity and Self-Presentation: In online environments, individuals can construct and manipulate their identities in ways that might differ from their offline selves. This can lead to various psychological effects, such as online disinhibition, where people feel more comfortable expressing themselves online than in face-to-face interactions.
2. Online Relationships and Social Interaction: Cyber Psychology explores how people build and maintain relationships through digital platforms, including the development of online friendships, romantic relationships, and even cyberbullying. It studies the nuances of social interactions, empathy, and emotional expression in these contexts.
3. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: With the rise of the internet, instances of cyberbullying and online harassment have become significant concerns. Cyber Psychology examines the psychological impact of these negative online experiences on victims and the motivations of individuals who engage in such behavior.
4. Internet Addiction: Just like other behavioral addictions, excessive use of the internet and digital devices can lead to negative consequences on mental health. Cyber Psychology studies the factors that contribute to internet addiction and its effects on individuals’ lives.
5. Virtual Reality and Gaming: The field also explores the psychological implications of virtual reality experiences and online gaming. This includes examining how individuals perceive and interact with virtual environments, the potential for addiction to video games, and the impact of gaming on cognitive skills and social interactions.
6. Online Learning and Cognitive Development: With the growth of online education, researchers in Cyber Psychology investigate how digital learning environments affect cognitive development, information retention, and the learning experience.
7. Privacy and Security Concerns: Cyber Psychology also delves into individuals’ perceptions of online privacy and security. It examines the psychology behind people’s behaviors and decisions related to sharing personal information online and adopting security measures.
8. Mental Health and Digital Well-being: The field addresses the effects of prolonged internet use, social media engagement, and online interactions on mental health. It explores both positive and negative aspects, such as the potential for online support communities and the risks of online addiction and depression.
9. Digital Footprint and Online Reputation: Cyber Psychology considers how people manage their digital footprints and online reputations. It looks into the strategies individuals use to present themselves online and the potential consequences of these strategies.
10. Ethical and Legal Issues: The field also examines ethical and legal considerations related to online behavior, such as the boundaries of online free speech, the responsibilities of online platforms in moderating content, and the implications of cybercrimes.

As technology continues to evolve, the field of Cyber Psychology remains relevant and continually adapts to study new digital phenomena and their impact on human psychology. Researchers in this field aim to better understand the complexities of human behavior in the digital age and develop strategies to promote healthy and positive online experiences.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to challenge our critical thinking skills:

Challenging and enhancing critical thinking skills is a valuable endeavor that can lead to improved problem-solving, decision-making, and overall cognitive abilities. Here are some strategies and activities you can engage in to develop and sharpen your critical thinking skills:

1. Question Assumptions: Regularly question your own assumptions and beliefs. Ask yourself why you hold certain views or opinions and explore alternative perspectives.
2. Solve Puzzles and Brain Teasers: Engage in puzzles, riddles, and brain teasers that require you to think logically and analytically. Sudoku, crosswords, and logic puzzles are great options.
3. Read Widely: Expose yourself to a diverse range of topics, genres, and sources of information. This helps you develop a broader perspective and strengthens your ability to analyze different viewpoints.
4. Analyze Arguments: Practice dissecting arguments by identifying premises, conclusions, and underlying assumptions. Evaluate the strength of an argument and look for logical fallacies.
5. Debate and Discuss: Engage in debates or discussions on various subjects with others who hold differing opinions. This challenges you to defend your own views while critically evaluating opposing arguments.
6. Role-playing and Simulation: Simulate scenarios and take on different roles to consider various perspectives and outcomes. This can help you think creatively and develop empathy.
7. Problem-Solving Exercises: Tackle complex problems step by step. Break them down into smaller components, analyze each part, and then synthesize a solution.
8. Journaling: Keep a journal where you write down your thoughts, questions, and reflections on various topics. This can help you clarify your thinking and track your progress.
9. Read Critical Literature: Explore books and articles that delve into critical thinking, cognitive biases, and logical reasoning. Authors like Daniel Kahneman, Nassim Taleb, and Carl Sagan offer insightful perspectives.
10. Take Online Courses: There are numerous online courses and platforms that offer critical thinking courses and resources. These can guide you through structured learning experiences.
11. Attend Workshops and Seminars: Look for workshops or seminars on critical thinking and attend them to learn from experts and engage in interactive exercises.
12. Practice Socratic Questioning: Use Socratic questioning techniques to dig deeper into ideas and concepts. Ask probing questions to explore the underlying assumptions and implications.
13. Mind Mapping: Create visual representations of complex ideas or problems using mind maps. This helps you organize thoughts, see relationships, and identify gaps in your understanding.
14. Decision-making Exercises: Practice making decisions using a systematic approach. Consider pros and cons, gather relevant information, and assess potential outcomes.
15. Stay Curious: Cultivate a curious mindset by constantly seeking new knowledge, asking questions, and exploring unfamiliar topics.

