Et propter vitam vivendi perdere

The well-replicated observation that many people maintain mental health despite exposure to severe psychological or physical adversity has ignited interest in the mechanisms that protect against stress-related mental illness. Focusing on resilience rather than pathophysiology in many ways represents a paradigm shift in clinical-psychological and psychiatric research that has great potential for the development of new prevention and treatment strategies. The Key Mechanism: Positive Appraisal Style The framework is applicable to both animal and human research and supports the design and interpretation of translational studies. The theory emphasizes the causal role of stimulus appraisal (evaluation) processes in the generation of emotional responses, including responses to potential stressors. On this basis, it posits that a positive (non-negative) appraisal style is the key mechanism that protects against the detrimental effects of stress and mediates the effects of other known resilienc...

Resilience is a term that is used to describe an individual's ability to withstand and recover quickly from difficult conditions. The word "resilience" comes from the Latin word "resilire," meaning "to leap back." This concept is not only important in the field of physics, where it describes a strained body's ability to recover its size and form following deformation, but also in the field of psychology, where it is used to describe an individual's ability to adapt to adversity and maintain a positive state of psychological functioning. However, defining resilience can be a challenge as the definitions of adversity and positive adaptation may vary based on the historical and sociocultural context within which the research was conducted, the researchers' conceptual proclivities, and the population sampled. Most researchers agree that both adversity and positive adaptation must be evident for resilience to be demonstrated. But, inconsistencie...

Testosterone, often associated with physical strength and virility, plays a crucial role in the psychological well-being of both men and women. While it's commonly known as the "male hormone," it's essential for women's mental health as well. In recent years, research has increasingly pointed to the significance of harnessing the power of testosterone in psychological settings. In this blog post, we will explore the rationale behind this approach and the benefits it can offer. Testosterone and Mental Health Numerous studies have shown a strong correlation between testosterone and mood regulation. Low testosterone levels have been linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and overall psychological distress. Conversely, higher levels of testosterone can contribute to enhanced mood stability, resilience, and emotional regulation. Therefore, maintaining optimal testosterone levels may help improve mental health and overall psychological well-being. Testosteron...

Depression is a serious mental health condition that can have a profound impact on a person's life. It affects not only their emotional well-being but also their physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Many individuals who have experienced depression wonder if they can ever regain a sense of "normalcy" and fully recover from this debilitating condition. As a clinical psychiatrist, I am often asked this question, and the answer is both hopeful and nuanced. Let's explore the topic further. The Journey of Recovery Recovering from depression is a unique and individualized process. It's important to recognize that the concept of "normal" may vary from person to person. Rather than striving to return to a pre-depression state, the focus should be on achieving a new sense of well-being and resilience. Understanding Depression To comprehend the potential for recovery, it's crucial to understand the nature of depression. Depression is a c...

I've encountered and navigated the complexities of mental health through numerous patient interactions. One recurring concern voiced by parents is the hereditary aspect of mental illness: Can it be passed down from one generation to another? In this post, I aim to provide an accessible and balanced explanation of the current understanding of genetics and environmental factors in mental health. The interplay between genetics and mental health is a complicated one. While there is unequivocal evidence to support the fact that mental illnesses can run in families, it doesn't present the whole picture. As we know, mental health resides on a multifaceted spectrum, influenced by genetics, environment, and personal experiences. To achieve a full understanding of the heritability of mental illness, one must recognize the interdependence of these factors. In recent years, advances in genetic research have pinpointed potential genetic markers associated with specific mental illnesses. For...

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by pervasive instability in emotions, relationships, self-image, and behavior. Traditionally, BPD has been considered a disorder that primarily manifests in adulthood. However, there is growing recognition among mental health professionals that BPD can also affect children and adolescents. We will explore the question of whether a child can have BPD from a clinical psychiatrist's perspective and discuss the unique considerations and challenges involved in diagnosing and treating BPD in young individuals. Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Before delving into the topic of BPD in children, let's first gain a clear understanding of the disorder itself. BPD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions. Individuals with BPD often experience intense and rapidly shifting emotions, struggle with impulsivity, have di...

In times of mental struggle, people often seek out stories of others experiencing similar challenges. This phenomenon can be understood as a psychological coping mechanism, satisfying one's need for validation and empathy. However, as a clinical psychiatrist, I would like to emphasize that although this temporary comfort may provide some reprieve, it is crucial to embrace effective long-term coping strategies and seek appropriate professional help. One of the main reasons individuals grappling with mental difficulties search for similar stories is to reassure themselves that they are not alone. As social beings, humans have an innate need for connection and understanding. This is especially true when facing emotional or psychological distress. Listening to others' experiences of overcoming similar hardships can provide insight and hope, instilling a sense of solidarity in the process. Nevertheless, simply identifying with others' struggles is not a panacea for one's men...

Treatment for OCD often involves a combination of therapy and, in some cases, medication. Here are some of the commonly used treatment approaches for OCD: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) CBT is a highly effective therapy for treating OCD. Specifically, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a form of CBT commonly used for OCD. ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to their obsessions and preventing the accompanying compulsive behaviors. Through repeated exposure, individuals learn to tolerate the anxiety triggered by their obsessions without resorting to compulsions. Over time, this leads to a decrease in the intensity and frequency of obsessions and compulsions. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) ACT is a therapeutic approach that focuses on accepting distressing thoughts and feelings rather than trying to eliminate them. With OCD, ACT helps individuals develop psychological flexibility and build resilience in the face of obsessions and compulsions. It emphasizes the ...

Mental health is often overlooked, even though it plays an integral part in our overall well-being. As a clinical psychiatrist, I encounter numerous patients who struggle to prioritize their mental health and seek sustainable ways to improve it. Boosting mental health is not a one-size-fits-all approach; each individual's journey is unique and requires customized strategies. In this blog post, I will share my knowledge and experience to provide you with valuable insights on boosting mental health. Understanding Your Mental Health Needs The first step towards enhancing your mental health is understanding your specific needs. Like physical health, mental health comprises various components, including emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It's essential to recognize the areas where you may struggle and identify the support you require. For example, some individuals may experience intense emotions, while others might grapple with social anxiety. Make a list of areas you...

Anna Bagenholm was an accomplished doctor, who spent much of her free time enjoying the Norwegian outdoors, particularly skiing. On one fateful day, she experienced a life-threatening accident that would change her life forever. Despite the odds being stacked against her, Anna's incredible story of survival is a testament to the human spirit and the power of hope. The Accident Anna Bagenholm was skiing in northern Norway when she lost control and fell off a cliff. She landed on a frozen puddle, which gave way, and she fell through a 20-centimeter thick ice sheet. The impact of the fall caused her body to become trapped underneath the ice, with her head and body submerged in freezing water. Anna was unable to move or call for help, and she quickly began to lose consciousness due to the cold. Her body temperature dropped rapidly, and her heart stopped beating for two hours. In most cases, patients like Anna are pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, but her story is different....