Popular Psychology – Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Navigating the Festive Frenzy: Strategies to Manage Holiday Stress

4 Dec 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

The holiday season, with its twinkling lights and merry melodies, often brings a mix of joy and stress. As a licensed mental health counselor and a father, I’ve seen and experienced the various shades of the holiday season. While it’s a time for celebration and family, it also comes with its unique set of pressures: financial constraints, family dynamics, and a seemingly endless to-do list. Here are some strategies to help you manage holiday stress and savor the joy of the season.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge your feelings. It’s okay if you’re not brimming with holiday cheer. The holidays can evoke a range of emotions, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, sad, or stressed. Recognizing and accepting these feelings is the first step in managing them.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

The portrayal of the holiday season in media and culture often sets an unrealistic standard of perfection. It’s crucial to set realistic expectations for yourself and your celebrations. Not everything has to be perfect, and it’s okay to scale back on decorations, gifts, or events. Remember, the holiday spirit isn’t about grandeur, but about warmth and connection.

3. Plan and Prioritize

Planning can significantly reduce stress. Make a list of what you need to do and categorize them by priority. This could include shopping, cooking, and attending events. Don’t hesitate to trim down your list by removing less important tasks or delegating them.

4. Set a Budget

Financial stress is a major aspect of holiday anxiety. To avoid this, set a budget for gifts, food, and other expenses. Be honest about what you can afford, and stick to your budget. Remember, meaningful gifts don’t have to be expensive; often, it’s the thought that counts.

5. Learn to Say No

You don’t have to participate in every activity or event. Overcommitting can lead to burnout. It’s okay to say no to certain invitations or responsibilities. Your well-being is paramount, and those who care about you will understand your need to prioritize it.

6. Maintain Healthy Habits

In the whirlwind of the season, it’s easy to let go of healthy habits. Try to maintain your regular routine, including eating healthily, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Physical well-being greatly influences mental health.

7. Take a Breather

When you start to feel overwhelmed, take a break. Even a few minutes of solitude can be refreshing. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or a quick walk outside. This brief respite can reset your stress levels and help you approach tasks with a clearer mind.

8. Connect Meaningfully

The essence of the holiday season is connection. Spend quality time with your loved ones, engage in meaningful conversations, and create lasting memories. In a season that can become materialistic, remind yourself and others that the best gift is quality time spent together.

9. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you find yourself feeling persistently sad, anxious, irritable, or hopeless, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. There’s no shame in seeking support, especially during times that can amplify underlying issues.

10. Reflect and Appreciate

Finally, take some time to reflect on the year gone by. Acknowledge your achievements and the challenges you’ve overcome. Practice gratitude for the big and small blessings in your life. This positive reflection can shift your perspective and reduce stress.

The holiday season doesn’t have to be a time of overwhelming stress. By acknowledging your feelings, setting realistic expectations, and practicing self-care, you can navigate the festive frenzy with more ease and joy. Remember, the true essence of the season lies in the warmth of relationships and the joy of simple pleasures. May your holidays be filled with peace, love, and happiness.

Popular Psychology

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): A Brief Overview

24 Oct 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

What is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

BPD is a mental health condition characterized by intense emotional experiences, difficulty in maintaining stable relationships, and a pattern of unstable self-image. It’s important to understand that individuals with BPD often experience intense emotions, fear of abandonment, and may have a history of unstable interpersonal relationships.

Common Symptoms of BPD:

1. Fear of abandonment or rejection.

2. Unstable personal relationships, which can be characterized by intense love followed by intense dislike.

3. Unstable self-image or sense of self.

4. Impulsive behaviors, which might include spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance abuse, or binge eating.

5. Recurring thoughts of self-harm or suicidal tendencies.

6. Intense mood swings that can last a few hours to a few days.

7. Chronic feelings of emptiness.

8. Explosive anger or difficulty controlling anger.

9. Paranoid thoughts or dissociative feelings, especially under stress.

Being in a Relationship with Someone with BPD:

Being in a relationship with someone who has BPD can be challenging, yet rewarding. Their emotional intensity can lead to passionate and deep connections. However, the fear of abandonment and intense emotional reactions can be difficult to navigate.

