Posted in kdrama

why Queen of Tears (Kdrama) is a hit

Posted on by M Artisans

Posts about Queen of Tears have been amassing my feed lately. It was highly anticipated because of its top-tier cast, Kim Soo-Hyun, Kim Ji-woon, and Park Sung-Hoon. And so, after our Korean trip, we finally jumped on the bandwagon.

Netflix

It’ll be extremely biased if this post most likely convinces you to watch this show. But yeah, I am biased 🙂 It already surpassed the ranking of another favorite of mine – Crash Landing on You, which, by the way, shares the same writer, Park Ji-Eun.

This series is relatable to me on many levels. We all wish we were chaebols like Hong Hae-in, but there’s one massive dilemma in the story: She is terminally ill. What would you do with all the money and fame if you have an incurable illness and have three months to live?

Having chronic illness is a major factor that some people may find it relatable. There was a dramatic scene when Hae-in was hallucinating in a superbly poignant setting. Plus a plot that’s not boring and the villains are really villainous, scheming their way to destroy the protagonist and her family.

We are still in episode 6, so there’s no spoiling here. But it’s more than enough for me to recommend this amazing K-drama.

❤

Posted in motivational, psychology

Living with Depression & How to live a Good Life

Posted on by M Artisans

Diagnosed with depression but managing to stay hopeful. This illness doesn’t have to hinder you from living a good life.

Been in a persistent cycle of depressive episodes, and it strikes anytime, any day, even in the middle of an important event. You feel helpless.

Depressive episode is a period of depression that persists for at least two weeks. The length of an episode varies depending on the severity and individual factors, some may last up to 6-8 months.

Depression: A Widespread Illness

Depression is a prevalent illness, perhaps more widespread than commonly perceived. Even famous celebrities who have tragically taken their own lives due to depression serve as a poignant reminder of the severity of this condition. It is an issue that undeniably presents a significant challenge in our society.

There are proven ways to live better with depression (adopted from Psychology Today).

  1. Start accepting and stop resisting. It is okay if you don’t feel okay. Denying your feelings will just make it worse. Carl Jung once said, “what you resist persists.”
  2. Change the way you think about depression. Renaming this familiar foe to a more positive approach. What helps me is to keep a journal, writing my thoughts and feelings before going to bed. That way, we can keep the feelings from our head to paper.
  3. Focus your energy to self-care. One major symptom I’m experiencing is complete loss of interest and pleasure. Bathing has now become a chore, but guess what? surprisingly it changes my mood for the better. Coming out of the bathroom refreshes me both physically and emotionally.
  4. Make small daily efforts. Depression is not something we can instantly turn off. Small baby steps can and may help. There is one technique – Behavioral Activation, a psychotherapy that engages individuals in engaging or pleasant and healthy activities.

Coping with depression begins with the effort to get through each day, regardless of whether a depressive episode occurs or not. There are many ways to improve your life with depression, like talking to a friend, watching a K-drama. Either way, learn, thrive and survive… you are not alone, hugs.

Disclaimer: The information in this post does not intend to replace, dictate, or completely define the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a medical professional. It is a form of sharing some personal experience and is intended solely for those seeking general information on certain conditions.
Posted in Faith Hope Love, prayer, prayers

Serenity Prayer

Posted on by M Artisans

God, grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the Courage to change the things I can, and the Wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful world As it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things right If I surrender to His Will; So that I may be reasonably happy in this life And supremely happy with Him Forever and ever in the next

Amen

❤

Posted in psychology

Anhedonia, Anxiety, Guilt & Cherophobia

Posted on by M Artisans

The four major symptoms I noticed with my depression.

I knew from the first time I posted about depression that I was going to be vulnerable. Not everyone will be able to comprehend and sympathize. That’s what makes this disease even lonelier. You try to mimic being okay when you’re not cause you don’t want to bother the people around you.

Sharing my journey may be a way for some to feel less alone.

Anhedonia

  • is the inability to experience joy or pleasure. You feel numb and less interested in the things you used to enjoy, just like when I used to be obsessed with playing mobile games, and now I have lost interest.

Anxiety

In a previous post, I discussed anxiety with Pseudo-dementia. Celebrities like Emma Stone, Ryan Renolds, and Chris Evans have their share of anxiety issues.

  • Anxiety disorders are a group of mental illnesses that cause constant and overwhelming anxiety and fear. 

Guilt

  • According to PubMed Central, people with major depressive disorder (MDD) are more prone to experiencing moral emotions related to self-blame, such as guilt and shame.

It is a less talked about symptom of depression, but very evident in my case. I struggle with self-blame a lot! I cry and weep for the troubles I think I have caused and the people that I have hurt. Dealing with it almost every single day (see previous post).

