Showing posts with label brain health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brain health. Show all posts

Hermetic Principle of Mentalism

This is the 1st instalment of a 7-part series on the 7 hermetic principles of natural law. It is the single-most important of the 7 principles. It is necessary for the success of any of the other principles.


#1. Principle of Mentalism

"The All is Mind; The Universe in Mental."
Everything begins in the mind of God. Since you are a fractal of God, ie designed microcosmically in God's image, the same also applies to you. So everything starts in your mind as thought; ie everything like your achievements, material things, states of mind and so on. In other words, you need the appropriate mindset as a prerequisite for a desired outcome.

However, a critical thing to understand is that the word 'thought' refers to deep subconscious, NOT surface level conscious thought. Huge difference! Fear not, despite the depth of these thoughts, you can use your free will to change these subconscious thoughts with choices that you make at the conscious surface level. However, the choice needs to be an intention that is so profound and clear that it can drive you to engage all points of your trinity (mind, body and emotion) into manifesting your intention.

In other words, when you have implanted the thought (with emotion) of achieving something into your conscious and subconscious minds, your corresponding actions will follow naturally. 

Furthermore, you can also engage the superconscious mind, aka universal mind, which is the macrocosmic consciousness outside of what you perceive to be your egoic self. From time to time, the superconscious mind reveals itself to your subconscious and conscious minds in obvious ways through 'synchronicities', ie meaningful coincidences or rapid manifestations that sync with your thoughts or feelings like when you encounter someone or thing shortly after thinking about them, seemingly randomly. Every thought is like a seed you plant in the fertile grounds of the universal mindThe now famous double split experiment in Quantum Physics has illustrated that your potent conscious and subconscious thoughts can even influence the macrocosm. There is a supernatural connection between your individual mind and the rest of the universe. This is why hermetic magick rituals like magick circles connect with the 4 elements of reality and often start with the spiritual element of air (for the mind in the East), then fire (for action) and then water (for emotion). The dream state, which is just like a deep meditative state, is a microcosm practice session of how our minds can create and interact with external realities, physical and even superconscious. 

Regarding the famous "double slit experiment", the simple act of watching matter, even inanimate matter, can alter its behavior at the quantum level. The implications of this are endless as it shows that consciousness can alter reality. Just imagine; if the mere presence of observation can do that, your highly intentional consciousness can alter reality, even if you can not yet see how on a 3-dimensional physical level. 
The prerequisite for applying this knowledge, ie altering reality through your mind is to de-clutter your mind so that your mind is clear about its intentions. Needless to say, just like how your mind impacts the environment, beware; the environment also impacts your mind's strength of attention on creative intentions. Each element in your environment that somehow overstimulates and thereby fragments your mind must be excluded whenever possible, even if you can not or barely recognize the impact. Common examples include social media, advertisements at every turn, constant notifications, constant streams of information, people that bring drama to your life, even ostensibly irrelevant details. Unfortunately, these distractions (aka addictions) distance you from your creative essence, especially since many distractions subconsciously shape your beliefs according to the will of others. Research shows that these excesses can lower your ability to maintain focus. Over time, your mind loses its sharpness and clarity. This point can not be stressed enough. Without you realizing it, external influences may train you to accept wrong limiting beliefs regarding the possibilities for your life. You may miss opportunities for loving relationships, productive partnerships, ambitious projects and so on.

Ultimately, therefore, in the modern world of manipulative mental overstimulation, your power to shape reality comes from your ability to willfully focus attention towards creative pursuits. In other words, your creative endeavors are more likely to be successful if you can give them your undispersed, concentrated focus (because a scattered mind with unconsciously formed beliefs would be powerless over your reality).

'Distractions are the most effective means of control over man.' Aldous Huxley

Mental self-control is therefore a source of self-empowerment. You can use meditation to achieve it, whether you meditate in the form of clearing the mind or focusing on something like the breath, dance or other point (like the minutiae of an activity, like noting the 5 senses as you walk, eat or otherwise). Either way, meditation trains your mind to break from the modern-day cycle of erratic thinking and to remain present and under your control. This needs to become a habit because, as a practice, meditation is like physical exercise in that, over time, your mind gets increasingly strong to focus according to your will and, despite external influences.

Forms of meditation that encourage you to empty the mind offer an opportunity to reprogram your mind. You will invariably observe thoughts that interrupt your attempts to keep your mind empty. Take note of these thoughts ... with pen and paper for later analysis. This exercise allows you to spy on your subconscious mind and to recognize your predominant thoughts. This is very important because the programing in your subconscious mind largely dictates what you can actually manifest, irrespective of your conscious intentions. If you can be deep, honest and kind with yourself, you can do the 'shadow work', ie you can recognize and resolve limiting beliefs and fears that block your potential. As a sidenote, it is common to focus banishment rituals on warfare by others against you. However, it is better to also banish your internal blocks so as to raise yourself above the effects of external warfare, especially since it is a near inevitability as you advance towards ambitious goals. 

Meditation clears your mind to help you be a better channel through which Spirit can flow.