1. Empathy is Crucial: Understand that their emotions and reactions are real and intense for them, even if they seem exaggerated to you.

2. Communication: Open dialogue can help in understanding each other’s triggers and finding ways to navigate them together.

3. Setting Boundaries: It’s essential for both partners to set and respect boundaries to ensure a healthy relationship.

4. Seeking Support: Both partners might benefit from couples counseling or therapy.

Tips for Supporting Your Partner with BPD:

1. Educate yourself about BPD. Understanding the disorder can help in empathizing with your partner.

2. Avoid invalidating their feelings. Instead, listen and validate their experiences.

3. Encourage them to seek professional help if they haven’t already.

4. Take care of your mental well-being. Consider joining a support group or seeking therapy for yourself.

Remember:

Every individual with BPD is unique. The symptoms and experiences might vary. It’s essential to approach the relationship with patience, understanding, and love.

Bed Rotting and Gen Z: A Trend, A Statement, or A Cry for Help?

25 Sep 202324 Sep 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

Tucked away in the algorithm-driven corners of TikTok, Twitter (or should I say “X”), and Instagram, there’s a phenomenon gaining traction, especially among Gen Z: “bed rotting.” But what is it about this act that resonates so deeply with today’s youth? Is it a passing trend, a form of silent protest, or a deeper sign of the times?

Diving into Bed Rotting

For the uninitiated, bed rotting is the act of lying in bed for prolonged periods, not due to illness or physical fatigue, but often driven by emotional or mental states. While older generations might dismiss it as sheer laziness or a lack of ambition, the reality is far more nuanced.

Why Gen Z?

This generation, armed with technology from a young age, has seen the world in ways no previous generation has. From global crises to the rise of influencer culture, their worldview is unique. So, why is bed rotting becoming a “thing” among them?

Overwhelm & Digital Burnout: Gen Z is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in the digital world. While this brings unparalleled connectivity, it also brings information overload, comparison culture, and a sense of never truly “switching off”.
Protest Against Hustle Culture: Recently I wrote a blog post about Hustle Culture. For a generation witnessing the fallout of relentless hustle, bed rotting can be seen as an act of rebellion. A silent protest against the “always-on” mentality.
Mental Health Awareness: Unlike previous generations, Gen Z is more vocal about mental health. Bed rotting can be both an expression of mental exhaustion and a plea for understanding.
Isolation in Connectivity: Ironically, in an era of global connection, many feel isolated. Physical interactions have been replaced with likes, shares, and retweets. The bed becomes a safe cocoon against the paradox of feeling alone in a crowded digital space.

Beyond the Trend: Implications & Understandings

Bed rotting, whether a conscious act or subconscious retreat, has tangible implications:

Physical Health: Extended periods in bed can lead to health issues, from muscle weakening to sleep disturbances.
Mental Well-being: While it might start as a retreat, prolonged bed rotting can exacerbate feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.

Breaking the Cycle

Understanding is the first step. If Gen Z’s bed rotting is a statement, then it’s one we should listen to. Solutions can be multi-faceted:

Open Conversations: Encourage open dialogues about feelings without judgment. Sometimes, understanding the “why” can pave the way for change.
Digital Detox: Encourage breaks from the online world. Rediscover offline hobbies and passions.
Redefine Success: Challenge the traditional narratives of success and achievement. It’s okay to have days of rest and reflection.
Professional Help: If bed rotting becomes chronic, consider seeking therapeutic interventions.

Conclusion

For Gen Z, bed rotting isn’t just a trend; it’s a statement. It’s an embodiment of their experiences in a world that’s both incredibly connected and profoundly isolating. Recognizing it as such allows us to approach the phenomenon with empathy, offering support and understanding rather than judgment.

