Behavioral Health and Emotional Regulation

Posted on by Mark Moran

I. Introduction

The concept of emotional regulation is essential in understanding how individuals manage their emotional experiences and reactions in various contexts. It encompasses a range of processes that enable individuals to influence which emotions they have, when they experience them, and how they express those emotions. The importance of emotional regulation becomes particularly evident in educational settings, where the ability to foster positive emotional experiences can significantly impact childrens development. For instance, social leadership in early childhood education plays a critical role in promoting emotional intelligence and self-regulation among young learners (Dey M, 2024). Additionally, contemporary studies suggest that integrating mindfulness-based interventions can further enhance emotional regulation by teaching individuals to accept and manage intrusive thoughts without judgment (Reis A et al., 2024). Hence, a comprehensive understanding of emotional regulation is not only pivotal for personal development but also for fostering supportive educational environments.

Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications, as well as AIHCP’s Anger Management Program, as well as its Grief Counseling Program.  Emotional regulation plays a key role in anger management and other stress management techniques.

You can learn to control and regulation oneself emotional through practice and various therapies

A. Definition of emotional regulation

Understanding emotional regulation is crucial for navigating the complexities of human behavior and interpersonal relationships. At its core, emotional regulation refers to the processes through which individuals influence their emotions, encompassing the awareness, management, and expression of feelings. This regulation can be considered a multifaceted construct, integrating cognitive and behavioral strategies to modify emotional responses (Rojas-Saffie JP et al., 2024). The importance of emotional regulation is underscored in various contexts, such as military leadership, where the ability to maintain emotional stability under pressure is vital for effective decision-making and responsibility (S Leshchenko et al., 2024). Moreover, the interplay between emotional regulation and personality traits suggests that these emotional management strategies are not merely reactive but can also become habitual behaviors shaped by an individuals experiences and interactions. Consequently, a comprehensive definition of emotional regulation must account for its dynamic nature and its integral role in fostering resilience and adaptive functioning across diverse situations.

B. Importance of emotional regulation in daily life

Emotional regulation plays a crucial role in daily life, influencing not only individual well-being but also interpersonal relationships and overall productivity. Effective emotional regulation enhances self-awareness, allowing individuals to identify and manage their emotions in various situations. This skill is particularly beneficial in stressful environments, as it aids in reducing anxiety and improving decision-making capabilities. For instance, young people utilizing AI-based mHealth apps have reported significant improvements in emotional self-awareness and regulation, suggesting that such tools can foster healthier emotional responses in everyday contexts (Hiller S et al., 2025). Notably, without proper emotional support, individuals may struggle to maintain these positive behaviors, leading to negative outcomes when faced with challenges (Y Vandenplas et al., 2023). Therefore, promoting emotional regulation through targeted interventions not only enriches personal experiences but also cultivates a more productive and harmonious society, underscoring its importance in daily life.

It is essential not to let anger or resentment or other emotions control us.  They are not bad in themselves but they can produce bad fruits.  Hence for work life, social life, family life and as well as personal health, it is important to control emotions from controlling us.  Emotional regulation is a key way to help one better take control of life.

C. Overview of the essay structure

An effective essay on emotional regulation should be structured to facilitate a logical flow of ideas and arguments. The introduction must present the topic, outline the significance of emotional regulation, and establish the thesis statement, guiding the reader on what to expect. The body paragraphs should systematically examine various aspects of emotional regulation, incorporating empirical evidence and expert opinions. For instance, research highlighted in (Shan J et al., 2025) provides insights into the role of emotional management in athletic performance, underscoring its practical implications. Subsequent sections could delve into the neurobiological underpinnings of emotional regulation, as discussed in (Bardel G et al., 2024), which outlines critical brain regions and pathways involved. Finally, the conclusion should synthesize the main points, reiterating the importance of emotional regulation in diverse contexts and offering recommendations for future research or applications, thereby ensuring the essay is comprehensive and impactful.

II. Theories of Emotional Regulation

Emotional regulation, a critical aspect of psychological well-being, encompasses various theoretical frameworks that explain how individuals modulate their emotional responses to diverse stimuli. One prominent theory is Grosss Process Model, which outlines strategies for regulating emotions at different stages of emotional experience, including situation selection, modification, and cognitive appraisal. This model emphasizes the importance of cognitive appraisal in influencing emotional responses, thereby suggesting that emotional regulation can be learned and adapted over time. The intersection of technology and emotional regulation has also emerged as a significant area of study, where individuals utilize digital tools to facilitate emotion management in daily life. A diary study revealed that people actively employ various technologies to navigate their emotions, highlighting the contemporary relevance of digital platforms in emotional regulation practices (Smith W et al., 2022). Moreover, understanding emotional regulation in the context of overall mental health ties directly to definitions that acknowledge both positive and negative emotional states as vital components of a fully lived experience (Galderisi S et al., 2015).

Ultimately, it takes time but the brain has plasticity.  Neuro plasticity of the brain enables new neuro networks to be carved out replacing old behaviors.  This takes time, repetition and a battle sometimes with the subconscious despite one’s conscious decision.
Learning to regulate emotions involves identifying the emotion, understanding it and reframing it. CBT can play a large role in re-interpreting an emotion and also identifying various triggers to that emotion. Please also review AIHCP’s behavioral health certifications

 

A. Overview of key theories (e.g., Gross’s Process Model)

In the field of emotional regulation, key theories provide insightful frameworks for understanding how individuals manage their emotional experiences. Grosss Process Model is prominently recognized for outlining a sequence of emotion regulation strategies, encompassing situation selection, situation modification, attentional deployment, cognitive change, and response modulation. This model illustrates the dynamic nature of emotional regulation, where individuals can apply varying strategies at different points in the emotional response cycle. For instance, research involving people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) highlights the practical application of these strategies, underscoring how supportive environments facilitate positive emotional outcomes while maladaptive behaviors can emerge from ineffective response modulation (Nabila IN et al., 2025). Similarly, the dual-process theory of impulsivity elucidates the interplay between emotional regulation self-efficacy and risk-taking behavior among college students, emphasizing the importance of emotional self-efficacy in mitigating impulsive actions (Zhang R et al., 2025). Collectively, these theories underline the complex mechanisms that govern emotional regulation across diverse contexts.

B. The role of cognitive appraisal in emotional regulation

Cognitive appraisal serves as a critical mechanism in the process of emotional regulation, influencing both individual responses to stressors and overall emotional well-being. By evaluating the significance of various stimuli and personal circumstances, individuals engage in an intricate mental process that shapes their emotional reactions. For instance, research indicates that dispositional optimism can play a mediating role in how one perceives challenges, such as vision impairment, and subsequently regulates emotional outcomes like depressive symptoms among older adults (Ji X et al., 2025). Similarly, mindfulness has been shown to enhance the clarity of fairness judgments, further supporting adaptive emotional responses in workplace settings where perceived injustices occur (Chaprana V et al., 2025). Ultimately, the ability to appraise situations positively can foster resilience and promote healthier emotional regulation strategies, highlighting the importance of cognitive processes in managing emotions effectively across diverse contexts.

C. Differences between adaptive and maladaptive regulation strategies

Understanding the differences between adaptive and maladaptive regulation strategies is crucial for enhancing emotional well-being. Adaptive strategies, such as cognitive restructuring and mindfulness techniques, focus on altering thought processes and accepting emotional experiences, which tend to foster resilience and improve psychological outcomes (Xu M et al., 2024). In contrast, maladaptive strategies, such as avoidance or substance use, often provide short-term relief at the expense of long-term emotional stability, leading to increased stress and potential psychological distress (Eda Yılmazer, 2024). The reliance on adaptive strategies has been linked to better performance and lower levels of stress in educational settings, thereby emphasizing their importance for both students and educators. Moreover, recognizing these distinctions allows individuals to develop targeted interventions that promote emotional health, particularly in high-stress environments. Thus, the choice of regulatory strategy plays a vital role in shaping both individual well-being and broader social interactions.

III. Techniques for Emotional Regulation

In the context of emotional regulation, various techniques have emerged as effective strategies for managing emotional responses. Among these, the practice of identifying and understanding ones emotions stands out as foundational for building emotional intelligence, a construct that encompasses recognizing emotional states in oneself and others, guiding thoughts and behaviors based on emotions, and implementing effective emotion regulation strategies (Hogeveen J et al., 2016). One innovative approach is the Early Adolescent Skills for Emotions (EASE) intervention, which targets young individuals to develop coping skills through structured group sessions. This program not only teaches participants to identify their feelings but also addresses physical arousal linked with stress and provides strategies for engaging in meaningful activities that promote positive mood changes (Dawson K et al., 2019). The collective application of these techniques facilitates enhanced emotional well-being and is critical, particularly during adolescence, a period marked by heightened vulnerability to emotional dysregulation and mental health issues.

Learning to step back and reframe thoughts is a skill that can be mastered over time.
Overall healthy emotional regulation and techniques that support it involve reframing of negative thoughts, finding mindfulness in the moment, taking a break when necessary, expressing things constructively, and finding solutions.  Below we will discuss various methods to utilize to help regulate emotions.

A. Mindfulness and its impact on emotional awareness

In recent years, mindfulness has emerged as a pivotal practice in enhancing emotional awareness, impacting individuals’ abilities to regulate their emotions effectively. By promoting a non-judgmental focus on the present moment, mindfulness cultivates an increased awareness of one’s thoughts and feelings, which enhances emotional recognition and understanding. This heightened emotional awareness allows individuals to respond to stressors with greater clarity and intent, rather than reacting impulsively. Studies indicate that mindfulness practices can significantly decrease burnout and emotional exhaustion, particularly in high-stress environments like medical education, where students experience increased psychological distress ((Denisse Zúñiga et al., 2021)). Additionally, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for emotional regulation has become even more critical, as healthcare workers face unprecedented levels of anxiety and fatigue. Integrating mindfulness into their routine has shown promise in reducing emotional fatigue and enhancing overall well-being ((Sasangohar F et al., 2020)). Thus, mindfulness emerges not just as a therapeutic tool but as a vital practice for fostering emotional resilience amidst challenges.

In addition to meditation, journaling can play a helpful tool in regulating emotion.  Simply by keeping a log and writing about how one felt and why and on what date, can help one manage emotions and understand them better when triggers emerge.   In addition, sleep, good hygiene and sometimes counseling are all ways to help manage emotions from all aspects.

