Mental Health Training

The following book reviews contain a mental health study on personality disorder. The first is mummy’s boy Norman; seconds out, round two is a private gentleman's club activity swirling out of control; after all, men will be men.

We begin by exploring Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”, the psychological thriller, by providing various perspectives and interpretations that can better enhance your exploration of the film’s resilience and understanding of mental illness.

Robert Bloch’s Psycho, published in 1959 by Simon and Schuster, uses a real-life case of Ed Gein, the so-called “butcher of Plainfield”, a gruesome slaying in a small town in Wisconsin, as inspiration to write this novel.  Robert was genuinely able to tap into the minds of readers with Psycho. 

Paramount Studio refused to finance the making of this film; Hitchcock made the movie with his own money in 1960, even mortgaging his house to do so. Then film critics like Bosley Crowther damned it with faint praise, writing that “Hitchcock is an old hand at frightening people.

Pauline Kael, in 1978, complained about it as a borderline case of immorality because of the director’s cheerful complicity with the killer, having had a sadistic glee during the shower scene. 

Even though it was a flop with the critics, Hitchcock made a fortune from it, leaving him joyfully screaming to the bank. 

However, he had an excellent rave review from Andrew Sarris, who called Hitchcock “the most daring avant-garde filmmaker in America today.”

Psycho, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, continues to captivate audiences with its masterful storytelling and chilling portrayal of human nature and mental illness. 

Psycho lands on the list of the greatest horror films ever made. The film centres around Marion Crane, a young woman who steals $40,000 worth of real-estate deposit money from her employer and drives from Phoenix to Fairvale, California, to start a new life with her lover Sam Loomis, only to find herself at the eerie Bates Motel by mistake. 

Hitchcock uses the time for her to marinate in her feelings of guilt and shame and her total inability to mask it around strangers. As the plot unfolds, Marion’s encounter with the timid Norman Bates, the motel’s owner, reveals a disturbing glimpse into his fractured psyche.

One of the most powerful aspects of “Psycho” is its exploration of dissociative identity disorder, commonly known as a multiple personality disorder.  Through Norman Bates’ character, Hitchcock delves deep into the complexities of this mental illness, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.

However, Norman Bates can also be seen as exhibiting characteristics of both psychopathy and dissociative identity disorder. Although it is suggested that Norman suffers from dissociative identity disorder, it is the psychopathic tendencies that become evident through his actions, such as his ability to manipulate others and his lack of empathy. 

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To Kill a Mockingbird, a 1960 novel by Harper Lee, is an iconic masterpiece set in the 1930s Deep South that confronts American society's deep-seated prejudices and injustices. Positioned in the racially divided town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the story follows Scout Finch, a young girl coming of age in a world filled with racial tension and injustice.

Whose father, Atticus Finch, defends an African-American accused of raping a white woman. Through the lens of Scout's innocent perspective, we witness the deeply ingrained racism and the unfair treatment African Americans faced during that time.

The novel highlights the unjust treatment of a person of colour individuals experienced within the legal system, the ingrained biases held by many white people, and the consequences of these attitudes on the lives of marginalized communities.

It sheds light on the destructive impact of racism and the importance of challenging societal norms to fight for justice and equality.

In the current period, characterized by nuanced intersectionalism, To Kill a Mockingbird remains relevant as it addresses racial injustice from a historical perspective.

One prominent example is the character of Bob Ewell, who embodies pure malevolence and represents the dark side of humanity.

Ewell, fuelled by hatred and racism, falsely accuses Tom Robinson, an African-American man, of rape. He intentionally seeks to destroy an innocent man's life simply because of his prejudices.

The townspeople unquestioningly support and believe Ewell's accusations despite the lack of evidence against Tom Robinson. 

Furthermore, the character of Mayella Ewell, Bob Ewell's daughter, participates in the false accusation against Tom Robinson. 

While her actions are influenced by fear and coercion from her father, her willingness to harm another person to protect herself and her family reflects the dark side of human nature.