Meditation frequently is like physical exercise in that it strengthens your mind's ability to let go of thoughts that do not serve you.

Sometimes, it is necessary to objectively research ways of overcoming your limiting beliefs. You might even need professional help. You decide! Regarding, the next point is to reprogram your mind with emotion and creativity like visualization, situational enactment in which you play out your future role with fervor and ritual magick in which you allow yourself to connect more deeply with the universal mind. Feel the emotion of the new reality as if it has already occurred. This is important because these practices put you into a receptive state to 'see' the universal mind and to attract infinite wisdom (which can include working with ancient African ancestors bound under a similar covenant). 


How to (re)program your subconscious mind
  • Select intentions that will be the predominant thought on which to focus throughout the day and during daily meditation. Your subconscious mind can only handle your predominant or most intense thought. Catch yourself when you fall back into negative thinking: worries, fears and ruminations and then redirect your thoughts accordingly. Many people default to rumination over past negative experiences, like failures. The subconscious and superconscious minds listens. Remove as many distractions (or 'noise') as possible from your life. This makes it easier for manifestation to occur. 
    YouTuber Dr Tracey Marks' video 'Two things you can do to stop ruminating' explains that 
    rumination is strongly linked with (major) depressive and anxiety disorders. Unlike normal constructive analysis of past events to problem solve, ruminating thoughts are only repetitive, unhelpful and negative without any problem solving. Studies show that rumination mostly occurs when you are not actively focused on or thinking about something. Said in terms of brain science; your brain's 'default mode network' is more active. Looking on the bright side, treat rumination or any type of mild dissociative state (especially if it is very engaging to your senses, aka highly vibrational / manifestationalas a golden opportunity to see what your subconscious mind is REALLY up to.
    • Depressive rumination examples
      • Thoughts associated with feeling un-lovable like "They would not like me", "I can not find a partner that can truly appreciate all of my complexities".
    • Anxiety rumination examples
      • You relive or repeat past traumatic events in your mind. (It is much like re-experiencing, a key aspect of PTSD anxiety disorder, but in thought).
  • Adapt intentions to current circumstances. One reason that many people do not succeed at manifestation is that their minds can not see the possibility of their intended end goal. In other words, their gatekeeping conscious mind rejects the idea, thereby preventing their subconscious mind from ever receiving it. For instance, if you wanted anything, and set that intention without being ready to attract it, you are more likely to fail. Just imagine someone barely able to write and not having even a high school diploma but setting the intention to earn a PhD within 6 months. While people continue to break the mold, such a person is unlikely to be very prepared, even if the universe presents opportunities for full scholarships. Conversely, if you set more realistic intentions, realizing that you need some type of self development that will help you to attract, identify and keep what you want, you are more likely to succeed by giving your mind an intention that is adapted to current circumstances. In other words, you need to take the necessary baby steps.
  • Write down your plan for your mental state to tell your mind to take this process seriously. 
  • Use the right language. Set your intentions in the present tense as if they have already materialized. The subconscious mind is NOT good at the future tense. It just wants to slavishly deliver on your current program, however you set it. Ensure your wording does not suggest lack. For instance, do not say 'I wish I had' because your mind will recognize that you do not have it. Use powerful words like 'mastering', 'perfect' and so on.
  • Talk to your subconscious mind just before sleeping. During your 8 hours of sleep, your subconscious mind dwells on and integrates the various ideas of your day's life experience. One of the easiest way to slip conscious intentions into your sleep-state subconscious mind is by declaring the message to yourself as you are falling asleep. Example(s) of suggestions with which you may reprogram your mind include the following. I like the idea of creating my own deck of cards from which I can draw at bed time.
    • I am healthy
  • Repetition. Review your vision board as the first and last things you ponder on each day.
  • Incorporate your mentalism plan into your daily life. Meditate on the intention. During meditation, visualize and imagine the intention, engaging as many of your senses and emotions as possible. See article on the principle of vibration. In response to negative patterns (like rumination), follow an 'if-then' action plan for each type. For instance, you may decide that 'if you catch yourself ruminating about / dealing with trigger x, your remedial response will be to do y'. Remedial responses do not follow the one-size-fits-all model but usually include meditation, grounding practices, art therapy and the like. Learn more about 'rumination-focused cognitive behavior therapy / RFCBT'. As much as your current circumstances will allow, start to behave according to your new avatar. For instance, if your intention is to become a chef, start consuming educational content on culinary arts. If your intention is to be more abc, learn how to start incorporating as many of those traits. Whenever possible, jump into the role, even if this means impersonating someone who already embodies the traits you desire. Impersonation involves responding to situations like how that person would, ie rather than how you would ordinarily. Naturally, this requires you to have really analyzed that person in advance. This may also involve rehearsing and acting out scenarios in advance. Remember to be patient because this is a process. Specifically, at first, your old self image will continue to rule the show, attracting reflections of its existence in your life. However, over time, the balance will tip in the other direction towards your new self image. Calls to action: Write out your alternative / alter ego (specify your superpowers, objectives, triggers, future); reveal your alter ego / powers in everything that you do. 
    • YouTube video by Aaron Doughty '3 Steps to anchor your new self-image' speaks of first acknowledging your old self image so as to be clear of what you want to undo. For instance, do you have some polarity issues? He also speaks of using repetition so that the new persona sticks. For instance, several times daily, check in with yourself to ensure that you are consistently aligning yourself (through thoughts, words and emotions) to your new self-image. As part of your checking in process, imagine and visualize yourself in experiences that align with the new self image. Do so with imaginations of your 5 senses.
    • Many famous people have created alter egos as a strategy for becoming the best versions of themselves and to fulfill dreams. See YouTuber Jillz Guerin video on how 'an alter ego can change your life' (inspired by Todd Herman's book 'The Alter Ego Effect'). 
       