Hustle Culture: The Glorification of Burnout and the Quest for Balance

24 Sep 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHC1 Comment

The saying goes, “Rise and grind.” Every day, social media feeds are flooded with motivational quotes urging us to hustle harder, push further, and never rest until our dreams are realized. Welcome to the era of “Hustle Culture” – a modern societal phenomenon that glorifies ceaseless work as the path to success. But at what cost?

Defining Hustle Culture

Hustle culture is the societal norm that promotes an obsession with relentless work. It’s the notion that every moment not spent working towards a goal is a moment wasted. Overnight success, according to this culture, is a myth. Instead, success is seen as the fruit of sleepless nights, sacrificed weekends, and an unwavering commitment to the “grind.”

The Rise of the Hustle

Several factors have contributed to the rise and popularity of hustle culture:

Social Media & Comparison: Platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn often showcase highlight reels of individuals’ lives, leading others to feel they’re lagging behind and need to hustle more to catch up.
Economic Pressure: In an era of rising living costs, many feel the pressure to side-hustle just to make ends meet.
Entrepreneurial Dream: Stories of tech billionaires and startup successes have fueled the desire for entrepreneurship, often seen as a path that demands unyielding hustle.

The Downside of the Grind

While hard work is undeniably essential for success, the relentless push advocated by hustle culture can have negative effects:

Burnout: Working incessantly without breaks can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. Burnout can manifest as fatigue, irritability, and reduced performance.
Mental Health Issues: The constant pressure to perform and achieve can lead to heightened stress, anxiety, and even depression.
Lost Personal Time: Family, friendships, and personal hobbies can suffer when every moment is dedicated to the hustle.
Physical Health Neglect: Sacrificing sleep, eating quick unhealthy meals, and lacking consistent physical activity can lead to a myriad of health issues.

Finding a Balanced Approach

Success doesn’t and shouldn’t come at the cost of well-being. It’s possible to be productive and driven without succumbing to the extremes of hustle culture:

Set Clear Boundaries: Whether it’s logging off by a certain time or taking weekends to rejuvenate, setting boundaries is essential.
Quality Over Quantity: Focus on task efficiency rather than hours worked. Being productive for a few focused hours can be more beneficial than scattered efforts throughout the day.
Listen to Your Body: Rest is not a sign of weakness; it’s a requirement for sustained effort. Sleep, relaxation, and leisure activities recharge the mind and body.
Seek Support: Build a supportive community around you. Talk about pressures with friends, family, or professionals who can provide perspective.
Redefine Success: Remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Your measure of success doesn’t have to mirror someone else’s Instagram feed.

Conclusion

Hustle culture, with its seductive promise of success and recognition, has its merits. There’s no denying the value of dedication, commitment, and hard work. However, a balance is crucial. Embracing a more holistic view of success—one that includes well-being, joy, and contentment—can pave the way for a more fulfilling, healthy, and sustainable life journey.

In an age that often equates busyness with worth, it’s essential to remember that our value isn’t solely determined by our output. Taking a step back from the grind, every once in a while, might just be the real key to finding a meaningful life.

The Allure and Downfall of Doomscrolling

4 Sep 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

In a world where the news cycle feels unending, and every refresh brings new tales of catastrophe, a peculiar yet entirely relatable behavior has emerged: doomscrolling. It’s midnight, you’re tucked into bed, but instead of drifting off to sleep, you find yourself trapped in a loop, endlessly scrolling through negative news. Sounds familiar? This phenomenon is often called “doomscrolling” and as innocent as it may appear it’s actuall affecting our mental well-being.

What is Doomscrolling?

Doomscrolling (or doomsurfing) describes the act of consuming a vast amount of negative online news, even though it’s upsetting or depressing. This compulsive need to constantly update oneself about the latest crises, tragedies, and anxieties of our time can have significant emotional consequences.