The novel also sheds light on societal expectations and gender roles. Scout defies traditional gender norms by rejecting femininity and embracing her tomboyish nature. Her refusal to conform challenges prevailing notions about being a girl in Southern society during that period.

When analysing the novel through an intersectional lens, it becomes evident that issues of race, gender, class, and power dynamics are interwoven. To Kill a Mockingbird remains an extraordinary work that resonates with readers across generations. Harper Lee's searing portrayal of racism, empathy, and loss of innocence forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about our own society.

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Have you ever found yourself at the mercy of a situation, feeling like a leaf tossed in the wind? This is where the dichotomy of control steps in, offering a lifeline to clarity and calm in the chaos of life.

It's a simple yet profound principle that can revolutionise how we handle our daily struggles.

In this lesson, we'll unravel the layers of this Stoic wisdom, guiding you toward serenity in a world that often feels out of control.

Join us as we explore the roots, principles, and practical applications of the dichotomy of control and discover how this ancient philosophy remains strikingly relevant in our modern lives.

The dichotomy of control is derived from Stoic philosophy that distinguishes between things within our power and those without. It emphasises the importance of focusing our efforts and attention on what we can control and accepting what we cannot control.

According to the dichotomy of control, our thoughts, choices, and actions are within our control.

These are our internal states or virtues, such as judgment, desires, and values. We can choose how we respond to external events and circumstances.

On the other hand, external events and circumstances, such as the actions and behaviours of others, the weather, or natural disasters, are considered to be beyond our control.

These are referred to as external or indifferent things. According to the dichotomy of control, we should not place our happiness or well-being on things outside our control, as they are uncertain and can easily change.

The dichotomy of control encourages individuals to focus on developing their character, virtues, and wisdom, as these are within their power. By accepting what we cannot control and directing our efforts towards what we can control, we can find inner peace, freedom, and resilience in the face of adversity.

In psychology today, the dichotomy of control is often employed in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches. By helping individuals recognise and differentiate between what is within their control and what is not, therapists aim to empower their clients to make positive changes in their lives and develop resilience in the face of adversity.

The principle says that peace of mind comes from focusing on and acting upon things within our control, like our beliefs, judgments, and actions. It also means accepting and letting go of things not in our power, like the actions and opinions of others.

Therefore, according to the Enchiridion (Handbook). Stoics thought there were only two things we had direct control over voluntary actions and how we think about things.  Therefore, considering, Epictetus famously reasoned that people are disturbed not by events but by their judgments about their circumstances.

It is important to note that the dichotomy of control does not imply that individuals should completely ignore or disregard external circumstances or factors beyond their control. Instead, it emphasises the need to focus on what can be influenced and to develop a mindset that promotes acceptance and resilience in dealing with the uncontrollable aspects of life.

Introduction to the Dichotomy of Control

Key Takeaways

The Stoic Dichotomy of Control (DOC) distinguishes between what is within our control (opinions, motivations, desires, aversions, and actions) and what is not (body, property, reputation, office).

Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher, articulates the Dichotomy of Control, emphasising the importance of focusing on what we can control.

The Dichotomy of Control provides a practical framework for problem-solving by dividing situations into segments we can maintain and cannot.

The Dichotomy of Control has been adapted for modern times by William B. Irvine, who proposed a Trichotomy of Control.

The Dichotomy of Control offers timeless wisdom and can be applied to everyday life, helping us navigate challenges and cultivate serenity.

Today's articles look at the darker side of love with abuse that requires reflection and consideration for the reader to contemplate. The 1955 novel Lolita, by Vladimir Nabokov, a Russian-American novelist, handles the controversial subject of hebephilia, a profoundly unsettling and controversial exploration of obsession and the demonic aspects of human nature. The second is a 1994 movie, A Child's Cry For Help, which also tackles the sensitive subject of mental health in a dramatic and thought-provoking manner. The mother feeds off the sympathy, attention and benefits that are given to them by their community for taking care of a sick or vulnerable person in their care. 