      YouTuber Ethan Schwandt's YouTube video 'The alter ego effect - Todd Herman (mind map book summary)'. This video speaks about the superhero Superman and Clark Kent in a very interesting way. He suggests that, while most people would likely think that Superman was the alternative ego to Clark Kent, it might be the other way around. Specifically, Superman was truly who this being came to the planet as. However, he selected an alter ego, Clark Kent for safety in a society, knowing that he could switch back to his true self when necessary. In other words, your superhero abilities are truer versions of your higher self. You must therefore tap into that version of yourself.
    • Bob Proctor speaks of "creating a new persona" (from Proctor Gallagher Institute YouTube video 'Write your new self image', 3:45 to 04:45). He did this by borrowing elements of different people he wanted to emulate. For instance, he admired a man who always dressed very well. While he had not yet had the finances to support dressing like that, he set in his mind that that was one way in which his new person would be. He admired another man who walked with calm confidence. He visualized himself walking that way. This was the way he eventually built the different aspects of his new self. He committed in action to honoring the new vision. For instance, regardless of how others dressed, he went out of his way to ensure that he was always the best or one of the best dressed people in any room.   
  • Example(s). Daily repeat affirmations like the following.
    • I am learning so much about field X is the adaptation from Please give me / I wish I had an expert in field X. Who knows, maybe you do NOT specifically need a PhD, just knowledge and certain opportunities to perform within the field.
    • Financial ease is on its way that allows me to focus on passions a and b is the adaptation from How can I ever get out of this financial set back? I do not know how
    • I am mastering [trait a], becoming expertly [trait b] [like Person A] is the adaptation from I envy Person A.
    • I am growing in gratitude for life (because I am developing myself in a,b,c ways) is the adaptation from I am tired of life.



  • Consider using accessories
    • Music with the 963 Hz frequency, aka the 'God frequency' or 'miracle tone' is considered useful for significantly raising your vibration which is key to manifesting positive circumstances and outcomes. 
    • Flutter breath meditation for manifesting your vision (using a vision board)
    • High vibrational foods
      • fermented sprouts, especially with brain health herbs likes parsley and cilantro. (Fermented) lentils are considered as 'brain food' and can also be added to sauerkraut. (sprouts, sauerkraut). I include as many brain foods as possible. Others include: mushrooms (especially if sun-exposed for a day to increase its content of vitamin D), fennel seeds and parsley.


CONTENT (THIRD PARTY INCLUDED) RELATED TO THE HERMETIC PRINCIPLE OF MENTALISM OF NATURAL LAW

Bipolar Mood Disorder types 1 & 2

According to the
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a chronic mood (NOT personality) disorder that causes unusual / abnormal shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. 

The Bipolar disorder occurs when you exhibit BOTH extremes of high and low energy states at levels that are FARTHER FROM YOUR BASELINE THAN USUAL. These diametric states are called mania and depression respectively. The sufferer experiences cycles between these extremes, with varying degrees, speed and duration. Consequently, the condition is called 'bipolar' or 'manic depression' disorder.


The Extreme Mood States of Bipolar Disorder
1. Depression (type 1) / Major Depression (type 2). This form of depression is characterized by decreased energy, prolonged sadness, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, inexplicable tearfulness, hopelessness, sense of worthlessness, decreased sleep, social detachment, suicidal thoughts, thoughts of death and so on. To be clear, this depression is more intense than usual. Specifically, rather than just feeling down, sufferers feel immobilized / stuck, worthless, and despairing to the point of suicide

2. Mania (type 1) / Hypomania (type 2) . This form of mania is characterized by increased energy, euphoria, hyperactivity, restlessness, insomnia, impulsiveness, grandiose thinking, anxiety, frenzied activity, racing thoughts, increased goal directed behavior and a decreased need for sleep. To clarify and as you may have appreciated from this list, mania does NOT always take the form of positive feelings. Very common signs include heightened agitation (including psycho agitation), irritability and distractibility. In more extreme cases, patients experience hallucinations, paranoia and delirium ie acute disturbance in mental state that may affect thought and speech. Manic episodes are distinguishable from normal happiness by the fact that intense highs usually precede or follow low lows. However, this manic cheerfulness can easily switch to its negative form of irritability when the person is crossed. Truly happy individuals have more consistent and even feelings. Unlike the case of normal happiness, the intense drive does not settle down. Normally happy people are generally more capable of a full nights sleep. Feelings of grandiosity lead to poor judgement. Furthermore, true happiness is not seasonal whereas bipolar manic episodes occur within an up and down cycle. Manic individuals do not simply feel 'good'. Rather, they feel extraordinarily fantastic and self-confident, limitless and even superhuman.