B. Cognitive-behavioral strategies for managing emotions

When it comes to handling emotions, cognitive-behavioral strategies are pretty important, because they help you understand what sets off your feelings and give you better ways to deal with them. Basically, the idea is that your emotions come from how you think about stuff, pointing out how your thoughts and feelings work together. So, like, cognitive restructuring lets you question and change bad thought patterns, helping you react emotionally in a better way. This is super useful when things get intense, like in sports, where athletes often feel really anxious or frustrated. For example, a study looked at table tennis players and found that focusing your attention, which is a cognitive strategy, was the go-to way to keep emotions in check during a match – showing just how important specific cognitive strategies can be (Martinent G et al., 2015). By getting better at these cognitive-behavioral strategies, you not only get better at managing your emotions, but you can also perform better and feel better in all sorts of situations (Malekzadeh M et al., 2015).

Cognitively, one can simply name the emotion that is emerging.  Whether depressed, stressed or feeling angry, one can identify the swelling feeling inside and properly label it.   It is crucial to validate this natural emotion.  The emotion itself should not be dismissed as repugnant or bad, but instead it should be seen as simply a natural response.  It is what one does with the response or how one allows the emotion to make one feel that is detrimental.    Beyond validating, it is also crucial to identify the triggers that caused the emotional reaction and correlate them and why they triggered a certain reaction.

Through CBT and other behavioral strategies, one can learn to understand feelings and thoughts and how to reframe them and better understand them and teaching one how to change and alter thoughts that come during distress that cause unwanted emotional responses.

 

C. The use of expressive writing as a regulation tool

Expressive writing is a pretty useful tool; it helps people deal with their emotions. When things get tough, it allows them to put their feelings into words and work through them. Studies have actually shown that writing expressively can improve emotional management and help people become more resilient, especially when they’re dealing with trauma or chronic illnesses. For example, there was this study (U Tykha, 2025) with Ukrainian university students. It showed that when expressive writing was part of their trauma-informed learning, they got better at managing their emotions and bouncing back during conflicts. Also, people with multiple sclerosis said they felt a lot better after doing an expressive writing program. They talked about feeling more empowered and discovering things about themselves as they worked through their feelings (Pawar P et al., 2025). All of this shows that expressive writing is not just good for therapy, but also for improving emotional well-being in general. That’s why it’s important in education and psychology when we’re trying to help people regulate their emotions.

IV. Emotional Regulation in Different Contexts

Emotional regulation is really important in lots of situations. You see it especially in schools. How parents get involved and how kids are learning really changes how they feel. Studies have shown that when parents are really there for their kids, those kids tend to handle their emotions better and do better in school. For example, there’s research that says when parents use a supportive style, kids are more emotionally stable (Jain B et al., 2025). But when kids learn from home, things get tricky. They have to be good at organizing themselves and controlling their emotions so they can stay healthy. Not seeing people in person can make them feel lonely and stressed. That’s why it’s super important for teachers and other students to give them support (Puhach V, 2025). So, when we think about emotional regulation, we’ve gotta remember that family support and the learning environment work together. We need to find ways to help kids with their emotions that fit their specific needs. The interplay between the two is essential.

A. Emotional regulation in interpersonal relationships

Generally speaking, emotional regulation is quite important for healthy relationships, as it helps people manage emotions in social situations. Folks who can navigate their feelings effectively tend to communicate and empathize better, and respond constructively to others’ emotional needs. It’s a process that smooths interactions and helps prevent conflicts that can arise from feeling dysregulated; intense emotions sometimes lead to misunderstandings and disproportionate reactions, you know? Furthermore, emotional regulation builds trust and safety, encouraging openness – vulnerability even – which is essential for deeper connections. Because emotional dysregulation manifests in different ways, including anxiety or irritability, understanding this becomes vital for relational resilience. In most cases, mastering emotional regulation improves individual well-being and the quality of interpersonal bonds, making it a cornerstone of, well, effective relationship management (Subramanyam A et al., 2020), (Kioupi V et al., 2019).

B. The role of emotional regulation in the workplace

Emotional regulation? It’s pretty important in creating a workplace that actually works, influencing both how employees feel and how well the organization functions overall. It helps folks handle their emotional reactions, which in turn can prevent burnout – that state of feeling totally exhausted and cynical. Plus, it encourages work engagement, something tied to energy and commitment on the job (Arnold B Bakker et al., 2022). When people are good at managing their emotions, they become more resilient to stress at work, and they also contribute more positively to how teams work together. What’s more, emotional regulation is becoming even more vital as organizations rely more on virtual environments and digital interactions. The rise of metaverses kind of suggests that emotional subtleties can have an impact on these digital interactions, underscoring the necessity for flexible emotional capabilities in both real and virtual workplaces (Yogesh K Dwivedi et al., 2022). So, developing emotional regulation skills is crucial for keeping employees engaged and building a solid, cohesive work culture.

C. Emotional regulation in mental health treatment

Mental health treatment is increasingly recognizing the importance of incorporating emotional regulation strategies, as practitioners aim to deliver more comprehensive and effective therapy. Alternative interventions such as dance therapy exemplify this trend, demonstrating their ability to alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms and to boost emotional resilience, for example, among college students (Ying C, 2025). Moreover, the experiences of individuals with HIV/AIDS highlight the intricate aspects of emotional regulation. In these cases, social support networks can be critical in encouraging positive emotional reactions and adherence to treatment protocols (Rokhmah D, 2025). Mental health professionals, in understanding this complexity, can adapt interventions to focus not just on reducing symptoms, but also on fostering emotional well-being. Generally speaking, these strategies are vital for reducing the negative impacts of stigma and social isolation and thus help to improve the quality of life in different communities as they navigate mental health issues.

It is essential to control oneself, identify emotions and understand them.  Through positive approaches, we can cope with our emotions and control ourselves for better social relationships and better mental health.

Black woman having a panic attack and breaking into a paper bag
Learning to find healthy ways to cope vs maladaptive ways is crucial to emotional regulation. Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certification Programs

However, sometimes emotions can get the best of us and we can turn inward away from what needs done and turn to darker things.  Maladaptive coping can result when emotions become out of control.  Substance abuse, self harm, emotional eating, withdraw and isolation, and dismissing responsibilities are all results of maladaptive coping with emotions.  Hence it is important to become the pilot in control of one’s emotional self.

Anger management and stress management therapies employ emotional regulation in a healthy way to push one away from maladaptive practices and dangerous reactions.

V. Conclusion

To summarize, emotional regulation is quite important for psychological well-being; it has an impact on risk-taking and even addictive behaviors. Adolescents, in particular, are susceptible, especially since advertising and other things can change how they feel and the decisions they make about e-cigarette use (Chen Y et al., 2019). It’s also worth noting that emotion dysregulation and things like food addiction are linked; this shows just how complex these emotional processes are and that trouble managing emotions can lead to some negative behaviors (Tatsi E et al., 2019). Thus, we really need targeted interventions to help people learn effective emotional regulation strategies, particularly among those who are more vulnerable. When people can better understand their emotions and become more resilient, they might find it easier to navigate the emotional stuff that contributes to risky behaviors. These types of initiatives aren’t just good for mental health but also essential for public health strategies that aim to reduce how common addictive behaviors are.

brain and heart playing tug a war
Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certification Programs and see if they meet your academic and professional goals.

Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications and see if they meet your academic and professional goals.  Many of the programs are designed for clinical and non clinical professionals within the scope of their practice.  This includes healthcare professionals as well as behavioral health professionals and those in pastoral care and ministry.  Please review AIHCP’s numerous programs in Stress Management, Anger Management, Grief Counseling, Spiritual Counseling, Crisis Intervention and Meditation Instruction.

A. Summary of key points discussed

How we handle our emotions is really a complicated interaction of things like our biology, our mindset, and what’s going on around us. And generally speaking, a major point to consider is this microbiota-gut-brain axis thing; basically, all those trillions of tiny organisms inside us appear to have a pretty important role in shaping how we feel and act. They do this through our immune system and how our brains communicate. To give you an idea, some new research is showing that when we’re stressed or when the mix of those microorganisms changes, it might contribute to mood disorders. This suggests we should look into therapies that target these microorganisms for things like anxiety and depression (John F Cryan et al., 2019). Moreover, there’s a general agreement in the sports world that concussions mess with how athletes regulate their emotions because it affects their thinking. This highlights the need for careful clinical judgment when helping them recover (McCrory P et al., 2017). These ideas show how complex emotional regulation really is and open up possibilities for interventions aimed at improving psychological health.

B. The significance of developing emotional regulation skills

Generally speaking, nurturing the ability to regulate emotions proves highly valuable in both personal and professional arenas. Individuals who can effectively manage their feelings are often more adept at handling relationships and workplace situations, given emotional intelligence’s impact on productivity and how well teams work together. Studies suggest self-awareness and clear communication, key aspects of emotional intelligence, help foster inclusive settings that value different viewpoints (Turebayeva G et al., 2025). Moreover, for some, like individuals with autism, learning to regulate emotions is connected to interoceptive awareness—that is, the ability to understand internal bodily cues that signal emotional states. Addressing this link through specific strategies not only improves emotional management but, in most cases, also boosts involvement in everyday activities (Barmpagiannis P et al., 2025). Therefore, developing emotional regulation isn’t just good for the individual; it’s also crucial for building connections and encouraging inclusivity in different social settings.

C. Future directions for research and practice in emotional regulation

Looking ahead, it seems clear that future research into emotional regulation would do well to consider complementary approaches—yoga, for example—for their ability to perhaps lessen anxiety and bolster emotional resilience. We’ve seen that yoga may regulate emotions through various mechanisms, suggesting it could be a useful addition to treatment for anxiety disorders; more research is definitely needed to see how it works across different groups of people (Thakar N et al., 2024). On another note, it’s becoming increasingly important to understand how what happens at work affects family life, especially when it comes to emotional regulation. Studies looking at how being excluded by a supervisor affects family relationships—specifically through the lens of emotional regulation—could yield some very important understanding. This could in turn inform interventions designed to foster emotional resilience in workplace settings (Zeng Q et al., 2024). To sum up, expanding our research to take into account both holistic and contextual elements will be key for developing effective strategies for helping people and improving mental well-being overall.

Other AIHCP Blogs

Fear of Monsters.  Access here

 

Safety First: The Importance of Preclinical Research in Contemporary Pharmacology 

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Pipette adding fluid to one of several test tubesWritten by Amy Rehan,

The pharmaceutical industry has experienced an enormous transformation, but one thing that remains undisputed is the importance of safety. Drug development involves rigorous testing, continuous monitoring, and adherence to health standards to ensure human safety. 

This is why a new drug or medical product is tested even before it reaches the clinical trial stage. This is called preclinical research, and it has immense importance in the pharmaceutical industry. Here’s a short guide explaining preclinical research, its timeline, and significance:

 

What is Preclinical Research?