The following book under discussion received critical acclaim regardless of the controversy it caused with the public during that period; Lolita was considered one of Time's Best 100 Novels. However, to declare it was addressing hebephilia is sugar coating the subject. 

Hebephilia is a term used in psychology to describe a sexual interest or attraction towards individuals in the early stages of puberty, typically ranging from around 11 to 14 years old. It is considered a form of paraphilia, which refers to atypical sexual interests or preferences.

It is important to note that hebephilia is not a widely agreed-upon or officially recognised psychiatric diagnosis. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is the standard classification manual used by mental health professionals, omits hebephilia as a separate diagnosis. Instead, it categorises paraphiliac disorders under the overall category of "other specified paraphilic disorder" or "unspecified paraphilic disorder".

Arguably the most controversial novel of the 20th century, Vanity Fair called it the only convincing love story of our century.

Lolita explores the relationship between an unsettling yet intelligent paedophile and his young nymphet as their lives become increasingly intertwined over five years.

The story follows Humbert, a middle-aged man who becomes infatuated with his young stepdaughter, Dolores Haze, whom he calls Lolita. 

Nabokov's masterful storytelling weaves together themes of love, desire, and morality in a way that captivates and disturbs readers. 

One of the most striking elements of "Lolita" is Nabokov's use of language. His prose is simultaneously lyrical and disturbing, creating a sense of unease that permeates the entire novel.

The stream-of-consciousness narration allows readers to delve deep into Humbert's twisted mind, experiencing his obsessive thoughts and justifications first-hand. 

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Our previous session discussed how literature and the media manipulated public opinion and shaped people’s beliefs and behaviours.

Today, we have a closer look at Fake News. The Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Spectrum and a book reflecting the counterculture movement and challenges the traditional values, institutionalisation and incarceration in the 1960s.

Can you guess what it is?

Propaganda has historically shaped public opinion by disseminating information or ideas to promote a particular agenda and ideology. It often involves emotional appeals, censorship, and distorted presentation of facts.

Propaganda often involves:

• Deliberately disseminating information or ideas to promote a particular agenda or viewpoint.
• Using emotional appeals.
• Censorship.
• Selective presentation of facts to control public perception.

Today, fake news continues to manipulate public opinion.

Fake news is often compelling because it taps into people’s emotions and pre-existing beliefs. It plays on people’s fears, biases, and desires, making it easier for them to be swayed and believe in the false information presented.

Some evidence suggests that instilling a new positive belief is more effective than rescinding an existing belief in correcting false beliefs. This is because humans tend to hold on to their beliefs, even if proven wrong.

By introducing a new positive belief, individuals may be more inclined to accept the correction as it aligns with their need for cognitive consistency.

Therefore, instilling a new positive belief may be a potentially more effective method for correcting false beliefs. 

Fake news continues to manipulate public opinion today by tapping into those emotions and pre-existing beliefs.

Previous examples include Pizzagate, which manufactured ‘news’ that Hillary Clinton ran a child-sex ring, or the Bowling Green Massacre.

Even saying Pope Francis endorsed Donald Trump for president, and the list continues.

We had previously considered Annie Wilkes's behaviour in the psychological horror film “Misery”. Was there evidence pointing to her alleged anxiety disorder?

Organising a collection of porcelain figurines alone is not enough to diagnose someone with either an obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

While both disorders involve obsessive thoughts or behaviours, there are distinct differences between them, which are available in the training section of mentalhealthtraining.info for your perusal.

For example, individuals who have Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) are preoccupied with orderliness, perfectionism, and control.

However, organising a collection of figurines alone does not necessarily indicate obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), as many people enjoy organising and arranging their possessions without it causing significant distress or impairing their daily functioning.

Cameron Diaz told Good Housekeeping magazine she is a “neat freak” who has to have everything in its place. 

This is in contrast to the retired soccer player David Beckham, who said in a Netflix documentary he must have everything in “perfect symmetry” and spends hours cleaning the house after his family has gone to bed.