Bipolar Types 1 vs 2: Contrasting Levels of Highs & Lows
In a nutshell, it can be said that the key difference between bipolar disorders 1 and 2 is that the highs are higher for type 1 while the lows are lower for type 2. Below is more detailed information.

Bipolar Type 1. The highs are high grade and can cause problems because they manifest with tendencies for excessiveness. High grade highs are often characterized by a burst of energy; above baseline cheerfulness and sociability; excessive optimism; overconfidence; impulsive behavior that is often dangerous like dangerous sexual behavior and theft; grandiose thinking and; stimulus-seeking. The highs surpass the baseline in an extreme way. Sufferers may feel like they crash because, after such exhilarating highs, the lows are very low. Generally, the manic episodes are more intense than the depressive states. Persons suffering with bipolar 1 have a likelihood for substance abuse. 

Bipolar Type 2. The highs are low grade and deviate from the baseline only moderately. For this reason, the highs or mania have the prefix 'hypo' in this type of high, called HYPOmania. These highs do not generally cause problems because they do not reach the extremes associated with psychosis. They are nonetheless noticeable by others. For instance, sufferers may become above their baseline regarding wittiness, sharpness of thought; it is obvious that sufferers feel better. However, these highs do not cause negative impacts. Sometimes, the 'highs' are characterized by irritability. The lows are more intense and enduring than the manic dimension of this form of the bipolar disorder.  The depressive episodes are referred to as 'major depression'. In type 2 bipolar disorder, hypomanic episodes last for at least 4 days. Additionally, the depressive episodes occur more frequently and intensely than the hypo-manic episodes. Type 2 patients have less periods of emotional stability (aka euthymia'). Given their greater amount of 'down-time', they are more likely to contemplate and follow through with suicide.
  
People who suffer with bipolar disorder are often described as having a genius brain because their brains usually operate much faster than usual during their manic extremes. Not surprisingly, famous creative people are believed to have suffered from bipolar disorder. They include Beethoven, Mozart, van Gogh, Britney Spears, Mel Gibson, Robin Williams, the past US presidents Winston Churchill and Abraham Lincoln.

Cyclothymia. When moods deviate from the baseline but are not all that extreme?
Cyclothymia is a condition in which persons experience highs and lows that deviate from their baseline in a way that is not normal for the general population. However, these episodes do not reach the full extreme extent as mania (in type 1) or major depression (in type 2) as per the DSM. Sufferers of cyclothymia are better off considering their condition a warning sign because, if left untreated, cyclothymia can develop into bipolar disorder. This fact is a stark reminder that, like physical illness, mental health conditions deserve serious attention as they can lead to more serious problems.


Risk Factors


Physiology of Bipolar Disorder
Manic extents of bipolar disorder, especially in the 'genius brain' type expends essential nutrients like lithium to function more quickly than for the average population. Lowering the levels of these essential nutrients pushes a sufferer towards the depressive state of the bipolar disorder.

As this kind of depletion occurs, several things happen to the body. For instance, digestion slows down; the fall in levels of serotonin and dopamine, ie neurotransmitters or substances positively related to good mood and balance between the bipolar extremes; heavy metals and inflammation accumulate more readily in the brain as seen with autistic and Asperger's sufferers.


Signs of an Imminent Manic Episode
Agitation. Increased activity which can include non-physical activity like increased sex drive and an abundance of thoughts. For instance, if you are a writer and write a lot in your mind (some of which you may later find below par).


Treatment of bipolar mood disorder 
Treatment is critical simply because it may be very disabling, particularly type 2. For instance, bipolar disorder sufferers may lose as much as 14 years of effective functionality, 12 years of normal health and of living years for the 19% that succeed in their suicide attempts.


Epidemiology & Cause(s) of Bipolar Mood Disorder
Bipolar disorder occurs within roughly 1% of the population. Unlike bipolar 1, bipolar 2 does not influence the sexes equally. Specifically, females are more likely to experience bipolar 2 mood disorder. The condition could manifest from as early as adolescence and young adulthood. However, it has been recognized in much younger children who were misdiagnosed as having ADHD. Roughly 25% to 50% attempt suicide. Men are more likely to be successful at suicide attempts.

Bipolar disorder may be inherited. However, it may develop after mental and physical trauma

The condition is a MOOD NOT PERSONALITY DISORDER. However, it may appear that way to the uninformed. Furthermore, depressive lows, especially major depressive lows usually seem too dark for many friends or other people in the life of a sufferer to deal with. Either way, the moods on either extreme seem too intense for the liking of many people in the general population. From the perspective of the general population, the intense lows transform sufferers into energetic vampires when sufferers wish to express their feelings. Consequently, relationships are often tested. People may generally stigmatize and isolate you, even if they know and are educated about your diagnosis. Strangers become fearful that you may engage in extreme behaviors witnessed in those sufferers whose actions become the news.

