How to cope with Impulsivity & Emotional Dysregulation:

How to cope with Impulsivity & Emotional Dysregulation:

Coping with impulsivity and emotional dysregulation involves a mix of self-awareness, emotional management strategies, and behavioral techniques. I’ll provide a structured approach that integrates psychological and possibly intuitive insights.

1. Increase Self-Awareness

Mindfulness & Self-Observation: Regular meditation can help enhance your awareness of emotional triggers before they escalate.
Journaling: Write about emotional experiences and impulses to recognize patterns.
Check-in With Yourself: Set reminders to ask, “How am I feeling? What triggered this? What do I need?”

2. Regulate the Nervous System

Breathing Exercises:
Box breathing (inhale 4 sec, hold 4 sec, exhale 4 sec, hold 4 sec)
4–7–8 breathing (inhale 4 sec, hold 7 sec, exhale 8 sec)
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR): Reduces bodily tension associated with impulsivity.
Cold Exposure: Splashing cold water on your face or holding an ice cube can quickly reduce emotional intensity.

3. Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies

Delay the Impulse: Count to 10 before reacting, or distract yourself for 5–10 minutes.
Reframe Negative Thoughts: Identify and challenge cognitive distortions like “This is unbearable!” → Replace with “I can handle this; it’s just temporary.”
Use STOP Technique:
Stop
Take a deep breath
Observe thoughts and feelings
Proceed mindfully

4. Emotional Processing & Expression

Label Your Emotions: Instead of reacting, say “I am feeling X because Y happened.”
Use Artistic Expression: Painting, music, or writing can channel strong emotions productively.
Somatic Release: Engaging in movement (e.g., dance, shaking, or exercise) can help release pent-up emotional energy.

5. Behavioral Adjustments

Impulse Logs: Track your impulsive behaviors to identify trends.
Create Barriers: If you struggle with impulsive spending, remove saved payment details. If it’s reactive anger, practice pausing before speaking.
Develop “If-Then” Plans:
“If I feel overwhelmed, then I will take a walk instead of reacting.”
“If I am tempted to lash out, then I will take three deep breaths first.”

6. Energetic & Parapsychological Approaches

Shielding Techniques: Envision a protective energetic shield that helps filter out overwhelming stimuli.
Telepathic Self-Suggestions: Program your subconscious with phrases like “I remain calm and aware at all times.”

7. Seek Support When Needed

Therapy (CBT, DBT, ACT, or Mindfulness-Based Approaches): A therapist can help tailor strategies to your specific needs.
Group Support (e.g., Emotional Regulation Workshops): Engaging with others on a similar path can provide motivation and practical insights.
Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Late Diagnosed ADHD:

Understanding Late Diagnosed ADHD:

Late-diagnosed ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) refers to individuals who receive an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood rather than in childhood. This is becoming more common as awareness of ADHD in adults grows, especially in cases where symptoms were overlooked, misdiagnosed, or masked due to coping mechanisms.

Key Aspects of Late-Diagnosed ADHD:

1. Why Is ADHD Missed Until Adulthood?

Masking & Coping Strategies: Many adults with ADHD develop compensatory strategies that help them function, often leading to the condition going unnoticed.
Misdiagnosis: ADHD symptoms may be mistaken for anxiety, depression, or personality disorders.
Gender Bias: Women and girls, in particular, are often underdiagnosed due to presenting with inattentiveness rather than hyperactivity.
High Intelligence or Structure: Some individuals with ADHD thrive in structured environments (e.g., school), but struggle when that structure disappears in adulthood.

2. Common Symptoms in Adults

Executive Dysfunction: Difficulty with organization, time management, and prioritization.
Forgetfulness & Procrastination: Struggling to complete tasks, meet deadlines, or remember obligations.
Impulsivity & Emotional Dysregulation: Mood swings, frustration, and difficulty with impulse control.
Hyperfocus & Distractibility: Difficulty maintaining focus on necessary tasks but becoming deeply absorbed in specific interests.
Relationship & Work Challenges: Struggles with maintaining relationships, career stability, or finances.

3. Psychological Impact of a Late Diagnosis

Relief & Validation: Understanding that struggles weren’t due to laziness or personal failure.
Grief & Regret: Realizing missed opportunities or wondering how life might have been different with earlier support.
Identity Reframing: Learning to see oneself through a new lens and adjusting personal expectations.