The Science Behind the Scroll

So, why do we doomscroll? On the surface, it seems counterintuitive. We’re hardwired to seek pleasure and avoid discomfort. Yet, when faced with a constant barrage of dire headlines, our brains become hooked. Here’s why:

Negativity Bias: Humans are evolutionarily predisposed to pay attention to negative stimuli. It was a survival mechanism – the more aware you were of potential threats, the more likely you were to survive.
The Need for Control: By staying updated, we might feel a sense of control over uncontrollable situations.
Endless Information Stream: Modern technology, with its endless news feeds and updates, makes it easier than ever to get lost in the scroll.

The Impact of Doomscrolling

Emotional Toll

A steady diet of doom and gloom can significantly impact our mental health. Persistent exposure to negative news can increase feelings of anxiety, sadness, and hopelessness. Over time, it can also lead to compassion fatigue, where individuals become indifferent to tragic news due to overexposure.

Physical Consequences

Doomscrolling, especially before bedtime, can disrupt our sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by screens can suppress melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Moreover, the emotional toll taken by the negative news can also lead to restless sleep.

Social Implications

Our worldviews can become skewed if we’re constantly immersed in negative news. We might start to see the world as a more dangerous place than it actually is, leading to unnecessary fear and anxiety in our daily lives.

Breaking the Cycle of Doomscrolling

Awareness is the first step. Recognizing that you’re falling into a doomscrolling spiral is crucial. Here are some strategies to curb the habit:

Set Boundaries: Allocate specific times for news consumption. It can be helpful to avoid checking the news first thing in the morning or right before bed.
Limit Notifications: Turn off news notifications on your phone. This prevents the constant barrage of updates that can pull you into the doomscrolling cycle.
Curate Your Feed: Follow positive news outlets or accounts dedicated to uplifting content. Balance is key.
Digital Detox: Designate times where you unplug entirely. This could be an evening, a weekend, or even an hour during your day.
Engage in Positive Activities: Whenever you feel the urge to scroll, redirect your attention to activities that uplift you, such as reading a book, listening to music, or engaging in a hobby.

The Bigger Picture

In an age of information overload, it’s essential to remember that our media consumption habits play a significant role in shaping our perceptions, emotions, and overall well-being. While staying informed is important, it’s equally vital to ensure that our consumption patterns don’t negatively impact our mental health.

Conclusion

Doomscrolling, while a modern term, touches on age-old human behaviors and tendencies. In a world that feels increasingly uncertain, taking charge of our media habits can serve as a first step toward ensuring our emotional well-being. Remember, it’s okay to step back, breathe, and disconnect. Your mind will thank you.

Popular Psychology

Grappling with PTSD: How Jiu Jitsu Can Aid Trauma Recovery

26 Jul 202324 Jul 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

Not too long ago I read a great book called “Transforming Trauma with Jiu-Jitsu” (I will link it at the end of this post). This book validated what I had already started to understand and that is that Jiu-Jitsu can help many people who struggle with various traumas.

This was only verified by the conversations I had on the mats with students who took up Jiu-Jitsu after being sexually assaulted, physically assaulted or were struggling to transition back into civilian life after years in the military.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. These symptoms are intense, long-lasting, and can significantly interfere with a person’s life. While the path to healing from trauma can be a long and challenging one, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) offers potential benefits that can assist in this journey.

The Neurobiology of PTSD

To understand how Jiu Jitsu can help in trauma recovery, it’s essential to first grasp the basic neurobiology of PTSD. Traumatic experiences can alter brain structure and function, particularly areas like the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, which are involved in fear responses and memory. This alteration can result in the individual being in a constant state of “fight or flight,” even when there’s no immediate danger.

The Power of the Body in Trauma Recovery

Trauma-focused therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) are often used in PTSD treatment. However, there’s growing recognition of the role that body-based therapies can play in trauma recovery. This is where Jiu Jitsu enters the picture.