Cherophobia

It seems that at this moment, I wouldn’t necessarily call it fear but rather a sense of concern. There is a worry that experiencing happiness may lead to negative consequences. You try to avoid the feelings of happiness and the consequences of being happy.

More about this in my previous post…

Disclaimer: The information in this post does not intend to replace, dictate, or completely define the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a medical professional. It is a form of sharing some personal experience and is intended solely for those seeking general information on certain conditions.
Posted in motivational, psychology

Self-blame and Depression

Posted on by M Artisans

According to PubMed Central, people with major depressive disorder (MDD) are more prone to experiencing moral emotions related to self-blame, such as guilt and shame.

DSM-IV-TR recognizes excessive or inappropriate guilt as one of the core symptoms of MDD. 

  • Disclaimer: The information in this post does not intend to replace, dictate, or completely define the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a medical professional. It is a form of sharing some personal experience and is intended solely for those seeking general information on certain conditions.

Guilt is a less talked about symptom of depression. It was depicted in a Korean drama I watched – Daily Dose of Sunshine. They showed guilt in a beautiful way stemming from the protagonist’s role as a psychiatric nurse. Highly relatable as I constantly deal with sadness and self-blame almost every day.

According to Psychiatrist Gregory Brown and author of The Self-healing Mind, “Guilt is a major barrier for treatment of depressive disorders. People think – my problems aren’t big enough or so serious to warrant feeling depressed or I have money, a great family and so many other resources, I shouldn’t be feeling this way – They end up suffering in silence.”

Before depression, I used to believe that people should be content with what they have, and I couldn’t comprehend why anyone would feel depressed despite having all their needs met.

what does she have to depressed about?

Self-blaming moral emotions as per PubMed Central pertains to emotions like guilt, shame and self-contempt which may be exaggerated in mood disorders. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive and inappropriate guilt nearly everyday (American Psychiatric Association 2000).

If you’re struggling with depression, being in that same condition I know I’m unable to give advice. Despite studying psychology in the hope of finding relief, I still find myself in this state. But depression is an illness that no one wants.

Here are some tips to help you deal with guilt when you have depression;

~ Practice self kindness like positive self-talk and gratitude

~ Move and keep your mind occupied. Physical activity as simple as walking can increase your endorphins (happy hormones).

~ Keep a journal. Writing or in my case drawing is diverting my mind and thoughts to express and transform negative emotions through art.

~ Talk to someone. Remember you are not alone. A family or friend can provide you with a different perspective and talking to them can help you release and process those unwanted emotions.

Small baby steps is okay, take it easy and be kind with yourself…

❤

Posted in motivational, psychology

Cherophobia (Fear of Happiness)

Posted on by M Artisans

~ Aversion to happiness

The term comes from the Greek word “chero” or “chairo” which means “to rejoice.” Plus, the root word “phobia,” which means fear.

Disclaimer: The information in this post does not intend to replace, dictate, or completely define the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a medical professional. It is a form of sharing some personal experience and is intended solely for those seeking general information on certain conditions.

When a person has cherophobia, they’re often afraid to participate in activities that are considered fun or would make them happy.

Although cherophobia is not currently recognized as a clinical disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), several studies have started to scientifically validate its existence (Joshanloo, 2014).

It seems that at this moment, I wouldn’t necessarily call it fear but rather a sense of concern. There is a worry that experiencing happiness may lead to negative consequences. You try to avoid the feelings of happiness and the consequences of being happy.

Symptoms may appear such as;

  • avoidance of social gatherings
  • experiencing anxiety at the thought of going to a joyful social gathering, like a party, concert, or other similar event
  • believing that being happy will lead to something bad happening
  • rejecting opportunities that may bring happiness or success
  • believing that happiness makes you a bad person
  • believing that disasters follow happiness

In the study developed by Gilbert and colleagues (2012) – “Fear of Happiness Scale”, some people find it difficult to trust positive feelings. Rating feelings such as being frightened to become too happy, undeserving to be happy, and so on.

Cherophobia is not recognized as a clinical disorder and may stem from past trauma or underlying conditions. Let’s seek treatment with a doctor that can help.

Remember, it’s okay if you feel this way.

❤

Posted in life, motivational, psychology

Pseudo Dementia and Anxiety

Posted on by M Artisans

Day 2 of 2024, upon reflecting on the past year, I have observed certain symptoms that accompany my experience with depression. Watching K-dramas, especially the latest one titled “Daily Dose of Sunshine” enlightened me on how many symptoms co-exist with depression.

Pseudo Dementia

Mood-related conditions such as depression can lead to Pseudo Dementia. This condition exhibits symptoms similar to dementia but does not involve neurological degeneration. Due to its association with depression, it is occasionally referred to as depressive pseudo-dementia. For more information on this topic, you can visit this link.

