Mental health persists as a major concern for the US healthcare system, meaning that nurses interested in getting into psychiatry are in high demand across hospitals and clinics every year. A psychiatric…
For therapy to be effective, a patient and their therapist must establish a good level of comfort, trust, and understanding that therapy requires both parties to actively participate.
What is the therapeutic alliance in mental health nursing?
The therapeutic alliance is the relationship between patient and therapist. Establishing a relationship based on trust and mutual understanding is important in making a patient comfortable and willing to be honest about their feelings and the nature of the issues they are experiencing.
Both patient and therapist must be willing to put effort into the relationship. This means that therapists need to empathize with their clients whenever possible to build trust while the patient must be willing to consider and often follow the advice of the therapist.
Open and honest communication is a must.
A therapist must be willing to listen to all concerns and issues that a patient is experiencing which might provide insight that can help them form realistic solutions and coping strategies.
When a patient trusts their therapist they tend to be more open with communicating their concerns, thoughts, desires, and mindset. If a therapist thinks that a patient is holding back, then they must consider why the patient is so hesitant to open up and try to find a way to encourage more openness.
Keys elements of a great therapeutic alliance
A positive environment for listening and understanding
It is important for therapists to ensure that clients experience a nonjudgmental approach to therapy. A good therapist must set aside some of their own judgments in order to do this. Empathizing with at least some aspects of a client’s emotions and situation is important to building trust. Feedback and advice must acknowledge a client’s personal feelings and emotions.
Clear goals that are agreed upon by both patient and therapist
Within the first few appointments, it is important that the patient and therapist define the main goals of therapy. When there are clearly defined goals, session time is used more effectively. Honing in on the most prominent problems and evaluating a client’s main concerns may take more time for some than others. It is also important to remember that new issues may be discovered as a client begins to feel comfortable and open up about what they are experiencing, and it may take a few sessions to establish this level of comfort and trust.
Therapy goals should be realistic
Healing and overcoming mental health issues can take a significant amount of time in some cases. In the case of a patient with a chronic issue, therapy might be something that the patient uses as a coping mechanism throughout their life. For example, someone with a mental health disorder caused by a chemical imbalance that cannot be cured may require therapy regularly.
Regardless of the condition or severity of the mental illness, clearly defined and realistic goals are critical. Meeting goals is encouraging for patients, but they must be achievable. If goals are set that are far too difficult to achieve in a specific time period or are simply not realistic on any given timeline, it can be a recipe for disappointment. Not meeting goals can lead to patients abandoning therapy entirely, and as you can imagine, this can have dire consequences.
Mutual responsibility
Therapists need to provide patients with the tools and support they need to be empowered toward healing and take charge of their mental health. When patients feel some measure of control over their mental health then they will try harder to meet goals.
The client must take responsibility for their own treatment. A therapist is there to guide and support a patient, but if a patient does not participate in treatment, then it won’t be successful.
Types of therapeutic alliances
Directive
This type of alliance requires the therapist to provide a lot of advice and directions for the patient to follow.
Nondirective
In some cases, a patient may benefit from or request that therapy is not micro-focused on a specific issue from the start. Sessions may mostly be a patient talking about what they need to do on that specific day. This is common for patients that are experiencing a lot of stress or anxiety or just trying to figure out what the root causes driving them to seek help are.
Facilitative
Therapy that explores feelings and emotions to help a client grow on a personal level is facilitative. This therapy is common for patients that are trying to improve their emotional well-being but that otherwise have good mental health.
Supportive
Everyone needs someone to listen to them sometimes. Supportive therapy involves therapists offering strong emotional support and offering advice to help patients heal from trauma or life-changing events.
Task-oriented
When therapists give patients assignments and tasks to help them achieve goals then they are taking a task-oriented approach. A good example of this would be couples therapy, where a therapist might give a couple of activities to work through together.
The demand for therapists is high
There is a growing demand for mental health services that is not going away anytime in the near future. Current and future mental health professionals must understand the need to strengthen the therapeutic alliance they have with those in their care. Because of this demand, therapists can expect good wages and job security.