Its cause is unclear. However, convergent type 1 research findings in France and the US suggests a link to heredity and an even greater risk if you suffered early childhood trauma, especially regarding emotional abuse within the first 5 years of life. Other research findings also find similar significant relationships for not only type 1 but also type 2 with childhood trauma. One interesting difference was that type 1 showed strong relationship with sexual abuse while type 2 showed a strong relationship with emotional neglect. A noteworthy fact that reiterates the importance of treatment is that emotional abuse was related to a lifetime of suicide attempts.


Treatments, Side Effects of Western Medicines and Natural Treatment
Lithium based treatments have been practiced since the time of the Native Americans. main stream has begun to emulate this practice with lithium carbonate. It is advisable to undertake cognitive, behavioral or group therapy. In extreme cases, the controversial electric convulsive therapy is also used. However, there are numerous side effects for these modern treatments. For instance, although the electric treatment withdrew her from depression, a woman lost the bond with her child and had trouble remembering her child's name, memory loss of significant life events and felt unfamiliar with her past she did remember. Several others using lithium drugs reported getting the shakes with minor motor movements, increased urination and hypothyroidism that had other consequent health problems.

There are several (natural) treatments for bipolar disorder. The effective way is to combine elements that tackle the mind, body and spirit.
  • Reports suggest these methods can be used routinely without adverse side effects.
    • Sources of natural lithium OROTATE NOT lithium carbonate to promote your natural production of serotonin and, in turn, dopamine and to appropriately nourish the brain, especially the genius brain. Lithium orotate doses can be effective at doses as little as 25 mg daily without being toxic. Lithium carbonate requires larger toxic doses to be effective. In fact, lithium orotate is a natural alternative to lithium carbonate and has several positive side effects like treatment for conditions like PTSD, regular depression, ADHD and even protection against degenerative diseases like Alzheimers disease. Be careful of other foods and activities that affect renal activity, especially if your kidney health is somehow already compromised.
    • Sources of active B vitamin brain food like Phosphatidylserine or "Ptd-L-Ser" or "PS"  and Phosphatidylcholine or "PC" include egg yokes and soybeans.
    • Sources of mannos to remove inflammation and promote the production of the chelation agent glutathione. A key source is aloe vera. If you can not Access as much as a leaf of aloe vera daily, try mannos capsules. Roughly roughly 150mg or more mannos is likely to be effective.
    • Sources of omega 3 fatty acids may also be effective in treatment.
    • Reduce sugar in your diet
  • Digestive aids such as enzymes and easy-to-digest foods. Consider easy-to-digest protein shakes.
  • Chelation.
    • Sources of chelation agents include Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth. After having researched several brands of diatomaceous earth. This brand is the safest regards human consumption and packaging.
    • Sources of glutathione that help with the detoxification of heavy metals.
  • A daily routine. Maintaining a routine has been shown to improve the condition for both types of bipolar disorder. 
  • Food Considerations When Suffering from Bipolarity
    • Consider your blood sugar levels. High and low blood sugar levels have been correlated with manic and depressive episodes, respectively. For instance, if you need to reduce blood glucose levels, eat high fiber foods (rather than white bread which not only converts to sugar  but also lacks fiber and nutrients that the brain needs to maintain good brain health like vitamin B, calcium and magnesium). Some high fiber foods include oats, barley, whole grain cereals, whole-grain breads, vegetables, brown rice, nuts, peas, lentils and nuts. 
    • Minimize or avoid caffeine. In fact, caffeine allergies occur among some persons with bipolar disorder.
    • Recent research suggests that consuming cabbage, especially the red types, can prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The abundance of Vitamin K in cabbage is responsible for this.
  • Education and lifestyle changes. See some examples below of type 2 bipolar disorder triggers.


