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.

The benefits of Group Coaching in Mental Health:

The benefits of Group Coaching in Mental Health:

Group coaching in mental health settings offers a variety of benefits for participants and facilitators.

These benefits stem from the unique dynamics of group interactions and the supportive environment they create. Here are some key advantages:

Shared Experiences and Normalization
Sense of Community: Group coaching fosters a sense of belonging as participants realize they are not alone in their challenges.
Normalization: Hearing others share similar struggles helps individuals feel understood and reduces feelings of isolation or stigma.

2. Cost-Effectiveness
Group sessions are often more affordable than one-on-one coaching, making mental health support accessible to more individuals.

3. Peer Support and Feedback
Participants benefit from diverse perspectives and insights shared by others in the group.
Peer support can inspire hope and motivate individuals to take action.

4. Skill Development in a Safe Environment
Group coaching provides a space to practice communication, social, and coping skills in real-time with others.
Facilitators can guide participants through exercises and discussions, helping them apply learned skills in their daily lives.

5. Enhanced Accountability and Motivation
Groups provide built-in accountability through shared goals and regular check-ins.
Witnessing others’ progress can encourage participants to stay committed to their own goals.

6. Empowerment Through Collective Wisdom
Participants draw on the collective knowledge and experiences of the group, which can lead to creative problem-solving and personal growth.
Sharing successes reinforces a sense of achievement and empowerment for both the individual and the group.

7. Therapeutic Effects of Giving
Contributing advice, support, or encouragement to others can be empowering and therapeutic for participants.

8. Diverse Perspectives
The variety of backgrounds and experiences in a group enriches discussions and widens understanding of mental health issues.

9. Structured yet Flexible Approach
Group coaching often follows a structured curriculum or framework, while allowing room for individual and group needs to guide discussions.

10. Efficiency for Coaches
Coaches can work with multiple clients simultaneously, maximizing their impact and time.

11. Adaptable to Various Needs
Group coaching can address a wide range of mental health topics, such as stress management, resilience building, or improving self-esteem.
Examples of Group Coaching Applications in Mental Health:
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Groups: Teaching participants mindfulness techniques in a collaborative setting.
Resilience and Coping Skills: Helping individuals develop tools to manage anxiety, depression, or other challenges.
Behavioral Health Groups: Focused coaching for individuals with shared goals, such as weight management or addiction recovery.
Group coaching can be a powerful complement to individual therapy or coaching, offering unique benefits derived from group dynamics and shared human connection.

Shervan K Shahhian

Media Psychology, a great explanation:

Media Psychology, a great explanation:

Media Psychology is the branch of psychology that focuses on understanding how people interact with media and technology, and how these interactions affect their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It bridges the gap between traditional psychological principles and the evolving world of media, including television, film, video games, social media, and virtual reality.

Key Areas of Media Psychology:

Cognitive Effects: Examining how media content influences attention, memory, decision-making, and learning processes. For instance, how does binge-watching a series affect cognitive functioning?

Emotional Impact: Studying the ways media triggers emotional responses, from joy and excitement to fear and anxiety. An example would be how suspense in movies generates physiological arousal.

Social Influence: Investigating how media shapes social behaviors, attitudes, and norms. This includes the role of influencers, online communities, and media campaigns in changing societal perspectives.

Identity and Self-Perception: Exploring how media affects self-esteem, body image, and personal identity, especially in the context of social media, where curated images and lifestyles are often on display.

Media Usage Patterns: Analyzing consumption habits, such as screen time, multitasking, and preferences for different types of content. Researchers look at how these habits affect daily life and productivity.

Persuasion and Advertising: Understanding how media is used to persuade, whether through commercials, political campaigns, or branded content. Media psychologists study what makes messages effective and how they influence consumer behavior.

Technology Interaction: Investigating human interaction with new technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality. This includes how immersive experiences can influence behavior and learning.

Developmental Aspects: Considering how different age groups, from children to the elderly, engage with media and the unique psychological effects on each demographic.

Practical Applications:

Entertainment: Designing engaging and emotionally resonant content for films, TV, and video games.
Education: Creating media-based learning tools that enhance understanding and retention.
Health and Well-being: Developing interventions, such as apps or campaigns, to promote mental health and positive behaviors.
Marketing and Communication: Crafting persuasive messages to influence consumer attitudes and behaviors.

Media Psychology emphasizes both the positive and negative effects of media, aiming to maximize its benefits while mitigating potential harms. It’s a dynamic and evolving field, adapting alongside rapid technological advancements.

Shervan K Shahhian

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

Severity: Shyness is less intense and doesn’t usually interfere significantly with a person’s life, while social anxiety is debilitating.
Avoidance: People with social anxiety often avoid situations altogether, while shy individuals may simply feel uncomfortable but still participate.
Physical Symptoms: Social anxiety is associated with noticeable physical symptoms and psychological distress, unlike shyness.
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