Online DNP PMHNP programs are a great educational option for those looking to become mental health professionals. Baylor University offers an excellent accredited online program in psychiatric mental health nursing that is great for registered nurses looking to advance their careers or enter a specialization. The course explores clinical, conceptual, and theoretical mental health treatment models and prepares students with the skills needed to implement these in practice.
The online program requires only one year of experience practicing as a professional nurse. This allows motivated nurses to advance their careers much sooner than many other programs available.
Conclusion
Trust and setting realistic goals for therapy are important to the therapeutic alliance. By building a stronger bond with clients, therapists can deliver a higher level of care and empower patients to take personal control of their mental health throughout their lives.
A good therapeutic alliance ensures that patients will continue to attend the therapy sessions they need rather than abandoning them before they make any progress. By setting realistic expectations with a patient early on, a therapist can improve a client’s mental health faster and more effectively.
Dreams are a natural and often perplexing part of the human experience. They are vivid, unpredictable, and can leave a lasting impact on our minds long after we wake up. One of the most remarkable aspects of dreams is that they often feel incredibly real, even though they are products of our own imagination.
Why do Dreams Feel So Real?
We have interviewed several dream and sleep experts and noted down the reasons why dreams feel so real and the scientific theories that attempt to explain this phenomenon.
1. Brains Are Incredibly Active During Sleep
One of the main reasons why dreams feel so real is that our brains are incredibly active during sleep. While we are sleeping, our brains are still working to process information, consolidate memories, and perform various other functions.
In fact, some studies suggest that the brain is even more active during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is when most vivid dreams occur. During this stage of sleep, the brain is actively processing visual, auditory, and sensory information, which can create a vivid and immersive dream experience.
2. Our Brain Taps Into Emotion and Memories
Another reason why dreams feel so real is that they often tap into our emotions and memories. Dreams can be triggered by events, thoughts, and emotions that we experienced throughout the day, as well as deeper-seated memories and emotions from our past.
When we dream, our brains are able to create a virtual reality that taps into these emotions and memories, which can make the dream feel incredibly real and emotionally charged.
3. Time Distortion in Dream
The way in which we perceive time during dreams can also contribute to the feeling of reality. In many dreams, time can seem to move at a different pace than it does in waking life.
For example, a dream that seems to last for hours may only take a few minutes in real time. This distortion of time can create a sense of realism in the dream, as the dreamer feels as though they have experienced a long and detailed event.
4. Engage All Our Senses
Furthermore, dreams can feel real because they often engage all of our senses, including touch, taste, and smell. Our brains are capable of simulating these sensory experiences, which can create a fully immersive dream world that feels just as real as the waking world.
This ability to engage all of our senses is why dreams can sometimes be mistaken for real experiences, even though they are entirely fabricated by our own minds.
Scientific Theory
There are also several scientific theories that attempt to explain why dreams feel so real:
Activation Synthesis Theory
One of these theories is the activation-synthesis theory, which suggests that dreams are a result of the brain’s attempt to make sense of random neural activity during sleep. According to this theory, the brain receives sensory input during sleep but is unable to create a coherent story or narrative from this input. Instead, the brain creates a dream that attempts to make sense of this random activity by creating a narrative that is based on our memories, emotions, and experiences.
Activation Synthesis Theory is a psychological theory that attempts to explain the origin and purpose of dreaming. This theory was proposed by psychiatrists J. Allan Hobson and Robert McCarley in the late 1970s.
According to the theory, during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the brain receives random sensory input but is unable to create a coherent story or narrative from this input. Instead, the brain creates a dream that attempts to make sense of this random activity by creating a narrative that is based on our memories, emotions, and experiences.
The theory proposes that the brainstem is responsible for generating the random neural activity that gives rise to dreams. This activity is then transmitted to the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for generating the conscious experience of the dream. The cerebral cortex then attempts to make sense of this activity by constructing a narrative that incorporates elements of our memories, emotions, and experiences.