Preclinical research is a broad term that encompasses all the studies conducted on a drug or a medical device before it can be tested in humans. 

It typically consists of four steps, including:

Target Identification: This is the process of finding a specific biological molecule (protein, RNA, or gene) that modulates the target disease. 

Hit Identification: The compounds that show the most promise during the target identification phase are called “hits.”  

Lead Optimization: Drugs that show considerable effects move onto the lead optimization process. Researchers attempt to understand the Structure-Activity-Relationships (SAR) of different hit series. 

IND-enabling Studies: Leads with the most supportive preclinical data move to an advanced phase of testing called investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies.

Learn more about preclinical research and contract research organizations (CROs) that provide these services here. 

 

Vitro and Vito Studies

During preclinical research, both vitro and vivo studies are utilized. Vitro studies are conducted outside of a living organism, such as a laboratory setting. This can be a test tube or a petri dish. Researchers analyze cell cultures and tissue samples. Vitro studies are more controlled. Researchers can analyze specific biological processes without dealing with the complexities of the whole organism. 

On the other hand, vivo studies involve testing within a living organism. In case of preclinical research, vivo studies are conducted on animals, mainly mice. Vivo studies allow researchers to evaluate the toxicity, efficacy, and safety of a drug or treatment on a whole organism. 

 

When is Preclinical Research Conducted?

As the name indicates, preclinical research is conducted before any human testing of a drug or a medical device. The main reason is that human clinical trials require a large amount of money and time. They also rely upon the willingness of the participants. This is why extensive vetting of drugs before the start of a clinical trial is important. 

 

Why is Preclinical Research Important?

So how does preclinical research facilitate the advancement of pharmaceutical studies? Here are some ways:

Risk Mitigation and Safety Assessment

Preclinical research involves rigorous safety testing. This helps identify potential toxicities and adverse effects early on. Researchers can also identify safe dosages early and streamline human testing. 

Efficacy

Preclinical research heavily focuses on identifying a drug’s pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. In simple terms, it helps identify how a drug reacts in the biological system. Researchers can make modifications to get the desired therapeutic effect in a disease model. 

Regulatory Compliance

In the United States, pharmaceutical companies are required to submit IND-enabling studies to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before human trials can begin. Therefore, preclinical research can ensure regulatory compliance, saving you from legal issues later on. 

That said, make sure you work with a preclinical research provider that complies with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines to ensure the reliability and efficacy of data.

Cost and Time Efficiency

Running and managing human clinical trials is time-consuming. You don’t want to face setbacks after such extensive research. Preclinical research identifies problems with the drug early on. This will save time and resources and ensure excellence in healthcare. 

 

Preclinical Research: Challenges and Limitations

Preclinical research comes with its fair share of challenges. This includes:

Inadequate Animal Models

As mentioned earlier, vivo studies are critical for testing the reliability of a drug. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find animal models that accurately reflect human diseases. When models fail to capture the complexity of human functions, researchers end up with false or misleading results. 

Moreover, physiological and biochemical differences between animals and humans can make it challenging to acquire accurate findings. 

Issues with Reproducibility and Reliability

Preclinical research consists of numerous steps and processes. Not all processes and relevant bodies follow the same protocols. This lack of standardization across different research groups reduces the reliability of preclinical research findings. 

In many cases, small sample sizes also make it difficult to apply the results to a general, much larger population. 

High Costs

Preclinical research can be expensive due to various reasons, including the need for specialized equipment, facilities, and personnel. Pharmaceutical startups and new companies face the issue of acquiring funding. This can render delays, increasing operational costs. 

Regulatory Hurdles

Even after the research side of things is prepared, researchers often face regulatory hurdles. For instance, submitting an Investigational New Drug (IND) application requires time and effort. Without specialized expertise and meticulous documentation, the research timeline can be unnecessarily extended. 

 

Ethical Considerations in Preclinical Research

Understanding and implementing ethical considerations during preclinical research is important. This involves adhering to the 3Rs:

Replacement – Replacing animal testing methods with cell cultures whenever feasible.

Reduction – minimizing the number of animals used for testing during preclinical research. 

Refinement – implementing pain-free procedures and optimizing housing and handling.

When human tissue cells and cultures are used, informed consent is critical. 

Lastly, ethical considerations make sure that preclinical research findings actively contribute to scientific knowledge and the improvement of animal and human health. 

 

Dedication to Excellence

Preclinical research is the first step towards developing safe and effective drugs. They help pharmaceutical researchers identify shortcomings, mitigate risks, and comply with regulatory guidelines. 

Despite facing numerous challenges, such as inadequate animal models, high costs, and regulatory setbacks, researchers and the entire pharmaceutical community are committed to conducting preclinical research before human trials can begin. 

Preclinical research is no longer an option: It is critical for safe drug development and usage.  

 

Author’s Biography

Amy Rehan is a healthcare researcher and the Content Head at Globex Outreach, where she has spent the past three years carefully curating content for pharmaceutical research facilities. She brings clinical knowledge and marketing expertise to help companies grow.

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Ethics Consultant Certification program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

Behavioral Health Certifications: Psychology and the Fear of Monsters

Posted on by Mark Moran

I. Introduction

The fear of monsters or TERAPHOBIA has permeated human culture throughout history, serving as a compelling lens through which to examine psychological anxieties and societal norms. Such fears often reflect deeper concerns, including the unknown, loss of control, and existential dread, which can manifest in various forms, from folklore to modern horror media. This essay seeks to explore the psychological underpinnings of these fears, particularly how monstrous figures symbolize our innermost anxieties. By drawing parallels between literary representations and psychological theories, we uncover the ways in which these fears can illuminate our understanding of the human condition. The phenomenon of monsters in narratives can be likened to the prophetic literature found in the Hebrew Bible, where fear is intimately tied to the moral and ethical discourse of society, drawing connections that reveal the nuanced relationship between fear, representation, and individual experience (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). In a similar vein, the analysis of art and its interpretations during wartime highlights the subjective nature of fear and memory, emphasizing that understanding these emotions is crucial for comprehending the broader context of human experience (Waters et al., 2017).

Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health and Mental Health Certifications.  Click here

What is the psychological reason for the human creation of monsters and fears of the make believe?

 

A. Definition of monsters in psychological context

In the psychological context, monsters often serve as metaphors for deep-seated fears and anxieties that individuals grapple with, illustrating the complex interplay between perception and reality. These entities may embody societal fears or personal traumas, which can manifest through various psychological pathways as described by Rachman’s theory of fear acquisition. This theory posits that fears can emerge through direct conditioning, vicarious learning, or through the transmission of information, revealing how external stimuli can shape an individuals understanding of monstrosity (Ajzen et al., 2001). Moreover, the societal stigmatization of certain behaviors and conditions contributes to the crafting of monsters within the psyche, emphasizing the harmful consequences of metaphorical dehumanization, as seen in discussions surrounding disability. This phenomenon not only reinforces boundaries of normality but also reflects how such narratives can lead to destructive social attitudes and actions, like the troubling concept of ‘mercy killing’ in response to perceived monstrosity (Waltz et al., 2008).

B. Overview of fear as a psychological phenomenon

Fear, as a psychological phenomenon, serves a critical role in human cognition and behavior, especially in the context of monstrous narratives. Traditionally regarded as an adaptive response, fear prepares individuals to confront perceived threats—whether real or imagined. This response is particularly evident in horror genres, where monsters symbolize deeper societal anxieties and moral dilemmas, thereby allowing audiences to explore their fears in a controlled environment. Such interaction can evoke feelings of pleasure and discomfort simultaneously, reflecting the complex interplay between fear and fascination. For instance, the interplay of sex and horror has been noted to elicit competing responses, resulting in both attraction and revulsion from viewers, suggesting that fear may not only be a mere reaction to threats but also a complex emotional experience that challenges societal norms, as discussed in (Jones et al., 2017). Ultimately, understanding fears role assists in unpacking the psychological motives behind our fascination with monsters, revealing its roots in cultural narratives and individual psychologies, as highlighted in (Burton et al., 2019).

Monsters sometimes represent deeper fears , symbols as well as humanity’s own corruption.
C. Importance of studying fear of monsters in psychology

The exploration of fear, particularly the fear of monsters, serves as a profound means of understanding psychological development and societal values. Monsters often symbolize our deepest anxieties, embodying fears of the unknown or unresolved trauma. By studying these fears, psychologists can unveil underlying emotional and cognitive processes that shape human behavior. This analysis can also encourage discussions about the nature of good and evil, paralleling Tolkiens exploration of beauty and despair in his narratives, which reveals how joy is often intertwined with sorrow and loss (Philpott et al., 2016). Furthermore, addressing the fear of monsters allows for a critical examination of societal beliefs, reflecting our collective fears and the ways these fears manifest in cultural narratives. This understanding is crucial for developing therapeutic interventions, as mitigating fear can ultimately lead to healthier coping mechanisms and a better comprehension of individual and shared human experiences (A Lathrop et al., 2015).

While fear can serve a protective device, teraphobia can cause unnecessary anxiety due to the irrational fear.  It can cause clinging in children, avoidance and cripple people from living life.  This can disrupt sleep and cause other emotional issues.  It can also cause nightmares and night terrors as well as create unhealthy ritualistic behaviors to face these fears.

II. Historical Perspectives on Monsters

The historical perspectives on monsters reveal a profound interplay between cultural narratives and psychological fears, reflecting societal anxieties that transcend time. In literature and mythology, monsters have often represented societal fears, embodying the unknown or the other in various forms. As these depictions evolved, they became reflections of the moral and cultural sentiments of their respective eras, revealing underlying societal concerns, such as justice and transgression. The work of positivist criminology illustrates this connection, positing that monsters—like criminal behavior—cannot be purely understood through scientific frameworks devoid of cultural context; they are instead shaped by the irrational tropes and images that society generates (Burton et al., 2019). Furthermore, the examination of prophetic literature in the Hebrew Bible highlights how monsters also symbolize warnings or prophetic truths, demonstrating their role in both societal critique and psychological exploration (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). Thus, the historical discourse on monsters serves as a window into the evolving fears and cultural dynamics of humanity.

A. Evolution of monster myths across cultures

The evolution of monster myths across cultures reflects deep-seated psychological fears that transcend geographical and temporal boundaries. Historically, monsters have served as embodiments of societal anxieties, from the grotesque beings of mythological narratives to contemporary representations in popular media. These creatures often symbolize the unknown, encapsulating fears related to mortality, chaos, and the supernatural. As detailed in the exploration of cognitive dissonance, individuals grapple with conflicting beliefs about empirical knowledge and transcendent forces, leading to a persistent discomfort that fuels the creation and adaptation of monster myths (Montell et al., 2001). Furthermore, examining prophetic literature through the lens of science fiction reveals how modern cultures reinterpret ancient fears, linking both the imaginative and empirical realms (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). This cyclical process of myth creation not only reflects cultural values but also offers insights into the psychological mechanisms that drive humanitys enduring fascination with the monstrous.