The ‘Roll’ of Jiu Jitsu in Trauma Recovery

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, with its combination of physical exertion, tactical strategy, and mindfulness, offers a unique approach to trauma recovery. Here’s how:

1. Restoring a Sense of Control

A sense of powerlessness is a common feeling in those with PTSD. Jiu Jitsu, by nature, is about gaining control – control over your body, your movements, and eventually, your opponent. By regularly practicing these maneuvers, an individual can regain a sense of control that extends beyond the mat, helping to counter the feelings of helplessness that trauma often induces.

2. Physical Exertion and Neurochemistry

Physical activity is known to stimulate the production of endorphins, neurotransmitters that act as natural mood elevators. Beyond the ‘feel-good’ factor, regular exercise can promote neurogenesis (creation of new neurons) and neural plasticity (the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections). This can help counter some of the brain changes induced by trauma.

3. Mindfulness in Motion

Mindfulness, or being completely present in the moment, is a powerful tool for managing PTSD symptoms. Jiu Jitsu, with its requirement for focused attention on the body and its movements, acts as a form of moving mindfulness. This mindful state can provide temporary respite from intrusive thoughts and flashbacks.

4. Creating a Safe Space

Safety – physical, emotional, and psychological – is often compromised in individuals with PTSD. The respectful, disciplined environment of a Jiu Jitsu dojo can provide a sense of safety. Moreover, as the individual becomes more proficient in their skills, they develop a realistic sense of their physical capabilities, further enhancing feelings of safety and security.

5. The Power of a Supportive Community

Human connection and a supportive community are vital components of trauma recovery. A Jiu Jitsu dojo offers a supportive network of individuals working towards common goals. This camaraderie can help mitigate feelings of isolation that often accompany PTSD.

Jiu Jitsu: A Tool, Not a Cure

While the benefits of Jiu Jitsu for trauma survivors are promising, it’s important to remember that it isn’t a stand-alone treatment for PTSD. It should be used as a complementary approach, alongside traditional therapeutic interventions.

Moreover, the practice of Jiu Jitsu should be trauma-informed, meaning the instructors should be aware of the potential triggers and issues that trauma survivors might face. There should be a strong emphasis on consent, respect, and ensuring a safe training environment.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, with its unique combination of physical, cognitive, and social elements, offers a compelling approach to body-based trauma recovery. But it’s more than just a recovery tool; it’s a journey towards self-improvement, self-awareness, and perhaps, healing. In the end, it’s not just about the techniques you learn, but the person you become in the process. As Carlos Gracie Sr., one of the founders of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, once said, “We cannot control the wind, but we can direct the sail.” With its potential benefits for trauma recovery, Jiu Jitsu might just help those grappling with PTSD direct their sails towards calmer waters.

Popular Psychology

The Great Sperm Swap: Can Another Man’s Sperm Affect an Unrelated Fetus?

25 Jul 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

Ladies and gentlemen, brace yourselves! Today we’re about to embark on an epic journey—a n exploration of a concept that might have tickled your curiosity at some point: Can another man’s sperm influence the fetus of a baby that’s not his? Buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, and prepare for a wild, but educational ride through the wonderful world of biology!

Sperm, DNA, and the Makings of a Myth

I first attempted to answer this question here, but I believe it’s time for a brief refresher. Sperm, those wiggly little swimmers, each carry half of a man’s DNA. When a sperm fertilizes an egg, voila, a baby is in the works. The DNA from the mother’s egg and father’s sperm combine to create a unique genetic mix—a brand-new blueprint for a brand-new human. Now, hold onto your hats, because here’s where things get interesting.

You see, there’s this urban legend—let’s call it “The Great Sperm Swap” theory—that suggests if a pregnant woman has sex with a man who isn’t the baby’s father, his sperm might somehow influence the developing fetus. It’s a titillating concept, one that would certainly shake up our understanding of biology. But is it rooted in any kind of scientific fact, or is it more science fiction?

Sperm vs. Fortress Uterus: The Ultimate Showdown

To evaluate “The Great Sperm Swap” theory, we first need to understand the female reproductive system. Imagine, if you will, the uterus as an impenetrable fortress, guarded by a thick, mucousy moat (the cervical mucus), an ironclad gate (the cervix), and a massive, impregnable wall (the uterine lining). Inside this fortress, the fetus grows and develops, safe from the attacks of rogue sperm.