The symptoms may include:

  • problems with speech and language
  • lapses or losses of memory
  • difficulty paying attention
  • difficulty regulating emotions
  • difficulty organizing or planning

It may be noticeable online (or on social media) due to fewer posts I made since being diagnosed with depression. The struggle is more on my lack of energy and a generalized feeling of fatigue and low mood.

The following symptoms may also manifest since it is related to depression:

  • a loss of interest in activities
  • a depressed mood that lasts for weeks at a time
  • social withdrawal
  • suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • insomnia or hypersomnia
  • general fatigue
  • a loss of appetite or overeating

Anxiety

During the holiday season, despite being surrounded by family and friends, I found myself grappling with worries and anxious thoughts. The stress of the festive season and the ensuing challenges triggered my anxiety disorder.

I didn’t know I had this phobia called trypophobia, and if you have one please don’t even try searching it online or they will show you holes. It is a general feeling of uneasiness, fear, and cringe at holes or patterns (ex., honeycomb).

Dealing with anxiety entails experiencing uncontrollable fear or worry. Depending on the type of anxiety, these feelings can arise during routine activities such as socializing with new acquaintances or tackling challenges at school or work.

Both anxiety and depression are very common and frequently co-occur.

All these conditions, if you have them, are not a result of weakness but are medical conditions. And even though we may still face criticism from those who don’t completely understand, I urge you to seek help and reach out to friends and family.

❤

Posted in kdrama, life

New Favorite – Daily Dose of Sunshine (Kdrama)

Posted on by M Artisans

This new series has become my instant favorite, depicting mental health with beautiful narration and emotions. Park Bo-young, as Jung Da-eun, is a passionate and emphatic nurse who just transferred to the psychiatric unit. An epic adaption of the webtoon “Jeongsinbyeongdongedo Achimi Wayo” (정신병동에도 아침이 와요) by Iraha (이라하).

This drama addresses the pressing issue of mental health, which not only is a great concern for South Korea but all over the world. In every episode, they feature a specific illness.

First episode (sorry, this may be a spoiler) talks about Bipolar Disorder. Patient Ri-Na is diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder manifesting symptoms including a sudden overflow of energy, a personality switch, unusual sexual behaviors, obsession, etc.

Coming from the perspective of the patient, we see mental illness in a new form. Opening doors for real-life struggles, problems, and challenges. Issues we try to avoid because of their heaviness and pain.

I look forward to the episode with depression, anticipating the portrayal of symptoms that may be relatable to what I have or may have experienced.

This series is really worth your precious time, we can all learn something from it, to help us understand the people affected with mental illness.

❤

Posted in Family health, health

The Hidden Dangers of Paraben

Posted on by M Artisans

Parabens are man-made chemicals often used in small amounts as preservatives in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, foods, and beverages.

CDC

Surprisingly, paraben is present in almost every cosmetic and cleaning household agent we use daily. It comes in different forms, and I’ve learned to check product labels before buying one, so I avoid any of these terms – methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Any term that has one evil root word – paraben.

Yes, it is quite shocking. I even found paraben in dishwashing liquids, deodorant, shampoo, and cereals!

So why avoid Paraben?

According to WebMD – the biggest concern with parabens is that some studies show that they disrupt hormones in your body. Once in your body, parabens can act like the hormone estrogen in both males and females.

This could have an effect on things like:

  • Fertility (sperm count and length of menstrual cycle) 
  • Reproductive development (fetal nourishment)
  • Birth outcomes, such as preterm birth

The use of parabens became quite controversial after being found in the cells of breast cancer patients. This needs further testing, but European Union banned isopropylparaben and isobutylparaben from use in any personal care products in 2015. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has also banned these parabens.

More studies found that paraben can cause changes in cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid, and immune function. The risk of allergies, obesity, and infertility has also been associated with the use of parabens.

Animal and cell research shows parabens can act like estrogen which may cause health problems. Unfortunately, there’s still a lot we don’t know about this chemical.

And so ending this post with a simple advice – lessen our exposure to paraben and as much as possible read product label before buying, and be smart for your health.

❤

Posted in Faith Hope Love

The Chosen – the Best TV Series

Posted on by M Artisans

With the title itself, it’s evident that I’m a massive fan of the show. I previously talked about this and I hope (& pray) that I convinced you enough to start watching The Chosen.

Last night, we finished watching season 3 with their extra videos available in their dedicated app. In their extra video (behind-the-scenes footage), it was mentioned that the whole theme of the series is to emphasize emotions over spectacle.

That makes this show different and thus engages with the audience much more than typical storytelling.

This series is completely free and we can help create future seasons and keep the Chosen free around the world by donating or buying their merchandise. Use the exclusive site with this link.