Whether it is Dracula, loch ness, or bigfoot, monster stories evolve across cultures.  Some monster myths surprisingly share similarities across cultures to point towards a common consciousness of human fear that is universal.

The development of the mythos and folklore of monsters has many origins and can affect individuals in pathological ways that may not have been intended

 

B. Psychological interpretations of historical monsters

The phenomenon of historical monsters often serves as a lens through which we can explore societal fears and psychological interpretations. These figures, whether real or mythologized, reflect the cultural anxieties and moral uncertainties of their times. For instance, the grotesque behaviors attributed to notorious figures not only illustrate individual psychopathy but also reveal broader societal concerns about deviance and order. The study of these monsters allows us to analyze the inherent contradictions in criminological thought; as noted, “positivist criminology confronts an inherent contradiction in purporting to develop a purely scientific account of phenomena that are defined by the moral and cultural sentiments of a society” (Burton et al., 2019). Furthermore, examining these figures provides insights into the collective psyche, suggesting that their “marginality” and the fear they evoke can illuminate deeper truths about a societys self-image and moral landscape (Chin et al., 2011). Thus, historical monsters are integral to understanding both psychological trauma and cultural identity.

 

C. The role of folklore in shaping fear of monsters

Folklore serves as a vital cultural construct, profoundly shaping human perceptions of fear, particularly in the context of monsters. It embodies collective anxieties and societal fears, transforming them into recognizable narratives that both illustrate and amplify the psychological terror associated with the unknown. For instance, the concept of Thin Places in Celtic mythology reflects an enduring belief in liminal spaces where the veil between the ordinary and the supernatural becomes tenuous, creating an atmosphere ripe for the emergence of fearful entities (Healy et al., 2014). Similarly, during the tumultuous period of World War II, the Italian populaces collective fear gave rise to the mysterious figure of Pippo, a spectral aircraft that unites their anxieties about warfare and the unseen dangers lurking above them (Perry et al., 2003). These examples illustrate how folklore not only reflects but actively constructs a societal framework for understanding and contextualizing fear, particularly in the manifestation of monstrous figures.

Many stories of monsters also delve into deeper human lessons about humanity, corruption and also protecting the self from that corruption.  Monsters serve as a fear device to keep us away from forbidden things that can corrupt or hurt us.  The stories of not entering the forest at night in both European and American folklore all teach of the inherent dangers that exist in the woods at night.  Teaching children to lock the door, or not to wander off, are all important lessons to protect but through that use of fear to protect, phobias can later develop that create irrational fears of being alone or walking in the woods.

I think many religious traditions have their teachings as well on evil.  While many do not delve as far as the mythos of monsters and folkore surrounding monsters, many monster architypes develop from religious concepts based off of demonic.  For many, the demonic is fearful and real enough to add any other dimension of monster in the world.  For this reason, while closely connected, demons need out of respect to religious traditions to be categorized differently.  While beliefs are beliefs and not up to empiric observation, the concept of demons surrounds religious dogma, while folklore delves more into the imagination.  This is not to say, demon fear and craze can erupt from ultra religious minds and create pathology but the dogmatic belief of demons within the creeds of the the faiths remains something different in extreme than monster fears but at the same time, something open to possible extremism.  I think this needs to be understood when looking at the human experience and demonology.

 

III. Psychological Theories of Fear

An understanding of psychological theories of fear provides significant insights into the anxiety surrounding monsters, both real and fantastical. Rachmans theory of fear acquisition posits that fears can emerge through direct conditioning, vicarious learning, and information processing; notably, childhood experiences with frightening narratives can shape perceptions of monsters ((Ajzen et al., 2001)). For instance, exposure to stories about monsters can foster fear-related beliefs, demonstrating how verbal information influences emotional responses. This interplay is particularly evident in children, whose fear may be heightened based on the source of the information, such as whether it comes from a trusted adult or peer ((Ajzen et al., 2001)). Furthermore, the broader implications of fear reveal how cultural narratives surrounding monstrosity draw on psychological principles, blending empirical research with societal beliefs. This intersection suggests that psychological frameworks not only explain individual fears but also highlight the cultural constructs that shape our collective understanding of monstrosity ().

A. Theories of fear development in childhood

Theories of fear development in childhood offer insights into why children often harbor irrational fears, particularly regarding monsters. Rachmans theory of fear acquisition posits that these fears can develop through several pathways, including direct conditioning, vicarious learning, and information or instruction, suggesting a multifaceted origin for phobias that include the fear of fantastical creatures (Ajzen et al., 2001). Moreover, the influence of information, particularly verbal cues from significant adults, can substantially alter a childs fear-related beliefs. For instance, children exposed to narratives about monsters from trusted figures demonstrated increased fear perceptions, highlighting the power of verbal instruction in shaping their understanding and responses to the unknown (Ajzen et al., 2001). Additionally, the concept of strangeness further elucidates the conditions under which fears arise; as children encounter unfamiliar stimuli that disrupt their sense of control, they often react with alarm, thus perpetuating their fear of such entities .

Children can develop fear of monsters due to social digestion of material, beliefs handed down, or stories intended to protect them but ultimately detrimental to their psychological health

Ultimately, how many children  fear the dark, the monster in the closet or under the bed.  These fears have roots in observation, digestion of social content, and stories handed down, whether for the protection of a child to avoid something, or out of pure superstition.  Yet these stories can cause intense anxiety in children, sleep disturbances, night terrors, fears of the dark, avoidance of certain rooms, as well as clinging to parents.  Children with these fears need comforted to avoid more trauma, as well as reassurances and awards for being brave and facing fears.

When teraphobia becomes crippling then serious mental help is needed.  Some individuals rooted in deep superstition, or certain belief can become terrified beyond the rituals of protection but also negatively affected in their daily activities or stricken with a deep sense of fear.  Others may face psychosis.  Many due to this can face deep trauma that is unneeded but still nevertheless present.

B. The impact of media on fear perception

The media definitely has a big impact on how scared people get, especially when it comes to “monsters”—whether we’re talking about real creatures or just scary ideas. You can see this in the way the news spreads really dramatic stories. For instance, when there’s a lot of coverage of something rare, like kids getting abducted, it can cause a huge panic, even if the actual danger isn’t as high as people think. That whole “stranger danger” idea is a good example. It’s often based on emotional stories and a general sense of moral panic pushed by the media, which can make it hard to have a reasonable conversation about how to keep kids safe (Wodda et al., 2018). Plus, the way people with disabilities are often talked about—using metaphors that make them seem weak or broken—keeps fear alive. It reinforces stereotypes, makes differences seem like problems, and ultimately, dehumanizes entire groups of people (Waltz et al., 2008). So, the things we see in the media not only make society more afraid but also make it harder to understand what the real risks are. What we really need are stories that are more thoughtful and show the world as it is, instead of just trying to shock us.

C. Cognitive-behavioral approaches to overcoming fear

Cognitive-behavioral methods offer solid strategies for tackling irrational fears, like a fear of monsters, using systematic intervention. A key piece of this is cognitive restructuring. Essentially, this involves spotting and then challenging distorted beliefs about threats we think we see. Research points to how the information kids get really matters; it can reshape those fear-based beliefs. Verbal narratives, studies show, can profoundly change how children view scary things, like monsters, more so than visual aids (Ajzen et al., 2001). Also, it’s helpful to understand how early anxiety and what’s happening at home plays into all this. This can make treatment better. Addressing, say, maternal anxiety and temperament becomes pretty vital for prevention (Briggs-Gowan et al., 2010). By mixing cognitive restructuring with exposure therapy—gradually facing fears in a safe way—people can build resilience and dial down the emotional pain these long-held phobias cause.

Counselors can help individuals identify irrational fears, as any phobias, and cognitively approach the reality behind it.  It is important to validate the emotions behind the fears but to help the person recognize the irrationality behind them intellectually.   In addition, counselors can help individuals who may have phobia induced trauma and face these fears through controlled exposure of those fears over a modified period of time.   Meditation and breathing to help calm anyone with unneeded anxiety are also excellent ways to help individuals face phobias and trauma itself.   Many other coping skills can be utilized as well that best help the person.   Finally, positive reinforcement is key in helping progress.

Ultimately it comes to cognitive recognition of the irrational nature of the fear, learning to face the fear through exposure and utilizing coping strategies to face those fears.

IV. The Role of Monsters in Modern Society

Monsters, those figures of dread, have always been crucial cultural icons. They embody our deepest anxieties, and their place in today’s world really mirrors how complex our minds are. Theories about how we learn to fear things, like Rachman’s pathways theory, shows us that our fears aren’t just there; they’re grown through what we experience ourselves, what we see others go through, and even what we hear about, especially when we’re kids (Ajzen et al., 2001). You see, through the stories we take in from media, monsters tend to become these figures that represent bigger issues in our society. They sort of act like a lens, helping us deal with what makes us uneasy. This dance between our culture and our fears makes you wonder if just cold, hard science can really explain why we do what we do and how we feel, which is pretty evident when you look at how criminology has changed over time (Burton et al., 2019). As the monsters we see in stories today evolve, they give us a peek into what we’re all afraid of. It allows us to have conversations about right and wrong, the rules of society, and those parts of us that just don’t make sense. And that’s really why they continue to be relevant in understanding the human psyche of our world

 

A. Monsters as metaphors for societal fears

Monsters popping up in stories, you know, kind of show what a society’s afraid of, especially as those fears change. Take zombies, for example. They weren’t always about the end of the world type stuff, but now they’re like, a big symbol of our worries about everything falling apart and a general sense of “what’s the point?” Their historical backdrop, as some have pointed out, reveals how they echo worries about revolutions, gender roles, and even different political ideas, really capturing a wide range of societal troubles (Mendoza et al., 2016). Then, there’s the uncanny valley idea. That helps explain why things that are almost human, but not quite—like, well, zombies—freak us out so much (Mendoza et al.). It’s like a built-in survival thing, trying to keep us away from danger and sickness. It really just shows how our brains and what we’re afraid of are all tangled up together in our culture. So, these monsters are more than just fun to watch; they give us a peek into what society’s worried about and what’s going on in our collective minds, generally speaking.