Within obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) individuals may exhibit a strong need for order, perfectionism, and rigid adherence to rules or schedules. They may feel distressed if their environment is disorganised or chaotic.

Learn More Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide

Obsessive love can be described as an intense and overwhelming feeling of love towards someone, which can lead to controlling behaviour and possessiveness. It often involves an unhealthy attachment to the other person and can have negative consequences for both the lover and the loved one.

Idolatry, infatuation, and erotomania are terms used to describe different types of intense feelings or obsessions towards someone or something. 

Here’s a brief explanation of each:

1.  Idolatry: Idolatry refers to the worship or excessive admiration of an idol or deity. It is often associated with religious or spiritual beliefs and involves the belief that the idol or deity is sacred and deserving of devotion. In this context, idolatry can include rituals, prayers, or offering sacrifices to the idol or deity.

2. Infatuation: Infatuation is an intense and often short-lived passion or attraction towards someone or something. Intense and overwhelming feelings of affection, desire, or fascination characterise it. Infatuation can be based on physical appearance, superficial qualities, or idealized perceptions of the person or object of infatuation. It is typically not rooted in deep emotional connection or long-term commitment.

3. Erotomania: Erotomania is a rare psychological disorder characterised by an individual’s delusion of another person, often of higher social status, being deeply in love with them. Individuals experiencing erotomania firmly believe that their love interest is reciprocating their feelings despite little or no evidence. This condition is also known as De Clerambault’s syndrome and can lead to obsessive thoughts, stalking behaviours, or even harassment of the perceived love interest.

In summary, idolatry relates to worship or excessive admiration of a sacred object or deity; infatuation refers to intense but often short-lived passion or attraction towards someone or something, and erotomania is a delusional belief that another person is deeply in love with the individual experiencing the condition.

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The previous article briefly discussed how the power of literature was a deadly weapon through newspapers, radio, and other media outlets, used in antisemitic propaganda by Adolf Hitler to dehumanise and vilify his enemies, primarily the Jews he called parasites. 

But for additional groups such as communists and non-Aryans, the word was used in Germany to describe a future genius race and then later labelled by philosophers as Social Darwinism to justify their despicable acts. [cited: Mein Kampf]. 

Germany’s economic collapse in 1918 was attributed to a combination of factors. First, the military defeat in World War I played a significant role in Germany’s failure. The country had suffered heavy casualties, and the Allies imposed severe terms on Germany through the Treaty of Versailles, which included massive reparations payments and territorial losses. 

Hitler portrayed himself as a charismatic and assertive leader who could lead Germany back to victory and prosperity. His speeches were carefully crafted to instil loyalty and Idolatry among his followers—manipulation of the Media. They spread misinformation through newspapers, radio, and other media outlets, creating a distorted reality that further reinforced their narrative.

Hitler recognised the importance of indoctrinating youth to ensure the longevity of his ideology. Nazi propaganda infiltrated the education system, influencing textbooks and curricula to shape young minds following the regime’s beliefs.

Joseph Goebbels: The mastermind behind Hitler’s propaganda machine, before finally observing the demonisation and dehumanisation of Jews and scapegoating by portraying them as the cause of Germany’s problems. - hence the Holocaust. 

The second part of the previous article, Charlotte Brontë novel Jane Eyre, offers readers a captivating book that explores complex themes of love through the unconventional romance between Jane and Mr Rochester and challenges traditional notions of love and marriage—her choice of independence and emotional ambivalence only highlights the struggles by women’s in Victorian society.

Charlotte Brontë came from a strong religious background and incorporated biblical allusions and moral dilemmas into the narrative. You are left with many questions and points of reflection. It is not explicitly stated that Mr. Rochester married Bertha Mason for her money.

Mr. Rochester’s family arranged their marriage for financial gain, as Bertha came from a wealthy family in the West Indies. However, it is essential to note that Mr. Rochester was unaware of Bertha’s mental illness during their marriage. Once he discovered her condition, he felt trapped in their marriage and could not divorce her due to societal and legal constraints.

