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.

How to change our Mindset to improve our life:

How to change our Mindset to improve our life:

Changing your mindset can have a significant impact on improving your life.

Here are some strategies to help you shift your mindset positively:

Self-awareness:

  • Reflect on your current mindset and identify any negative thought patterns.
  • Recognize the areas where you want to make changes.

Positive affirmations:

  • Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations.
  • Repeat affirmations regularly to reinforce positive thinking.

Gratitude practice:

  • Focus on the positive aspects of your life.
  • Keep a gratitude journal to write down things you are thankful for.

Challenge limiting beliefs:

  • Identify and challenge any limiting beliefs that may be holding you back.
  • Ask yourself if these beliefs are based on facts or assumptions.

Embrace a growth mindset:

  • View challenges as opportunities for growth.
  • See failures as learning experiences rather than setbacks.

Set realistic goals:

  • Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable steps.
  • Celebrate small victories along the way to stay motivated.

Learn from setbacks:

  • Instead of dwelling on failures, focus on the lessons learned.
  • Understand that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process.

Surround yourself with positivity:

  • Spend time with supportive and positive people.
  • Limit exposure to negative influences, whether they are people or media.

Mindfulness and meditation:

  • Practice mindfulness to stay present and reduce stress.
  • Meditation can help improve focus and promote a positive mindset.

Continuous learning:

  • Stay open to new ideas and perspectives.
  • Engage in lifelong learning to foster a curious and adaptable mindset.

Take care of your physical health:

  • Regular exercise and a healthy diet can positively impact your mental well-being.
  • Ensure you get enough sleep to support cognitive function and emotional resilience.

Celebrate progress:

  • Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements.
  • Focus on the progress you’ve made rather than dwelling on what still needs improvement.

Remember that changing your mindset is a gradual process, and consistency is key. Be patient with yourself and make a conscious effort to cultivate a more positive and growth-oriented outlook on life.

Shervan K Shahhian

The Trauma Informed Faith Leaders, who are they:

The Trauma informed faith leaders, who are they:

Trauma-informed faith leaders are religious or spiritual leaders who approach their ministry with an awareness and understanding of the impact of trauma on individuals and communities. They strive to create a safe and supportive environment for their followers, recognizing that many people may have experienced various forms of trauma in their lives. This approach is not limited to any specific faith tradition but is a perspective that can be adopted by leaders across different religions.

Key characteristics of trauma-informed faith leaders may include:

Understanding of Trauma: They have knowledge about the effects of trauma on mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This understanding helps them to interact with individuals who may have experienced trauma in a sensitive and compassionate manner.

Empathy and Compassion: Trauma-informed faith leaders prioritize empathy and compassion in their interactions. They seek to create a non-judgmental and understanding space for individuals who have experienced trauma.

Creating Safe Spaces: They are intentional about creating safe and welcoming environments within their religious communities. This may involve implementing policies and practices that promote emotional safety and inclusivity.

Training and Education: Some faith leaders undergo specific training in trauma-informed care to enhance their understanding of trauma and its implications. This can empower them to better support their congregants.

Collaboration with Mental Health Professionals: Recognizing the intersection between spirituality and mental health, trauma-informed faith leaders may collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive support to individuals dealing with trauma.

Incorporating Trauma-Informed Practices: They integrate trauma-informed practices into their pastoral care, counseling, and teaching, ensuring that their approach takes into account the potential impact of trauma on individuals’ lives.

Advocacy for Social Justice: Many trauma-informed faith leaders also engage in advocacy for social justice issues, recognizing that social inequalities and systemic issues can contribute to trauma in communities.

It’s important to note that the concept of trauma-informed care extends beyond the field of faith leadership and is also applied in various secular settings, such as healthcare, education, and social services.

Shervan K Shahhian

Attachment and Trauma, the connection:

Attachment and Trauma, the connection:

Attachment and trauma are interconnected concepts in psychology, particularly in the field of developmental psychology and attachment theory. Attachment refers to the emotional bond that forms between individuals, typically between a child and their primary caregiver. This bond plays a crucial role in the child’s emotional and social development.

Trauma, on the other hand, refers to experiences that are emotionally distressing and overwhelming, often exceeding a person’s ability to cope. Trauma can result from various events, such as abuse, neglect, accidents, or other life-threatening situations.

The connection between attachment and trauma lies in the impact that early attachment relationships have on an individual’s ability to cope with and recover from traumatic experiences. Here are some key points of the connection:

Secure Attachment and Resilience: Children who develop a secure attachment to their caregivers tend to have a more secure base for exploring the world and regulating their emotions. This secure base contributes to greater resilience in the face of stress and trauma. Securely attached individuals may be better equipped to seek support and comfort in times of distress.

Insecure Attachment and Vulnerability: Children with insecure attachment patterns, such as avoidant, ambivalent, or disorganized attachment, may face challenges in regulating their emotions and may have difficulty forming positive relationships. These insecure attachment patterns can increase vulnerability to the negative effects of trauma. For example, a child with insecure attachment may struggle to seek comfort from others during a traumatic event.

Traumatic Disruption of Attachment: Traumatic experiences can disrupt or damage existing attachment relationships. For example, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or sudden separations can impact the child’s trust and sense of safety in their attachment figures. This disruption can have long-term effects on the individual’s ability to form healthy relationships and regulate emotions.

Attachment-Based Interventions: In therapeutic settings, understanding the connection between attachment and trauma is crucial for designing effective interventions. Therapists often work to strengthen attachment bonds as a means of promoting resilience and helping individuals cope with the impact of traumatic experiences.

In summary, the quality of early attachment relationships can influence an individual’s vulnerability to trauma and their ability to cope with and recover from traumatic experiences. Understanding these connections is essential for professionals working in areas such as child development, psychology, and trauma-focused therapy.

Shervan K Shahhian

Math Trauma, what is it:

Math Trauma, what is it:

“Math trauma” refers to the negative emotional and psychological experiences that some individuals may associate with learning or doing mathematics. It can result from various factors, such as struggling with math concepts, receiving negative feedback or criticism, having a fear of failure, or experiencing a lack of confidence in one’s mathematical abilities.

People who have encountered difficulties or negative experiences in their early math education may develop math anxiety or math trauma. This can lead to a persistent fear of math-related tasks, avoidance of mathematical situations, and a belief that they are not capable of succeeding in mathematics.

Addressing math trauma often involves creating a positive and supportive learning environment, encouraging a growth mindset, and providing personalized support to help individuals build confidence and overcome their negative associations with math. It’s essential to recognize that everyone is capable of learning and improving in mathematics with the right support and mindset.

Shervan K Shahhian

Spirituality should include joy:

Spirituality should include joy:

Spirituality can certainly encompass joy, as many spiritual traditions and philosophies emphasize the importance of inner peace, contentment, and positive emotions. Joy can be seen as a natural expression of spiritual well-being, arising from a sense of connection with oneself, others, and the broader universe.

In various spiritual practices, cultivating gratitude, mindfulness, and compassion are often emphasized, which can contribute to a more joyful and fulfilling life. The pursuit of joy can be viewed as a way to align with one’s higher self, connect with a sense of purpose, and experience a deeper connection with life.

However, it’s essential to recognize that spirituality is a broad and diverse concept, and different individuals and traditions may interpret it in various ways. Some may focus more on contemplation, meditation, or ascetic practices, while others may incorporate celebration, dance, and joyous rituals as integral parts of their spiritual expression.

Ultimately, whether joy is a central component of spirituality depends on personal beliefs, practices, and the specific spiritual tradition one follows. Many people find that integrating joy into their spiritual journey enhances their overall well-being and brings a sense of balance and harmony to their lives.

Shervan K Shahhian

The importance of Embracing the Healing Journey:

The importance of embracing the healing journey:

Embracing the healing journey is crucial for several reasons, as it can have profound effects on one’s mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.

Here are some key aspects of the importance of embracing the healing journey:

Self-Discovery: The healing journey often involves introspection and self-reflection, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself. This self-discovery can uncover hidden strengths, weaknesses, and patterns of behavior that may contribute to personal growth and development.

Emotional Well-being: Addressing past traumas, unresolved emotions, and negative thought patterns is essential for improving emotional well-being. Embracing the healing journey allows individuals to process and release pent-up emotions, fostering a healthier emotional state.

Personal Growth: Healing is a transformative process that encourages personal growth and development. By confronting challenges, overcoming obstacles, and learning from experiences, individuals can evolve into stronger, more resilient versions of themselves.

Improved Relationships: Unresolved issues and emotional baggage can negatively impact relationships. Embracing the healing journey enables individuals to work through these issues, leading to better communication, empathy, and connection in personal and professional relationships.

Physical Health: There is a strong connection between mental and physical health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and unresolved emotional issues can contribute to physical ailments. Engaging in the healing journey may positively impact physical health by reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.

Increased Self-Compassion: Healing involves learning to be kind to oneself and cultivating self-compassion. Embracing the healing journey allows individuals to forgive themselves for past mistakes, let go of self-criticism, and develop a more positive and nurturing relationship with themselves.

Resilience: The ability to bounce back from challenges and adversity is a crucial aspect of resilience. The healing journey helps individuals build resilience by equipping them with coping mechanisms, healthy strategies for dealing with stress, and a more optimistic mindset.

Empowerment: Taking control of one’s healing journey empowers individuals to actively participate in their own well-being. It shifts the focus from being a passive victim of circumstances to an empowered agent of positive change.

Life Satisfaction: As individuals work through their past and present challenges, they often experience a sense of fulfillment and life satisfaction. The healing journey can contribute to a more meaningful and purposeful life.

Breaking Cycles: For those who have experienced generational or recurring patterns of dysfunction, embracing the healing journey is a powerful way to break destructive cycles. By addressing and resolving underlying issues, individuals can create a positive impact on future generations.

In summary, embracing the healing journey is not just about addressing past wounds; it’s a holistic approach to personal growth, well-being, and creating a more fulfilling and meaningful life. It requires courage, self-awareness, and a commitment to ongoing self-improvement.

Shervan K Shahhian

When we know better, we do better, why:

The phrase “When we know better, we do better” is often attributed to Maya Angelou, and it reflects the idea that as individuals gain knowledge and understanding, they are likely to make better choices and decisions. There are several reasons why this concept holds true:

Increased Awareness: Knowledge brings awareness. When we learn more about a subject, whether it’s related to personal development, ethics, or any other area, we become more aware of the implications and consequences of our actions.

Informed Decision-Making: With knowledge comes the ability to make informed decisions. When we understand the potential outcomes and consequences of our choices, we are better equipped to make decisions that align with our values and goals.

Adaptation to Change: Learning often involves adapting to new information and changing circumstances. As we acquire new knowledge, we may need to adjust our perspectives, behaviors, and choices to align with this newfound understanding.

Personal Growth: Knowledge is a catalyst for personal growth. When we actively seek to expand our understanding, we open ourselves up to new ideas and ways of thinking. This continuous learning process contributes to personal development and an improved ability to navigate life’s challenges.

Empathy and Understanding: Learning about different perspectives, cultures, and experiences fosters empathy and understanding. When we know more about others and the world around us, we are more likely to treat people with compassion and make choices that contribute to the well-being of society.

Ethical Considerations: Knowledge often brings awareness of ethical considerations and moral principles. As individuals become more aware of the ethical implications of their actions, they are inclined to make choices that align with their moral values.

In essence, the phrase encapsulates the idea that knowledge is a powerful tool for growth, improvement, and making more thoughtful and responsible choices in various aspects of life. It emphasizes the importance of ongoing learning and self-reflection to continually evolve and strive for better outcomes.

Shervan K Shahhian

What could be the Turmoil in the mind and body of the Survivors of Trauma:

What could be the Turmoil in the mind and body of the Survivors of Trauma:

Survivors of trauma often experience a range of physical, emotional, and psychological challenges that can create turmoil in both their minds and bodies. It’s important to note that the effects of trauma can vary widely among individuals, and not everyone will experience the same symptoms or reactions.

However, some common aspects of turmoil in the aftermath of trauma include:

Psychological Distress:

  • Flashbacks: Recurrent and intrusive memories of the traumatic event can replay in the survivor’s mind, causing them to feel as if they are reliving the experience.
  • Nightmares: Trauma survivors may experience vivid and distressing dreams related to the traumatic event, disrupting their sleep and contributing to fatigue.

Emotional Turmoil:

  • Fear and Anxiety: Survivors may experience heightened levels of fear and anxiety, often triggered by reminders of the trauma or situations that resemble the traumatic event.
  • Guilt and Shame: Some individuals may blame themselves for the trauma or feel a profound sense of shame, even if they were not responsible for the events.

Cognitive Challenges:

  • Difficulty Concentrating: Trauma can impair cognitive functions, making it challenging for survivors to focus, concentrate, or make decisions.
  • Memory Issues: Trauma may impact memory, leading to difficulties recalling specific details or even blocking out parts of the traumatic event.

Physical Symptoms:

  • Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns are common among trauma survivors, contributing to fatigue and exacerbating other symptoms.
  • Hypervigilance: Constantly being on high alert can lead to physical symptoms such as muscle tension, headaches, and an increased heart rate.

Social and Relationship Challenges:

  • Isolation: Trauma survivors may withdraw from social activities and relationships, feeling disconnected or unable to relate to others who have not experienced similar trauma.
  • Difficulty Trusting: Trust issues can arise as a result of the trauma, making it challenging for survivors to build and maintain healthy relationships.

Mood Swings:

  • Irritability and Anger: Survivors may experience intense irritability and anger, which can strain relationships and make it challenging to regulate emotions.
  • Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities are common symptoms of trauma-related depression.

It’s crucial for trauma survivors to seek professional help, such as therapy or counseling, to address and manage these symptoms. The journey to healing is unique for each individual, and support from mental health professionals, friends, and family plays a crucial role in the recovery process.

Shervan K Shahhian

Knowing the story behind each Behavior:

Knowing the story behind each behavior:

Understanding the story behind each behavior involves delving into the factors that contribute to an individual’s actions. Human behavior is complex and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including personal experiences, emotions, upbringing, culture, and environmental conditions.

Here are some key elements to consider when trying to understand the story behind someone’s behavior:

Personal History:

  • Explore the person’s past experiences and life events. Traumatic or positive experiences can significantly impact behavior.

Emotional State:

  • Consider the individual’s emotional state at the time of the behavior. Emotions play a crucial role in shaping actions and reactions.

Cognitive Processes:

  • Analyze the thought processes and beliefs that may be influencing the behavior. Cognitive factors such as perception, interpretation, and decision-making can all contribute.

Social and Cultural Context:

  • Recognize the influence of societal and cultural norms on behavior. Different cultures and social environments can shape how individuals express themselves.

Environmental Factors:

  • Take into account the immediate surroundings and external conditions. Environmental stressors or support systems can impact behavior.

Biological Factors:

  • Consider any biological or neurological factors that may be contributing to the behavior. Brain chemistry, genetics, and overall health can all play a role.

Motivations:

  • Identify the underlying motivations driving the behavior. Understanding what someone hopes to achieve or avoid can provide insight.

Developmental Stage:

  • Recognize that individuals go through various stages of development, and behavior may be influenced by age and life stage.

By considering these aspects, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to a person’s behavior. This holistic approach helps avoid making simplistic judgments and allows for a more empathetic and informed perspective. Keep in mind that people are complex, and their behaviors are often a result of a combination of these factors.

Shervan K Shahhian

Traumatization in therapy, what does that mean:

Traumatization in therapy, what does that mean:

“Traumatization in therapy” refers to the potential for a person to experience emotional distress or reactivation of traumatic memories as a result of engaging in therapeutic processes. Therapy aims to help individuals explore and process their thoughts, emotions, and past experiences, including traumatic ones. However, discussing and revisiting traumatic events can sometimes lead to heightened emotional reactions, making the individual feel overwhelmed or distressed.

Therapists are trained to navigate these sensitive topics with care, ensuring that the therapeutic process is supportive and beneficial for the client. Traumatization in therapy can occur when the therapeutic approach, pace, or interventions are not attuned to the individual’s readiness or when the therapist unintentionally triggers intense emotional responses.

Effective therapists work collaboratively with clients, creating a safe and trusting environment. They use various therapeutic techniques, such as trauma-informed approaches, mindfulness, and grounding exercises, to help clients manage and process difficult emotions without traumatization. It’s crucial for therapists to be aware of the potential for trauma-related responses and to adapt their approach accordingly to promote healing and growth.

Shervan K Shahhian