Societal fears of the dark, unknown or the woods are a source for creation of the unknown monster lurking. Please also review AIHCP’s behavioral health certifications

 

B. The influence of horror films and literature on fear

Horror films and literature, in their vastness, have significantly molded how society perceives fear, especially the unease we feel about monsters—both the real ones and those we conjure in our minds. These narratives, frequently combining psychological tension with vividly descriptive scenes, manage to reach deep into our most basic fears, letting us face the unknown from a secure vantage point. It’s a portrayal of monsters, frightening yet strangely captivating, that seems to embody broader societal anxieties, in most cases. This sort of depiction encourages a distinctive look at what makes humans vulnerable (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). The way fantastical aspects mix with emotions we can all identify with does more than just entertain; it prompts us to think hard about what fear really is. Then there’s the effect of these genres on how we see authority figures, which offers further insight into the intricate dance between how things are shown and how audiences take them (Dagaz et al., 2011). Generally speaking, horror becomes a reflection of our deepest terrors, offering a mirror—and a lens—through which we examine the shadows that exist both inside and outside us.

I think some good examples as well include Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” where we sometimes discover that the true monster is not the monster itself but who we are and what we can be.  Finding the monster within and using the monsters as symbols of the worst mankind has to offer sometimes is a way to express evil.  As human beings, we all fear evil and our deepest worst side.  Again, if we look at the Robert Stevenon’s classic “Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde” we see the motif and fear of the monster inside of all of us.

In addition, we see this darker and evil side of humanity in the many zombie movies and series that show the corruption of humanity.  This same motif is found in the folklore of vampires and the corruption of humanity.

 

C. The therapeutic use of monsters in psychology

Monsters, frequently thought of as just products of our minds, can actually be quite helpful in therapy. They act as stand-ins, in a way, for what we’re afraid of and the battles we fight inside ourselves. Psychology suggests that picturing our problems as monsters can assist individuals in dealing with doubt and difficulty. The idea is to change these anxieties into something we can handle, not something that overwhelms us. This approach aligns with the idea of being in-between, as described in (Hay A et al., 2016), where people are working out who they are and how they see themselves. By thinking of emotional problems as monsters, people in therapy can sort of put those fears outside themselves, which then makes it easier to talk about them and start feeling better. What’s more, neurorhetoric shows us that these monster metaphors not only connect with our psychological challenges but also change how we react to fear, which makes the therapy even more effective (Jewel et al., 2017). Seen in this light, monsters become useful for building strength and helping people grow, as they navigate their psychological landscapes.

V. Conclusion

To summarize, when we consider the relationship between psychological ideas and that common fear of monsters, we can glean interesting points about why we behave the way we do and how we grow as people. This discussion looked at how fears of monsters, which frequently take hold in our childhood, turn up in different psychological situations, such as anxiety and specific phobias. Adolescent studies, for instance, illustrate the link between personality and phobic reactions, suggesting that these fears aren’t just random thoughts but are actually connected to our psychological nature (Alibrandi et al., 2019). Also, the history of these fears suggests that cultural stories have historically had an impact on how we view monstrosity, demonstrating a close connection between what society values and what an individual thinks (Burton et al., 2019). Grasping the fear of monsters is important for dealing with individual anxieties and for starting a wider conversation about how our culture influences our views of fear and safety.

Please also review AIHCP’s numerous behavioral health certifications for qualified mental health and healthcare professionals.

There are many reasons the mind, society and culture creates monsters. Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications

 

A. Summary of key points discussed

So, when we’re talking about psychology and why we’re scared of monsters, we’re really digging into a lot of different stuff that shows us both who we are as humans and the things society builds around us. We touched on a few big ideas, like how fear might have started as a way to keep us alive, making us wary of the unknown. This means that our basic need to survive is actually tied to how we understand monsters in our culture. Also, the way movies and books show us monsters really matters, since these stories don’t just entertain us—they also show us what we’re afraid of as a society, acting like a mirror reflecting our worries. Like, these stories often pull from what’s happened in the past, mixing together psychology with cultural stories. That sort of makes figuring out fear and its different forms a bit complicated. It’s worth pointing out that the connection between science and what scares us reveals some disagreements within scientific thinking, (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016) and (Burton et al., 2019) pointed this out, proving that what we believe culturally has a huge impact on how we see monsters, and it’s not just about science.

B. Implications for understanding fear in psychology

Psychological studies of fear offer crucial insights into how we react to perceived dangers, like, say, monsters. Fear, as Rachman theorized, can arise from direct experience, learning by watching others, or simply from what we’re told. This indicates that the ways children form fear-based ideas about things like monsters are significantly affected by these routes (Ajzen et al., 2001). Interestingly, what adults tell children can change what they believe about fear, stressing how important context and social influences are in the psychology of fear (Ajzen et al., 2001). However, grasping fear isn’t just about individual experiences. It also sets the stage for understanding broader anxieties molded by stories we all share. Sometimes, these stories paint the unknown as something monstrous, impacting how society acts and feels about fear. Therefore, a thorough understanding of fear is beneficial in psychology from both theoretical and hands-on perspectives.

C. Future directions for research on fear of monsters

Future research on the fear of monsters really needs to embrace interdisciplinary work to help us truly understand this common fear. We need to look at more than just psychology; we have to consider the context, too. The context can really change how we perceive and feel fear toward monsters. For example, studying the “ecological” side of fear – think about how family or the community plays a role – could give us important clues about how fear changes. It’s also helpful to remember how studies have connected temperament with childhood anxiety; so, understanding how personality and the environment interact might point us toward new ways to help. (Briggs-Gowan et al., 2011). Plus, monster stories often have cultural roots. That said, comparing how different cultures react to monsters could broaden our understanding and improve therapeutic treatments (A Lathrop et al., 2015). Overall, when researchers use these different strategies, we will get a deeper, more detailed view of the fear of monsters and what it means.

Additional AIHCP Blogs

Alien Abduction Syndrome. Access here

Additional Resources

Fritscher, L. (2023). “Coping With Teraphobia or the Fear of Monsters”. Very Well Health.  Access here

Pedersen, T. (2024). “Understanding Teraphobia (Fear of Monsters)” PsychCentral.  Access here

Nurzhynskyy, A. “What is Teraphobia: Unmasking the Fear of Monsters”. Psychology.  Access here

“How To Manage Teraphobia In Children And Adults”. (2024). Better Help.  Access here

 

Grief Counseling and Toxic Positivity Video Blog

Posted on by Mark Moran

Behavioral Health views toxic positivity as a way to bypass grief and loss.  It downplays the needed expression of emotion and ignores the true bad of a situation.  It is fine to be sad and to acknowledge something as not good.  Toxic positivity presents blinders to the situation, stunts emotional expression and bullies the griever into remaining quiet. This video takes a closer look at the negative effects of toxic positivity

Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification.  Please click here

Boundaries and Assertive Behavior in Mental Health

Posted on by Mark Moran

Boundaries are critical to a healthy relationship with anyone.  When someone’s boundaries are constantly broken, this leads to discontent and resentment.  Hence it is critical for emotional and mental health to preserve boundaries within relationships and to understand what one is willing and not willing to do.  With boundaries comes the art of assertiveness and knowing how to express oneself and look out for one’s own needs without portraying oneself as selfish.  In fact, boundaries and being assertive are not selfish things but important parts of self that define where one begin and end in regards to other individuals.

Please also review AIHCP’s mental and behavioral certifications and see if they meet your academic and professional goals.

BOUNDARIES

We can imprison ourselves when we do not set boundaries. Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Program

It is good to have boundaries and limits in one’s life.  Many times these boundaries are tested, sometimes directly, other times without malicious intent.  It is critical to assert oneself and pronounce boundaries and not feel guilty about it.  It is good to have physical boundaries, emotional boundaries, time boundaries, sexual boundaries, material boundaries and intellectual boundaries.   We have a right to physical space or the right not to want to be touched, we have a right to feel a certain way, or express an opinion or have that opinion not debated, we have a right to our time and how we choose to use it, we have a right to decide our own sexual desires and choices, we have a right to say no to the use of any of our material things and we have a right to not be solicited or debated on our philosophies and religious beliefs.

Sometimes boundaries can be difficult to set due to relationships and one’s own mental state.  Many people feel if they set boundaries, they will lose a relationship or friend. Others may feel the constant need to people please, or put others over oneself equating a boundary to being selfish or mean.  On the contrary, boundaries are healthy and need to be asserted in a healthy way to others and be respected by others.  This is especially true when broken boundaries cause distress in one’s life.  When one feels walked over or used, then it is important to break the cycle and invoke boundaries.  Whether it is about lending money, or lending a car, or giving a helping hand when one cannot, broken boundaries lead to anxiety, resentment, stress and depression.   When we constantly feel used,  feel afraid,  feel controlled, forced to adjust schedules, or change one’s values then it is time to reconsider boundaries in life.  It is hence crucial to properly communicate boundaries to others and enforce those boundaries.

When setting a boundary, be sure prior to understand the goal and aim of setting it for oneself.  Sometimes it helps to start small and gradually add new boundaries.  In addition, it is important to clearly communicate boundaries.  Many times, individuals are not clear and the boundaries become mixed.  It is important to be open and clear about what and when one is imposing without being hostile or rude.  Sometimes it is best to keep it simple than being over complex as to avoid over explanation that is not due to the other person.

When creating boundaries avoid being rude or hostile.  Avoid accusative “you” statements.  If with parents, or people of authority, maintain calmness and respect but remain strong in your boundary and conviction.  When dealing with friends avoid ghosting and gossip to escape the problem but set the tone.  With at work, set clear timetables and schedules that delineate work from home, as well as understand who to speak with in regards to problems or issues that arise.  Show mutual respect for co-workers and their own boundaries in what they do.

Being Assertive in Life

Assertiveness is crucial to establishing and keeping boundaries.   Assertiveness itself is merely the expression of one’s personal rights.  It is not aggression, or rudeness but merely standing up for oneself and applying boundaries where necessary.  It is a crucial skill in all social and professional interactions.  It protects one’s needs, but also communicates clearly what is expected within a relationship.

Many mistaken conceptions see assertiveness as being selfish and putting oneself over others.  Instead one has a right to feel a certain way, or receive mutual respect on views or philosophies.  Individuals have a right to assert their own schedule and not always be flexible.  You have a right to ask for more information, or ask for an explanation.  You have a right not to take the advice of someone else.  You have a right not to want to speak to other people or walk away.  You do not need to have a good reason for feeling a certain way all the time, but you have a right to feel without explanation.  You have a right not to make everyone’s problem your problem.  Many individuals can be very generous, caring, empathetic, and yet maintain an assertiveness to one’s own boundaries and feelings.  Self care, boundaries and being assertive are important aspects of mental and emotional health.