One of the key ideas of the Activation Synthesis Theory is that dreams are essentially meaningless. The theory suggests that dreams are not reflections of our unconscious desires or repressed emotions, but rather they are simply a byproduct of the brain’s attempt to make sense of random neural activity during sleep.
Critics of the Activation Synthesis Theory argue that it does not fully explain the purpose or function of dreaming. They suggest that dreams may serve a more important function, such as consolidating memories, problem-solving, or emotional regulation.
Threat Simulation Theory
Another theory is the threat simulation theory, which suggests that dreams are a way for the brain to simulate threatening situations in order to prepare us for real-life danger. According to this theory, dreams serve as a kind of training ground for our brains, allowing us to rehearse responses to dangerous situations without actually putting ourselves in harm’s way. This theory helps to explain why many dreams are focused on danger, conflict, and survival.
This theory was first proposed by evolutionary psychologists Antti Revonsuo and Katja Valli in the late 1990s. According to the theory, dreaming serves as a kind of virtual reality that allows us to practice and rehearse responses to dangerous situations without actually putting ourselves in harm’s way. Dreams are thought to help us prepare for potential threats and dangers by allowing us to explore different scenarios and possible responses.
The Threat Simulation Theory suggests that dreams are more likely to be focused on threatening or dangerous situations, such as being chased by a predator or falling from a great height. These kinds of dreams are thought to be particularly helpful for preparing us to deal with potential dangers in waking life.
The theory proposes that the brain is able to simulate threatening situations by drawing on past experiences, memories, and emotions. This simulation is thought to be more effective during REM sleep, which is when most vivid dreams occur. During REM sleep, the brain is able to generate intense emotional experiences that can help to reinforce the memory of these simulated threats.
What is The Difference Between Lucid Dreams and Vivid Dreams?
The primary distinction between lucid dreams and vivid dreams lies in the dreamer’s awareness. In lucid dreams, the dreamer is aware that they are dreaming and may have some control over the dream, while in vivid dreams, the dreamer experiences highly detailed and realistic dream scenarios without realizing they are dreaming. Both types of dreams can be captivating and unforgettable, offering unique insights into the complexity of the human mind and the vastness of the dream world.
Bottom Line
Dreams feel so real because they engage all of our senses, tap into our emotions and memories, and are processed by an incredibly active brain. The feeling of realism in dreams is a result of our brain’s ability to create a virtual reality that is based on our experiences and emotions.
While there are many theories that attempt to explain why dreams feel so real, the true nature of this phenomenon remains largely unknown. Despite this mystery, the vivid and immersive experience of dreaming remains a fascinating and integral part of the human experience.
Colors have long been associated with gender in various cultures around the world. In Western societies, for example, it is common to associate the color pink with femininity and the color blue with masculinity.
This association has been so prevalent that it has become a societal norm, and many people expect to see certain colors associated with certain genders. However, the origins of this association are not as straightforward as one might think, and there are a number of factors that have contributed to it.
When Was The Color First Started Being Associated With Gender?
One of the earliest recorded examples of color being associated with gender can be found in ancient Rome. In Roman culture, the color purple was associated with power and nobility, and was therefore worn almost exclusively by men. This association with power and masculinity was so strong that the phrase “to be born in the purple” became a metaphor for being born into a noble or wealthy family.
The association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity can be traced back to the early 20th century. Prior to the 1940s, it was actually quite common for boys to be dressed in pink and girls to be dressed in blue.
This was because pink was seen as a stronger, more vibrant color, while blue was seen as softer and more calming.
However, this changed in the 1940s when advertisers and manufacturers began using color to target specific genders in their marketing campaigns. For example, a company might use the color pink in their advertisements for girls’ toys, while using the color blue in their advertisements for boys’ toys.
This practice became so widespread that it eventually became a societal norm, and today the association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity is deeply ingrained in many cultures around the world.