The discussion of Mr. Rochester’s motivation for marrying Bertha is open to interpretation, as the novel focuses more on Jane Eyre’s personal growth and journey.

Did Jane Eyre exhibit codependency traits, as she constantly seeks approval and validation from others and often sacrifices her own needs and desires to serve others, particularly Mr. Rochester?

On the other hand, Mr Rochester displays narcissistic tendencies with his inflated sense of ego, manipulating and controlling those around him, specifically Jane, for his own gratification. Whereas did Mr Rochester also display characteristics of the patriarchal system during this period, and such behaviour was considered the norm?

The power dynamics and toxic relationship between Jane and Rochester can reflect either echoism or codependency, allowing Mr Rochester’s narcissism to thrive as she enables his selfish behaviour and sacrifices her personal needs and desires. Thereby highlighting the complexities and challenges of their relationship.

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I proposed that books allow the individual to learn from their reading experiences and bibliotherapy to be the focus of therapy and self-reflection.

Photography was suggested as a tool for conveying emotion and channels for self-expression. Then, like a vision, I observed a review by Andrew Pettigrew, which combined both aspects together.

The premise of this work was a historical and cultural insight into the Second World War. It demonstrates the power of literature as a deadly weapon during combat, and a War correspondent is still present in any civil or military conflict today.

Hitler’s vision board was the little black book he used to plan and aspire for World domination. He recognised only too well that books could stir patriotic feelings, encourage resistance, and could either aid or hinder the War effort.

This was the time before the mobile phone, television, and the birth of the personal computer were nothing more than a twinkle in your grandfather’s eye.

Newspapers played a crucial role during the Second World War in information dissemination and shaping public opinion. They were powerful communication mediums, serving as the primary news source for the general population.

My late mother told me how her big sister would walk her to school. Ensuring she had all the essentials like her notebook, pencil case, lunch box containing jam sandwich and the compulsory Gas Mask before leaving the house.

I wonder what she would have thought about face covering during COVID-19; she probably had said, "I've seen it all before".

Meanwhile, the photograph of the bombed Holland House Library is particularly surreal. Amongst the devastation, there is hope. Are the suited gentlemen portraying the British stiff upper lip?

After all, the building could be replaced after the War, but the literature remains for those returning home from the frontline and trenches to admire. Even without words, it was able to shape public opinion.

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Although health professionals often use the term mental health, physicians recognise that many psychological disorders have physical roots. And this is why loneliness can significantly affect both your physical and mental health. In today’s fast-paced and connected world, it may seem counterintuitive to think loneliness is a prevalent issue. Loneliness is a serious problem that can significantly impact individuals. It is often referred to as the “loneliness epidemic” due to its increasing prevalence.

According to a 2018 report, 22 per cent of adults in the United States say they often or always feel lonely or socially isolated. Loneliness is a subjective experience—part of what makes it so hard to identify.

This article delves into the significant implications of loneliness on physical and mental health, shedding light on why it should no longer be underestimated or ignored.

Loneliness, often dismissed as an emotional state or fleeting feeling, is now gaining recognition for its profound impact on your health. Research has shown that prolonged loneliness increases the risk of developing depression.

Feeling alone for extended periods can lead to negative thoughts about oneself and the world around them. These thoughts may spiral into feelings of worthlessness or being unlovable, which are common symptoms associated with depression.

Beyond merely causing sadness and isolation, loneliness has been discovered to contribute to other health issues, ranging from cardiovascular problems to cognitive decline.

As our understanding deepens, acknowledging and addressing this widespread issue becomes increasingly essential to foster a healthier, productive society.

Loneliness can take many forms, including social, emotional, and existential.

Social Loneliness occurs when people feel isolated.

Emotional Loneliness occurs when people feel disconnected from others emotionally or lack meaningful relationships.