Triggers for Type 2 Bipolar Disorder 
  1. Sleep deprivation is the strongest and most common trigger for depressive episodes in bipolar 2, especially among women. Ways of counteracting these bipolar triggers.
    1. Stick to a regular sleep pattern. For instance, avoid going out and staying up late to see movies. Work extra hard to counteract unavoidable disturbances to this pattern like jetlag. Even relatively small time differences of 2 to 3 hours can suffice to trigger some individuals.
  2. Negative life events. The range of events is broad. They may range from any form of stress, including the types associated with PTSD. Additionally, I have found that these events include those that mimic experiences associated with childhood abuse like defenselessness, not only for oneself but even through observation of the experiences of others. Ways of counteracting these bipolar triggers.
    1. Whenever possible, have a support system as a major help. However, the dim reality is that many people with bipolar disorder lack truly SAFE and quality support in the form of family, friends and professionals that are well informed and or care enough to learn how to provide support. Consequently, online group supports like the C-PTSD Foundation has helped numerous people worldwide, even with their free resources like YouTube live broadcasts and private Facebook groups.
    2. Education as a first step to self care feels quite healing because it is a step towards better self understanding and healing. Examples of great digestible resources include subscriptions to informative YouTube channels, my favorite of which is Polar Warriors.
    3. On a daily basis, devote time to activities that destress you. Examples include meditation, walking, grounding activities, libations and the like.
    4. Exercise, especially cardio. Although exercise fits into the previous point, it arguably deserves special mention because it appears to have a significantly positive effect in regulating mood for people with bipolarity. For instance, a patient said that when she was unable to do her usual run for a week, her up-down cycling 'suddenly' occurred for the first time in 2 years.
    5. Plan simple, UNCLUTTERED days. Do not try to engage more people, especially involving complex situations without enough time to process and recharge before moving to the next situation. Similarly, never try to bite off more than you can chew regarding tasks. 
    6. Emotional preparedness. This involves preparing in whatever way possible for upcoming stressors of which you are aware.
    7. Whenever possible, go no-contact or distance yourself from toxic people.
  3. Alcohol and drugs, even occasional social use, can interfere with the delicate neurochemical balance and may interfere with the efficacy of psychotropic medications. They can enhance current experiences and push them into an extreme state.
    1. Avoid alcohol at all costs. Given the strong correlation between bipolarity and alcoholism, it appears too risky to use alcohol as addiction may be easier than otherwise. 
  4. Seasonal differences can often but not necessarily trigger highs in Spring and Summer seasons and the converse for Autumn and Winter. However, I am unsure whether people in tropical environments are sensitive to tropical seasonal changes, which do not have such a drastic effect on light as in the case of temperate climates.
  5. The reproductive cycle. Even hormonal changes caused by menstrual cycle triggers depressive episodes.
  6. Goal attainments often trigger highs.


CONTENT RELATED TO BIPOLAR DISORDER TYPES 1 AND 2.
  • Internal links:
  • Since brain health physically supports the mind in this physical life, incorporate brain foods when possible.
    • (Fermented) lentils are considered as 'brain food' and can also be added to sauerkraut, especially with brain health herbs likes parsley and cilantro.
  • Clinical depression
Challenges with mental health and fatigue from masking neurodivergence are clues that helps in recognizing neurodivergence, especially for boomers and generation Xers. 

Getting Help for Psychological Concerns - Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder

This post will discuss: considerations when deciding whether to seek professional help; using MDD, and bipolar disorder types 1 and 2 as examples, doing preliminary research, types of mental health professional, vetting & selecting (especially as this process relates to trust). 


When or if should you seek professional help? 

The answer is very personal. For many people, they can navigate life after having experienced trauma without feeling a need for professional help if trauma affected them mildly. Conversely, other persons without support systems or other means to overcome the effects of trauma are likely to be more severely impacted by the same types of trauma and have a greater need for professional help. 

If you are unsure, the answer can best be determined based on symptoms as they relate to the list of 4 points below to any condition. 

If you are only aware of a feeling of malaise without being able to positively name it, simply being aware of and able to articulate it will suffice for a very competent health care provider who can recognize patterns and help you to expressly identify your symptoms and the condition with which they are associated. Such an approach is akin to starting from scratch. 

Alternatively, if you have not yet been diagnosed but have done research and have suspicions about certain conditions, research its official definition and associated list of symptoms in the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual (DSM) used by mental health professionals. Note those symptoms that you observe in yourself. It is useful to consider clear examples. As you will notice from the DSM, conditions apply only if you have the 'A criteria' (ie those criteria that you must definitely have in order for the condition to apply at all) and meet the minimum number of symptoms. In other words, if these criteria are not met, there is no need to proceed further with the particular condition.

In this information age, many mental health clients do preliminary research and then present their suspicions to the professional (who is comfortable with this trend in only some cases). Such clients essentially explain and defend why they think one diagnosis over another fits their circumstances. However, in order to do this, clients must be prepared to go deep down rabbit holes because misdiagnoses are easy, even for seasoned professionals. A case in point is evident in the misdiagnosis of major depression when bipolarity is more appropriate. This issue arises because, in some cases, major depression as a symptom of one type of bipolarity. Since many people overlook symptoms of 'happy' hypomania as positive recovery from depression, they miss the fact that these changes are only one dimension of a mood disorder. Consequently, misdiagnoses like this are common (especially in cases of type 2 bipolarity). In short, much care and broad introspection is required, often in collaboration with professionals and or close relations.

Low mood is an emotional state characterized by sadness (or feeling down), anxiety, tiredness, low self-esteem. (When someone suffers low mood without depression, the low mood usually lifts within a few days).

Example(s)
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD). The DSM-5 posits that someone can be said to be experiencing major depressive disorder if they observe 5 or more of the list of symptoms of depression (below) that deviate from previous functioning.

  • The 'A' criteria, (ie must-be-included among the minimum of 5)  occurring: within a single 2-week period; not attributable to substances (like drugs that slow the nervous system or coming off of stimulants) or other medical conditions

  • loss of interest.
have never been experienced along with manic or hypomanic episodes (associated with bipolar disorder) or cause significant distress or impairment to one's ability to function socially, occupationally or otherwise
Do not shy away from tailoring the formal wording of symptoms so that they are more meaningful to you. For instance, for depression, the term 'hopelessness' is often listed. However, make it your own. You might feel 'overwhelmed' that you feel stuck without options for overcoming circumstances.