When another man’s sperm enters the scene, it faces an uphill battle. Even under normal circumstances, the majority of sperm don’t make it to the egg. They get lost, run out of energy, or are killed off by the acidic environment of the vagina. Remember, this is without the added challenge of the uterus fortress in full-on defense mode.

During pregnancy, the fortress’s defenses are even more formidable. The cervix is blocked by a thick plug of mucus, and the uterus is busy nurturing the existing fetus. For another man’s sperm to somehow influence the fetus, it would need to pass through these barriers, infiltrate the amniotic sac, and modify the existing baby’s DNA. It’s like expecting a foot soldier to single-handedly breach a well-defended castle, then rewrite the king’s laws—it’s just not going to happen.

Bringing the Science Hammer Down

Biologically speaking, once the fetus starts developing, the genetic die is cast. The DNA has been combined and set, and no additional sperm—whether from the father or another man—can change that genetic makeup. So, we must conclude that “The Great Sperm Swap” theory, as tantalizing as it might be, belongs in the realm of science fiction rather than science fact.

Conclusion: The Swimmers Stay in Their Lane

So, there you have it,! The fascinating, sometimes mind-boggling world of reproduction. While the idea of another man’s sperm influencing an unrelated fetus is a captivating concept, it’s about as scientifically likely as me growing a unicorn horn. Rest assured, those intrepid little swimmers stay in their lane, and once a baby is in the making, its genetic blueprint is there to stay!

In the wild, wonderful world of biology, there’s always something new to learn and explore. So, the next time you hear a strange theory, remember: curiosity is the mother of discovery. Keep asking questions, keep seeking answers, and most importantly, keep laughing along the journey. Life’s too short not to chuckle at the weird and the wonderful!

Popular Psychology

Carlee Russell and Histrionic Personality Disorder

24 Jul 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

Recently on the radio, I heard some speculation that Carlee Russell, a 25-year-old woman from Alabama who made headlines after she disappeared after reporting she spotted a toddler on the highway, only to show up days later to a relative’s house unharmed with no evidence that she was ever kidnapped or in danger.

Many are trying to understand what appears to be her bizarre behavior surrounding her disappearance and some believe that she may be suffering from some type of mental illness Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD). As a mental health professional, I don’t want to throw out any possible diagnosis based on the little bit of information I know about this situation and certainly not when it comes to possible personality disorders (which generally takes getting to know the individual personally over time) but I take a more indepth look into what HPD is.

Understanding Histrionic Personality Disorder

HPD is one of the least understood and frequently misdiagnosed personality disorders. It is characterized by patterns of excessive emotionality, attention-seeking behavior, and a need for approval.

HPD falls under the cluster B personality disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), characterized by dramatic, emotional, or erratic behavior. Individuals with HPD exhibit a pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior that begins by early adulthood and is present in various contexts.

The symptoms can often lead to difficulties in relationships and professional settings, impacting an individual’s overall quality of life.

Symptoms of Histrionic Personality Disorder

Some common symptoms associated with HPD include:

A constant need for attention and approval
Discomfort in situations where they are not the center of attention
Rapidly shifting and shallow expressions of emotions
Use of physical appearance to draw attention
Impressionistic speech that lacks detail
Dramatic, theatrical, and exaggerated expressions of emotion
Easily influenced by others or circumstances
Belief that relationships are more intimate than they actually are

It’s important to note that everyone can exhibit some of these behaviors at times. A diagnosis of HPD involves these behaviors being consistent, long-term patterns that interfere with day-to-day functioning.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of HPD is unknown, but it’s likely a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors. Some studies suggest that a history of childhood trauma or neglect might contribute to developing HPD. Early parental relationships may also play a role, as those who were rewarded for dramatic behaviors may learn to use these behaviors to get attention.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing HPD involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. The clinician will assess the individual’s behavior, thoughts, and feelings over time, and compare them to the DSM-5 criteria.