Color and Gender Association
There are a number of theories as to why these particular colors came to be associated with specific genders. Some people believe that the association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity is simply a result of societal conditioning and marketing. Others believe that there are biological or psychological reasons for these associations.
One theory is that the association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity is based on traditional gender roles. For example, in many cultures, women are expected to be nurturing and caring, while men are expected to be strong and protective. These traditional gender roles may have contributed to the association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity, as pink is often seen as a softer, more nurturing color, while blue is seen as a stronger, more protective color.
Psychological Effects of Colors
Another theory is that the association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity may be based on the physiological effects that these colors have on the human body.
Some studies have shown that pink can have a calming effect on people, while blue can have a stimulating effect. This may have contributed to the association of pink with femininity, as women are often expected to be more nurturing and caring, and blue with masculinity, as men are often expected to be more active and assertive.
Masculinity and Femininity
There are also cultural and historical factors that have contributed to the association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity. For example, in many Eastern cultures, the color pink is associated with luck and good fortune, and is therefore often associated with femininity. In contrast, the color blue is often associated with the sky and the sea, and is therefore often associated with masculinity.
Despite the longstanding association of pink with femininity and blue with masculinity, there has been a push in recent years to challenge these gender norms and break down the barriers that have been erected between these colors. Many people believe that it is important for individuals to be able to express themselves and their identities in any way they see fit, regardless of societal expectations or norms. As a result, there has been a growing movement to promote gender-neutral clothing and toys, and to allow people to choose according to their personal interest.
Gender Neutral Colors
The concept of gender-neutral colors refers to colors that are not associated with a particular gender and can be worn or used by anyone. Some examples of gender-neutral colors include black, white, gray, and brown. These colors are often considered neutral because they do not have strong connotations or associations with a particular gender, and can therefore be worn or used by anyone without being seen as overly masculine or feminine.
Other colors that are often considered gender-neutral include green, purple, and yellow. These colors are not as strongly associated with a particular gender as pink and blue, and can therefore be worn or used by anyone without being seen as overly gendered.
It is important to note that the concept of gender-neutral colors is subjective, and what one person considers to be a gender-neutral color may not be seen as such by someone else. Ultimately, the choice of what colors are considered gender-neutral will depend on an individual’s personal beliefs and experiences, as well as cultural and societal norms.
Workplace romance refers to romantic or sexual relationships that occur between employees within a professional setting. These relationships can take many forms, ranging from fleeting attractions to long-term commitments, and can involve coworkers at any level of an organization.
While office romance is a common occurrence, it can also be a source of tension and controversy. Some people believe that workplace is inappropriate for a relationship and can lead to conflicts of interest or favoritism, while others see it as a natural part of human interactions and believe that it can even enhance productivity and morale.
More Cohesive and Supportive Environment
One of the main advantages of workplace romance is that it can bring people together and create a more cohesive and supportive work environment. When coworkers form romantic relationships, they often become closer and more supportive of one another, which can lead to increased collaboration and teamwork. In some cases, workplace romance can even lead to the formation of long-lasting friendships that extend beyond the professional setting.
However, workplace romance can also present a number of challenges and potential downsides. For example, if the relationship ends poorly or one person is not interested in the other, it can create tension and awkwardness in the workplace. This can lead to reduced productivity and morale, as well as discomfort for those involved and their coworkers.
The Power Dynamic
Additionally, workplace romance can raise concerns about conflicts of interest and favoritism. If one person in a relationship holds a position of power over the other, it could be perceived as unfair or unethical. This can create resentment among coworkers and may lead to accusations of unfair treatment or discrimination.
It’s important to consider any power imbalances that may exist in the relationship, especially if one person is in a position of authority over the other. This can lead to concerns about consent and could potentially create a hostile work environment.
Potential Sexual Harassment
There are also legal issues to consider when it comes to workplace romance. In some cases, workplace romance can be considered sexual harassment if one person is not interested in the relationship or if the relationship creates a hostile work environment for others. Employers have a responsibility to prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace, and workplace romance can present a particular challenge in this regard.
Given the potential risks and benefits of workplace romance, many companies have implemented policies and guidelines to address this issue. Some companies have a complete ban on workplace romance, while others have more lenient policies that allow for such relationships as long as they do not create conflicts of interest or disrupt the work environment.
Your Professional Goals
An office romance can potentially impact your career goals and advancement opportunities. It’s important to consider whether a relationship might interfere with your ability to do your job effectively or achieve your professional goals.
The company culture: Some companies may have a more relaxed attitude towards office romances, while others may have strict policies against them. It’s important to understand your company’s stance on the issue before starting a relationship with a coworker.
Approaching a Colleague in The Workplace
Approaching a colleague in the workplace can be a delicate matter, especially if you are interested in pursuing a romantic relationship. Here are a few tips to consider if you want to approach a colleague in the workplace:
1. Be Aware of Any Company Policies or Guidelines
Before you make any moves, it is important to familiarize yourself with your company’s policies on workplace relationships. Some companies have strict policies against workplace romance, while others have more lenient guidelines. Knowing the rules can help you avoid any potential conflicts or legal issues.
2. Keep It Professional
Even if you are interested in a romantic relationship, it is important to maintain a professional demeanor when interacting with your colleague. Avoid flirting or making inappropriate comments, and be respectful of their boundaries and personal space.
3. Consider Timing and Location
When and where you approach your colleague can make a big difference. Avoid making any overtures during work hours or in front of other coworkers. Instead, consider asking your colleague out for coffee or lunch outside of work hours, or sending a message after hours.
4. Be Honest and Upfront
If you are interested in a romantic relationship with your colleague, it is important to be honest and straightforward about your intentions. Avoid being too subtle or coy, as this could lead to misunderstandings or confusion. Be respectful of your colleague’s feelings and be prepared for the possibility that they may not be interested in a romantic relationship with you.
5. Respect Their Decision
If your colleague is not interested in a romantic relationship, it is important to respect their decision and move on. Do not pursue them or try to change their mind, as this could lead to uncomfortable or even hostile situations. Instead, focus on maintaining a professional and respectful relationship with your colleague.
Approaching a colleague in the workplace can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these tips and being mindful of company policies, timing, and the feelings of your colleague, you can navigate this situation with grace and respect.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, workplace romance is a complex and multifaceted issue that can have both positive and negative impacts on an organization. While it can bring people together and create a more supportive work environment, it can also present challenges and potential risks. Employers should carefully consider the potential impacts of workplace romance and develop policies and guidelines that address this issue in a fair and balanced manner.
It’s important to carefully consider the potential consequences and implications of an office romance before embarking on one. While office romances can certainly be fulfilling and enjoyable, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and to handle the situation with sensitivity and professionalism.
Hair loss can affect individuals for a variety of reasons. Understanding the factors that play a role in our hair’s health and growth cycle is an invaluable resource for tackling the issue of hair loss. With that to say, here are the causes of hair loss and how to prevent them:
1. The Wrong Diet
There are so many types of diets that you can find in this modern era. So many types of diets appear because everyone has a different body type. So they should try what kind of diet can help them to achieve the desired weight. But experimenting with a diet doesn’t mean it doesn’t have risks.
Trying the wrong diet can create new problems. Not only is the desired weight not achieved, the mood can be chaotic, and the body does not get the right nutrition. This can make the hair also affected. Choosing the wrong diet can actually make hair fall out. So it is necessary to consult a nutritionist to determine what type of diet should be selected.
2. Stress
Stress is a person’s reaction both physically and emotionally when there is a change in oneself and the environment. Stress is a natural reaction that can happen to anyone, be it a man or a woman, young or old. As we all know that stress can bring many health problems not only from mental but also physical.
Whether you realize it or not, stress can also make hair fall out. You need to think about what makes you stressed. Knowing what causes stress and solving the problem can help reduce stress. When stress is gone, then hair loss can reduce
3. Style, Color, and Tie Your Hair
Every year and even every day there is always a new hairstyle emerges. While the youngster usually want to try something new by changing their hairstyle according to the current trend. This hairstyle trend can be by changing the style of haircuts, coloring, and using hair ties.
These things can unknowingly make your hair weak and then fall out. This can happen not only to those who are old but also to the young. Because they want to be considered slang, sacrificing hair health. Changing the style and color of hair and using a hair tie that is too hard can make hair fall out quickly.
4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Problems with hormones can also make a person experience hair problems. A young age where hormone production is at its best, can lead to hormonal imbalances. In women, for example, there is a disease called polycystic ovary syndrome. Excess levels of androgens or male sex hormones, this is called polycystic ovary syndrome.
Testosterone is known to be a hormone produced in men, but women can also produce this hormone. But the number is certainly not as much as men. When the production of this hormone is too much, it can cause problems with the menstrual cycle. It can also cause acne and thinning hair.
5. Thyroid Problem
The thyroid is the largest endocrine gland in the human body. This gland can be found in the front of the neck and is shaped like a butterfly. This gland has the task of producing thyroid hormones which regulate the body’s metabolism. When there is a problem with the thyroid gland, it will definitely show signs.
One of the consequences of thyroid problems is indicated by hair loss. Whether it’s underproduction or overproduction of hormones, the effect can be on the hair. Hair can become brittle and fall out. Hair loss caused by thyroid is usually due to thinning of the scalp. If you get the right treatment, your hair can grow back.
6. Autoimmune
The body’s immune system has a duty to fight bad cells that enter the body. But when the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells, it becomes disease. This disease is called autoimmune. Talking about autoimmune diseases, there are actually many kinds and some of them can make a person experience problems with hair even though he is still young.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that can cause hair loss. This disease is known to be experienced by Will Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. This makes Jada go bald even though her age is still not considered old. In the case of alopecia, the body’s immune system sees the hair follicles as bad cells and fights them until they fall out.
7. Drug Effect
When experiencing problems with health and have to take medication, of course we must follow the doctor’s advice and take the drugs that have been recommended. However, even though you have taken medication as prescribed, there are drugs that have side effects. Side effects can vary, some can even affect the hair.
When you experience hair problems due to side effects of a drug, usually after taking the drug is over, hair can grow back. You can worry if you stop taking the drug but your hair still falls out. Try to consult a doctor about the problem of side effects that cause hair loss.
8. Genetics
When a baby is born, the baby has the characteristics and characteristics of both parents. This is because the genes from the father and mother, gathered into one in the baby. So what is in the father and mother, must be passed down to their children. Maybe not all, but there are some things that can be passed down in children.
When you have problems with your hair but don’t feel like you’re doing the wrong thing or habit, it may be because of your genes. Try asking your parents whether your parents, either father or mother, have problems with hair. If yes, then no wonder why you can experience the same problem.
9. Ringworm
Still young but already experiencing hair loss? Maybe this is caused by the so-called ringworm. In Indonesia, the term most often used is ringworm. Ringworm is an infectious disease caused by a fungus. Usually this problem appears and attacks the skin or scalp. It is very contagious.
This infection can cause itching on the scalp. The more you scratch, the more sores or irritation will appear. In some people, ringworm can cause inflammation and lead to hair loss. How to deal with ringworm is very easy, how to use anti-fungal drugs.
10. Malnutrition
If you choose the wrong diet, it can cause hair loss, especially if you are malnourished. Someone who does not eat enough or eat a lot but the nutrition is not right, can make the body experience what is called malnutrition. If it is so, then the body will experience many problems. One of them is the problem with the hair.
Those who are young, still free to eat, and follow a lifestyle as they please, are vulnerable to malnutrition. Eating disorders or digestive problems can also cause a person to experience malnutrition. A number of nutrients that, if deficient, can cause hair loss, such as vitamins A, E, C, D, E, zinc, iron, and niacin.