Here is a test for MDD with the full list of criteria

 

Since MDD symptoms occur in Bipolar Disorder 2, they are discussed below


  • Bipolar Disorder Types 1 and 2. Bipolarity is a chronic mood disorder that, in addition to depressive episodes, is also characterized by another extreme; episodes that are manic (in the case of type 1) or hypomanic (in the case of type 2). To differentiate bipolarity from depression, depression is often called 'UNI-polar' depression because unipolar depression is characterized by only the depressive episode while bipolarity is characterized by both extremes of the mood spectrum.
     (The term 'chronic' relates to the fact that the condition is not a one-off occurrence but ongoing series of circumstances.)
The 'A' Criteria of mania in bipolarity 1 is a mood that is elevated, expansive or irritable that is also abnormal and persistent. This mood involves increased goal-directed activity lasting for over 1 week and is present most of the day, nearly every day of the week. If hospitalization is required, any duration applies. There should be at least one manic episode.

The 'A' Criteria of hypomania in bipolarity 2 is similar to mania, except that the mood: lasts for less time, specifically 4 - 7 days; is not so severe to cause hospitalization; has no psychotic features. There should be at least 1 hypomanic episode AND 1 episode of MDD.

In summary, a key difference between bipolar 1 and 2 is the fact that type 1 experiences higher highs while type 2 experiences lower lows. For instance, while BP 1 requires at least one manic episode (and NO required episode of MDD), BP2 require BOTH hypomania and MDD. 

The B criteria involves 3 or more of the classic symptoms: no sign of impairment to one's function socially or occupationally. 

  • inflated self-esteem or grandiosity 
  • reduced need for sleep 
  • more talkative than usual 
  • racing thoughts 
  • easily distracted (by unimportant or irrelevant external stimuli) 
  • increased goal-oriented activity such as socially, work/school, sexually, etc -- or -- psychomotor agitation (?). 
  • excessive involvement in pleasurable activities that have the potential for painful consequences, like imprudent business decisions, sexual indiscretion, unrestrained shopping, etc 

See  mnemonics at 13:13 of the video below that can be used to remember all of these criteria.

Unlike BP1 which also experiences depressive episodes, BP2 involves MDD that is as follows.
  • more chronically (ie recurrent), even to an extent that exceeds what unipolar depression involves (MDD by nature is chronic, ie ongoing in cycles, with or without triggers or bipolarity)  -- and --
  • more persistently (ie longer lasting episodes). 

 

C criteria requires the manic episode to: 
  • cause dysfunction (socially and or occupationally) 
  • requires hospitalization for treatment to prevent harm or treat    -- or -- 
  • occurs with delusions and hallucinations (psychotic features)

 

C criteria associated with nearly daily major depressive disorder (MDD) episodes that: 
  • cause dysfunction (socially and or occupationally). There is usually a greater lad in occupational recovery after episodes.  
  • I believe that, while hypomania does not hospitalize sufferers, hospitalization is more likely as a result of suicide attempts brought on by the MDD. 

 

Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in Bipolar 2 are as follows. The minimum number required for the diagnosis is 5.

  • (Criteria 'A') Depressed mood. 

  • (Criteria 'A') Significant loss of interest or feeling of no pleasure in all or most activities 
  • weight loss when not dieting, weight gain or abnormal increase / decrease in appetite 
  • sleep disruptions: either insomnia or oversleeping 
  • restlessness or slowed behavior 
  • loss of energy. This might present itself in the form of psychomotor retardation (ie the slowing down of thoughts, emotional responses, gestural behaviors and physical movements). For instance, even activities that involve slow movements like yoga might feel too demanding. Activities (writing, household chores, etc) that one was otherwise able to perform with relative ease can feel considerably harder and more time to perform than before. In the most severe cases of depression (which might begin to transcend MDD), people can show vegetative symptoms, being unable to even manage self-care (showering, dental care, etc), can not work or function otherwise, self isolate severely to the extent that their windows are always drawn and they have no contact with the outside world, remain bed-ridden, continue eating food already in their mouths, unable to care properly for other responsibilities like caring for pets or others. Severest forms of depression may even worsen overall health because individuals do not take medications or other necessary steps towards maintaining health concerns. The severest forms may demarcate some limits of MDD.  
  • feelings of hopelessness 
  • feelings of inappropriate guilt 
  • decreased ability to think or concentrate 
  • indecisiveness 
  • thinking about, planning or attempting suicide




If you have already been diagnosed, you will already have the 'definition' and only need to consult the list of associated symptoms.

To clearly state your list, give each symptom its full assessment on each of the following points. So after identifying one symptom, complete the subsequent points (intensity, frequency, level of disruption) for that symptom before advancing to the subsequent symptom. 