Once diagnosed, psychotherapy is the primary treatment method for HPD. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective, helping individuals to uncover unconscious thought and behavior patterns, and learn new, healthier ways to relate to others. Group therapy can also be beneficial, allowing the individual to interact with others in a controlled, professional environment.

While there’s no specific medication for HPD, some symptoms, such as depression or anxiety, may be managed with psychiatric drugs.

Coping Strategies and Support

Living with or caring for someone with HPD can be challenging. The following coping strategies can be helpful:

Educate Yourself: Understanding the disorder can help manage expectations and facilitate empathy.
Set Boundaries: Maintaining consistent boundaries can prevent manipulative or attention-seeking behavior from destabilizing relationships or professional settings.
Seek Support: Joining a support group, either in-person or online, can provide emotional assistance and practical advice.

Conclusion: Understanding and Compassion

HPD is a complex and often misunderstood condition. If Carlee Russell is suffering from HPD, then she needs understanding, compassion, and professional support just like anyone else suffering from a mental health issue. Instead of attacking or ridiculing her, this experience can be used to highlight the important of mental health awareness.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with HPD, remember: you are not alone, and help is available. With the right treatment and support, individuals with HPD can lead fulfilling, productive lives.

In shedding light on conditions like HPD, we help to combat stigma and pave the way for more open discussions about mental health. In doing so, we can foster a society where everyone is understood, accepted, and receives the care they need.

Popular Psychology

The Unheard Voices: Exploring the World of Maladaptive Daydreaming

7 Jul 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHCLeave a Comment

Daydreaming: we all do it. It’s the mind’s escape hatch, letting us leave our desks, classrooms, or daily chores to briefly venture into a realm where we’re the scriptwriters, directors, and leading actors. But for some, daydreaming isn’t just an occasional mental diversion—it’s an intricate, time-consuming saga that can interfere with their daily life. This phenomenon is known as maladaptive daydreaming, a fascinating yet often misunderstood aspect of mental health.

What is Maladaptive Daydreaming?

First coined by Professor Eliezer Somer of the University of Haifa, maladaptive daydreaming (MD) describes a condition where an individual gets excessively absorbed in daydreaming to the point where it disrupts their life. Unlike regular daydreaming, MD is not merely a brief escape from reality but a significant investment of time and mental energy.

Individuals with MD create complex daydreams, often with recurring characters and ongoing storylines. They might be triggered by real-life events, books, movies, or even music. The daydreams are usually incredibly vivid and immersive, frequently more enticing than reality, leading to individuals spending hours lost in their imagined worlds.

The Impact of Maladaptive Daydreaming

While this intense daydreaming might sound like a boon to creative individuals, the ‘maladaptive’ in maladaptive daydreaming underscores its potential drawbacks.

Individuals with MD can become so engrossed in their daydreams that it hampers their productivity, social relationships, and overall quality of life. They may neglect work or studies, have difficulty sleeping, and become socially isolated. The vivid, detailed nature of the daydreams can also elicit strong emotional responses, which can be exhausting.

Not Just Daydreaming: Recognizing Maladaptive Daydreaming

One of the key challenges with MD is that it’s not formally recognized as a disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, several characteristics can help distinguish it from ordinary daydreaming:

Duration: Maladaptive daydreams consume hours of a person’s day, unlike regular daydreams.
Control: Individuals with MD often feel they have less control over their daydreaming and may struggle to stop or reduce it.
Distress and Dysfunction: MD leads to significant distress, often due to guilt, shame, or the inability to perform daily tasks effectively.
Immersive Daydreams: The daydreams in MD are incredibly vivid and detailed, often with complex plots and characters.

What Can Be Done?

For those who identify with the traits of maladaptive daydreaming, acknowledging it is the first step. Awareness is key to understanding how these daydreams might be influencing your life.

Next, consider seeking professional help. Therapists, particularly those specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals develop strategies to manage their daydreaming and deal with the issues it may cause.

