BETSHY

Tag: Mental Health

  • How Much Sex is Too Much Sex?

    How Much Sex is Too Much Sex?

    Sexual preferences and frequencies can vary greatly among individuals, and what may be considered “too much” sex is subjective and dependent on personal circumstances and boundaries.

    Rather than focusing on a specific number or frequency, it is more important to prioritise the quality of sexual experiences and the overall satisfaction of both partners. This can involve regular conversations about desires, boundaries, and preferences, as well as actively seeking consent and ensuring that all parties involved feel comfortable and respected. Ultimately, a healthy sexual frequency is one that fulfils the needs and desires of individuals involved, taking into consideration their emotional and physical well-being.

    It is important to have open and honest communication with your partner to find a mutually satisfying balance that respects the preferences and boundaries of both individuals involved, especially If concerns or discomfort arise regarding the frequency of sexual activity. Nevertheless, a small minority might lose control over their sexual drive and life. it is good to be aware of the symptoms of sexual addiction so one does not become ill in pleasure.

    Sex Addiction

    Sex addiction, also known as compulsive sexual behaviour disorder (CSBD) or hypersexuality, is a condition characterised by an uncontrollable and obsessive preoccupation with sexual thoughts, urges, or behaviours. It can greatly impact a person’s quality of life, relationships, and overall well-being. While each person’s experience with sex addiction may vary, here are some common symptoms that may indicate the presence of this condition:

    1. Obsessive thoughts: Persistent sexual thoughts or fantasies that consume a significant amount of time and interfere with daily activities and responsibilities.
    2. Compulsive behaviour: Engaging in sexual activities repeatedly, even when it is no longer pleasurable or has negative consequences, such as risking health or jeopardising relationships.
    3. Loss of control: Feeling unable to stop or control one’s sexual behaviours even when there is a desire to do so.
    4. Neglected obligations: Neglecting important responsibilities, such as work, family, or social obligations, due to the preoccupation with sexual thoughts or activities.
    5. Continued engagement despite consequences: Persisting in sexual behaviours despite negative consequences, such as relationship issues, legal problems, or financial difficulties.
    6. Escalating patterns: Engaging in increasingly risky or extreme sexual behaviours to achieve the same level of arousal and satisfaction.
    7. Failed attempts to stop: Making multiple unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop engaging in the problematic sexual behaviours.
    8. Interference with emotional well-being: Experiencing distress, anxiety, depression, or feelings of shame and guilt as a result of the uncontrollable sexual behaviours.

    It’s important to note that a diagnosis of sex addiction should be made by a qualified mental health professional based on a comprehensive assessment.Treatment for sex addiction often involves therapy, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, to address underlying issues and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Support groups can also provide valuable support and a sense of community for individuals in recovery.

    Nymphomania

    Nymphomania, also known as hypersexuality or compulsive sexual behaviour, is a historical term used to describe excessive or uncontrollable sexual desire or activity in women. It is important to note that nymphomania is not an officially recognised medical or psychiatric diagnosis in current diagnostic systems like the DSM-5. The concept of nymphomania has been largely criticised and is considered outdated. Today, healthcare professionals approach the issue of excessive sexual desire or behaviours through the lens of compulsive sexual behaviour disorder or hypersexuality, which can affect individuals of any gender.

    What to do if You Are Showing Symptoms

    If you or someone you know is struggling with excessive or compulsive sexual behaviours, it is advisable to seek help from a qualified mental health professional who specialises in sexual health. They can provide a comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and develop a suitable treatment plan which may include therapy, support groups, and possibly medication to address underlying issues and promote healthier sexual behaviours. Remember, seeking help for sex addiction is a courageous and important step towards creating a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you are experiencing challenges related to sex addiction, know that there are resources and professional support available to assist you on your journey to recovery.

    Conclusion

    It is difficult to state a rule of thumb for how much sex is too much sex and it all depends on the subjective relationships between partners. Open communication and mutual consent between partners are essential to ensure a healthy and enjoyable sexual relationship. Furthermore, in cases where a minority loses control over their sexual urges, a sex addiction might be diagnosed if they seek professional help. This can be treated and healed.

  • How to Stay Motivated to Achieve Goals

    How to Stay Motivated to Achieve Goals

    Mental processes and thoughts drive our motivation, and achieving goals requires consistent motivation. There are days in which I feel like doing absolutely nothing productive. It is in days like these that I take the chance to plan ahead and analyse what I want to achieve. So in a way, even my non-productive days are used to do something useful.