Notice the symptoms you observe

  1. number of symptoms. Write a list of symptoms you observe. Continue with the following steps one symptom at a time, Example(s)
    • 5 of manic or hypomanic symptoms, including both of the 2 'A' criteria. 
      • 'A' criteria - agitation like psychomotor agitation that is self-harming (like nail biting, tics). I also get bursts of energy that result in my being able to perform considerably more work-related tasks than normal.
      • reduced sleep ... 
      • etc
    • 5+ of MDD symptoms within a 2-week period, including 'A' criteria: 1) 'A' - depressed mood; 2) 'A' - loss of interest in music, dancing, beach, dreams and other things I usually enjoy; 3) lost _ pounds even without dieting, and so on ....
  2. intensity of symptoms. Example(s)
    • Re mania or hypomania; while I experience this, I do not experience it so intensely that requires external intervention. For instance, I can remain guarded and in control of the positive grandiose feelings or 'happiness'. While I struggle with the symptoms, I do not put myself or others in the hospital or draw more attention to myself than people finding me 'weird'. In short, I can hide it from the public.  
    • Re MDD; The symptoms are persistent, ie they are 'long lasting' in that they last for several weeks on end. I no longer dance. When I go out, I can not contain tears, even during usually enjoyable activities, etc 
  3. frequency of symptoms.  Example(s). 
    • daily (versus one-off instance).
  4. their level of disruption in your life. Can these symptoms persist indefinitely or even get worse if you do not seek help? Example(s)
    • Is your depression a one-off experience ... or is it chronic (ie recurrent) trouble sleeping that does not appear possible to resolve on its own
    • You are unable to work or have normal relationships. See criteria C for manic episodes


What type of professional help do you need?
Psychologists (aka therapists) can help with behavioral concerns. Therapy is designed to help you work through the process of changing your mindset around challenges. Examples include the following.
  • resolving trauma experiences.
  • Compulsions
  • Avoidance behaviors associated with social anxiety
  • Relationship issues. 
Doctors can help with the effects of trauma or associated behaviors. Examples include the following.
  • Medication may help you to sleep,

Vetting & Selecting
Regarding selecting on the basis of the hard skills of a professional, you can start by selecting among the types of professional to meet your specific needs. If you are uncertain, a psychologist is usually the best choice. Psychologists can refer to psychiatrists if you need medical treatments that they are not qualified to prescribe.

Establish whether your professional specializes in your area and or has had successful experience. Not all psychologists or psychiatrists are trained or focused equally. For instance, unlike someone suffering mild depression, another person suffering DP2, along with other conditions like anxiety issues (like post traumatic stress disorder, dissociative episodes and so on) will benefit more from professionals with professionals that are specifically specialized in trauma.

Furthermore, professionals that specialize in a particular area can specialize in different approaches to therapy. Professionals may offer pharmacology (ie involving medication) and  or psychotherapy (aka talk therapy). Within those approaches, they may specialize further. For instance, some professionals specialize in certain techniques like cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy.

Deep trust is key. Outside of the trust you give by showing up because of the other person's hard skills, professionals should also win your trust when you interact with them. After all, you need to confide in them and trust their judgement to help you transform your life. Signs that you can trust usually manifest in several ways.
  • Does the professional listen deeply? Does the exchange achieve deep levels of understanding? Are you able to complete thoughts without being interrupted or cut short with hasty and incorrect assumptions about what you mean?
  • Is he or she validating or invalidating of your experiences? Validating does not mean that they agree with everything you say. Rather, it refers to their ability to recognize how real your pain and challenges are to you, within your circumstances. Red flags include them saying that certain types of ailments are 'all in your head'. Beware that there are certain mental health challenges that are so rare that some professionals simply have either little or no knowledge. Some even have difficulty believing in their existence. Returning to an earlier point regarding hard skills, this is why selecting professionals who specialize in out of the ordinary challenges is particularly important.
  • Does the professional interact with you without any biases that can interfere how they deal with you? This is particularly important if you have characteristics that can generate prejudices like sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, racial background and so on. This might be a strong possibility when professionals are assigned by sociocultural organizations (like religions), communities with distinctive characteristics and so on. Review any website or other public description on the professional's target client. Otherwise, seek referrals. Beware; if you get this wrong, you can leave more traumatized than when you arrived! Needless to say, you should also be mindful of and therefore honor your own biases. 
  • How does the person make you feel in his or her presence?
Many adults prefer collaborative professional help.


Admin. 
  • Ensure that there is linguistic compatibility. For instance, speaking the same language and in comprehensible and non-distracting accents is ideal.



CONTENT RELATED TO GETTING HELP FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL CONCERNS

= Definitions =
Psychomotor agitation refers to a set of signs and symptoms that stem from mental tension and anxiety. It often accompanies major depressive disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and sometimes the manic phase of bipolar disorder. (The state can also be a result of substance abuse or involuntary muscular activity in the elderly). The signs are unintentional and purposeless motions. Symptoms are emotional distress and restlessness. Typical manifestations include pacing the floor, uncontrolled tongue movement, excessive blinking, pulling off clothes and putting them on again. In more severe cases, the motions are harmful to the individual such as repetitive motions that eventually hurt or injure the individual. Examples include chewing off or picking off one's skin from some part of the body.