4. Managing ADHD After a Late Diagnosis

See a Psychiatrist for Medications: Stimulants (non-stimulants might help with symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps develop practical coping strategies and address negative thought patterns.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Exercise, sleep regulation, mindfulness, and structured routines.
Community & Support Groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences.

Final Thoughts

Getting diagnosed later in life can be a transformative experience. It can bring clarity to past struggles and open doors to new ways of managing challenges. While there may be a period of adjustment, many people find that understanding their ADHD leads to increased self-acceptance and improved quality of life.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is the ADHD test like:

What is the ADHD test like:

The ADHD test typically involves a combination of self-report questionnaires, interviews, and sometimes cognitive or behavioral assessments.

Since ADHD is a clinical diagnosis, there’s no single definitive test, but the process usually includes:

Clinical Interview — A psychologist, psychiatrist, or doctor asks about symptoms, medical history, childhood behavior, and daily functioning.

Questionnaires & Rating Scales — Tools like the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) or Conners Rating Scales help assess attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

Observations & Reports — Teachers, parents, or partners may provide input on behaviors in different settings.

Neuropsychological Tests — Some assessments measure attention, working memory, and executive function, but these are not always necessary.

For adults, the process focuses on persistent symptoms from childhood into adulthood that affect work, relationships, or daily tasks.

Shervan K Shahhian

Internal family system (IFS), what is it:

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s. It is a form of psychotherapy that…

Shervan K Shahhian

Religious Abuse vs Religious Trauma:

negative experiences within a religious…

Jun 28, 2024

May 15, 2023

Foteini Ntelopoulo

Understanding Environmental triggers to Trauma and Stress:

Understanding Environmental triggers to Trauma and Stress:

Environmental triggers to trauma and stress are external factors that can evoke distressing emotions, memories, or physiological responses in an individual. These triggers can vary widely depending on a person’s past experiences, sensitivities, and coping mechanisms.

Here are some key categories of environmental triggers:

1. Sensory Triggers

Sounds — Loud noises, alarms, shouting, or sounds associated with a traumatic event (e.g., gunfire, explosions, car accidents).
Visual Cues — Certain images, places, or people that resemble past trauma (e.g., a hospital setting for someone who experienced a medical emergency).
Smells — Scents linked to distressing memories, such as smoke, alcohol, or perfumes.
Touch — Unwanted physical contact, textures, or sensations reminiscent of past trauma.
Tastes — Foods or drinks associated with a traumatic experience.

2. Social and Relational Triggers

Conflict and Arguments — Verbal fights, criticism, or rejection can reactivate old wounds.
Abandonment or Isolation — Being left out, ignored, or feeling unloved.
Authority Figures — Certain individuals (bosses, teachers, or police) may remind someone of past oppression or trauma.
Lack of Control — Feeling powerless in social situations or relationships.

3. Physical and Environmental Settings

Crowded Spaces — Malls, concerts, or packed public transport can be overwhelming.
Confined Spaces — Elevators, small rooms, or being trapped can trigger panic or anxiety.
Natural Disasters — Thunderstorms, earthquakes, or wildfires can evoke past trauma.
Medical Environments — Hospitals, clinics, or the sight of medical instruments may trigger distress.

4. Emotional and Psychological Triggers

Anniversaries — Specific dates related to past trauma (e.g., the anniversary of a loved one’s death).
Feeling Judged or Invalidated — Dismissal of emotions can lead to stress.
Failure or Perceived Incompetence — Situations where a person feels they are not good enough.
Loss of Control or Uncertainty — Feeling overwhelmed by an unpredictable situation.

5. Societal and Cultural Triggers

News and Media — Stories about violence, injustice, or discrimination can be distressing.
Discrimination and Prejudice — Racism, sexism, or other biases can trigger stress responses.
Political and Social Turmoil — War, protests, or instability can evoke fear and anxiety.

Coping with Environmental Triggers

Identify Triggers — Keep track of situations that cause distress.
Develop Grounding Techniques — Use deep breathing, mindfulness, or sensory grounding (e.g., focusing on an object).
Create Safe Spaces — Avoid known triggers when possible and establish calming environments.
Seek Support — Talking to trusted friends, family, or professionals can help process triggers.
Practice Self-Regulation — Engage in activities like meditation, journaling, or physical exercise to reduce stress responses.