Remember that developing critical thinking skills is an ongoing process that requires consistent practice and dedication. By engaging in these activities and approaches, you can gradually enhance your ability to think critically and approach complex issues with a more analytical and informed perspective.

Shervan K Shahhian

Substance use interventions for mental health professionals involve strategies and techniques aimed at addressing and treating individuals who are struggling with substance abuse or addiction. Mental health professionals play a crucial role in the assessment, treatment, and support of individuals with substance use disorders. Here are some key interventions that mental health professionals can employ:

Assessment and Diagnosis: Mental health professionals should conduct a thorough assessment to determine the severity of substance use and any co-occurring mental health disorders. This assessment helps inform the appropriate intervention and treatment plan.

Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI is a client-centered approach that focuses on enhancing an individual’s motivation to change. Mental health professionals can use MI techniques to explore ambivalence about substance use and help clients identify their own reasons for change.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can be adapted to address substance use issues. It helps clients identify and challenge dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors related to substance use, develop coping skills, and manage triggers.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is effective for individuals with complex emotional and behavioral issues, including substance use disorders. It combines elements of CBT with mindfulness and acceptance techniques.

Contingency Management: This intervention involves providing rewards or incentives to individuals for achieving specific abstinence-related goals, such as passing drug tests or attending treatment sessions.

Family Therapy: Involving family members in treatment can be important, as substance use often affects the entire family system. Family therapy can improve communication, address enabling behaviors, and promote a supportive environment.

Group Therapy: Group therapy provides a supportive and structured setting where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others, and develop coping skills. It can also combat feelings of isolation.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): In cases of opioid or alcohol use disorders, mental health professionals may work with medical professionals to provide medication (e.g., methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone) alongside counseling and therapy.

Relapse Prevention Planning: Mental health professionals help clients develop strategies to identify and manage triggers and high-risk situations that may lead to relapse. This may involve developing coping skills and a relapse prevention plan.

Holistic Approaches: Incorporating holistic interventions such as mindfulness, yoga, art therapy, and meditation can help individuals manage stress, regulate emotions, and enhance overall well-being.

Education and Psychoeducation: Mental health professionals provide clients with accurate information about substance use and its impact on mental and physical health. Psychoeducation helps clients make informed decisions and understand the process of recovery.

Trauma-Informed Care: Many individuals with substance use disorders have experienced trauma. Mental health professionals should adopt trauma-informed approaches to address underlying trauma and support healing.

It’s important for mental health professionals to tailor interventions to each individual’s unique needs, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and stay updated on the latest research and best practices in substance use treatment. Additionally, maintaining empathy, respect, and a nonjudgmental stance is crucial when working with individuals who are struggling with substance use.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to deal with negative issues regarding Social Media and Technology in Psychology:

Dealing with negative issues regarding social media and technology in psychology involves understanding the potential psychological impacts, developing coping strategies, and promoting healthy digital habits. Here are some steps and approaches to consider:

1. Awareness and Education: Stay informed about the potential negative effects of excessive social media and technology use. Educate yourself and others about the psychological implications, such as addiction, cyberbullying, social comparison, and reduced face-to-face social interactions.
2. Mindful Consumption: Encourage individuals to be mindful of their technology usage. Help them recognize when they might be using social media to cope with negative emotions or to escape from real-life issues.
3. Digital Detox: Suggest periodic digital detoxes to create a healthier balance between online and offline activities. This involves unplugging from technology for a certain period to reconnect with the physical world and reduce stress.
4. Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies: Cognitive-behavioral techniques can help individuals address negative thought patterns related to social media, such as feelings of inadequacy or fear of missing out (FOMO). Encourage individuals to challenge these thoughts and replace them with more realistic and positive ones.
5. Social Skills Training: Some individuals may experience a decline in face-to-face social skills due to excessive technology use. Social skills training can help them improve their ability to communicate and interact with others offline.
6. Emotion Regulation: Teach emotion regulation skills to help individuals cope with negative emotions triggered by social media, such as jealousy, anger, or anxiety. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and journaling can be beneficial.
7. Healthy Online Boundaries: Help individuals set healthy boundaries for their online interactions. This might include limiting social media use during specific times of the day, turning off notifications, and unfollowing accounts that contribute to negative feelings.
8. Building Self-Esteem: Encourage individuals to develop a strong sense of self-worth that isn’t solely dependent on social media validation. Focus on building self-esteem through real-life accomplishments, hobbies, and relationships.
9. Supportive Relationships: Strengthen offline social connections. Encourage individuals to spend quality time with family and friends, engage in group activities, and participate in face-to-face interactions.
10. Professional Help: For individuals experiencing severe negative psychological impacts, such as depression, anxiety, or addiction, consider referring them to mental health professionals who specialize in technology-related issues.
11. Media Literacy: Promote media literacy to help individuals critically evaluate and analyze the content they encounter online. This can reduce susceptibility to misinformation, unrealistic comparisons, and negative influences.
12. Parental Guidance: Provide guidance to parents on how to set healthy technology boundaries for children and teenagers. Educate parents about the potential risks and benefits of technology use for young minds.
13. Advocacy and Policy: Advocate for responsible technology use and the implementation of policies that promote digital well-being. Support initiatives that address online harassment, protect user privacy, and promote healthy online environments.

Remember that each individual’s situation is unique, and a tailored approach is essential. Integrating these strategies can contribute to a more positive and balanced relationship with social media and technology.

Shervan K Shahhian

A good explanation of Adult onset of Mental Illness:
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​Adult onset of mental illness refers to the development of psychiatric disorders in individuals during their adulthood, typically after the age of 18. These disorders can encompass a wide range of conditions that affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall mental well-being. It’s important to note that mental illnesses can emerge at any point in a person’s life, and adult onset is just one possible timeframe.

Here’s a more detailed explanation of adult onset mental illness:

Timing: Adult onset mental illnesses emerge after a person has already passed through childhood and adolescence. This is in contrast to childhood onset mental disorders, which manifest during the developmental stages of a person’s life.

Nature of Disorders: Adult onset mental illnesses include a variety of conditions such as mood disorders (like major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder), psychotic disorders (like schizophrenia), personality disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders, among others.

Contributing Factors: The development of adult onset mental illness can be influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Stressful life events, trauma, significant life changes, genetic predisposition, and imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) can all contribute to the onset of these conditions.

Symptoms: The symptoms of adult onset mental illnesses vary widely depending on the specific disorder. They can include changes in mood, thoughts, and behavior. For example, someone with major depressive disorder might experience persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating. Individuals with anxiety disorders might have excessive worry, restlessness, and physical symptoms like a racing heart or trembling. Those with psychotic disorders might have delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive assessment by mental health professionals, which may include interviews, psychological evaluations, and medical tests to rule out other potential causes. Once diagnosed, treatment options vary and may include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication, lifestyle changes, and support from family and friends. The goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance overall well-being.

Impact: Adult onset mental illness can have a significant impact on various aspects of a person’s life, including relationships, work, education, and daily activities. Seeking timely and appropriate treatment is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing potential complications.

Stigma and Awareness: Despite growing awareness and understanding of mental health, there is still a stigma associated with mental illnesses. This stigma can sometimes prevent individuals from seeking help, leading to delayed treatment and potentially worsened outcomes. Education, awareness campaigns, and open conversations about mental health are essential to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention.

It’s important to remember that mental illness is a complex and nuanced topic, and each individual’s experience is unique. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, it’s advisable to seek professional help from qualified mental health professionals.
​Shervan K Shahhian.
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“Paranoid Affect?”, What does it mean?, What is it?

“Paranoid affect” refers to a psychological or emotional state characterized by feelings of extreme suspicion, distrust, and fear of harm or threat, often accompanied by a heightened sense of vigilance or alertness. It is a term commonly used in psychology and psychiatry to describe a specific emotional tone or demeanor that is associated with paranoia.

Paranoia itself is a mental state in which an individual believes that they are being targeted, persecuted, or conspired against by others, even in the absence of credible evidence. This can lead to intense anxiety, fear, and an inability to trust others. Paranoid affect, then, refers to the outward expression of these internal feelings and thoughts, such as through facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice.

It’s important to note that while “paranoid affect” is a term used in the field of psychology, it’s not a commonly used phrase in everyday language. It’s more likely to be encountered in clinical or academic settings when discussing mental health and emotional states. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of paranoia or any other mental health concerns, it’s advisable to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
​Shervan K Shahhian

How do Opioid Recovery Clinic help their clients:

Opioid Recovery Clinics play a crucial role in helping individuals who are struggling with opioid addiction achieve and maintain recovery. These clinics offer a comprehensive range of services and treatments aimed at addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of opioid addiction. Here are some ways in which Opioid Recovery Clinics help their clients:

1. Medical Detoxification: Opioid Recovery Clinics provide medical detoxification under the supervision of trained healthcare professionals. This process helps clients safely and gradually withdraw from opioids while managing withdrawal symptoms and potential complications.
2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT involves the use of medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. These medications help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for clients to focus on their recovery.
3. Individualized Treatment Plans: Clinics create personalized treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs. These plans may include a combination of medication, therapy, counseling, support groups, and other services based on the client’s history, severity of addiction, and goals.
4. Counseling and Therapy: Opioid Recovery Clinics offer various forms of counseling and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), individual counseling, group therapy, and family therapy. These sessions address underlying psychological factors contributing to addiction and help clients develop coping strategies.
5. Behavioral Interventions: Clinics provide behavioral interventions that teach clients skills to avoid triggers, manage cravings, and make healthier choices. These interventions enhance clients’ ability to resist relapse and maintain long-term recovery.
6. Education and Skill Building: Clients receive education about opioids, addiction, and the recovery process. They learn about the effects of opioids on the body and brain, as well as strategies for relapse prevention, stress management, and life skills.
7. Peer Support and Group Therapy: Group therapy sessions and peer support groups create a sense of community and provide clients with a supportive environment where they can share experiences, receive encouragement, and learn from others who are also in recovery.
8. Holistic Approach: Opioid Recovery Clinics often incorporate holistic therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, art therapy, and meditation to address the spiritual and emotional aspects of recovery.
9. Aftercare and Relapse Prevention: The clinic helps clients transition to aftercare services, which may include ongoing therapy, support groups, and continued medical monitoring. Relapse prevention strategies are a significant focus to help clients maintain their progress.
10. Coordinated Care: Opioid Recovery Clinics often collaborate with other healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations to provide comprehensive care that addresses clients’ overall well-being.
11. Family Involvement: Clinics may involve family members in the recovery process through family therapy and education, helping to rebuild and strengthen support networks.

It’s important to note that the specific services offered by Opioid Recovery Clinics can vary, but their primary goal is to provide a multidisciplinary approach that supports clients in overcoming opioid addiction and leading healthier, more fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is seeking help for opioid addiction, it’s recommended to reach out to a local clinic or healthcare provider to discuss available options.