For some, maladaptive daydreaming is a way of coping with loneliness, trauma, or dissatisfaction with life. In such cases, therapy may involve addressing these underlying issues.

Finally, finding supportive communities—such as online forums or local mental health groups—can also provide comfort and shared coping strategies.

A World Within a World

The realm of maladaptive daydreaming reminds us of the mind’s immense capacity to create, illustrating how our internal worlds can sometimes become as influential as the reality we navigate daily. While this mental phenomenon can cause challenges, understanding it is the first step to managing its effects and helping those who experience it live balanced, fulfilling lives. With more research and recognition, we can hope for better support and resources for those living in the world of maladaptive daydreaming.

Popular Psychology

Cheerful Nihilism: Finding Joy in the Absurd

6 Jul 2023by Torey C. Richards, LMHC2 Comments

One day I was speaking with a client who told me that she was being “cheerfully nihilistic” which I found to be an interesting term. After our session, I immediately did a deep dive into cheerful nihilism and found it to be a fascinating way to look at life.

Cheerful nihilism might at first seem like an oxymoron, but it embodies a unique perspective on life. Understanding this concept can provide you with another tool when dealing with the ups and downs of life.

What is Nihilism?

Nihilism, at its most fundamental level, is the belief that life is without objective meaning, purpose, or inherent value. It’s a philosophy that emerged prominently in the 19th century, particularly associated with Friedrich Nietzsche, who viewed it as a destructive force that could undermine moral and societal structures. However, nihilism is not inherently negative, and several forms of it can provide different perspectives on life.

One of these perspectives is what is referred to as ‘cheerful nihilism’.

What is Cheerful Nihilism?

Cheerful nihilism is a term that might initially seem contradictory. After all, how can a worldview often associated with despair and existential dread be considered cheerful? The answer lies in a reframing of nihilistic principles.

Cheerful nihilism is about finding joy in the inherent meaninglessness of life. It encourages individuals to let go of the anxiety produced by societal expectations, the fear of failure, or the pressure to conform to a specific narrative of success and fulfillment. Instead, it suggests that we should enjoy life for what it is, unburdened by the quest for inherent meaning.

In this worldview, the absence of an objective or preordained purpose doesn’t translate to a hopeless or depressive outlook. Instead, it provides a freedom to create our own purpose and meaning.

Cheerful Nihilism in Practice

The first step in practicing cheerful nihilism is acceptance. Accepting that life has no inherent, objective meaning can be liberating. It frees one from the pressures of conforming to societal expectations, allowing for a more authentic and self-defined existence.

From here, you can begin to construct your own meaning. This process is highly personal, as what brings joy and fulfillment varies from person to person. It could be anything from nurturing relationships, to pursuing a passion, to contributing to a cause that aligns with your values.

Lastly, cheerful nihilism encourages gratitude and mindfulness. Even in a world that lacks inherent meaning, we can appreciate and find joy in simple, everyday experiences – the beauty of a sunset, the joy of laughter, or the satisfaction of a well-cooked meal.

Cheerful Nihilism and Mental Health

While nihilism might initially seem like a negative or despair-inducing belief system, cheerful nihilism can have positive implications for mental health.

Firstly, it can alleviate feelings of pressure and anxiety, often associated with the pursuit of a specific purpose or meeting societal expectations. By dismissing the need for an objective meaning, individuals can feel liberated to live their life according to their own standards.

Secondly, it allows for increased authenticity and self-expression. In a nihilistic framework, every individual is free to create their own purpose and to choose what to value in life.

Lastly, cheerful nihilism promotes mindfulness and gratitude, both of which have been associated with increased wellbeing and lower rates of depression and anxiety.

As a mental health counselor, understanding cheerful nihilism provides me with another perspective to help others. It’s however, important to remember that it is just one of many philosophical perspectives on life and may not resonate or be helpful to everyone. It’s just another tool of many that we can choose from to help us thrive and survive in an unpredictable world.

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