Category: psychology

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 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 life, psychology

Gen Z is More Stressed

Posted on by M Artisans

Generation Z or Gen Z refers to the generation that is born between the years 1997 and 2012. The first generation to be raised entirely with the internet and smartphones.

Growing up in tumultuous times that include multiple stressors such as climate change, conflicts, and political unrest. There’s a lot going on and all at once, TMI for sure! They are not just dealing with everyday stress, they are in constant bombardment of information and pressure.

In fact, many recent surveys and studies showed that these young adults are the most stressed, pressured and exhausted group.

They have a ton of reasons to feel more stressed than previous generations. Stress that can contribute to psychological concerns like anxiety and depression.

Here are the examples of stressors for Gen Z’s;

  • In one survey, it was reported that almost half of Gen Z are on their phones or online for 10 or more hours a day. That means more screen time and less time connecting with others in person, this could increase feelings of isolation and loneliness. There’s also less time going outdoors and being with nature.
  • In the American Psychological Association report, 91% of Gen Zs are experiencing physical or psychological symptoms due to stress. Causes of stress are money/work, debt, school and hunger.
  • Issues like climate change, political conflicts and fear of the future in general.
  • Exposure to harmful content through social media at a young age.
  • Research from University College London found that Gen Z was more likely to self-harm, have poorer body image, lack sleep, be overweight and have depression.
  • They also face pressure related to social media and the need to perform and conform for a picture-perfect image (and life).

Coming from a parent of a Gen Z, it’s not all negative for our children. Actually, because of social media, they’ve increased awareness of the importance of mental health. They are interconnected globally through the internet. They are more likely to seek psychological help and speak up about their concerns.

We should be the first advocates of their physical and mental health. Understanding, patience, and open communication among families – these are some of the keys in addressing and helping our Gen Z children.

❤

Posted in life, psychology

What it means to be considerate?

Posted on by M Artisans

Coming across vlogs “showing off” their lifestyle rendered some deep thoughts and reflections. There’s a Filipino term called – “malasakit“. Uniquely Filipino because there’s no exact English translation. It is a Filipino value of caring and acting on the needs of others.

Be Considerate

Being considerate is synonymous to kindness. It can come in different forms and sizes. When you think of others before yourself, considering their feelings, concerns or priorities before your own. Begins with sympathy and thoughful rumination.

Being nice is a broader term – like civility. Being considerate entails a real and active interest on other people. There’s more effort than just being nice or civil.

There are 7 habits of Considerate People.

1. They practice empathy

Empathy is described as sensing what people are feeling

– Goldman Madel

It is different from sympathy, as empathy involves shared perspective or emotion. Considerate people not only feel for (with) others but actively see the world beyond themselves. Treating people with respect and compassion.

2. They smile often

Pexels.com

There’s a saying that kindness begins with a smile. Smiling evokes a positive emotion and reaction. In Positive Psychology, people are encouraged to smile more. You feel good and affect others, too.

3. They are intuitive of other people’s needs

From my Emotional Social Intelligence (ESI) class, there’s Cognitive Empathy. It is the ability to understand what another person might be thinking or feeling. When you walk in another person’s shoes and make them feel they are valued – that’s consideration.

Pexels.com

4. They mind their manners

Being polite doesn’t begin and end with saying please and thank you. It is way more than that. The golden rule – treat others the way you want to be treated.

5. Be emotionally intelligent

Emotional and Social Intelligence – is the ability to be aware of your own emotions and those of others in the moment, and use that information to manage yourself and your relationships (ESI UC Davis).

ESI is not a soft skill and is now in the Top 10 most important workplace skill needed for success (World Eco Forum 2020). It is twice as important as technical and cognitive skills combined.

6. They are patient

Patience is difficult to have these days especially when attention span is shortened to a few seconds. Being patient comes with kindness, as you “consider” other person’s situation or reason.

Pexels.com

7. They apologize (when needed)

One of the traits of a toxic individual is – non admission to mistakes. Apologizing when you’ve made a mistake instead of passing the blame is crucial when being considerate.

Pexels.com

❤

Posted in life, psychology

What are the benefits of having Good friends

Posted on by M Artisans

Do you know that there are benefits of having good friends?

Having supportive people around you, includes family, partners, colleagues. These good friends can have a major impact in your life, health and overall well-being according to Mayo clinic.

Benefits of Friendship

  • Increase your sense of belonging and purpose
  • Boost your happiness and reduce your stress
  • Improve your self confidence and self worth
  • Help you cope traumas such as divorce, serious illness, job loss or death of a loved one
  • Encourage you to have healthy lifestyle or habit
  • Promote personal development

Good friends are good for your health. Friends can help you celebrate good times and provide support during bad times. Friends prevent isolation and loneliness and give you a chance to offer needed companionship, too.

Mayo clinic

People with strong social connections have reduced risk of many health problems. Studies found that older adults who have good friends and social support are likely to live longer.

Among all the benefits of having meaningful relationships, Emotional support is significant. They listen to your problems, can validate your feelings, and can help distract you when you’re sad or upset.

In one of the lessons I had, Professor Jonah Berger of Wharton University said, ” people are 36% more likely to quit smoking if a friend quits.”

Your friends can support your choices and even promote the right ones. They can cheer you on, motivate you like gym buddies or yoga partners.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Sense of belongingness comes in third on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Caring about others makes life more meaningful. Your self worth increases, knowing you have a support system can help you feel more secure in your own life.

On the other hand, unhealthy or toxic friendships can cause stress and bring you down. Choose your companions and avoid toxic people; gossiper, unkind or rude, manipulative, selfish, etc.

Pexels.com

Bottom line, good friends are important in your life. Strong friendships will continue to strengthen you, make you healthier and help you have a brighter outlook.

❤

Posted in psychology

Narcissistic, my God i luv it!

Posted on by M Artisans

Ive’s Narcissus concept in “Love Dive” became an instant hit since its debut comeback. They even won multiple awards with this song (congrats Ive). Not only it is catchy but the dance choreo (my favorite) is addictive. There’s a particular move – “mirror princess” where members look into a “mirror”. A symbolic of Narcissistic adage.

Love Dive – Ive

What is Narcissistic?

– by Merriam-Webster definition, relating to or characterized by narcissism; extremely exaggerated sense of self-importance, marked by or characteristic of excessive admiration of or infatuation with oneself.

Narcissism comes from the story of Narcissus. In Greek mythology, Narcissus was a hunter known for his beauty. He fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water, staring at it until he drowned. At that spot, a flower bloomed which is now called as the narcissus plant or the daffodil.

A tragic story like many mythologies I’ve read, has a lesson worth noting. Pride and self-obsession for Greeks are obstructions to piety and religion. Proving the cruel fate of Narcissus.

Daffodil photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Narcissistic personality disorder NPD is a mental health condition in which people have an unreasonably high sense of their own importance. They need and seek too much attention and want people to admire them. People with this disorder may lack the ability to understand or care about the feelings of others. But behind this mask of extreme confidence, they are not sure of their self-worth and are easily upset by the slightest criticism.

Mayo Clinic

A narcissist can have many problems in different areas of life. They are disappointed when they’re not given the attention they believe they deserve. And symptoms are as follows;

  • Have an unreasonably high sense of self-importance and require constant, excessive admiration.
  • Feel that they deserve privileges and special treatment.
  • Expect to be recognized as superior even without achievements.
  • Make achievements and talents seem bigger than they are.
  • Be preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty or the perfect mate.
  • Believe they are superior to others and can only spend time with or be understood by equally special people.
  • Be critical of and look down on people they feel are not important.
  • Expect special favors and expect other people to do what they want without questioning them.
  • Take advantage of others to get what they want.
  • Have an inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others.
  • Be envious of others and believe others envy them.
  • Behave in an arrogant way, brag a lot and come across as conceited.
  • Insist on having the best of everything.

The hallmarks of NPD are grandiosity, lack of empathy for other people, and the need for admiration. They are described as self-centered, manipulative and demanding. They also have trouble handling criticism. To them, criticisms are just personal attacks.

These people think there’s nothing wrong with them. They are resistant to changing their behavior even when it’s causing them problems. Their tendency is to pass the blame to others.

Narcissists believe they are better than everyone else and often exagerrate their own achievements and talents. They live in a fantasy world that supports their delusions of grandeur. They have a sense of entitlement and consider themselves as special.

For their overly inflated ego that needs to be constantly fed so they surround themselves with people who are willing to cater to them. This kind of relationship is usually one-sided. Since they lack empathy, they often take advantage of others to get what they want.

There are more topics (and medical terms) related to NPD, however I’d like to emphasize the problem with them – they are not even aware of their own behavior. Thinking – what could be wrong really? Yes, it is sad especially when you know someone who is one! but stay calm – real and lasting relationships are based on mutual respect and love.

Since narcissists are not capable of reciprocating your love and affection, it’s all about them as the center of the universe. It is best to set healthy boundaries and don’t take things personally. It’s not about you, it’s them.

And lastly, don’t argue with a narcissist.

It’s pointless.

Ending with this reminder – spend time and make memories with people who are worth your precious time (and life).

❤

Posted in psychology

The influence of people around you

Posted on by M Artisans

Yes people come and go in our life and they also influence us in one way or another. My constant prayer as a parent is for my child to meet friends who will be of “good” influence to her. I grew up in a traditional manner, raised by strict grandmother and parents, choosing good friends is important.

A motto that marked indelibly in my heart is this saying;

Show me your friends and I will tell you who you are.

– anonymous

There are many versions of this quote but they all mean the same thing. In Social Psychology, this influence is being recognized and scientifically proven. Your closest associates (sometimes called – reference group) can determine much of your success in life. Our friends influence us subtly yet powerfully, and that can either be good or bad.

Research shows we do not have as much control over our thoughts and behavior as we think. We take cues from our environment, especially other people, on how to act.

– Psychology Today

Another powerful quote by Jim Rohn – “You are the average of the 5 people you hang around with.” The first quotation stayed with me since highschool. And recently, studying Psychology out of interest helps me gain more insight in relationships and human behavior.

You can’t choose your family, but you have the power to decide who to be close with. You also have the power to avoid certain people – toxic ones, for they will definitely shape who you are.

From my notes in Managing Emotions (Social Emotional Learning SEL) by Yale University – Humans are social creatures, we are influencing each other’s feelings whether we realize it or not.

Photo by Min An on Pexels.com

Surrounding yourself with good people is not a strategy, it is a necessity. Having family and friends who motivate and help you become better (or best) version of yourself is a blessing.

❤