Psychology

I’m not a therapist or licensed medical practitioner, but I was able to listen to some of these professionals talk a little bit and get some of their insight. From my understanding, the basis of their job is to try and understand why a patient thinks one way, and if need be, change that way of thinking. Problems that affect the brain can definitely alter perspective and beliefs, and these issues can be physical AND psychological. Trauma for example can have a lasting impact on ones life, especially when it happens to them in a early age. They may have flashbacks, nightmares, and even develop a sense of guilt, despite it being no way their fault. This is a method of the mind trying to cope with the external stressors. It’s a survival instinct, where the body is trying to ensure that something terrible doesn’t happen again. Luckily, in the present day, we don’t have to worry as much about the harsh elements of the world, so the instinct doesn’t really fit well. Nevertheless, it does isolate people, which is why they can be affected so much mentally.

If you or a friend ever had anything happen like this, know that you are not alone, and that you are not an outcast. If it affects your daily life and activity, then seek help. Medicine works to a degree, but sometimes you need to change the way you think. If you can somehow get past these mental obstacles, then you can get your life back on track if it’s not already. If you can help it, do NOT generalize your thoughts. For example, if someone were in a car crash, they may never want to ride in a car again. This is an issue because of how vital automobiles are for transportation. Another would be war. If someone who had PTSD returned home from combat, the environment is changed drastically. Loud noises such as a car or even just children playing may trigger a reaction by the individual. These things take time to heal if at all, so show patience to those who need it. If these generalized thoughts and feelings take over, then the individual will likely become more and more separated from the rest of society, so teaching them that they are in a safe place is key.