Shervan K Shahhian

The importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship:

The importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship:

Building a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. It fosters trust, emotional safety, and collaboration between the therapist and the client, enabling meaningful progress in healing and personal growth. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Trust & Safety
Clients need to feel safe to open up about their deepest emotions and struggles. A strong therapeutic alliance helps create a non-judgmental space where they can be vulnerable.
Enhances Treatment Effectiveness
Research consistently shows that the quality of the therapist-client relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy outcomes, often more than the specific therapeutic techniques used.
Encourages Openness & Honesty
When clients trust their therapist, they are more likely to share their true thoughts and feelings, which allows for deeper exploration and resolution of issues.
Provides Emotional Support & Validation
Many clients may not have a strong support system outside of therapy. A therapist who listens, understands, and validates their experiences can be incredibly healing.
Motivates Clients to Engage in the Process
A strong relationship makes clients feel valued and understood, increasing their willingness to participate in therapy and implement changes in their lives.
Helps Navigate Resistance & Challenges
Therapy can bring up difficult emotions or require behavioral changes. A good therapeutic alliance helps clients push through discomfort, knowing they have support.
Fosters Long-Term Personal Growth
A strong therapeutic relationship models healthy interpersonal dynamics, helping clients improve their relationships outside of therapy as well.
How to Build a Strong Therapeutic Relationship
Empathy & Active Listening – Understanding the client’s emotions and perspectives without judgment.
Consistency & Reliability – Being a dependable presence that clients can trust.
Authenticity & Warmth – Genuine engagement fosters connection and rapport.
Collaboration – Working together on goals rather than imposing solutions.
Respect for Autonomy – Recognizing and honoring the client’s agency in their healing journey. Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Environmental triggers to Trauma and Stress:

Understanding Environmental triggers to Trauma and Stress:

Here are some key categories of environmental triggers:

1. Sensory Triggers

Sounds — Loud noises, alarms, shouting, or sounds associated with a traumatic event (e.g., gunfire, explosions, car accidents).
Visual Cues — Certain images, places, or people that resemble past trauma (e.g., a hospital setting for someone who experienced a medical emergency).
Smells — Scents linked to distressing memories, such as smoke, alcohol, or perfumes.
Touch — Unwanted physical contact, textures, or sensations reminiscent of past trauma.
Tastes — Foods or drinks associated with a traumatic experience.

2. Social and Relational Triggers

Conflict and Arguments — Verbal fights, criticism, or rejection can reactivate old wounds.
Abandonment or Isolation — Being left out, ignored, or feeling unloved.
Authority Figures — Certain individuals (bosses, teachers, or police) may remind someone of past oppression or trauma.
Lack of Control — Feeling powerless in social situations or relationships.

3. Physical and Environmental Settings

Crowded Spaces — Malls, concerts, or packed public transport can be overwhelming.
Confined Spaces — Elevators, small rooms, or being trapped can trigger panic or anxiety.
Natural Disasters — Thunderstorms, earthquakes, or wildfires can evoke past trauma.
Medical Environments — Hospitals, clinics, or the sight of medical instruments may trigger distress.

4. Emotional and Psychological Triggers

Anniversaries — Specific dates related to past trauma (e.g., the anniversary of a loved one’s death).
Feeling Judged or Invalidated — Dismissal of emotions can lead to stress.
Failure or Perceived Incompetence — Situations where a person feels they are not good enough.
Loss of Control or Uncertainty — Feeling overwhelmed by an unpredictable situation.

5. Societal and Cultural Triggers

News and Media — Stories about violence, injustice, or discrimination can be distressing.
Discrimination and Prejudice — Racism, sexism, or other biases can trigger stress responses.
Political and Social Turmoil — War, protests, or instability can evoke fear and anxiety.

Coping with Environmental Triggers

Identify Triggers — Keep track of situations that cause distress.
Develop Grounding Techniques — Use deep breathing, mindfulness, or sensory grounding (e.g., focusing on an object).
Create Safe Spaces — Avoid known triggers when possible and establish calming environments.
Seek Support — Talking to trusted friends, family, or professionals can help process triggers.
Practice Self-Regulation — Engage in activities like meditation, journaling, or physical exercise to reduce stress responses.

Shervan K Shahhian

Multiple Drug use and abuse are more likely to cause Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, and Personality disorders, why:

Multiple Drug use and abuse are more likely to cause Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, and Personality disorders, why:

Multiple drug use and abuse can increase the risk of mental health disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and personality disorders for several reasons:

Neurochemical Imbalance: Drugs alter the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which regulate mood, thought patterns, and behavior. For example, substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, and hallucinogens can overstimulate the brain’s reward system or affect the serotonin and dopamine systems, which play crucial roles in mood regulation. Over time, this disruption can increase the risk of developing conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

Genetic Vulnerability: Some people may be genetically predisposed to mental health disorders, and substance abuse can act as a trigger or exacerbate underlying vulnerabilities. For example, individuals with a family history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may be more likely to develop these conditions if they engage in heavy drug use.

Chronic Stress: Drug abuse often leads to a stressful lifestyle, with financial, relational, and legal problems. Chronic stress can trigger or worsen mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and psychotic disorders. Prolonged exposure to stress can damage brain areas involved in emotional regulation and cognition, further increasing the risk of mental health disorders.

Cognitive Impairment: Drugs, especially when used in combination, can impair cognitive function, such as memory, concentration, and decision-making. Long-term drug use can lead to changes in brain structure and function that mimic or trigger the symptoms of certain mental health disorders.

Hallucinogens and Psychosis: Drugs like LSD, PCP, or synthetic cannabinoids can induce hallucinations and delusions, which may mimic or trigger psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. In some cases, prolonged use of these substances can lead to persistent psychosis, even after the drug is no longer in the system.

Mood Regulation: Drugs like alcohol, marijuana, and stimulants can have a direct effect on mood, either by elevating it (euphoria) or causing depressive episodes. Substance-induced mood disorders can evolve into long-term conditions, such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, especially when the individual is using drugs to cope with underlying issues.

Personality Changes: Chronic drug use can affect personality and behavior, often leading to erratic or impulsive actions. Over time, this can lead to personality disorders, especially when combined with environmental factors like trauma or unstable childhoods.

In summary, the combination of neurochemical changes, genetic vulnerability, stress, cognitive impairment, and mood dysregulation associated with drug abuse can significantly increase the risk of developing serious mental health disorders.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding the 7 Types of ADD:

https://danielamenmd.com

Understanding the 7 Types of ADD:

Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist specializing in brain health, identified seven types of ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) based on brain imaging studies. These types go beyond the traditional understanding of ADHD as just hyperactive or inattentive. Each type has different symptoms and

The 7 Types of ADD:

Classic ADD

Symptoms: Inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, hyperactivity, restlessness.
Brain Pattern: Decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex when focusing.
Treatment: Stimulant medications (e.g., Ritalin, Adderall), exercise, protein-rich diet.

Inattentive ADD

Symptoms: Easily distracted, disorganized, forgetful, trouble following through.
Brain Pattern: Reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex.
Treatment: Stimulants, diet, coaching for structure and organization.

Over-Focused ADD

Symptoms: Trouble shifting attention, obsessive thoughts, difficulty with flexibility, opposition to change.

Brain Pattern: Overactivity in the anterior cingulate gyrus.
Treatment: Strategies to increase dopamine and serotonin (e.g., exercise, meditation, supplements).

Temporal Lobe ADD

Symptoms: Irritability, mood swings, memory problems, aggression, temper outbursts.
Brain Pattern: Dysfunction in the temporal lobes.
Treatment: Anticonvulsants, psychotherapy, relaxation techniques.

Limbic ADD

Symptoms: Persistent sadness, low energy, low self-esteem, negativity, but without full clinical depression.

Brain Pattern: Overactivity in the limbic system.
Treatment: Boosting dopamine (e.g., exercise, bright light therapy), targeted medications.

Ring of Fire ADD

Symptoms: Extreme moodiness, overreaction, anxiety, sensitivity to sounds and lights, oppositional behavior.
Brain Pattern: Hyperactivity across the brain.
Treatment: Elimination diets (to remove food sensitivities), calming supplements (e.g., GABA, magnesium), lifestyle adjustments.

Anxious ADD

Symptoms: Inattention combined with chronic anxiety, physical stress symptoms, fearfulness, tension.
Brain Pattern: Overactivity in the basal ganglia.
Treatment: Relaxation strategies, GABA-promoting foods, supplements, and sometimes anti-anxiety medication.

Each type responds differently to treatments, which is why a personalized approach is key. Dr. Amen emphasizes brain imaging and lifestyle modifications alongside medication and therapy.

https://danielamenmd.com

Shervan K Shahhian

Cultural Biases in Mental Health:

Cultural Biases in Mental Health:

Cultural biases in mental health refer to the ways in which cultural factors — such as values, beliefs, norms, and traditions — can influence the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.

These biases can manifest in various ways, such as:

Diagnostic Practices: Certain mental health conditions may be interpreted differently based on cultural norms. For example, in some cultures, behaviors that are considered normal or even desirable may be labeled as disorders in others. For instance, certain forms of emotional expression or family dynamics might be seen as abnormal in Western cultures but perfectly acceptable in other cultural contexts.

Treatment Approaches: The type of therapy or treatment considered effective can be influenced by cultural views on health and wellness. Some cultures may prefer spiritual healing or community-based practices over psychotherapy or medication. Cultural biases in mental health professionals can lead to misunderstanding or dismissing the validity of these practices.

Stigma and Perception: Mental health stigma varies greatly across cultures. In some cultures, mental illness may be seen as a personal weakness, shameful, or taboo, which can lead to individuals avoiding seeking help or facing discrimination.

Cultural Adaptation of Tools: Mental health assessment tools, like questionnaires or scales, are often developed with a specific cultural context in mind. If these tools are used outside that context, they may not be valid or reliable. For example, a mental health assessment designed in a Western context may fail to accurately assess mental health in non-Western populations.

Language Barriers: Different cultures may have distinct ways of expressing emotions or psychological distress. When mental health professionals are not aware of these differences, they may misinterpret the symptoms or fail to communicate effectively, which can lead to inaccurate diagnoses or ineffective treatments.

Cultural Competence: Mental health professionals who lack cultural competence (the ability to understand, appreciate, and interact with people from cultures other than their own) may unintentionally perpetuate biases that affect the quality of care.

Addressing these biases involves cultural competence training for mental health professionals, developing culturally appropriate diagnostic tools, and creating more inclusive treatment models that respect diverse cultural perspectives on mental health.

Shervan K Shahhian

The Mental Health Impact of Unidentified Aerial Vehicles:

The Mental Health Impact of Unidentified Aerial Vehicles:

The presence and increasing awareness of Unidentified Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), often associated with unidentified flying objects (UFOs) or Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs), can have significant mental health implications, both individually and collectively.

Here are some key aspects of its impact:

1. Anxiety and Fear

Many people experience fear and anxiety due to the unknown nature of UAVs/UAPs. The idea that they could be extraterrestrial or beyond human control can trigger existential distress.
Witnesses of UAP encounters may develop paranoia or heightened vigilance, fearing government surveillance, alien abduction, or secret military experiments.

2. Psychological Distress in Witnesses

People who claim to have seen a UAP often report feelings of isolation, disbelief from others, and difficulty processing their experience.
Some witnesses suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, and social withdrawal.

3. Cognitive Dissonance and Worldview Disruption

The idea that mainstream science, governments, and institutions may be hiding or suppressing UAP information creates cognitive dissonance for some individuals.
Those deeply invested in materialistic or religious worldviews may struggle with integrating UAP phenomena into their existing belief systems, leading to existential crises.

4. Obsession and Paranoia

Some individuals become obsessed with uncovering the truth about UAPs, leading to compulsive research, conspiracy thinking, and paranoia.
Excessive focus on the phenomenon can result in social withdrawal and neglect of everyday responsibilities.

5. The Role of Disclosure and Media Influence

Official government acknowledgment of UAPs can validate concerns but also cause widespread uncertainty and fear.
Sensationalized media coverage can amplify hysteria, while secrecy fuels speculation and mistrust in institutions.

6. Spiritual and Psychological Awakening

On a more positive note, some people experience a sense of expanded consciousness, feeling that UAP encounters or knowledge about them open the door to greater cosmic awareness.
This can lead to personal growth, deeper philosophical inquiry, and a shift in perspective about humanity’s place in the universe.

Shervan K Shahhian