    To interpret information, beliefs and expectations, and how we mentally evaluate the potential outcomes of our actions. Understanding these aspects can help us become more aware of the thought processes and mental factors that drive our motivation. By cultivating positive cognitive patterns, setting meaningful goals, and building self-belief, we can enhance our motivation and increase our chances of achieving success. Here are some strategies to stay motivated:

    1. Set Meaningful Goals: Start by setting goals that truly matter to you. When you are passionate about what you want to achieve, you’ll naturally be more motivated to work towards them. Make sure your goals are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound).
    2. Create a Vision Board: Visualize your goals by creating a vision board. Cut out pictures, quotes, and images that represent your aspirations and display them where you can see them daily. This will help you stay focused and motivated. Take some time to plan and strategise your vision.
    3. Remind Yourself that you are doing this because you want to, not because you have to.
    4. Break It Down: Break your goals into smaller, manageable tasks. By breaking them down, you can tackle them one step at a time, which makes the process less overwhelming and more achievable.
    5. Track Your Progress: Keep track of your progress. Celebrate your milestones along the way. It’s important to acknowledge and reward yourself for the progress you make. This positive reinforcement will fuel your motivation further.
    6. Keep a Task List: Use apps such as Trello to visually and digitally organised your work.
    7. Find Your “Why”: Find a deep-rooted reason behind your goals. Understanding the purpose and significance of what you’re striving for will provide you with a powerful source of motivation.
    8. Visualise Success: Take some time each day to visualize yourself achieving your goals. Imagine the emotions, the sense of accomplishment, and the impact it will have on your life. This visualisation technique will strengthen your motivation.
    9. Stay Accountable: Share your goals with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor who can hold you accountable. By having someone to support and encourage you, you’ll be more motivated to stay on track.
    10. Embrace Challenges: Challenges are inevitable on the path to success. Instead of getting discouraged, view them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement. Overcoming challenges will make achieving your goals even more rewarding.
    11. Seek Inspiration: Surround yourself with inspiring people and stories. Read books, listen to podcasts, or watch documentaries related to your goals. Learning from others who have achieved similar feats can reignite your motivation.
    12. Make Sure Your Work Space is Optimised for creativity and fun. For example, have a gaming console in the office.
    13. Take Care of Yourself: Lastly, prioritise self-care . Make sure you’re getting enough rest, exercise, and nourishment. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will keep your motivation levels high.

    Stay committed, stay focused, and remember that your goals are within reach. With unwavering motivation and persistence, you can achieve anything you set your mind to!

  • Traumatic Growth: How to Make the Best of a Break Up

    Traumatic Growth: How to Make the Best of a Break Up

    Break-ups can be incredibly tough. All break ups suck, hurt to a point, and often come with a mix of emotions such as sadness, anger, confusion, and even relief. However, channelling the energy of such situations can be productive. There are ways to sublimate the painful aspects of breaking up. For instance, traumatic growth refers to positive psychological changes that individuals experience after going through a traumatic event, such as a break-up. It’s important to give yourself time to heal and process your emotions. Here are a few suggestions to help you navigate through this period:

    1. Allow yourself to grieve: It’s normal to experience a range of emotions after a break-up. Don’t suppress them; instead, allow yourself to feel and express them in a healthy way.
    2. Seek support: Reach out to friends and family members who can provide a listening ear and offer support. Surrounding yourself with loved ones can help during this challenging time.
    3. Take care of yourself: Focus on self-care activities that make you feel good. Exercise, eat well, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
    4. Reflect but don’t dwell: Take time to reflect on the relationship and the lessons learned. However, it’s important not to dwell on the past or constantly replay events in your mind. Instead, focus on your growth and the future ahead.
    5. Set boundaries: If necessary, establish boundaries with your ex-partner to allow yourself the space and time to heal. This may include limiting contact or even unfollowing/blocking them on social media.
    6. Give yourself time: Healing takes time, and it’s different for everyone. Be patient with yourself and avoid rushing into a new relationship before you’re ready.
    7. Focus on new opportunities: Break-ups can open doors to new opportunities and experiences that wouldn’t have been possible within the confines of the previous relationship. It allows individuals to explore new interests, meet new people, and pursue personal goals, leading to personal growth and fulfilment.
    8. Try new perspectives: Break-ups can shift our perspectives and help us see things from a different angle. It challenges our assumptions and beliefs about relationships, allowing for personal growth and an enhanced understanding of what we want and need in future relationships.
    9. Create art inspired by your feelings: Break-ups can provide the necessary energy to write prose, music, or engage in visual arts. This boost in creativity can be used to express yourself in unique ways, and to promote your artistic side.
    10. Try a new look: Break-ups can leave people feeling self-conscious about their appearance. A good way to make the best of it, is to get a make-over to boost confidence levels and to enjoy the most out of single life.

    Remember, break-ups are a natural part of life, and while they may be painful, they can also be opportunities for personal development. You will get through this difficult time, and brighter days lie ahead. While break-ups can be difficult and painful, they can also provide an opportunity for personal growth and development. With time, reflection, and self-care, you can emerge from this experience stronger and more resilient.

  • Image Quote: Yes, I Have Suffered

    Image Quote: Yes, I Have Suffered

    I wrote this quote in a moment when I was healing after a long depression. I gathered my courage and began to see the positive side of suffering, that is, traumatic growth.

