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

Doctored Degree in Clinical Psychology (PSYD) (ABD) All But Dissertation, a Masters (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology, a Bachelor's Degree (B.A.) in Psychology, a Associate Degree (AA) in Liberal Arts with an emphases in Psychology, Certification in Anger Management, Certification in MRT-Moral Reconation Therapy®, Certification in Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Certification in Advanced Hypnotherapy.

Parapsychology and Dreams, Nightmares and Sleepwalking:

Parapsychology and Dreams, nightmares and sleepwalking:

Parapsychology and phenomena like dreams, nightmares, and sleepwalking intersect in fascinating ways.

Here’s an overview of these topics and their connections:

1. Parapsychology and Dreams

Parapsychology explores psychic phenomena that seem to go beyond conventional scientific explanations, such as extrasensory perception (ESP), telepathy, and precognition. Dreams are often seen as a potential gateway to these phenomena due to their mysterious and often symbolic nature.

  • Telepathic Dreams: Claims of shared dreams or dreams where one person seems to perceive another’s thoughts or feelings remotely.
  • Precognitive Dreams: Dreams that appear to predict future events. Many anecdotes exist where people dream of something that later happens, though skeptics argue this could be coincidence or selective memory.
  • Lucid Dreaming: This state of awareness during dreams is sometimes studied for its potential to explore the subconscious and, in parapsychological circles, as a method to tap into psychic abilities.

2. Nightmares and Parapsychology

Nightmares are intense and often distressing dreams that evoke fear, anxiety, or dread. While conventional science attributes nightmares to psychological stress, trauma, or neurological factors, parapsychology considers other possibilities:

  • Spirit or Entity Influence: Some traditions believe nightmares could be influenced by external spirits or malevolent entities.
  • Astral Experiences: In parapsychological and esoteric beliefs, nightmares might be linked to “astral attacks” or encounters during out-of-body experiences.
  • Emotional Energy: Nightmares could reflect psychic energy or emotional imprints left in an environment.

3. Sleepwalking and Paranormal Ideas

Sleepwalking, or somnambulism, is a disorder where people perform activities while asleep. While science attributes it to disruptions in deep sleep cycles, parapsychologists and spiritual practitioners occasionally view it differently:

  • Possession or Influence: Some cultures interpret sleepwalking as a result of spiritual possession or influence by external forces.
  • Connection to Past Lives: There are parapsychological theories that link sleepwalking to actions tied to unresolved experiences from past lives.
  • Energy Fields: Sleepwalking might, in some beliefs, relate to disruptions in an individual’s energy or aura.

Scientific and Psychological Perspectives

While parapsychology offers intriguing theories, mainstream science provides explanations grounded in psychology and neuroscience:

  • Dreams: Reflect brain activity, memory consolidation, and emotional processing.
  • Nightmares: Often linked to stress, trauma, or conditions like PTSD.
  • Sleepwalking: Connected to partial arousals during sleep and is common in children due to brain development factors.

Exploration and Integration

Whether approached scientifically, spiritually, or parapsychologically, dreams, nightmares, and sleepwalking remain rich areas of inquiry. Exploring these phenomena can involve:

  • Dream Journaling: To analyze recurring themes or potential precognitive patterns.
  • Meditation and Relaxation: To reduce nightmares and improve sleep quality.
  • Lucid Dreaming Techniques: For those interested in exploring their dream worlds consciously.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to Defeat Self-Doubt:

How to Defeat Self-Doubt:

Overcoming self-doubt is a journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and consistent effort. 

Here are strategies to help you conquer self-doubt:

1. Identify the Source of Your Doubts

  • Reflect on what triggers your self-doubt. Is it past failures, criticism, perfectionism, or fear of judgment?
  • Understanding the root cause can help you address it directly.

2. Challenge Negative Thoughts

  • Recognize negative self-talk and question its validity.
  • Replace thoughts like “I’m not good enough” with “I’m learning and improving every day.”

3. Focus on Your Strengths

  • List your accomplishments and skills. Celebrate even small victories.
  • Remind yourself of times you succeeded despite challenges.

4. Set Realistic Goals

  • Break down your objectives into manageable steps.
  • Celebrate progress rather than expecting perfection.

5. Practice Self-Compassion

  • Treat yourself with kindness, as you would a friend.
  • Forgive yourself for mistakes and view them as learning opportunities.

6. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

  • Seek out individuals who uplift and encourage you.
  • Limit time spent with those who fuel your insecurities.

7. Take Action

  • Procrastination often amplifies self-doubt. Start small and build momentum.
  • Each step forward reinforces your confidence.

8. Learn from Failures

  • Embrace failure as part of the growth process.
  • Analyze what went wrong and how you can improve without blaming yourself harshly.

9. Adopt a Growth Mindset

  • Believe that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort.
  • View challenges as opportunities to grow.

10. Seek Professional Help if Needed

  • Therapists or coaches can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
  • They can help you identify patterns and develop coping strategies.

11. Practice Gratitude and Mindfulness

  • Focus on the positive aspects of your life and achievements.
  • Use mindfulness to stay present and reduce overthinking.

12. Take Care of Your Well-Being

  • Ensure you’re eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest.
  • Physical health directly impacts mental resilience.

By consistently applying these strategies, you can gradually build confidence and diminish self-doubt. It’s a process, so be patient and gentle with yourself along the way.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to manage feelings of Sadness & Fatigue:

How to manage feelings of Sadness & Fatigue:

Managing feelings of sadness and fatigue can be challenging, but there are strategies that may help. These feelings could stem from physical, emotional, or situational causes, so addressing them holistically is often the most effective approach.

Here’s a breakdown of ways to manage them:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

  • Accept your emotions without judgment. Recognizing sadness or fatigue is the first step toward addressing them.
  • Journaling can help you explore what might be triggering these feelings.

2. Take Care of Your Body

  • Sleep: Ensure you’re getting 7–9 hours of restful sleep. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine.
  • Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Avoid excessive caffeine or sugar, which can cause energy crashes.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity, even gentle exercises like walking or yoga, can boost mood and energy levels by releasing endorphins.

3. Practice Stress Management

  • Relaxation Techniques: Try mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation.
  • Set boundaries: Avoid overcommitting to activities or responsibilities that drain your energy.
  • Break tasks into small steps: Focus on one thing at a time to prevent overwhelm.

4. Seek Social Support

  • Talk to someone: Share your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist.
  • Engage with your community: Participate in activities that connect you with others, whether it’s volunteering, joining a class, or spending time with loved ones.

5. Engage in Activities You Enjoy

  • Pursue hobbies or activities that bring you joy, even if they feel hard to start at first.
  • Experiment with creative outlets like painting, writing, or playing music to express your emotions.

6. Limit Negative Influences

  • Reduce exposure to news or social media if they make you feel worse.
  • Avoid substances like alcohol or drugs, which can exacerbate feelings of sadness and fatigue.

7. Consider Professional Help

  • Therapy: A mental health professional can help you process your emotions and develop coping strategies.
  • Medical Check-up: Persistent fatigue or sadness could indicate underlying conditions like depression, anxiety, or physical health issues (e.g., thyroid problems, anemia). Consult a doctor to rule out these possibilities.

8. Establish a Routine

  • A daily routine can help you regain a sense of control and stability. Include time for self-care, rest, and enjoyable activities.

9. Be Patient with Yourself

  • Healing and managing emotions take time. Celebrate small victories and practice self-compassion along the way.

If your feelings of sadness and fatigue persist or worsen, it’s essential to seek professional support. You don’t have to face this alone, and help is available.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to tackle Negative Thoughts:

How to tackle Negative Thoughts:

Tackling negative thoughts can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can manage them effectively and develop a more positive mindset. Here are some approaches:

1. Understand and Identify Negative Thoughts

  • Self-awareness: Recognize when negative thoughts arise. Pay attention to triggers, patterns, or situations that lead to them.
  • Label the thought: Ask yourself, “Is this thought helpful or unhelpful?”

2. Challenge the Thought

  • Question its validity: Ask, “Is this thought based on facts, or is it an assumption?”
  • Reframe it: Replace negative thoughts with balanced or positive alternatives. For example, instead of “I always fail,” think, “Sometimes I fail, but I also succeed.”
  • Evidence check: Look for evidence supporting or contradicting the thought.

3. Practice Mindfulness

  • Stay present instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
  • Use mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation to observe thoughts without judgment.

4. Engage in Positive Activities

  • Distract yourself with activities that bring joy or relaxation, such as hobbies, exercise, or socializing.
  • Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people.

5. Use Affirmations and Gratitude

  • Affirmations: Repeat positive statements like, “I am capable,” or “I am worthy.”
  • Gratitude: Reflect on things you’re grateful for daily. This shifts focus from negativity to positivity.

6. Set Realistic Goals

  • Break large tasks into smaller, achievable steps.
  • Celebrate small wins to build confidence.

7. Write It Down

  • Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings. This can help clarify your emotions and reduce their intensity.
  • Thought record: Document the situation, your thought, and a balanced perspective.

8. Practice Self-Compassion

  • Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, as you would a friend.
  • Acknowledge that everyone has negative thoughts and makes mistakes.

9. Seek Professional Help

  • If negative thoughts persist or become overwhelming, consider talking to a therapist or counselor.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing negative thought patterns.

10. Develop a Routine

  • A consistent routine with healthy habits (e.g., balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep) can improve mental well-being and reduce negativity.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to improve Mental Well-Being:

How to improve Mental Well-Being:

Improving mental well-being is a multifaceted process that involves nurturing your mind, body, and environment.

Here are practical strategies to enhance your mental health:

1. Develop Healthy Habits

  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity releases endorphins, which boost mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, support brain health.
  • Sleep Well: Prioritize 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night to improve focus, mood, and resilience.

2. Manage Stress

  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to reduce stress.
  • Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no” and avoid overcommitting yourself.
  • Take Breaks: Regular breaks during work or study can prevent burnout.

3. Cultivate Positive Relationships

  • Stay Connected: Maintain meaningful connections with friends, family, or support groups.
  • Communicate Openly: Share your thoughts and feelings with trusted individuals.
  • Engage in Community: Volunteering or joining clubs can provide a sense of purpose.

4. Focus on Personal Growth

  • Set Realistic Goals: Break goals into smaller steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
  • Learn Something New: Acquire a new skill or hobby to stimulate your mind.
  • Practice Gratitude: Keep a journal to note things you’re thankful for daily.

5. Limit Negative Influences

  • Reduce Screen Time: Avoid excessive use of social media, which can impact self-esteem.
  • Limit Substance Use: Avoid over-reliance on alcohol or drugs for coping.
  • Filter Your Environment: Spend time in positive, uplifting spaces.

6. Seek Professional Help

  • Therapy or Counseling: A mental health professional can provide tailored strategies and support.
  • Medication: For some conditions, medication prescribed by a doctor can help.
  • Support Groups: Connect with people who understand your experiences.

7. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

  • Live in the Moment: Pay attention to the present without judgment.
  • Be Kind to Yourself: Treat yourself with the same compassion you’d offer a friend.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements.

Improving mental well-being is a journey that requires consistent effort and self-awareness. Start with small, manageable changes and gradually build habits that support a healthier mind and lifestyle.

Shervan K Shahhian

Which steps can boost Brain Health:

Which steps can boost Brain Health:

Boosting brain health involves maintaining a balanced lifestyle and adopting habits that support cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall mental health.

Here are some key steps to promote brain health:

1. Healthy Diet

  • Eat a balanced diet: Focus on brain-friendly foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Examples include leafy greens, berries, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds.
  • Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for optimal brain function.
  • Limit sugar and processed foods: High-sugar and processed foods can contribute to inflammation and cognitive decline.

2. Physical Activity

  • Exercise regularly: Engage in aerobic and strength-training exercises. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga improve blood flow to the brain and support cognitive function.
  • Practice coordination exercises: Activities like dancing or playing sports stimulate both the brain and body.

3. Mental Stimulation

  • Learn new skills: Challenge your brain by learning a language, instrument, or new hobby.
  • Solve puzzles and games: Engage in activities like crosswords, sudoku, or strategy-based games.
  • Read and write: Both stimulate cognitive processes and enhance memory.

4. Quality Sleep

  • Establish a sleep routine: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
  • Create a sleep-friendly environment: Reduce screen time before bed, keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.

5. Stress Management

  • Practice mindfulness or meditation: These techniques reduce stress and improve focus.
  • Engage in relaxation activities: Spend time in nature, listen to music, or practice deep breathing.

6. Social Interaction

  • Stay connected: Maintain strong relationships with family and friends.
  • Participate in group activities: Joining clubs or volunteering can improve emotional well-being.

7. Avoid Harmful Substances

  • Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking can damage brain cells.
  • Avoid smoking and recreational drugs: These can harm brain function and structure.

8. Regular Checkups

  • Monitor health conditions: Manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, as they can affect brain health.
  • Consult professionals for mental health issues: Seek help for anxiety, depression, or cognitive changes.

9. Protect Your Brain

  • Wear helmets and seatbelts: Protect against head injuries.
  • Practice fall prevention: Ensure your living space is free of hazards that could lead to injuries.

10. Positive Lifestyle Habits

  • Stay curious: Cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning.
  • Set goals: Working toward meaningful goals can enhance mental well-being.
  • Laugh often: Humor and joy stimulate the brain and reduce stress.

By integrating these practices into your daily life, you can support your brain’s health, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall quality of life.

Shervan K Shahhian

Social Anxiety, is it related to ADHD:

Social Anxiety, is it related to ADHD:

Yes, social anxiety can be related to ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), although they are distinct conditions. Many individuals with ADHD experience social anxiety or other anxiety-related challenges, and the two can often co-occur.

Here’s how they might be connected:

1. Overlapping Symptoms:

  • People with ADHD often struggle with impulsivity, inattentiveness, or hyperactivity, which can lead to awkward or challenging social interactions.
  • Negative social experiences, like being misunderstood or criticized, can contribute to feelings of anxiety in social settings.

2. Executive Function Challenges:

  • ADHD affects executive functioning, making it harder to plan, organize, and respond effectively in social situations.
  • Difficulty reading social cues or responding appropriately might cause self-consciousness, which can escalate into social anxiety.

3. Low Self-Esteem:

  • Struggling academically, professionally, or socially due to ADHD can lower self-esteem.
  • Low self-esteem might make individuals feel inadequate in social settings, increasing anxiety.

4. Hyperawareness of Social Performance:

  • Some individuals with ADHD are acutely aware of their social mistakes, leading to overthinking or fear of future social encounters.

5. Comorbidity:

  • ADHD and social anxiety disorder often co-occur. Research indicates that individuals with ADHD are more likely than the general population to also have anxiety disorders, including social anxiety.

Managing the Connection:

If you suspect social anxiety is related to ADHD, treatment strategies can include:

  • Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can address anxiety and improve social skills.
  • Medication: ADHD medications or anti-anxiety medications may help manage symptoms.
  • Skill Development: Social skills training and mindfulness can improve confidence and reduce anxiety.
  • Support: Connecting with others who share similar experiences can reduce feelings of isolation.

Understanding the link between ADHD and social anxiety is key to developing effective coping mechanisms.

Shervan K Shahhian

Social Anxiety vs Shyness:

Social Anxiety vs Shyness:

Social anxiety and shyness are distinct, though they can overlap in certain ways.

Here’s a breakdown of their differences:

Shyness

  • Definition: A personality trait or natural temperament where a person feels awkward, reserved, or hesitant in social settings.
  • Intensity: Generally mild and situational; people who are shy may feel discomfort in new or unfamiliar situations but can adapt over time.
  • Impact: Shyness typically doesn’t prevent someone from engaging in social activities, though it may make them feel self-conscious.
  • Duration: Often decreases as the person becomes more comfortable or familiar with the situation.
  • Treatment: Does not usually require professional intervention unless it leads to significant distress or avoidance.

Social Anxiety (Social Anxiety Disorder, or SAD)

  • Definition: A mental health condition characterized by intense fear or anxiety about being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations.
  • Intensity: Severe and persistent, often interfering with daily life and relationships.
  • Impact: Causes significant distress, leading to avoidance of social situations or enduring them with extreme discomfort.
  • Physical Symptoms: May include sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, nausea, or even panic attacks.
  • Duration: Chronic and pervasive, requiring ongoing management.
  • Treatment: Often treated with therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy), medication, or both.

