medicine – LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION

Animal Magnetism, and the early theory of Hypnosis:

“Animal Magnetism” :

“Animal Magnetism” was one of the earliest theories of hypnosis.

It was proposed in the late 18th century by Franz Anton Mesmer (1734–1815), a German physician. Mesmer believed that:

All living beings were influenced by a universal fluid or energy, which he called “animal magnetism.”
Illness arose when this fluid was blocked or out of balance.
Healing could occur by restoring its natural flow, often through gestures, passes of the hands, or the use of magnets.

Mesmer’s dramatic “magnetic” sessions often put patients into trance-like states, with convulsions, fainting, or calm relaxation. While his theory of an invisible magnetic fluid was eventually discredited, the altered states of consciousness he induced laid the foundation for later study of hypnosis.

Over time, James Braid (1795–1860) reframed these phenomena scientifically, coining the term hypnotism in the 1840s, moving the field away from “animal magnetism” toward psychology and suggestion.

Here’s a clear timeline showing how Mesmer’s animal magnetism evolved into modern hypnosis:

18th Century — Mesmer and Animal Magnetism

1770s–1780s — Franz Anton Mesmer proposes animal magnetism, a universal life force.
He uses magnets and hand passes to “realign” this force.
Patients often enter trance-like states, some showing dramatic reactions.
1784 — A French Royal Commission (including Benjamin Franklin) investigates and concludes the effects are due to imagination and suggestion, not magnetic fluid

19th Century — Hypnotism Emerges

1810s–1830s — Marquis de Puységur (Mesmer’s student) notices patients can enter a calm, suggestible sleep-like state (he calls it artificial somnambulism).
1840s — James Braid, a Scottish surgeon, studies these states scientifically.
Rejects Mesmer’s “magnetic fluid.”
Coins the term “hypnotism” (from Hypnos, Greek god of sleep).
Defines hypnosis as a psychological state involving focused attention and heightened suggestibility.
Mid-1800s — Hypnosis used for anesthesia in surgery before chemical anesthetics become widespread.

Late 19th — Early 20th Century — Psychology & Therapy

Jean-Martin Charcot (Paris) studies hypnosis in hysteria patients; treats it as a neurological condition.
Hippolyte Bernheim & the Nancy School emphasize suggestion as the key therapeutic factor.
Sigmund Freud experiments with hypnosis before developing psychoanalysis.

Mid-20th Century — Ericksonian Revolution

Milton H. Erickson (1901–1980) transforms hypnosis into a flexible therapeutic tool.
Moves away from authoritarian commands toward indirect suggestion, storytelling, and metaphor.
Develops Ericksonian Hypnosis, influencing psychotherapy, family therapy, and NLP.

Modern Day

Hypnosis is seen as a natural altered state of consciousness involving focused attention, relaxation, and openness to suggestion.
Widely used in clinical psychology, medicine, dentistry, trauma recovery, pain management, and habit change.
Scientific research focuses on brain imaging, attention, and the mechanisms of suggestibility.

In short:
Mesmer (mystical energy) → Braid (scientific hypnotism) → Charcot/Bernheim (medical & psychological study) → Erickson (therapeutic art) → modern evidence-based hypnosis.

Shervan K Shahhian

The treatment of Delirium, a great explanation:

The treatment of Delirium, a great explanation:

(CONSULT a QUALIFIED MEDICAL DOCTOR, FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION and TREATMENT.)

Delirium is a medical condition characterized by a sudden onset of confusion, altered consciousness, and difficulty focusing attention. It often occurs in older adults or individuals with underlying medical conditions. It can be caused by various factors, including infections, medication side effects, metabolic imbalances, and other medical issues.

The treatment of delirium involves addressing the underlying causes and providing supportive care. Here’s a comprehensive explanation:

Identify and Treat Underlying Causes:

Medical Evaluation: A thorough medical assessment is crucial to identify the root cause of delirium. This may involve blood tests, imaging studies, and other diagnostic measures.
Infections: If an infection is present, such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia, appropriate antibiotics or antiviral medications are prescribed.
Medication Review: Discontinuing or adjusting medications that may contribute to delirium is essential. This includes sedatives, anticholinergic drugs, and medications with psychoactive effects.

Supportive Care:

Environmental Modifications: Create a calm and familiar environment to reduce confusion. Minimize noise, ensure proper lighting, and provide familiar objects from the patient’s home.
Reorientation: Consistently orient the patient to their surroundings, time, and people. Regularly remind them of essential information to enhance their understanding.
Assistance with Basic Needs: Ensure the patient’s basic needs are met, including hydration, nutrition, and sleep. Addressing these factors can contribute to overall improvement.

Pharmacological Interventions:

(CONSULT a QUALIFIED MEDICAL DOCTOR, FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION and TREATMENT.)

Psychotropic Medications: In some cases, especially when agitation or severe behavioral disturbances are present, certain medications may be considered by Qualified Medical Doctors.

Multidisciplinary Approach:

Collaboration among Healthcare Professionals: Delirium management often involves a team approach, including physicians, nurses, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals working together to address the patient’s specific needs.

Family and Caregiver Involvement:

Education: Providing education to family members and caregivers about delirium helps them understand the condition and actively participate in the patient’s care.
Emotional Support: Emotional support and reassurance can be valuable for both the patient and their caregivers.

It’s important to note that prompt identification and intervention are crucial for a better prognosis in cases of delirium. Additionally, (CONSULT a QUALIFIED MEDICAL DOCTOR, FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION and TREATMENT.) preventive measures, such as minimizing the use of sedative medications in vulnerable populations, can help reduce the risk of delirium. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice based on the individual’s specific situation.

Shervan K Shahhian

Does Genetics cause Intellectual Disability (I.D.):

Does genetics cause Intellectual Disability (I.D.):

Intellectual disability can have various causes, and genetics is one of them. Genetic factors can contribute to intellectual disabilities in some cases. There are two main types of genetic causes:

Inherited Genetic Conditions: Some intellectual disabilities are caused by genetic conditions that are passed down from parents to their children. Examples include Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome. These conditions result from abnormalities in specific genes or chromosomal structures.

Spontaneous Genetic Mutations: In some cases, genetic mutations can occur spontaneously, without being inherited from parents. These mutations may affect the development and function of the brain, leading to intellectual disabilities. Not all genetic mutations associated with intellectual disabilities are inherited.

It’s important to note that while genetics can play a role, environmental factors can also contribute to intellectual disabilities. Factors such as prenatal exposure to toxins, complications during pregnancy or childbirth, and early childhood experiences can influence intellectual development.

Additionally, there are cases of intellectual disabilities where the exact cause is unknown, and a combination of genetic and environmental factors may be involved. The field of genetics and intellectual disabilities is complex, and ongoing research aims to understand the intricate interactions between genetic and environmental influences.

Shervan K Shahhian