 Existential Loneliness occurs when people feel disconnected from a sense of purpose or meaning in life. For example, have you ever felt a profound connotation of loneliness even when surrounded by people? This feeling of existential loneliness is a unique and overwhelming experience that can significantly impact our overall well-being.

It is important to note that loneliness is different from Social Isolation.

Social isolation is when someone is physically separated from others., while loneliness refers to the emotional experience of feeling disconnected from others.

Regarding mental health, loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. When individuals feel isolated and disconnected from others, it can negatively impact their self-esteem, sense of belonging, and overall well-being.

Being socially isolated carries much greater physical health risks, but loneliness has a larger impact on mental-health-related conditions. 

Loneliness has been associated with increased stress levels and inflammation in the body, making them more prone to infections. Still, inflammation that lasts too long increases the risk of chronic diseases, which can further exacerbate physical health conditions.

By the same token, lonely Individuals may experience cognitive decline and have an increased risk of developing dementia later in life.

The impacts of loneliness extend beyond the individual and can affect society.  

Somewhat counterintuitively, you withdraw further from society when you become lonely. This tends to go hand in hand with unhealthy behaviours. When we feel lonely, we often turn to coping mechanisms such as emotional eating, excessive alcohol consumption, or illicit drug abuse. It’s perhaps not surprising if you then become socially isolated, you’re likely to become more lonely. 

Our previous article briefly looked into the World of literature on mental health. We considered the early inclusion of mental health literature available to our young minds by viewing Christopher Robin’s friends and his mental state of mind. Leaving the door open for discussion concerning his imaginary friendship was either a coping mechanism or schizophrenia.

Then, to whet your appetite, I introduced you to some stars in this field of work. One example was the Yellow Wallpaper (1892). This was a personal view of a woman suffering from post-partum depression and the treatment that she received through a series of diary entries.

The woman’s condition deteriorates, but all the while, her illness is trivialised by the people around her, including her own husband, John, who also happens to be her doctor—inferring that the intent behind each type of literature is relevant in determining how mental health is portrayed. 

One of the most impactful aspects of literature is its ability to validate individual experiences. Society often stigmatises or misunderstands mental health conditions, leaving many people isolated by fear or ignorance and invalidated.

An emerging field known as bibliotherapy utilises books specifically chosen to address various psychological needs. Bibliotherapy involves guided reading recommended by professionals such as therapists or librarians who curate personalised book lists tailored to individual interests or concerns.

By engaging with literary works designed explicitly for healing purposes — whether it be self-help guides aimed at reducing stress levels like “The Relaxation Response” by Herbert Benson or memoirs depicting triumph over trauma like “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed — individuals can benefit from the therapeutic power of literature and enhance their well-being.

Likewise, a form of creative bibliotherapy has been observed in photography, and it has been suggested as a powerful tool for conveying emotion and channels for self-expression. Photography can be more than a hobby by addressing someone’s desires or issues like loneliness and anxiety.

The camera can capture the moment when you are physically in the moment during your mindfulness period or out in nature, forest bathing. 

The possibilities for this are endless: you can focus the lens and mind by engaging your senses and fully immersing yourself in the forest surroundings, from insects to animals down to the current Autumn colours or future spring and Summer blossoms. 

Remember to take deep breaths to inhale the natural aromas, listen to the sounds of the forest, and observe the rich colours and textures of the environment. Sounds absolutely idyllic.

Fiction or non-fiction literature, which one is best to learn about mental health?

When it comes to learning about mental health, both fiction and non-fiction literature can be valuable resources.

Non-fiction literature, such as self-help books and scientific research, provides factual information, explanations, and strategies for managing mental health problems.  They offer insights from professionals and individuals with personal experiences, providing a sense of credibility. 

On the other hand, fiction literature can offer a unique perspective on mental health by exploring characters’ inner thoughts and emotions. 

It allows readers to empathise and connect with the struggles and triumphs of fictional individuals, which can foster understanding and compassion. Fiction can also provide a safe space for readers to explore complex emotions and experiences that they may not be ready or able to confront in real life.

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