Being assertive is not aggression but defending one’s rights and boundaries. It is essential to good mental health

Hence being assertive is not being rude or aggressive or selfish, but neither is it being passive, or overlooked and trodden upon, instead it is a golden mean between these two extremes that illustrates healthy reactions to people without allowing oneself to fall victim to stress, anxiety, or abuse.  When applying boundaries or promoting an assertive nature, one is clear to express one’s thoughts, feelings and wants in a direct fashion.  There is no sugar coating or word play, but clear and concise language to how one thinks, feels and wants a particular situation. It is void of name calling, or “you” statements, blaming, or denials, or insults, but is a clear and assertive language that defines the situation clearly and expresses one’s stance.  It is not over stepping other boundaries, or disrespecting others, but is a thorough expression of self to avoid future violations of one’s beliefs and space, as well as one’s ability to freely and correctly express needs, desires, thoughts, emotions and wants.  Unfortunately, how many times, do we treat assertiveness as a sign of aggression?  It is important to understand the differences between these and properly execute assertiveness when setting boundaries or for that matter when being assertive in relationships, interactions, work, or school.

Applying Assertive Behavior

Applying assertive behavior in life is not about being that person who always speaks out about every discomfort, or that obnoxious person who cannot be polite or quiet when things go wrong, but instead is knowing when something is truly wrong and someone needs to speak up due to something important.  Most importantly, it is how one also conveys the assertive thought, emotion and need without being rude, overbearing, or trivial.

In application of assertive behavior, a person should not feel shy about expressing something that is wrong, but instead feel the necessity to stand up and speak when necessary or act if something needs done.  There obviously is a fine line between aggression, rudeness and being a displeasing person, as opposed to a truly assertive person.  Ultimately it comes down to one’s inner feelings and how certain situations present a clear and present need to say, discuss or act something.  When applying, we have spoken about avoiding rude comments, blaming, name calling, and aggressive behavior, but instead truly speaking in a neutral language that does not look to challenge or upset but instead invoke one’s concern or need.  In doing, so controlling emotions, politely listening, staying on track and acknowledging the other person is key.  Being assertive is not a personal attack on someone else but is a tool in resolving an issue.  Hence good communication skills are essential.

It is important to also maintain good physical posture when assertively speaking.  Maintain eye contact, body posture, speak clearly, do not whine or consistently apologize, but speak the reality of the situation.  Express if necessary with hands and facial expression to emphasize when needed.  If one’s body language or voice quivers, then the message becomes lost.

How we apply our thoughts, emotions and needs is important. We need to be clear and concise, but also exhibit calmness and control

While an assertive discussion is going on, be careful to avoid traps and manipulations of others who may try to still break your boundary or belittle your concern, thought, emotion, want or need.  Instead of getting angry, maintain a calm and logical disposition.  Many times, you may need to repeat the opening premise over and over throughout the conversation to keep the other person from deviating from the issue.  Many times, individuals will deviate from the conversation by changing topics, insulting characters, playing self pity, threatening, denying, or blaming.  In these instances it is important to know how to shift back to topic, defuse other’s emotions, acknowledge at times criticism of self, or partial criticisms, but ultimately, the key is to stay on track, express one’s needs and to know how to diffuse and shift back to topic without elevating the conversation into an argument.  Sometimes, this involves preparing oneself prior to the conversation or even walking away if it does become heated.

Ultimately, the boundary or discussion about one’s thoughts, emotions or needs is important to you and cannot be laughed to the side or minimized.  It is crucial to apply one’s needs and preserve one’s boundaries.

Conclusion

Boundaries are important for personal and emotional health.  They are not selfish and rigid borders that make us selfish and rude to the needs of others but they protect ourselves from unneeded abuse of our skills, body, time and materials.  Being assertive is a key ability to advocate for our rights.  It is not aggression or being petty about things but truly being able to implement one’s thoughts, emotions and needs so that they are properly addressed.  Asserting oneself is not about trampling upon others but defending oneself in a clear and concise manner.

Please also review AIHCP’s Mental and Behavioral Health Certifications

Many individuals suffer in numerous aspects of life due to an inability to form boundaries and be assertive.  Learning how one’s life is violated and becoming aware of the unhappy state is instrumental to overall mental health.  One needs to be able to apply these skills to find peace and less stress and anxiety in one’s life

Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.

Additional Blog

Stop Worrying.  Access here

Resource

Davis, M, et al. (2000). “The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook (5th)”. New  Harbinger Publications, Inc.

Additional Resources

Brooten-Brooks, M. (2025). “How to Set Boundaries for Better Relationships”.  Very Well Health.  Access here

“Map it out: Setting boundaries for your well-being” (2023). Mayo Clinic Health.  Access here

Boundaries. Psychology Today.  Access here

Earnshaw, E. (2023). “6 Types Of Boundaries You Deserve To Have (And How To Maintain Them)”. Mind Body Green. Access here

 

 

 

 

 

A Counseling Approach to Alien Abduction Syndrome

Posted on by Mark Moran

Alien abduction stories have moved more into main stream acceptance since the 1950s.  No longer are many of these accounts swept under the rug as psychosis, or shared with bedtime stories of vampires or big foot sightings.  Instead, many professionals have come to some conclusion that these experiences may be real.  While there has been a shift in possible acceptance of these accounts due to more credible witnesses, discovery of possible inhabitable earth like planets, as well as official military releases and congressional investigations, there still exists plenty of mental health professionals who would deem the encounters as naturally explainable or misconstrued.

Alien Abduction Syndrome exhibits common traits in individuals who report it

I think we need to have a possible open mind but until empirical data emerges, these stories and accounts are hard to prove as gospel proof of an event.  Modern psychology, tends to drift away from un-explained phenomenon and seeks to find the rational explanations.  In this blog, we will with an open mind look at Alien Abduction Syndrome, its manifestations, psychological and rational explanations, as well as possible counter arguments that show these events as plausible.  We will also look most importantly look at the traumatic effects these events have on individuals as well as how to help them through it.

Please also review AIHCP’s many counseling based certifications for behavioral health care professionals.  Please click here.

Reality or Psychosis?

When unexplained events occur, many times psychosis, repressed memories, past trauma, cognitive distortions, or natural explanations can explain the incident.  However, many scientists as well as counselors understand that not everything in reality must be confined to the empirical code.  With this creates a sharp divide between academic professionals who adhere to strict empiricism in practice or for those who feel the world is larger than observation via the senses.

Those who adhere to strict empiricism will rule out all stories of experiences of alien abduction, as well as demonic possession, while others may have an open mind to such experiences in human behavior.  Strict empiricists would include aliens and demons in the same chapter with bigfoot, vampires and various monsters, while counselors who hold strong to spiritual ideals, are open to other options when mental illness or natural explanations are eliminated as possible solutions.

When to comes to the demonic, testimonies, unnatural events yet to be explained, and third party testimony has led many to believe that not all cases are psychosis or mental illness.  The same has held true for accounts of UFO sightings and alien abductions with many events from credible sources.  These resources have shifted possible UFO existence into the mainstream and something modern psychology cannot prove but may not be so quick to dismiss always as a psychosis event.  I think while it is important to adhere to psychological standards, it is a very atheistic and proud view to dismiss everything as explainable to our current paradigm.  While bias can play a strong motivator in evaluating cases of wanting to believe a story, sometimes, a story or testimony goes well pass any diagnosis of psychosis.

Alien abduction or psychosis? Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications

So I feel counselors need to be very cautious in dismissing a story told to them by a client without first showing a strong sensitivity to the trauma level of the person, as well as reviewing all naturally explainable ingredients of the story to see what fits and what does not fit from a psychological science based view.  Some metaphysical experiences, as well as UFO or abduction stories are indeed psychosis, or misinterpreted, or naturally explainable, but sometimes, we cannot sweep under the rug every disturbing story we hear as merely explainable.   So, there is a very mixed reaction to alien abduction within the scientific community and will continue to be so until empirical evidence can support a universal claim.  Until then, it is important to shift through the variety of possible explanations within the realm of science and psychology for any demonic or alien type encounter–and only after an exhaustive search and diagnosis is completed, to come to a conclusion that the person’s story is reliable or not–and if reliable, then the even scarier attempt to understand what happened and how to help the person with this trauma.

It is important to remember that whether something occurred or did not occur, the trauma that manifested is real.

Psychological Explanations for Alien Abduction/UFO Sightings or Demonic Attack

Whether you believe in aliens or demons or UFO sightings from a spiritual belief or strong and reliable testimony, one must admit that not all alien or demonic occurrences are real.  Many people have mental trauma, psychosis, distorted memories, or misconstrued what they saw.  If every single sighting or metaphysical event was taken as truth, we would be doing our clients a disservice and playing into their own dangerous psychosis and not treating the malignant ailment causing these issues.  So it is important to investigate the more probable causes of these manifestations but to review these in such a way as to be sensitive and not demeaning to the client expressing trauma and fear in the account of the story itself.

Cognitive perceptions and beliefs can distort reality in how one experiences an event or recalls and remembers the actual event itself.  Memories themselves of the initial event can also be effected due to secondary events since the event, as well as possible recalling during hypnosis.  During intense emotion, the recalled event sometimes can be different than the initial event or how it was initially experienced.  Those who also experience PTSD can also exhibit flashbacks, vivid dreams, or dissociation from reality.  It is no secret that many who report abduction also have a case history of childhood trauma and other events in their life.

What are some psychological explanations for alien abduction?

Psychodynamic theories postulate that events or memories can stem from unconscious psychological projections due to universal human ideas regarding cultural fears and anxieties that manifest in these encounters. Karl Jung theorized that UFO sightings were a cultural manifestation of archetypal symbols that reside in humanity’s collective consciousness.  In addition, during times of historical uncertainty, fear, anxiety and war, many of these symbols manifest in a person’s life.  In addition, many of the feelings of fear, helplessness, and anxiety are closely related to repressed trauma.  Trauma can resurface after digesting various stories about other events, as UFOs, and resurface in dreams, sleep paralysis, and other manifestations.  According to Freud, many terrible events in life are repressed from the conscious mind that later resurface in this way through symbols of demons, monsters or aliens.

For the sane mind, many times, objects or events are simply misinterpreted due to lack of clear sight, weather conditions, or disorientation.  Many things in reality turn out to be merely a shadow, or object in the room, or if in the sky, merely an object that is unidentified but completely explainable.  Instead, due to media perceptions, bias, spiritual beliefs, the mind looks to fill in the gap of the story. Anomalous perception as a concept illustrates how the brain seeks to find answers and fill in gaps when the complete sensory picture evades it.

