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

What is the Treatment for BED?

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious eating disorder that can have negative effects on a person’s physical and emotional health. Treatment for BED typically involves a combination of therapies, including psychological counseling and medication. Here are some common treatments for BED:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps a person identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to binge eating. It also helps develop coping skills to manage stress and emotions.

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT): IPT focuses on improving relationships and communication skills to reduce the risk of binge eating.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT combines CBT with mindfulness techniques to help manage emotions and reduce binge eating.

Medication: Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help reduce binge eating episodes and improve mood.

Nutritional counseling: A registered dietitian can help develop a healthy meal plan and address any nutritional deficiencies that may be contributing to binge eating.

It’s important to note that everyone’s treatment plan may be different based on their individual needs and experiences. It’s best to work with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized treatment plan for BED.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often rapidly and to the point of discomfort or distress, accompanied by a feeling of lack of control over eating during the episode. Binge eating episodes are typically accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, and distress, and can lead to weight gain and associated health problems.

BED is recognized as a distinct eating disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). In order to meet the diagnostic criteria for BED, an individual must have recurrent episodes of binge eating at least once a week for three months or more, and experience a sense of loss of control during these episodes.

BED can affect individuals of any age, gender, or ethnicity, and is associated with a range of physical and psychological health problems, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Treatment for BED typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to help manage binge eating episodes and improve overall health and well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Eating Disorders:

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that are characterized by abnormal eating habits and a preoccupation with food, weight, and body shape. They are not a choice, a lifestyle, or a phase, but rather serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses that affect millions of people worldwide.

There are several types of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and others. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to severe calorie restriction and often dramatic weight loss. Bulimia nervosa involves recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by purging behaviors, such as vomiting or the use of laxatives. Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating without purging behaviors.

Eating disorders can have a variety of causes, including genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. They can also be triggered by traumatic experiences, societal pressures to be thin, and other stressors. Eating disorders can have serious physical and psychological consequences, including malnutrition, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal problems, depression, anxiety, and more.

Treatment for eating disorders typically involves a combination of therapies, including psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and medication management. It is important to seek professional help as soon as possible if you suspect that you or a loved one may have an eating disorder, as early intervention can greatly improve the chances of recovery.

Shervan K Shahhian

What are Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders are a type of mental disorder characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, thought, and emotion that are significantly different from what is considered normal in a person’s culture. These patterns can lead to significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, and other areas of functioning.

There are several types of personality disorders, and they are grouped into three clusters based on their primary symptoms:

Cluster A: Paranoid, Schizoid, and Schizotypal Personality Disorders. These disorders are characterized by odd or eccentric behavior, unusual beliefs or perceptions, and difficulties with social interaction.

Cluster B: Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic, and Narcissistic Personality Disorders. These disorders are characterized by emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, dramatic behavior, and problems with relationships.

Cluster C: Avoidant, Dependent, and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorders. These disorders are characterized by anxious or fearful behavior, a need for control, and difficulties with interpersonal relationships.

Personality disorders are typically diagnosed by mental health professionals through a combination of clinical interviews, psychological assessments, and observation of a person’s behavior over time. Treatment for personality disorders often involves psychotherapy and medication, as well as lifestyle changes and support from family and friends.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is an Impulsive Behavior?

Impulsive behavior refers to actions that are taken without careful consideration of the potential consequences. It is characterized by a lack of planning, forethought, or consideration of the possible risks or negative outcomes associated with a particular action.

Examples of impulsive behavior can include things like spending money impulsively, engaging in risky sexual behavior, substance abuse, or making hasty decisions without considering the potential consequences.

Impulsive behavior is often associated with impulsivity, which is a personality trait characterized by a tendency to act on impulse rather than thinking things through. Impulsivity can be a result of various factors such as genetics, upbringing, or environmental factors. It can also be a symptom of certain mental health conditions like ADHD, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Impulse Control?

Impulse control refers to the ability to resist or delay an immediate urge or temptation in order to achieve a long-term goal or avoid a negative consequence. It involves the ability to regulate one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in the face of temptation, distraction, or stress. People with strong impulse control are able to make decisions based on logic and reason rather than emotion or impulse.

Impulse control is an important skill for success in many areas of life, including personal relationships, academic and professional achievement, and physical and mental health. Individuals who struggle with impulse control may be more likely to engage in risky or harmful behaviors such as substance abuse, gambling, or overspending.

Impulse control is related to executive functioning, which is a set of cognitive processes involved in planning, decision-making, and self-regulation. The development of impulse control starts in childhood and continues throughout adolescence and adulthood, and it can be improved through various techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and self-reflection.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Intergenerational Trauma?

Intergenerational trauma refers to the transmission of the negative effects of trauma from one generation to another. This type of trauma can be caused by a variety of factors, including war, natural disasters, abuse, racism, and discrimination, among others. The trauma experienced by one generation can impact the mental and physical health, as well as the behavior, of their children and future generations.

For example, children of Holocaust survivors may experience symptoms of trauma, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, even if they themselves did not directly experience the trauma. Similarly, the children of parents who experienced discrimination or racism may also be affected by the trauma their parents experienced.

Intergenerational trauma can be perpetuated through a variety of mechanisms, including learned behavior, family dynamics, and cultural beliefs. However, it is important to note that not all children of traumatized individuals will necessarily experience intergenerational trauma, as individual resilience and other protective factors can also play a role.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Behavioral Health?

Behavioral health refers to the branch of healthcare that focuses on the connection between a person’s behavior, thoughts, and emotions, and their overall mental and physical health. It includes the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness, substance abuse, and other behavioral disorders.

Behavioral health encompasses a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, substance abuse, and addiction. The field of behavioral health also includes therapies and interventions designed to promote mental wellness, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and mindfulness practices.

The goal of behavioral health is to help individuals achieve optimal mental and physical health by addressing the underlying behavioral, emotional, and psychological factors that contribute to illness and disease. This often involves a collaborative approach, with healthcare professionals working closely with patients and their families to develop effective treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

Shervan K Shahhian

Self-confidence is essential for a healthy and fulfilling life. It is the belief in one’s abilities, qualities, and judgment. Having self-confidence allows you to trust yourself and your decisions, and it helps you to handle challenges and setbacks with resilience and grace.

Here are some of the important benefits of self-confidence:

Achieving goals: Self-confidence is crucial for achieving your goals. If you lack self-confidence, you may feel overwhelmed and doubt your abilities, which can prevent you from taking action towards your goals.

Positive self-image: When you have self-confidence, you have a positive self-image. You are able to accept and appreciate yourself, which leads to greater self-esteem.

Improved relationships: Self-confidence can also improve your relationships with others. When you feel good about yourself, you are more likely to attract positive and supportive people into your life.

Better mental health: Self-confidence is also important for mental health. People with low self-confidence may struggle with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Overall, self-confidence is essential for personal growth and success. By believing in yourself and your abilities, you can overcome obstacles, achieve your goals, and lead a fulfilling life.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Substance Addiction:

Substance addiction, also known as drug addiction, is a chronic and often relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite harmful consequences. It is a complex condition that involves both physical and psychological dependence on a substance.

Substances that are commonly associated with addiction include alcohol, opioids (such as heroin, morphine, and prescription painkillers), cocaine, amphetamines, and cannabis. Addiction can also develop from the misuse of prescription medications, such as benzodiazepines and stimulants.

The development of addiction is influenced by a range of factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and personal history. People who have a family history of addiction, suffer from mental health conditions, or have experienced trauma or stress are at a higher risk of developing addiction.

Addiction is characterized by changes in the brain’s reward system, which can lead to intense cravings and compulsive drug use. Over time, addiction can cause long-term changes in brain function, making it difficult for individuals to quit using drugs even if they want to.

Treatment for substance addiction typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and support from peers and loved ones. Successful treatment requires ongoing care and support to help individuals manage their addiction and maintain sobriety.

Shervan K Shahhian