Shervan K Shahhian

Can online gambling lead to Gambling Addiction:

Yes, online gambling can Possibly lead to gambling addiction. Gambling addiction, also known as gambling disorder or compulsive gambling, is a behavioral disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite negative consequences. Online gambling platforms have several features that can contribute to the development and exacerbation of gambling addiction:

1. Accessibility: Online gambling allows people to gamble from the comfort of their own homes or even on the go through mobile devices. This easy accessibility can make it difficult for individuals to avoid the temptation to gamble.
2. Anonymity: Online gambling provides a certain level of anonymity, which can lead people to engage in riskier behaviors than they might in traditional brick-and-mortar casinos.
3. 24/7 Availability: Online gambling platforms are available 24/7, which means that individuals can gamble at any time of day or night, further increasing the potential for excessive gambling.
4. Speed of Play: Online gambling games can often be faster-paced than their offline counterparts, leading to rapid betting and potentially quicker losses.
5. Lack of Physical Interaction: The lack of face-to-face interaction with others can diminish the social aspect of gambling and make it easier for individuals to become absorbed in the activity.
6. Rewards and Incentives: Online gambling sites often offer rewards, bonuses, and incentives to encourage continued play, which can make it difficult for individuals to stop even when they are losing money.
7. Financial Accessibility: Online gambling platforms may accept a wide range of payment methods, including credit cards and digital payment services, making it easier for individuals to gamble with money they may not physically possess.
8. Escape and Emotional Regulation: Some people turn to gambling, including online gambling, as a way to escape from stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions. This coping mechanism can lead to a cycle of addiction as individuals use gambling to manage their emotions.

It’s important to note that not everyone who engages in online gambling will develop a gambling addiction. However, certain individuals, such as those with a history of addiction, mental health issues, or a propensity for impulsive behavior, may be more vulnerable to developing a gambling problem.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, it’s important to seek help. Many countries have helplines, support groups, and professional counseling services specifically dedicated to addressing gambling addiction.

Shervan K Shahhian

How can mental Health professionals help people who have been hurt by Rejection:
Mental health professionals can provide valuable support and guidance to individuals who have been hurt by rejection. Here are some ways in which they can help:

Validation and Empathy: One of the most important things mental health professionals can do is provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for individuals to express their feelings. Validating their emotions and showing empathy helps the person feel understood and accepted, which can be very healing.

Psychoeducation: Mental health professionals can educate the individual about the nature of rejection, its common impact on mental health, and the various emotional responses it can trigger. Understanding that their feelings are normal and that others have gone through similar experiences can provide a sense of perspective.

Coping Strategies: Therapists can teach effective coping strategies to manage the emotional distress associated with rejection. This might include mindfulness techniques, deep breathing exercises, journaling, or other relaxation methods. Learning these skills can help individuals regulate their emotions and reduce the intensity of their distress.

Cognitive Restructuring: Negative thought patterns often emerge after rejection. Mental health professionals can help individuals identify and challenge these negative beliefs, replacing them with more balanced and realistic perspectives. This process, known as cognitive restructuring, can lead to improved emotional well-being.

Building Resilience: Therapists can assist individuals in developing resilience, which is the ability to bounce back from adversity. This might involve exploring past instances of resilience and identifying personal strengths that can be drawn upon during difficult times.

Social Skills Training: For individuals struggling with repeated rejection or difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, mental health professionals can provide guidance on improving social skills. This might involve communication strategies, active listening, and empathy-building exercises.

Behavioral Interventions: Mental health professionals can work with clients to set achievable goals and engage in activities that foster a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Positive experiences can counterbalance the negative impact of rejection.

Support Network: Therapists can help individuals strengthen their support networks by identifying friends, family members, or support groups that can provide encouragement and understanding during times of distress.

Self-Compassion: Encouraging individuals to cultivate self-compassion is essential. Mental health professionals can guide them in treating themselves with the same kindness and understanding they would offer to a friend.

Therapeutic Modalities: Different therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), or psychodynamic therapy, can be tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences.

Processing Emotions: Sometimes, rejection can trigger past traumas or unresolved issues. Mental health professionals can help individuals process these emotions and work through deeper underlying concerns.

Medication (if necessary): In some cases, medication might be considered, especially if the emotional distress is severe and accompanied by conditions such as depression or anxiety. Mental health professionals can assess the need for medication and collaborate with medical doctors if necessary.

Remember that each person’s experience is unique, and mental health professionals will tailor their approach to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. It’s important for individuals to seek help if they are struggling with the effects of rejection, as professional support can make a significant positive impact on their emotional well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian