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The healing science of Active Listening:

Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully engaging with and understanding a speaker by giving them your full attention, showing empathy, and providing feedback. While it may not be considered a “healing science” in the traditional sense, it is a valuable skill that can have therapeutic and positive effects on relationships and well-being. Here’s how active listening can be seen as a form of healing in various contexts:

Therapeutic Relationships: Active listening is a fundamental skill in counseling, therapy, and psychiatry. Therapists use active listening to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to express their thoughts and feelings. This process can help individuals heal by providing them with an opportunity to explore their emotions, gain insight into their concerns, and develop coping strategies.

Conflict Resolution: In conflicts or disputes, active listening can facilitate healing and resolution. When people feel heard and understood, it can reduce tension and lead to a more productive dialogue. By actively listening to each other’s perspectives, parties can work towards finding common ground and healing the rift between them.

Supportive Relationships: In personal relationships, active listening can strengthen emotional bonds and foster healing during difficult times. When a friend or family member actively listens, it can validate one’s feelings, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide comfort. This can be particularly helpful during times of grief, loss, or emotional distress.

Self-Reflection and Self-Healing: Active listening is not limited to listening to others; it also involves listening to oneself. Practicing self-reflection and self-compassion through active listening to your own thoughts and emotions can aid in personal growth, self-discovery, and emotional healing.

Stress Reduction: Actively listening to soothing sounds, such as nature sounds, calming music, or guided meditation, can have a healing effect on stress and anxiety. This form of active listening can help individuals relax, reduce stress hormones, and promote overall well-being.

In summary, while active listening may not be a formal “healing science,” it is a powerful communication skill that plays a crucial role in various healing processes. By fostering understanding, empathy, and connection, active listening can contribute to emotional healing, conflict resolution, and the development of supportive relationships.
​Shervan K Shahhian

How to Focus on Progress, Not Perfection:

Focusing on progress rather than perfection is a valuable mindset that can help you become more productive, reduce stress, and achieve your goals. Here are some strategies to help you make this shift in your thinking:

Set Realistic Goals:

• Break your larger goals into smaller, achievable steps or milestones.
• Ensure that your goals are specific, measurable, and time-bound (SMART goals).

Embrace Imperfection:

• Understand that making mistakes and encountering setbacks are part of the learning process.
• View mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow rather than as failures.

Prioritize Learning:

• Shift your focus from the end result to the journey of learning and improvement.
• Ask yourself what you’ve learned from each experience, even if it didn’t go as planned.

Practice Mindfulness:

• Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help you stay present and reduce anxiety about the future or past failures.
• Focus on the task at hand without worrying about achieving perfection.

Avoid All-or-Nothing Thinking:

• Don’t view success as an all-or-nothing outcome. Progress is a continuum, and even small steps forward are meaningful.
• Avoid self-criticism when things don’t go perfectly.

Celebrate Small Wins:

• Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
• This positive reinforcement can motivate you to keep making progress.

Practice Self-Compassion:

• Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend.
• Remember that everyone makes mistakes and faces challenges.

Set Realistic Expectations:

• Be realistic about what you can accomplish within a given timeframe.
• Avoid overloading yourself with tasks or setting unattainable standards.

Focus on the Process:

• Pay attention to the actions and behaviors that contribute to your progress.
• Trust that consistent effort over time will lead to improvement.

Seek Feedback:

• Solicit feedback from others to gain different perspectives on your progress.
• Use constructive criticism to refine your approach.

Learn from Others:

• Study the journeys of successful people in your field. They likely encountered setbacks and made gradual progress.
• Understand that success rarely happens overnight.

Limit Perfectionism:

• Perfectionism can lead to procrastination and anxiety. Try to recognize when it’s hindering your progress and make an effort to let go of unrealistic standards.

Keep a Progress Journal:

• Document your achievements, no matter how small, in a journal.
• Reflect on your progress regularly to stay motivated.

Remember that progress is a continuous process, and it’s natural to encounter obstacles along the way. By shifting your focus away from perfection and towards improvement, you can reduce stress and increase your overall satisfaction with your personal and professional endeavors.

Shervan K Shahhian

How can we overcome Financial shame:

Overcoming financial shame can be a challenging but essential step towards achieving financial well-being and a healthier relationship with money. Here are some strategies to help you address and overcome financial shame:

Recognize and Acknowledge Your Feelings: Start by acknowledging and accepting that you have feelings of financial shame. Understand that it’s a common emotion, and many people experience it at some point in their lives.

Identify the Source of Shame: Try to pinpoint the specific reasons or events that have contributed to your financial shame. Understanding the root causes can help you address and work through these issues.

Seek Professional Help: Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who specializes in financial therapy or mental health. They can help you explore the underlying emotions and behaviors associated with your financial shame.

Educate Yourself: Enhance your financial literacy. Learning more about personal finance and money management can boost your confidence and reduce feelings of shame. There are many books, online courses, and resources available to help you improve your financial knowledge.

Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable financial goals and create a plan to reach them. Having a sense of purpose and direction with your finances can reduce shame and anxiety.

Create a Budget: Develop a budget that aligns with your financial goals. Tracking your income and expenses can give you a better understanding of your financial situation and help you make informed decisions.

Build a Support System: Share your feelings and experiences with a trusted friend or family member. They can provide emotional support and may even have helpful advice or resources.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and forgiving to yourself. Understand that everyone makes financial mistakes, and they can be valuable learning experiences.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Celebrate small victories and improvements in your financial situation. Remember that it’s a journey, and setbacks are a natural part of the process.

Avoid Comparisons: Avoid comparing your financial situation to others. People often present a polished image of their financial lives, which may not reflect reality. Focus on your own progress and goals.

Take Responsibility: While it’s important to be compassionate towards yourself, also take responsibility for your financial actions. Accepting responsibility is a crucial step in making positive changes.

Plan for the Future: Create a financial plan that outlines your long-term goals and how you intend to achieve them. Having a clear vision of your financial future can motivate you to move past shame and take action.

Practice Gratitude: Reflect on the positive aspects of your life and the things you are grateful for. Shifting your focus to gratitude can help counteract negative emotions.

Monitor and Adjust Your Progress: Regularly review your financial situation and adjust your goals and plans as needed. This proactive approach can help you stay on track and reduce feelings of shame.

Remember that overcoming financial shame is a process that takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and seek support when needed. By taking proactive steps and working on your relationship with money, you can gradually reduce financial shame and achieve greater financial well-being.
Shervan K Shahhian

If you believe you’ve encountered a setback or failure in your pursuit of a goal or objective, it’s important to remain resilient and ethical in your approach to success. Here are some steps you can take to pivot and find alternative, ethical paths to achieve your goals:

1. Reflect on the Failure: Take some time to analyze what went wrong and why you consider it a failure. Understanding the root causes can help you avoid making the same mistakes in the future.
2. Set Clear Goals: Reevaluate your goals and clarify what success means to you. Sometimes, the definition of success may need to be adjusted to align better with your values and circumstances.
3. Seek Feedback: Reach out to mentors, colleagues, or friends for feedback and advice. They might provide valuable insights and perspectives that can help you navigate your way to success.
4. Learn and Adapt: Be open to learning from your failures. Use them as opportunities to grow and adapt. Consider what skills, knowledge, or resources you may need to acquire to increase your chances of success in the future.
5. Explore Alternative Strategies: If your initial approach didn’t work, brainstorm and research alternative strategies that align with your ethical principles. Don’t be afraid to pivot and try something different.
6. Network and Collaborate: Building strong relationships with others in your field can open up new opportunities. Collaborative efforts and partnerships can sometimes lead to success where individual efforts fall short.
7. Stay Persistent: Success often requires perseverance. Don’t let a single failure discourage you. Keep pushing forward, and remember that many successful individuals faced setbacks along the way.
8. Maintain Ethical Integrity: While pursuing success, it’s crucial to uphold your ethical principles and values. Shortcuts or unethical practices may lead to short-term gains but can harm your reputation and long-term prospects.
9. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and opportunities that may arise unexpectedly. Sometimes, the path to success takes unexpected turns.
10. Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. A healthy body and mind are better equipped to handle challenges and pursue success ethically.

Remember that success is not always a linear path, and setbacks are a natural part of any journey. It’s how you respond to failure and adversity that ultimately defines your character and your chances of achieving your goals in an ethical and meaningful way.

Shervan K Shahhian

How to cultivate Mental Toughness:

Cultivating mental toughness is a valuable skill that can help you navigate life’s challenges and perform at your best, whether in sports, work, or daily life. Mental toughness involves resilience, perseverance, and the ability to stay focused and confident in the face of adversity. Here are some strategies to help you cultivate mental toughness:

1. Set Clear Goals: Define specific, achievable goals for yourself. Having clear objectives gives you a sense of purpose and direction, making it easier to stay motivated and resilient in the face of setbacks.
2. Develop a Growth Mindset: Embrace the idea that challenges and failures are opportunities for growth. Instead of seeing setbacks as failures, view them as learning experiences that can help you improve.
3. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Pay attention to your inner dialogue. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Encourage yourself, even in difficult situations. This can boost your self-confidence and resilience.
4. Visualization: Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse success and overcoming challenges. This can enhance your confidence and reduce anxiety in real-life situations.
5. Focus on Process, Not Outcome: Concentrate on the steps you need to take to achieve your goals rather than fixating on the end result. This helps you stay focused on what’s in your control.
6. Stay Committed: Commit to your goals and values, even when faced with adversity or temptation. Mental toughness often involves doing what needs to be done, even when you don’t feel like it.
7. Develop Emotional Regulation: Learn to manage your emotions effectively. This means not letting anger, frustration, or fear control your actions. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation can help.
8. Build Resilience: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity. To build it, face challenges head-on and learn from them. Surround yourself with a support network that can provide encouragement and perspective.
9. Challenge Comfort Zones: Growth occurs outside of your comfort zone. Push yourself to take on new challenges and gradually expand your comfort zone. This builds mental toughness over time.
10. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep can significantly impact your mental toughness. Physical well-being contributes to mental resilience.
11. Learn from Role Models: Study individuals who demonstrate mental toughness in their fields. Read about their experiences and strategies for overcoming obstacles.
12. Seek Professional Help: If you struggle with issues like anxiety or low self-esteem, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor. They can provide strategies and tools to help you build mental toughness.
13. Stay Persistent: Understand that building mental toughness is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and keep working on developing these skills.

Remember that mental toughness is not about suppressing emotions or denying difficulties. It’s about facing challenges with a positive and resilient mindset. With practice and commitment, you can cultivate mental toughness and become more resilient in the face of life’s trials.

Shervan K Shahhian

Is Prolonged sadness Depression:

Prolonged sadness can be a symptom of depression, but it is not necessarily the same as depression. Depression is a complex and multifaceted mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. It often involves a range of physical and emotional symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s daily life and functioning. To be diagnosed with clinical depression, an individual typically needs to meet specific criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). These criteria include experiencing symptoms like a depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, along with other symptoms such as changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of death or suicide. Prolonged sadness, on the other hand, may refer to feelings of sadness that last for an extended period but may not necessarily meet all the diagnostic criteria for clinical depression. It’s important to note that everyone experiences sadness from time to time, and sadness is a normal emotion. However, when sadness becomes persistent, severe, and interferes with a person’s ability to function in daily life, it could be indicative of a depressive disorder. If you or someone you know is experiencing prolonged sadness or any symptoms of depression, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these approaches. Depression is a treatable condition, and getting the right help can make a significant difference in a person’s quality of life.

Shervan K Shahhian

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy:

Possibly Dangerous Psychedelic-assisted therapy is an emerging field of mental health treatment that involves the use of Possibly Dangerous psychedelic substances, such as Possibly Dangerous psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), Possibly Dangerous MDMA (often referred to as ecstasy), Possibly Dangerous LSD, or Possibly Dangerous ayahuasca, in conjunction with psychotherapy. These Possibly Dangerous substances are sometimes called entheogens, that might cause Life Long Hallucinations, and they have been used in some cultures for certain rituals.

Here are some key aspects of Possibly Dangerous psychedelic-assisted therapy:

Clinical Setting: Possibly Dangerous Psychedelic therapy sessions typically take place in a controlled and supervised clinical or therapeutic setting, often with trained therapists or guides present to help clients navigate their Hallucinations and experiences.

Integration: The therapy doesn’t just involve taking the Possibly Dangerous psychedelic substances; it includes extensive preparation and integration sessions. These help individuals understand and make sense of their Possibly Dangerous psychedelic Hallucinations, and experiences.

Targeted Conditions: Possibly Dangerous Psychedelic-assisted therapy has shown to produce Hallucinations, promise in treating some of mental health conditions and existential distress in patients with “Terminal Illnesses”.

Neurobiological Mechanisms: Researchers have been studying the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the Possibly Dangerous and therapeutic effects of Possibly Dangerous psychedelics. These Possibly Dangerous substances can alter brain connectivity permanently and promote experiences of Life Long Hallucinations, ego dissolution, which can lead to Possibly Dangerous, profound insights and therapeutic breakthroughs.

Legality: The legal status of Possibly Dangerous psychedelics varies by country and or jurisdiction. Some regions have decriminalized or legalized certain Possibly Dangerous psychedelics for therapeutic or personal use, while others strictly prohibit their use.

Ongoing Research is needed: Research into possibly Dangerous psychedelic-assisted therapy has been growing among some individuals, and early clinical trials have shown some results. Some organizations and research institutions are exploring the Possibly Dangerous and possibly therapeutic potential of Possibly Dangerous psychedelics and seeking regulatory approvals for their use this Possibly Dangerous substance in therapy.

Safety Concerns: Psychedelics are Dangerous and powerful substances that can lead to intense, challenging experiences and possibly Life Long Hallucinations. Safety is a significant concerns about the use of these substances could be very Dangerous.

It’s important to note that while there is interest and in these possibly Dangerous and therapeutic potential of psychedelics, the field is still in its early stages, and more research is needed to fully understand their Dangers, safety and efficacy. Additionally, the use of psychedelics in therapy is not suitable for most and should be approached with a lot of caution.

Always consult with a professional and a legal healthcare provider or therapist for personalized advice and to determine if the possibly Dangerous psychedelic-assisted therapy is appropriate for your specific needs and circumstances.

Shervan K Shahhian

What are Mental health diagnosis based on:

Mental health diagnoses are based on a combination of clinical assessment, observations, and criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Here are the key components that contribute to mental health diagnoses:

1. Clinical Assessment: Mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, conduct clinical assessments by evaluating a person’s mental and emotional state. This assessment often includes interviews, discussions about symptoms and life experiences, and the collection of relevant information from the individual and sometimes from their family or close contacts.
2. Observation: Clinicians observe the individual’s behavior, thoughts, feelings, and interactions to gather information about their mental health. These observations can provide valuable insights into a person’s condition.
3. Diagnostic Criteria: The DSM (used primarily in the United States) and the ICD (used globally) provide standardized sets of diagnostic criteria for various mental health disorders. These criteria outline specific symptoms, duration, and other factors required for a diagnosis. Clinicians compare the individual’s symptoms and experiences to these criteria to determine if they meet the diagnostic threshold for a particular disorder.
4. Medical History: A person’s medical history, including any previous mental health diagnoses or treatment, can be crucial in making an accurate diagnosis. It helps clinicians understand the individual’s overall health and whether there are any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to their symptoms.
5. Psychological Testing: In some cases, clinicians may use psychological assessments and standardized tests to gather more objective data about a person’s mental health. These tests can measure cognitive functioning, personality traits, and specific symptoms associated with certain disorders.
6. Differential Diagnosis: Mental health professionals consider other potential explanations for an individual’s symptoms before arriving at a final diagnosis. This process, known as differential diagnosis, involves ruling out other medical or psychological conditions that may mimic the symptoms of the suspected disorder.
7. Collaboration: In many cases, mental health diagnoses are arrived at through collaboration among a team of professionals. This interdisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive assessment and accurate diagnosis.

It’s important to note that mental health diagnoses are not always clear-cut, and there can be overlap in symptoms between different disorders. Additionally, the accuracy of a diagnosis can depend on the skill and experience of the clinician conducting the assessment. Mental health professionals use their clinical judgment and expertise to make the best possible diagnosis based on the available information and guidelines. Diagnoses are dynamic and subject to revision as new information becomes available or as an individual’s condition changes over time.

Shervan K Shahhian

Mental health professionals and the diagnoses of Mental health disorders:
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​Mental health professionals play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Here are some key points to understand about their role in the diagnostic process:

Training and Qualifications: Mental health professionals can include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, and psychiatric nurses, among others. Each of these professions has specific training and qualifications for diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.

Assessment: The diagnostic process typically begins with an assessment, where the mental health professional gathers information about the individual’s symptoms, history, and current life circumstances. This can involve interviews, questionnaires, and sometimes medical tests to rule out physical causes of symptoms.

Diagnostic Criteria: Mental health professionals use diagnostic criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) to make a diagnosis. These manuals provide standardized criteria for various mental health disorders.

Multidisciplinary Approach: In many cases, mental health professionals work in multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care. For example, a psychiatrist might prescribe medication, while a psychologist provides therapy. Social workers can assist with accessing community resources, and nurses can monitor medication compliance and physical health.

Cultural Sensitivity: Mental health professionals must be culturally sensitive when making diagnoses. Cultural factors can influence how symptoms are expressed and perceived, and it’s important to consider these when evaluating an individual’s mental health.

Differential Diagnosis: Mental health professionals consider other potential causes for symptoms, such as medical conditions or substance abuse, before making a mental health diagnosis. They aim to rule out other possible explanations.

Treatment Planning: Once a diagnosis is made, mental health professionals work with the individual to develop a treatment plan. Treatment may include therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychotherapy), medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: Mental health professionals continue to monitor the individual’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to track improvement or address any new symptoms.

Confidentiality and Ethics: Mental health professionals are bound by ethical guidelines that include maintaining confidentiality and respecting the autonomy and dignity of their clients. This confidentiality helps create a safe space for individuals to discuss their mental health concerns.

Advocacy and Education: Mental health professionals often play a role in advocating for improved mental health services and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues. They may also provide education to clients and the community about mental health and wellness.

It’s important to note that the field of mental health is evolving, and there are ongoing discussions and debates about the nature of mental health diagnoses and the best approaches to assessment and treatment. Collaboration between professionals and a client-centered approach are essential to providing effective mental health care. Additionally, seeking help from a qualified mental health professional is crucial if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns.
​Shervan K Shahhian

Normal or abnormal mental health, is there a standard:

​The concept of “normal” or “abnormal” mental health is complex and can vary depending on cultural, societal, and individual factors. There is no universally agreed-upon standard for what constitutes normal or abnormal mental health because mental health exists on a spectrum, and what is considered normal in one context may be different in another.

Here are some key points to consider:

Cultural and Societal Variability: What is considered normal or abnormal can vary significantly across cultures and societies. Cultural norms, values, and expectations play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of mental health. Behavior or emotional expressions that might be seen as normal in one culture could be viewed as abnormal in another.

Individual Differences: Every person is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all definition of normal mental health. What is normal for one individual may not be the same for another. Factors such as genetics, upbringing, life experiences, and personal temperament all influence an individual’s mental health.

Context Matters: The context in which a person’s mental health is evaluated is essential. What might be considered a normal reaction to a traumatic event could be seen as abnormal if it occurs in the absence of such an event. Contextual factors, including life circumstances and stressors, can influence mental health.

Diagnosis and Mental Disorders: In clinical psychology and psychiatry, professionals use diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) to classify and diagnose mental disorders. These criteria help define what is considered a mental disorder, but they do not necessarily define normal mental health.

Stigma and Social Perceptions: Stigma and social attitudes about mental health can also influence perceptions of what is normal or abnormal. People may hesitate to seek help or disclose their mental health struggles due to fear of being labeled as abnormal or mentally ill.

In summary, there is no absolute standard for normal or abnormal mental health. It is a highly subjective and context-dependent concept influenced by cultural, societal, and individual factors. Mental health should be viewed as a continuum, with everyone having their unique mental health profile. The focus should be on promoting mental well-being, reducing stigma, and providing support and resources to individuals who may be experiencing distress or impairment in their daily lives, regardless of whether their experiences fit into a specific “normal” or “abnormal” category.
​Shervan K Shahhian