Blog
How to Measure Healing
Sometimes people will say to me, “I don’t know if I’m getting better” or “How do I know if this
I Just Need This… The False Epiphany
Therapy often involves epiphanies, moments of insight that facilitate change. However, false epiphanies can mislead individuals by presenting simplistic solutions to complex problems, resulting in limited growth and recurring failures. It’s essential to recognize the difference and remain open to various solutions rather than focusing solely on one perceived answer.
Deconstructing: Incels
The term “incel” refers to men who are involuntarily celibate and often align with toxic masculinity. They blame feminism for their situation, embodying a “black pill” mindset filled with resentment and aggression towards women. Deconstructing this identity involves addressing deep-seated issues rather than projecting blame onto others. Societal sympathy exists, but healing requires personal responsibility.
Deconstructing: Toxic Masculinity
Toxic masculinity perpetuates a hierarchy where men are ranked, fostering harmful behaviors and validating aggression toward others. It misguides young men, often radicalizing them by blaming women for their struggles, while discouraging self-reflection. This oppressive system stifles individual growth and promotes violence instead of personal empowerment and true masculinity.
Deceit as a defense mechanism.
Lying often stems from early experiences where truth and deceit faced punishment, leading individuals to choose lies for emotional safety. Building trust with a liar is challenging; loved ones may need to prioritize their emotional well-being. Therapy can help both the liar and those affected, emphasizing the importance of creating safe environments for honesty.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the intentional act of paying attention to oneself, sensations, emotions, and surroundings without judgment. It involves exploring internal emotions and can be practiced by reframing experiences with less biased language. Simple exercises, like observing the world for a minute, can enhance mindfulness skills and perspective.
Trauma: I went through it so…
The post discusses two responses to trauma: the belief that others should struggle for growth and the desire to protect children from pain. It advocates for a balance that fosters autonomy while providing emotional support. This helps children develop resilience and prevents feelings of isolation or inadequacy, promoting healthier outcomes in life.
Can I bring someone to my therapy session?
Bringing someone to therapy can be beneficial but should be agreed upon with your therapist. Partners or family members may assist communication or support boundary-setting. However, their presence can also be manipulative. Always discuss the intention and goals with your therapist to ensure a constructive outcome in the session.
Psychosomatic malpractice
The University of Cambridge highlights the long-term impacts of misdiagnosing psychosomatic conditions. These conditions stem from mental processes rather than physical ailments and often suffer from inadequate diagnosis, leading to significant harm. The article encourages patients to advocate for their healthcare rights and document their experiences to combat misdiagnosis and its repercussions.
Why Burnout is Bad for Business
Burnout arises from harsh work conditions and unrealistic self-expectations, negatively impacting both individuals and companies. Recent research indicates that employee burnout costs businesses significant amounts annually—potentially up to $5.04 million for 1,000 employees. Ethically and financially, promoting healthy work environments is crucial, as burnout can lead to lawsuits and reduced employee retention.
The appeal of sad expression
A recent study explored the reasons we might enjoy engaging in sad media. Eric W. Dolan writes about these studies
What is resentment?
In the world of Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) it is often said that resentment is like swallowing
What is vulnerability?
Vulnerability involves being open with others, sharing personal aspects that could be used against us, ultimately fostering trust and deeper emotional connections. While it strengthens relationships, boundaries are essential to avoid overwhelming others. Gradual sharing promotes secure attachments. Engaging in conversations about vulnerability can enhance relationships further.
Reframing “Me time”
Reframing is a powerful perspective-changing tool that influences how we perceive situations, distinguishing between good and bad based on our judgment. By altering context and language, we can shift feelings about experiences, like alone time, thereby enhancing wellbeing. As demonstrated in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, perception shapes our reality and mental health.
Support systems: war of attrition.
Mental health issues like depression and anxiety can be alleviated with a strong support system. Relationships are vital but tend to fade over time. It’s essential to continually cultivate new connections, as relying on one person can lead to codependency. Engaging in social activities and reaching out to others can help rebuild support networks effectively.
Reading the room: Social Norms.
Emotional feedback from close relationships can create fluctuating rules that complicate interactions, particularly with narcissistic or emotionally immature individuals. It’s essential to reassess rules made in anger once emotions stabilize, ensuring expectations are agreed upon and not imposed through emotional manipulation. Open communication is key to addressing these issues effectively.
Porn Addiction and Self-Esteem
Exploring the unique aspects of pornography addiction compared self-esteem. It highlights a correlation between lower self-esteem, vulnerability issues, and problematic pornography usage. It suggests that increased self-acceptance reduces such usage, while guilt and shame can create a cycle of addiction. Confronting vulnerability is essential for recovery.
Harm Reduction: Cannabis v Prescription
Ashley Bradford’s article highlights a study indicating that cannabis legalization is linked to reduced prescription refill rates for anxiety medications, such as benzos and antidepressants. This suggests that cannabis, being non-addictive and having a low overdose risk, may serve as a safer alternative for anxiety treatment, advocating for further acceptance and potential insurance coverage.
Thoughts and prayers and alcohol
Bianca Setionago’s article in PsyPost highlights the overlooked consequences of mass shootings, noting a two-year increase in alcohol sales in affected communities. A University of Wisconsin-Madison study links this rise to community trauma and vicarious traumatization, emphasizing that thoughts and prayers can suppress open expressions of grief and exacerbate coping through alcohol.
The childhood brain and addiction
The article from PsyPost explores brain differences in substance users that precede addiction, challenging the notion that addiction is solely genetic. Dr. Gabor Maté emphasizes emotional needs and brain responses in treating addiction, suggesting effective approaches beyond genetics. Understanding these factors can improve treatment and support for those struggling with addiction.
A Grounding walkthrough
Grounding is a mindfulness technique to help process emotions and stay present by engaging the senses. It involves focusing on physical sensations, such as feeling the ground with your feet. This technique can also apply to managing emotions, where awareness and acknowledgment help in emotional resolution. Consistent practice prepares one for stronger emotions.