Empathy, what does it mean exactly:

Empathy, what does it mean exactly:

Empathy is the ability to understand, share, and connect with the feelings or experiences of others.

It involves not only recognizing what someone else is going through but also being able to emotionally resonate with them. Empathy has a few layers:

Cognitive empathy: Understanding someone else’s thoughts and feelings from a mental standpoint. It’s about grasping what the other person is experiencing, but not necessarily feeling it yourself.

Emotional empathy: Feeling what another person feels. It’s like “catching” their emotions and experiencing them on an emotional level.

Compassionate empathy: Beyond understanding and feeling, compassionate empathy leads to taking action. It motivates you to support or help the person in need.

In short, empathy connects people by allowing us to step into others’ shoes, whether through intellectual understanding or shared emotional experience. Does this align with how you’ve thought about empathy?

Intellectual understanding:

Intellectual understanding, in the context of empathy, refers to the ability to grasp or comprehend another person’s thoughts, emotions, or situation without necessarily sharing in those feelings. It’s more about mentally recognizing what someone is going through. For example, if a friend tells you they’re struggling with stress at work, intellectual empathy would involve understanding why they feel that way, what causes that stress, and what it might be like for them, even if you’re not feeling stressed yourself.

This type of empathy can help you respond thoughtfully and offer advice or support, even if you don’t fully experience the emotions the other person is having. It’s the “knowing” part of empathy without the emotional “feeling” part.

Emotional empathy:

Emotional empathy goes deeper than intellectual understanding. It involves feeling what the other person is feeling, almost as if you’re emotionally experiencing their situation alongside them. It’s the ability to “catch” their emotions — whether it’s sadness, joy, frustration, or excitement. This kind of empathy helps you connect with others on a more intimate, emotional level.

For example, if a friend is going through a tough time, emotional empathy would make you feel their pain or sadness too, almost like you’re sharing the burden with them. It helps create strong bonds between people because you’re not just understanding their experience but also emotionally resonating with it.

Emotional empathy can sometimes feel intense because you’re directly affected by the emotions of others, but it also makes interactions feel more genuine and compassionate.

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

Schema Therapy, how does it work:

Schema Therapy, how does it work:

Schema Therapy is an integrative form of psychotherapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, and Gestalt therapy to address deep-rooted patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving known as schemas (or early maladaptive schemas). It was developed by Jeffrey Young primarily to treat personality disorders, chronic depression, and other long-standing emotional difficulties.

How Schema Therapy Works:

Identifying Maladaptive Schemas

Schemas are deeply ingrained patterns of beliefs and behaviors that develop in childhood or adolescence due to unmet emotional needs.
Examples include abandonment, mistrust, emotional deprivation, failure, unrelenting standards, and more.

Understanding Schema Modes

Schema modes are momentary emotional states and coping responses triggered by schemas.
Common modes include the Vulnerable Child, Angry Child, Detached Protector, and Punitive Parent.
Therapy aims to weaken maladaptive modes and strengthen the Healthy Adult mode.

Healing Core Emotional Wounds

The therapist uses experiential techniques (e.g., imagery rescripting, chair work) to help the client reprocess painful memories and experiences.
This helps rewrite negative beliefs developed in early life.

Cognitive Restructuring

Clients learn to challenge and change self-defeating beliefs tied to schemas using cognitive techniques.
This involves recognizing irrational thoughts and replacing them with healthier perspectives.

Behavioral Pattern Change

Clients work on breaking unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g., avoidance, overcompensation) and developing healthier behaviors.
Role-playing and real-life assignments help reinforce new patterns.

Therapeutic Relationship (Limited Reparenting)

The therapist provides a corrective emotional experience by acting as a nurturing, supportive figure.
This allows the client to experience unmet childhood needs in a safe therapeutic environment.

Who Benefits from Schema Therapy?

Schema Therapy is particularly effective for:

Personality disorders (e.g., Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder)
Chronic depression and anxiety
Relationship difficulties and attachment issues
Childhood trauma survivors
People who struggle with self-sabotage and emotional dysregulation
Shervan K Shahhian

Self-Obsession, can it be cured:

Self-Obsession, can it be cured:

Self-obsession isn’t necessarily something that needs to be “cured” like a disease, but it can be managed and transformed into a healthier form of self-awareness and self-growth. If it reaches an extreme where it interferes with relationships, work, or overall well-being, addressing it through self-reflection, therapy, or behavioral changes can help.

Ways to Overcome Self-Obsession:

Develop Self-Awareness — Recognize when your thoughts and actions are overly self-focused. Journaling or mindfulness can help.
Practice Empathy — Engage in active listening and try to understand others’ perspectives. Volunteering or helping others can shift focus away from the self.
Challenge Negative Thought Patterns — Cognitive-behavioral techniques can help break self-centered worries and ruminations.
Engage in Meaningful Activities — Pursuing hobbies, creative work, or learning new skills can redirect focus outward.
Seek Professional Help if Needed — Therapy (like cognitive-behavioral therapy) can help address deeper issues driving self-obsession, such as insecurity or trauma.
Cultivate Gratitude — Keeping a gratitude journal can shift the focus from oneself to appreciation for others and life in general.

If self-obsession is driven by narcissism, the approach to overcoming it depends on its severity. Narcissism exists on a spectrum, from mild traits to full-blown Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). While deeply ingrained narcissistic traits can be difficult to change, self-awareness, accountability, and therapy can help manage and reduce their impact.

Can Narcissism Be Cured?

Mild narcissistic traits (e.g., self-absorption, need for validation) can be managed through self-reflection, humility, and intentional personal growth.
Severe narcissism (NPD) is a personality disorder, meaning it’s deeply ingrained in a person’s psyche. While it cannot be “cured” like a disease, it can be treated with therapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), or Schema Therapy.
The biggest challenge is that many narcissists don’t recognize their own issues and resist change. Those who truly want to improve can make progress, but it requires consistent effort and professional help.

Steps to Overcome Narcissistic Self-Obsession:

Develop Self-Awareness — Recognize narcissistic behaviors and how they impact others.
Practice Empathy — Make a conscious effort to understand others’ emotions and perspectives.
Challenge Grandiosity — Accept that perfection is unattainable and that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Take Responsibility — Acknowledge mistakes rather than shifting blame or seeking external validation.
Seek Therapy — A therapist can help address deep-rooted insecurities and defense mechanisms.
Build Meaningful Relationships — Focus on genuine connections rather than admiration-based interactions.
Reduce External Validation Seeking — Learn to find inner fulfillment rather than depending on others’ praise.

Shervan K Shahhian

Can winter negatively affect a person’s mood:

Can winter negatively affect a person’s mood:

Yes, winter can negatively affect a person’s mood, primarily due to factors like reduced sunlight, colder temperatures, and shorter days. This phenomenon is often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or the “winter blues.”

Here are some key reasons why winter might impact mood:

Reduced Sunlight:

Less exposure to sunlight can disrupt the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and reduce serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation.
Low sunlight can also decrease the production of vitamin D, which plays a role in mood and energy levels.

Shorter Days:

Limited daylight hours may lead to feelings of lethargy or increased sleepiness.
People may spend more time indoors, which can lead to reduced physical activity and social interaction, both of which are vital for mental well-being.

Cold Temperatures:

Cold weather may discourage outdoor activities and exercise, which are essential for maintaining a positive mood.
Some individuals may find the harshness of winter isolating or stressful, especially if it impacts daily routines.

Psychological Factors:

The end-of-year holidays can heighten stress or loneliness for some people, particularly if they experience financial or social pressures.
Persistent gray or gloomy weather can exacerbate feelings of sadness or fatigue.

Coping Strategies

Increase Light Exposure: Spend time outdoors during daylight hours or use a light therapy box.
Stay Active: Engage in regular physical exercise to boost endorphins.
Socialize: Maintain connections with friends and family to combat isolation.
Nutrition: Ensure a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support mental health.
Seek Help: If feelings of sadness or depression persist, consulting a mental health professional can provide tailored strategies or treatments.

If you think this might be affecting you or someone you know, seek professional help and pay attention to these factors can help mitigate the effects of winter on mood.

Shervan K Shahhian

Deep Hypnosis:

Deep hypnosis refers to a heightened state of focused attention, relaxation, and suggestibility. It is often described as a profoundly altered state of consciousness, where the individual experiences a deep trance-like condition that allows access to subconscious thoughts, memories, and emotions. In this state, people can be highly responsive to suggestions, making it a powerful tool for therapeutic purposes, personal growth, or exploration of the mind.

Key Aspects of Deep Hypnosis:

Trance State: The individual enters a deep state of relaxation where the conscious mind becomes less dominant, allowing the subconscious mind to be more accessible.
Heightened Suggestibility: In this state, the person is more open to suggestions, which can be used for positive behavioral changes, such as quitting smoking, overcoming fears, or reducing stress.
Relaxation: The body and mind are deeply relaxed, often producing a sense of calmness and comfort.
Access to the Subconscious: Deep hypnosis can help individuals uncover suppressed emotions, forgotten memories, or insights into personal issues.
Guided Process: Usually facilitated by a trained hypnotist or hypnotherapist who leads the individual into and through the hypnotic state.

Uses of Deep Hypnosis:

Therapeutic Hypnosis: Used in hypnotherapy to treat phobias, anxiety, addictions, and trauma.
Pain Management: Helps manage chronic pain or reduce discomfort during medical procedures.
Personal Development: Enhances focus, self-confidence, and goal achievement.
Past-Life Regression: Some people explore deep hypnosis for spiritual or metaphysical purposes to “access” past-life memories (though this is controversial).

Common Misconceptions:

Not Mind Control: People in hypnosis maintain control over their actions and cannot be forced to do anything against their will.
Not Sleep: While deeply relaxed, individuals remain aware of their surroundings and can recall the session afterward.
Variable Depths: Not everyone experiences the same depth of hypnosis. Some may enter deep states easily, while others may remain in lighter trances.

Shervan K Shahhian

Parapsychology and Subliminal Stimuli:

Subliminal stimuli in parapsychology refers to sensory inputs that are below the threshold of conscious perception but may still influence a person’s thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. These stimuli can include visual, auditory, or even tactile sensations that individuals are not consciously aware of but can affect their subconscious mind.

In parapsychology, there is interest in whether subliminal stimuli can trigger psychic phenomena, such as telepathy, precognition, or remote viewing, by affecting the subconscious mind in ways that transcend the conscious perception of the stimuli. Some researchers explore how these stimuli may influence the development of intuition, psychic abilities, or paranormal experiences.

One area of focus in parapsychology might involve investigating whether subliminal messages or signals could facilitate psychic functioning, or if certain stimuli may act as triggers for spontaneous psychic events. There are debates on whether these influences are purely psychological, linked to heightened awareness, or involve unexplained metaphysical processes.

Shervan K Shahhian

Mental Noise, how to cope and manage it:

Mental Noise, how to cope and manage it:

Mental noise refers to the constant stream of thoughts, worries, or distractions that can clutter the mind, making it difficult to focus or feel at peace. It can be caused by stress, anxiety, overthinking, or even external factors like a hectic environment.

Here are strategies to cope and manage mental noise:

1. Mindfulness Practices

Meditation: Regular meditation helps calm the mind and reduces mental chatter. Start with 5–10 minutes a day.
Deep Breathing: Practice diaphragmatic breathing to shift focus from thoughts to your body.
Mindful Activities: Engage fully in everyday tasks like eating, walking, or washing dishes by focusing on the sensations and actions involved.

2. Journaling

Write down your thoughts to declutter your mind. This can help you process emotions and gain clarity on what’s bothering you.

3. Prioritize and Organize

Use to-do lists or planners to externalize tasks. This reduces the mental load of trying to remember everything.
Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

4. Limit Overstimulation

Reduce distractions by turning off unnecessary notifications or creating a quiet workspace.
Set boundaries for social media and screen time.

5. Practice Gratitude

Reflecting on things you’re thankful for can shift your focus from worries to positive aspects of your life.

6. Physical Activity

Exercise helps release endorphins, reduces stress, and provides a natural way to refocus and refresh your mind.

7. Address Underlying Stressors

Identify triggers of your mental noise and work on resolving them.
Seek professional help if needed, such as counseling or therapy.

8. Build a Routine

A consistent daily routine can provide structure and reduce mental chaos.

9. Sleep Well

Lack of sleep can exacerbate mental noise. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and ensure you’re getting enough rest.

10. Engage in Creative Outlets

Drawing, writing, music, or other creative activities can provide an emotional release and redirect mental energy.

11. Connect with Others

Talking to a friend, mentor, or therapist can help you process your thoughts and gain new perspectives.

12. Acceptance

Accept that mental noise is a part of being human. Instead of resisting it, observe your thoughts without judgment and let them pass naturally.
YOU CAN SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP.

Shervan K Shahhian