There are also numerous pathological issues that need to be addressed when someone recalls a story of alien abduction.  First, is the experience delusional due to mental psychosis or Schizophrenia?  Is the person on medication that causes psychosis?   Are the hallucinations due to drugs, or mental pathology?  Did the person exhibit sleep paralysis which is a dreamlike state where the person becomes conscious and unable to move but feels in the process traumatized, terrified and helpless?   Many of these hallucinations or perceptions can be tied to media, imagination, as well as research on a topic.

Hence without dismissing immediately and upsetting a client, a thorough case history of the person is needed, as well as a diagnosis that eliminates cognitive distortions, psychodynamic manifestations, trauma, pathological issues, drugs and sociocultural influences that may reflect in these encounters.

The Alien Abduction Syndrome Story

The alien abduction story has similarities.  This can both account to a universal disorder, that finds itself retold by study of previous accounts, or a general human psychodynamic response in the modern cultural world, but it can also account for a general theme shared by different unassociated people.  So, while the account may be consistent with other stories, one cannot assume it is a valid encounter merely based on common themes.  Within this traumatic recalling of an event or perceived event, the individual displays these common traits of the encounter.

There are numerous common threads that are universally found in alien abduction stories. Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications

In these events, the first aspect relates to the capture event.  Whether in bed, or on the road, taken, or beamed, the capture event illustrates how the alien entity was able to capture the person.  Following this step, includes the second aspect of experimentation and examining which can purely medical, or even sexual in nature.  Following the experimentation, the third part of the account relates to some type of communication, followed fourth by a tour of the vessel,   The fifth element is the universal experience of loss of time.  Following the sixth part of return, most experience a seventh theophany event of some type of emotional or philosophical or metaphysical change or outlook on life.  Some may experience a high or love, while others may be filled with a complete dread.  Finally, the eighth phase includes the aftermath where the person attempts to understand the experience.

Within this account, what can we conclude?

For many, this may very well be explained by science or psychology from cognitive distortions, psychodynamic explanations, cultural biased views, unresolved trauma, drugs or some type of mental pathology.

For others,  some studies have equally shown individuals of sane mind recounting these events and sharing a common narrative.  Some of these stories come from reputable sources as well.  The same can stem from stories of exorcism where individuals all account the same phenomenon or relate events that defy logic or scientific explanation.

Some from Christian perspectives hold that alien encounters are demonic manifestations.

Others from New Age perspectives share stories of collective alien alliances and different species of aliens with different intentions.  Others claim to communicate with these entities.

With such a mixed results and theories based in bias, belief, and no true empirical universal proof, it can be very difficult to sift through what is really happening but one thing that can be agreed on is that the experience creates trauma and dread for many.  Some may walk away with curiosity or hope, while others walk away with extreme dread.  If a person illustrates no pathological or rational explanations, it is best to help the person face that trauma and not so much try to prove or disprove the event.

Counseling AAS

Whether real or imaginary, there are real traumas associated with Alien Abduction Syndrome

So from what we have concluded,  whether someone enters a counseling sessions, speaking of seeing a demon, bigfoot or an alien, the counselor must approach the story carefully as not to prove or disprove and challenge the person at first.  This can cause more trauma, especially for a person already suffering from psychosis, much less anger an individual who may have no mental issues but also strong spiritual beliefs.  The purpose of the counseling is to help the person discover on their own if what they have experienced is real or not and how to heal from that trauma.  If indeed, case study and psycho therapy or natural explanations emerge that present evidence of not a real event, the counselor as part of the healing process should help the person come to grips with that it was not real, but if such evidence is not presented, then the role of the counselor is to help the person heal from the trauma and in a healthy way come to some type of conclusion of what occurred, as unexplainable but plausible.  The client should not be labeled as crazy or insane, but instead aided in reconciling the disturbing and unexplained event, as something that may have occurred, or yet to be determined.  An individual who suffers from no true pathology,  should not be made to feel superstitious or insane if a counselor has a different view on a unexplained religious experience or alien encounter.  The goal again of the counselor is to help the client come to grips with the experience and to move forward from it.

In many of these cases,  the experience itself can cause trauma, fear, dread and anxiety.  One can develop insomnia and other sleep disturbances.  Others may become hyper vigilant and become extra cautious of their surroundings or when they go certain places.  Many exhibit what victims express during rape or assault and will share the same reactions.  Some may experience intrusive thoughts, or due to PTSD of the event manifest flashbacks, nightmares, or even dissociate.  Some may fall into depression, or social withdraw.  The fears and also frustrations of not being believed, or considered crazy can have multiple emotional reactions with the person.

Counselors can help individuals through the trauma and fear tied to these events and better understand themselves in relationship to it.

Helping individuals with PTSD usually involves grounding, EMDR, hypnosis, and meditation and breathing techniques.  For many, cognitive behavioral therapy can help individuals understand why something like this happened to them and how to learn to cope through the loss and pain associated with it.  Other emotional based Rogerian therapies may help the person express the pain and emotion of the event and the post ridicule and shame following the event.  Others may find coping with support peer groups who share similar stories, or others my reinterpret the event as something tied to their role and spirituality with God.  Those who experience demonic attack, or abductions, or even near death experiences, usually are able to tie to a deeper spiritual message that translates to a closer union with God and understanding of life.  Whether traumatic or good experience, whether real or imaginary, it is important for the counselor to help the person come to grips what was experienced and to heal and grow from the trauma of the event.

Conclusion

While alien abduction, near death experience, or demonic attack has many explanations within psychology, not all cases fit the subjective credentials of someone being cognitively distorted, pathological or experiencing past trauma, but instead present real issues to the objective nature of the event.  Many credible accounts in these experiences as well as recent investigations by the congressional house into UFO sightings have raised the bar to go beyond merely dismissing all accounts.  While the status of these accounts are separating from folklore and myth, counselors need to discern that their client is not subjectively compromised to delusion, but after such investigation is thoroughly dismissed in an individual case, the counselor needs to help the client come to grips with the event and trauma.  The trauma not the event should be the main concern in these cases for the counselor and the primary purpose to heal the client despite the counselor’s personal beliefs about it.  The client needs to be freed from dangerous labels.  In treating trauma, the counselor will need to address the issue from multiple therapies and ways to help the person again find resolution with the experience as to move forward in life.

Please also review AIHCP’s numerous behavioral health certifications

Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications and see if they meet one’s professional and academic needs.  The programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals working within the scope of their non-clinical or clinical practice.  Obviously treatment of alien abduction and the therapies fall under a clinical scope beyond the basic disucussion.

Additional Blogs

Christian Counseling: Aliens and Christian Theology. Click here

Additional Resources

Transpersonal Psychology.  Access here

“The American UFO Encounter: Therapy and Coping Strategies for Post-Event Resilience”. Vetted.  Access here

Lehmiller, J. (2023). “Why Some People Believe They’ve Been Abducted by Aliens”. Psychology Today.  Access here

Alien Abduction. Wikipedia.  Access here

Davey, G. (2012). “Five Traits That Could Get You “Abducted by Aliens”. Psychology Today.  Access here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stress Management Consulting: Stop Worrying and Take Control

Posted on by Mark Moran

Anxiety about what is beyond one’s control creates intense worry in the one’s life.  Ironically, most things worried about are beyond one’s control and the actual worry never manifests.  This means alot of energy, emotion and time is wasting on worrying and not taking productive control of situations.  In this short blog, we will look at the nature of worry and how to better overcome worrying and instead produce positive change in what can be controlled in one’s life.

Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Certification which teaches professionals to help better train individuals to manage worry and manifest positive outcomes in life.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified healthcare and behavioral healthcare professionals who serve communities at both the clinical and non-clinical levels.

The Nature of Worry

Woman biting her nails
While worrying natural, many times people worry in unhealthy ways. Please review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program

Worrying is a natural response to life circumstances (Davis, et al, 2000, p. 135).   Some worry and concern is legitimate while most worry is about things beyond one’s control or things that will never occur.  Worry becomes a problem when according to Davis, worry becomes chronic and anxious, dominates negative outcomes regarding the future, repeats itself everyday, refuses to cease despite attempted distractions, or when worry paralyzes oneself to act constructively (p. 135).

It is essential to differentiate heathy and unhealthy worry.  There do come times when legitimate worry manifests over something as opposed to random worries without any true foundation in reality.  Still, one’s reaction to legitimate concerns and the manifest of how one worries can determine healthy or unhealthy worrying.  Davis points out that healthy worrying is problem solving focused with effective solutions, evaluation of outcomes and decisions, while unhealthy worry involves no problem solving skills but only catastrophic and helpless thoughts (p. 136).

It is hence important to distinguish between problems not only as legitimate and illegitimate but also in regards to things that fall into one’s control.  Things we control include our own boundaries, goals, decisions, actions, and how we carry out those actions in word, deed and thought.  These aspects play a large role in healthy worry in how we carry out solutions.  Solutions become more difficult when we seek to control things beyond our reach leaving one to the helplessness of unhealthy worry.  We cannot control others and their choices, decisions or how they treat us.  Furthermore, we cannot change the past, or outcomes of the future, but we can control the present.  Understanding what one can control and what one cannot control can help one face worries in a more healthy way.

For instance, here are some examples of healthy worrying versus unhealthy worrying.

If someone worries upon their upcoming trip whether the plane will crash or not crash, one is experiencing anxiety and unhealthy worry.  While planes can crash, it is highly unlikely.  The worry should seek solution through statistics and understanding the science behind aviation, instead of worrying over something that probably will never happen, as well as being completely outside one’s control.

Another example includes worrying if someone received poor health results from a blood test with their cholesterol and sugar counts.  While this is reason for concern, unhealthy worrying would think of the horrible outcomes of heart attacks and diabetes and solely focus on the worst case scenario presented by these tests.  Healthy worry would recognize the health concerns, but take effective reaction to remedy the poor blood scores via medication, exercise and better diet.

Hence worry is natural and worry is important to challenges and bad news but it needs to be properly guided to produce better outcomes instead of damage to oneself.  Unhealthy worrying leads to not only no resolution to the issue, but also heightened anxiety and stress to the body.  By inducing the fight and flight mode of the body, the body’s excess production of cortisol can harm the body over time if worrying is consistent and manifests everyday.  Ulcers and other digestive track issues can arise as well as later heart issues if the body remains in a constant state of stress due to unhealthy worry.