  • The Problem of Self-Neglect in Mental Illness, and its Effects

    The Problem of Self-Neglect in Mental Illness, and its Effects

    Self-care is an aspect of daily life very much taken for granted by the great majority. They self-care on a daily basis and give little to no thought about the mechanics of such. However, for some people suffering with mental illness, self-care can be daunting and a real struggle, with much thought invested in planning and executing those daily tasks (e.g. taking a shower) which are easy to manage for other people. This leads them to develop self-neglect.

    I’ve been researching mental health for ages, and it is still quite a mystery to me why some people end up unfortunately losing such ability to take care of themselves. One thing I’ve noticed is that it is related to motivation and volition; and it is an essential aspect of maintaining physical and mental well-being. It involves taking deliberate actions to nurture and care for oneself. Some self-care practices include physical exercise, taking showers/baths, cutting one’s finger and toe nails, tidying up one’s environment, healthy eating, quality sleep, relaxation techniques, hobbies and leisure activities, setting boundaries, and maintaining social connections

    Self-neglect can be a serious concern, especially when it is associated with mental illness. It refers to a lack of self-care and disregard for one’s well-being. When someone is experiencing mental illness, it can be challenging to prioritise self-care. However, taking care of oneself is crucial for managing mental health conditions as lack of self-care can have negative consequences on both your physical and mental well-being. It often occurs when we neglect to prioritise our own needs and fail to engage in activities that promote self-nurturing. Here are some potential effects of self-neglect:

    1. Physical Health Issues: When you neglect self-care, your physical health can suffer. Lack of exercise, poor nutrition, and inadequate sleep can lead to various health problems, including weight gain, weakened immune system, cardiovascular issues, and chronic fatigue.
    2. Mental Health Challenges: Neglecting self-care can exacerbate existing mental health conditions or contribute to the development of new ones. It can increase stress levels, lead to burnout, and trigger symptoms of anxiety and depression.
    3. Emotional Instability: Without proper self-care, emotional stability can be compromised. Neglecting self-care may lead to heightened irritability, mood swings, emotional exhaustion, and difficulty managing emotions.
    4. Impaired Decision-Making Abilities: Self-neglect can diminish cognitive functioning, making it harder to think clearly, concentrate, and make sound decisions. This can have a negative impact on various areas of life, including work, relationships, and personal goals.
    5. Decreased Productivity: When self-care is neglected, productivity levels tend to decline. Inadequate rest and relaxation can lead to decreased motivation, difficulty focusing, and diminished performance in daily tasks.
    6. Strained Relationships: Neglecting self-care may result in increased stress, irritability, and a decreased ability to effectively communicate and connect with others. This can strain relationships and lead to feelings of isolation.

    It is crucial to prioritise self-care and make it a daily practice. By taking deliberate actions to care for yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally, you can improve your overall well-being and lead a more fulfilling life. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it is necessary for your health and happiness.

  • What’s it Like Living With Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

    What’s it Like Living With Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

    All the time, permanently… I live in an unstable emotional state. This is exhausting. I experience a lot on a daily basis. I feel constantly fatigued and tired too. While there is no known cure for this tribulation, it is possible to manage the symptoms and improve overall well-being.

    Borderline personality disorder (BPD), also known as Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) is a chronic mental illness characterised by instability in emotions, relationships, and self-image. People with BPD often experience intense and fluctuating emotions, have difficulty regulating their emotions, and struggle with impulsive behaviours. It is important to note that BPD is a complex disorder and can manifest differently in each individual. For more in-depth definitions and descriptions, please read my academic article “Women Who Are Mad”.

    My emotions are always incredibly intense. The roller coaster is very real in my routine; with only some elements present with great stability such as my lack of care towards myself and my constant confusion in regards to who I am. Furthermore, I experience feelings of depression almost every day, and continually feel stuck in a self-neglecting dynamic. Clinically, I am unwell; and knowing that there isn’t a magic cure for how I feel demotivates me. I want to feel better. As a matter of fact, I want to be normal.

    Yet, every day reminds me of my abnormality. Some might perceive my personality as ‘eccentric’; nevertheless, I see it as simply dysfunctional. My every day is heavy and sometimes foggy. I never know who I am, my identity confuses me. I still hope that one day I will be okay, and that I won’t suffer as much as I currently do.

    Being diagnosed with BPD was something I did not process to begin with until many years later. The longer it gets, the more I comprehend my disorder. And the more frustrated I feel at not being able to feel better immediately, or later. Simply, it is like living with a chronic pain condition. You can only learn to live with it, cope with it, and ease the symptoms if you are lucky.

    Recovery from BPD is a gradual process, and it requires patience, perseverance, and commitment. With the right treatment and support, many individuals with BPD are able to lead fulfilling lives and experience a reduction in symptoms. It’s essential to remember that seeking help is a crucial step towards managing BPD and improving overall mental health. I hope that by taking these steps, I can live normally one day.

  • Exploring Satan’s Envy

    Exploring Satan’s Envy

    Christian philosophy tells the tale of the most beautiful angel- Satan- developing envy towards God. And that’s it. Envy is the beginning of how this being becomes the most demonised personality in mythology and religion. This episode explores the envy that led to Satan’s fall from heaven and contextualises it within a modern frame.