Key Differences

  1. Severity: Shyness is less intense and doesn’t usually interfere significantly with a person’s life, while social anxiety is debilitating.
  2. Avoidance: People with social anxiety often avoid situations altogether, while shy individuals may simply feel uncomfortable but still participate.
  3. Physical Symptoms: Social anxiety is associated with noticeable physical symptoms and psychological distress, unlike shyness.
  4. Root Causes: Shyness is usually innate and part of one’s personality, while social anxiety may develop due to negative experiences, trauma, or a genetic predisposition.

Shervan K Shahhian

Caffeine a Psychoactive Drug, is it true:

Caffeine a Psychoactive Drug, is it true:

Yes, caffeine is a psychoactive drug.

Here’s why:

Definition of a Psychoactive Drug:
A psychoactive drug is a substance that affects the central nervous system, altering brain function and resulting in temporary changes in perception, mood, consciousness, and behavior.

How Caffeine Works:
Caffeine primarily acts as a stimulant by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called adenosine, which promotes relaxation and drowsiness. By doing this, caffeine increases the release of other neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to increased alertness, focus, and energy.

Effects on the Brain and Body:

  • Enhances mental alertness and reduces fatigue.
  • May cause jitteriness or anxiety at higher doses.
  • Temporarily boosts mood and cognitive function.

Common Sources of Caffeine:
Caffeine is naturally found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some plants. It is also added to energy drinks, sodas, and certain medications.

Addictive Potential:
Regular use of caffeine can lead to physical dependence. Withdrawal symptoms like headaches, irritability, and fatigue can occur if habitual caffeine consumption is abruptly reduced.

Despite its widespread use and general safety at moderate doses, caffeine’s classification as a psychoactive drug highlights its significant effects on the brain and nervous system.

Shervan K Shahhian

Caffeine and its Psychostimulant effects:

Caffeine and its Psychostimulant effects:

“Please Consult a Medical doctor Regarding Your Caffeine Use.”

Caffeine is a widely consumed psychostimulant that exerts its effects primarily by antagonizing adenosine receptors in the central nervous system. 

Here’s an overview of its psychostimulant effects:

1. Mechanism of Action

  • Adenosine Receptor Antagonism: Adenosine is a neuromodulator that promotes relaxation and sleepiness by inhibiting neuronal activity. Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors (especially A1 and A2A receptors), leading to increased neuronal firing and neurotransmitter release (e.g., dopamine and norepinephrine).
  • Enhanced Dopaminergic Activity: By inhibiting adenosine, caffeine indirectly increases dopamine signaling, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, contributing to improved mood and alertness.

2. Psychostimulant Effects

  • Increased Alertness: Caffeine reduces fatigue and improves wakefulness, making it effective in combating drowsiness.
  • Enhanced Cognitive Performance: It can improve attention, reaction times, and problem-solving skills, particularly during states of sleep deprivation.
  • Improved Mood: Caffeine has mild mood-enhancing properties, often attributed to its dopaminergic effects.
  • Increased Physical Performance: By mobilizing fatty acids and improving endurance, caffeine is often used as an ergogenic aid in physical activities.

3. Dosage and Tolerance

  • Effective Dose: Typical doses range from 50 to 300 mg, with effects varying depending on individual sensitivity.
  • Tolerance Development: Regular consumption can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This is due to upregulation of adenosine receptors over time.

4. Potential Side Effects

  • Anxiety and Restlessness: Excessive intake can overstimulate the nervous system, leading to jitteriness, nervousness, or anxiety.
  • Sleep Disturbances: Caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns if consumed late in the day.
  • Dependence: Chronic use may lead to mild physical dependence, with withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and irritability.

5. Therapeutic and Practical Uses

  • Treatment of Drowsiness: Caffeine is used in over-the-counter medications to promote wakefulness.
  • Enhancing Performance: Commonly consumed by students, professionals, and athletes to maintain focus and stamina.
  • “Please Consult a Medical doctor Regarding Your Caffeine Use.”

Shervan K Shahhian