Managing Worry

Davis lists multiple ways to better manage worry. If something is worrying you, sometimes one should write down the worry and identify it.  Instead of wandering into random worries and dead end solutions, brainstorm various solutions to each worry.  Evaluate the ideas you come up with and see which best solutions work.  If need be, give oneself specific times and dates to better deal with each worry.  Give oneself time to worry or a date to worry about something that needs your focus.  Sometimes, many worries are not immediate when assigned a date. (Davis, 2000, p., 137-139).

woman in a star scape of color
Learn to manage worry through stress reduction ,breathing ,meditation and cognitive behavioral trips to reframe it so one finds solutions instead of despair

When scheduling oneself a time to worry, one can allow oneself to expose oneself to the worry itself within a reasonable time constraint.  Worry exposure can help one rationally identify worries and reframe them.  Within this relaxed state and chosen time, one can risk assess the worry, predict outcomes from least to worst, and even rank the worries.  Davis also recommends visualizing the worry and rating one’s anxiety when visualizing it.  During this exposure, one can then imagine different outcomes that are more positive and then reassess one’s level of anxiety (Davis, 2000 p. 144-145).

In addition to exposing oneself to worry and identifying the worries, Davis recommends identifying triggers that cause worry.   He recommends identifying sources that cause worry, such as the news, social media, or places (p., 147).  If these things worry, avoid them and also start to try to limit one’s rituals of worry.  If one constantly calls a son or parent due to worry and not legitimate concern, then start to limit the number of times over the month one calls for purely worry reasons.

Meditation and Stress Management

Worry while natural can become unnatural in its effects on our mental and physical health.  Meditation and stress reduction is key in helping alleviate the fight or flight mode the body enters during worry.  While the Sympathetic Nervous System manifests, the body enters fight or flight which entails increased heart rate, blood pressure, cortisol and adrenaline, as well as tightened muscles.  The Para Sympathetic System returns the body to normal and is best activated through meditation or healthy breathing.  When worry beings to overcome oneself,  individuals need to cognitively identify this issue and begin to utilize deep chest breaths to help the body relax.  It is sometimes important to regain control of the body before one can rationally a design a way to react to worry.  Because worry initially is a reaction to something external that poses some type of threat, our body initially will respond the way it was designed to threats.  Hence remembering to regain control and allow our rational mind to rule the day over our emotional responses is key.

woman on a park bench looking at a paper worried
Worry in a healthy way. Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Program

Conclusion

Worry is a natural mechanism to react to negative things and threats in life.  We can utilize it a healthy or unhealthy way.  If our worry response paradigm is based in reason and solutions, it is healthy, but if our worry paradigm is based on things beyond our control, or represent the worst of the worst possibilities, then our worry  becomes unhealthy and unproductive in resolution.  This is easier said then done, so we must utilize healthy breathing when confronting with a new worry to better digest it and reverse the Sympathetic Nervous System from taking over.  Through rational solutions and techniques to manage worry, one can in a healthy way face worry in a productive and good way.

Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Program.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals who look to help populations better face stress both from a clinical and non clinical scope of practice.

Additional Blog

Fear and Grief Blog.  Access here

 

Addiction in Caregivers: The Hidden Crisis Among Those Who Support Others

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Written by Jason Klimkowski,

Caregivers support those who can’t care for themselves for various reasons — including illness, disability, or aging. And since the global population is aging rapidly, caregiving is a widespread and growing role. According to recent estimates, tens of millions of people worldwide are caregivers to older adults or folks with chronic conditions. In the United States alone, over 40 million adults identify as caregivers each year. And similar trends are noticeable in other countries. Unfortunately, caregivers often juggle their role and other responsibilities, like jobs or raising families. Naturally, this causes huge amounts of daily stress and many assorted mental health challenges that can lead to addiction in caregivers. Escaping addiction is never easy, especially considering the nature of their role. Therefore, it is important to focus on the crisis among caregivers and their struggles with addiction.

Who Are Caregivers?

The two main types of stressed caregivers are:

  • Family (informal) caregivers — unpaid relatives or friends who assist loved ones with daily activities and medical tasks at home. They help with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, feeding), manage medications, coordinate healthcare appointments, and provide emotional support.
  • Professional caregivers — personal support workers, hospice staff, and home health aides, often handling more complex medical procedures and monitoring.

Naturally, all caregivers, whether devoted family members or trained professionals, are responsible for the safety, health, and well-being of those in their care.

Addiction Among Caregivers

Unfortunately, addiction in caregivers is something society doesn’t discuss nearly enough — and addresses it even less. They develop substance abuse issues more often because they’re exposed to more stressors. Figures back this up, even though research on the topic isn’t plentiful.

According to some estimates, around 12% of US children live with a caregiver with substance abuse issues, meaning drugs and alcohol. Canadian research shows similar results, with 8–10% of caregivers using alcohol or other substances.

These figures are fairly comparable to addiction statistics among the general population. However, there are also caregivers of specific high-stress populations. Studies targeting caregivers in particularly demanding situations, like dementia care, show higher levels of risky substance use of around 18 percent.

The findings paint a clear picture. Namely, the higher the burden of a caregiving situation, the higher the risk of the caregiver developing addiction issues as a coping mechanism.

Professional Caregivers and Addiction

Addiction is also a concern among nurses, doctors, and other health professionals. Approximately 10% of healthcare workers are estimated to abuse drugs or alcohol during their careers.

Surveys of nurses show that around 18% suffer from substance use problems, with about 6–7% meeting criteria for a substance use disorder. In the case of medical professionals, proximity to medications is also an issue. Addiction in caregivers is more common among anesthesiologists and others with ready access to medications.

Behavioral Addiction

Not all types of addiction are easily noticeable. It is important to spot the signs in missed appointments, slurred words, and dramatic breakdowns. Sometimes, they may be less readily apparent, like in the cases of gambling disorders, internet addiction, and similar compulsive behaviors.

Caregivers facing long hours at home are susceptible to these behaviors as a form of escape — the simplest outlet for stress.

There’s no precise evidence showing the prevalence of these behaviors in caregivers, but their stress levels are comparable to those suffering from similar issues in the general population.

Recovery Post-Treatment

Most caregivers relapse because the environment around them stays the same. They leave treatment, go home, and walk right back into the same routines, same stress, same weight on their shoulders. That makes maintaining recovery after treatment ends especially challenging unless caregivers intentionally reshape their lives to support sobriety. It is important to know how to stay sober with the right strategy.

Caregivers can build a structured daily routine and prioritize self-care through healthy habits like exercise and balanced meals to reduce stress. Additionally, it is necessary to avoid toxic relationships and risky situations that might trigger relapse, celebrate milestones in the sobriety journey, and stay connected with ongoing therapy or support groups. Practical methods can help caregivers stay sober in their usual pre-treatment environment.

Shame, Guilt, and the Fear of Being Seen

Caregivers often feel like they are supposed to be the strong ones. They give help, no matter how bad it gets, and don’t complain. But what happens when they need help? Ironically, they feel guilty.

This guilt doesn’t come from pride. It’s fear. Fear that if they admit they’re struggling, people will perceive them as weak. Fear that the person they’re caring for will lose trust. So, they hide it and convince themselves that the problem is temporary.

If you’re a caregiver feeling like you’re on the verge of developing an addictive habit, try:

  • Telling one person you trust that you’re not doing okay
  • Writing it down in a notebook to get the truth out of your head
  • Scheduling a private call with a therapist who understands caregiver stress
  • Asking your doctor about what you’re taking and why
  • Joining an anonymous support group, even if you never speak the first time

Small steps matter.

Other Barriers To Seeking Help

Besides guilt and shame, there are also more practical barriers preventing caregivers from seeking help. Many caregivers feel they simply cannot step away from their responsibilities.

They simply feel their absence would have dire consequences for their loved ones. For example, an around-the-clock caregiver of a dementia patient may not have anyone to cover for them. This prevents them from attending an outpatient program, let alone an inpatient detox.

Respite care services are either unavailable or the caregiver is unaware of them. This time barrier is huge. And as a result, caregivers put the patient’s schedule of needs ahead of their own recovery.

Furthermore, addiction often saps motivation and energy. A caregiver in the depths of substance dependence may be so physically unwell or emotionally drained that the effort to find and engage in treatment feels overwhelming.

The Toll on Relationships

The personal dynamic between caregivers and care recipients often suffers when addiction is involved. Sometimes, the care recipient feels guilt, believing they “caused” the caregiver’s troubles. This is especially common in spousal caregiving situations.

On the other hand, the addicted caregiver might oscillate between emotional distance and outbursts of anger or mood swings. In most cases, this is caused by substance effects or withdrawal.

Over time, trust between everyone involved erodes. In families, other relatives may have to step in, creating further stress or conflict within the family. The care recipient’s own health can deteriorate due to missed care. This creates an environment where the caregiver might spiral further into a destructive feedback loop.

Other Consequences

More broadly, addiction in caregivers leads to a loss of skilled workers in healthcare. Often, affected nurses or doctors lose their licenses due to substance misuse. Also, it can increase healthcare costs, for example, if an elder’s caregiver neglect leads to hospitalization, or if a child is taken into foster care because a parent needs addiction treatment.

There are also public safety concerns. There have been cases where an impaired caregiver might drive with their dependent in the car, risking accidents. Society entrusts caregivers with a vulnerable population, so when addiction undermines that role, the fallout can extend to increased burden on social services and medical systems.

Practical Tools for Staying Sober While Caregiving

Recovery gets tested the minute you’re back in your routine. That’s why it helps to have practical tools. Not just ideas, but actual actions to take when the path to recovery hangs in the balance. Especially for caregivers, staying sober has to work in real-time, with real stress, and very little free space.

Here are a few tools that make a real difference:

  • Build a daily rhythm. Even a loose routine helps. That might be coffee, a short walk, or a check-in call. Something that marks your day outside of caregiving tasks.
  • Know your triggers. Write them down. Be specific. Is it the late-night silence? The guilt after an argument? The isolation? Knowing what sets you off makes it easier to respond properly.
  • Set micro-boundaries. You don’t have to overhaul your life. But even saying “no” once a day, or taking 10 minutes for yourself, adds up. Boundaries protect your energy.
  • Use support that fits your schedule. Online meetings with an addiction recovery therapist, texting a sponsor, and quick breathing exercises can work wonders even with a tight schedule.
  • Acknowledge every step. Did you skip a drink tonight? Did you pause instead of reacting? That counts as progress.

The Strongest People Need Help Too

People don’t always notice when you’re in trouble, especially if you’re the one who’s always had the answers and made things better.

If you’re deep in it, barely sleeping, and self-medicating just to function, you’re not failing. You’re simply overwhelmed. And you deserve help. Real help, now.

Addiction in caregivers isn’t a character flaw. It’s a survival response in a system that asks too much and offers too little. But you can ask for support. And you can rebuild in a way that includes you, too.

Bio: Jason Klimkowski, MBA, is an SEO & Content Manager with a background in logistics, digital marketing, and mental health writing.

 

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Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification