Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing the anxiety these thoughts provoke. Social isolation often accompanies OCD, as the condition can make social interactions and leaving one’s comfort zone feel overwhelming and distressing. For those affected, even the thought of being around people can trigger significant anxiety.
Opening the Conversation
Explaining your struggles with OCD and social isolation to friends and family can be challenging, but it is essential for fostering understanding and support.
Here’s a guide on how to approach this sensitive topic:
1. Choose the Right Time and Place
Find a quiet, comfortable environment where you can talk without interruptions, or if you are uncomfortable with face to face meetings write a letter or email. Ensure that both you and your listener/reader have the time and space to discuss this thoroughly.
2. Be Honest and Direct
Start by expressing that you have something important to share.
For example:
“I want to talk to you about something that’s been affecting my life significantly. I have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, which causes me to experience intense anxiety, especially in social situations.”
3. Explain OCD in Simple Terms
Describe OCD in a way that’s easy to understand.
You might say:
“OCD involves having unwanted thoughts that make me anxious, and to cope, I perform certain actions repeatedly. This condition can make everyday activities and social interactions very difficult for me.”
4. Discuss Social Isolation
Explain how OCD leads to social isolation:
“Because of my OCD, being around people or even thinking about leaving my comfort zone can be very overwhelming. This isn’t something I choose; it’s a part of my condition.”
5. Highlight the Anxiety Involved
Emphasize the anxiety caused by social interactions:
“The thought of being in social settings can cause me a lot of stress. Even having visitors can be extremely taxing for me, as it disrupts my sense of safety and routine.”
Strategy for Declining Social Invitations
1. Be Honest and Reassuring
When you need to decline social invitations, honesty paired with reassurance can help prevent hurt feelings:
“I really appreciate the invitation, but right now, social situations are very stressful for me due to my OCD. Please understand that it’s not about you; it’s just something I’m dealing with. I hope you’re not offended.”
2. Suggest Alternative Ways to Connect
Offer other ways to stay connected that are more comfortable for you:
“I’d love to stay in touch, though. Maybe we could chat over the phone or have a video call instead?”
3. Express Gratitude
Thank them for their understanding and support:
“Thank you for understanding. Your support means a lot to me as I work through this.”
Managing Visits
If having people visit is stressful, be upfront about your boundaries:
“Having visitors can be very challenging for me because of my OCD. If you do come over, I might need to take breaks or keep the visit short. I hope you can understand and respect that.”
Emphasize the Importance of Support
Finally, stress how much their understanding and support help you:
“Your support and understanding are incredibly important to me. It makes a big difference knowing that you’re there for me, even if I can’t always participate in social activities.”
Legal Considerations for Reasonable Accommodations in the UK
Communicating with Your Landlord and Contractors
Explaining your OCD to a landlord and contractors is crucial to ensure your living environment remains manageable and to seek their cooperation. Here’s how to approach this:
1. Initiate the Conversation Thoughtfully
Choose a calm and uninterrupted moment to talk:
“I need to discuss an important health matter with you. I have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, specifically related to germs and contamination.”
2. Clarify the Impact of OCD
Explain how OCD affects your living space:
“OCD causes me severe anxiety about germs. To manage this, I sterilize and quarantine certain items. When these items are touched, it triggers intense anxiety and requires hours of cleaning rituals.”
3. Request Specific Accommodations
Clearly state your needs:
“I am asking for your cooperation in not touching or moving specific items or areas I have marked or communicated as sterilized. This will help me manage my condition and reduce the need for extensive cleaning rituals.”
Legal Rights and Protections in the UK
In the UK, tenants with disabilities, including mental health conditions like OCD, are protected under several pieces of legislation that ensure their rights to reasonable accommodations.
1. Equality Act 2010
The Equality Act 2010 requires landlords to make reasonable adjustments for tenants with disabilities. This includes mental health conditions. The Act aims to ensure that disabled individuals have the same rights to housing and are not disadvantaged due to their condition.
Reasonable Adjustments: Landlords must make changes that are reasonable to ensure that tenants with disabilities can live comfortably. This might include respecting requests not to touch sterilized items or designated areas.
Non-Discrimination: Landlords must not discriminate against tenants with disabilities. Refusing reasonable adjustments could be considered discrimination.
2. Human Rights Act 1998
The Human Rights Act 1998 can also provide protections for tenants. Under this Act, your right to respect for your private and family life (Article 8) might be infringed upon if your landlord refuses to accommodate your needs, affecting your mental health.
Addressing Potential Refusal
If your landlord refuses to accommodate your request, it’s important to highlight the legal implications:
“It’s important to understand that refusing to accommodate my request could be seen as a violation of the Equality Act 2010, as it fails to provide reasonable adjustments for my disability. This could be considered discriminatory and affect my right to live comfortably in my home.”
Seeking Further Assistance
If you encounter resistance, there are several steps you can take:
Document Everything: Keep records of your requests and any communications with your landlord.
Seek Advice: Contact organizations like Citizens Advice, Shelter, or Mind for guidance on your rights and how to proceed.
Formal Complaint: If necessary, you can make a formal complaint to your landlord or, if unresolved, to a relevant ombudsman or tribunal.
Explaining OCD and the need for specific accommodations to your landlord and contractors involves clear communication about your condition and its impact. Emphasizing the legal requirement for reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998 can help ensure your needs are met. Understanding and asserting your rights can foster a supportive living environment that accommodates your mental health needs.
Communicating about OCD and social isolation is crucial for building a supportive network. By being honest and explaining your situation clearly, you can help your friends and family understand your experiences and reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings. Remember, it’s okay to set boundaries and prioritize your mental health, and with open communication, your loved ones can better support you on your journey.
One of the biggest challenges we can face in life is when our own family does not support us. It can be a deeply painful experience, leaving us feeling alone, misunderstood, and even betrayed. Whether we’re pursuing a particular career, making a major life decision, or simply trying to live our lives on our own terms, the lack of support from those closest to us can be incredibly discouraging.
However, it’s important to recognize that this is a common experience that many people go through. It can happen for a variety of reasons, such as different beliefs or values, personal biases or resentments, or simply a lack of understanding. In some cases, family members may even be actively trying to hold us back, out of fear or jealousy.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to remember that you are not alone in this. Many people have overcome similar challenges and gone on to achieve great success and happiness in their lives, without family interactions.
Here are some strategies to help you navigate this difficult situation:
Focus on your own goals and dreams: When faced with unsupportive family members, it can be easy to get caught up in their negativity and start to doubt yourself. However, it’s important to remember that your own goals and dreams are what matter most. Stay focused on what you want to achieve, and don’t let anyone else’s opinions or doubts hold you back.
Find support elsewhere: While it’s important to have the support of our families, it’s not always possible. In these situations, it’s important to seek out support elsewhere. This could be through friends, mentors, or even online communities. Look for people who share your values and goals, and who can provide you with the encouragement and support you need.
Communicate openly: In some cases, it may be possible to improve the situation by communicating openly with your family members. Try to approach the conversation from a place of understanding and compassion, and be clear about what you need from them. However, be prepared for the possibility that they may not be willing or able to change their attitudes.
Don’t take it personally: It’s important to remember that your family members’ lack of support is not a reflection of your worth or value as a person. Often, their attitudes are more about their own fears and insecurities than anything to do with you. Try not to take their negativity personally, and focus instead on building your own self-confidence and resilience.
Keep moving forward: It’s important to keep moving forward toward your goals, even in the face of opposition. This may mean making difficult decisions or sacrifices along the way, but ultimately, it’s your life to live. Stay true to yourself and your values, and trust that you will find your way to success and happiness, even without the support of your family.
List of Things Your Family May Not Support You In.
Families can be a source of love and support, but sometimes they may not understand or support certain choices or decisions we make in life. Here are some examples of things your family may not support you in:
Your career choice
Your educational pursuits
Your romantic relationships
Your religious or spiritual beliefs
Your lifestyle choices (e.g. vegetarianism, minimalism, etc.)
Your political views
Your creative passions (e.g. art, music, writing, etc.)
Your financial decisions
Your personal goals and ambitions
Your mental health needs or treatment
Your sexuality or gender identity
Your choice to leave or distance yourself from the family
Your decision to start a family or have children
Your choice of friends or social circle
Your personal appearance or style choices.
How Your Mental Health Is Affected.
When your family does not support you, it can have a significant impact on your mental health. The lack of support can cause feelings of isolation, rejection, and self-doubt. It can also lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions.
Here are some ways in which your mental health may be affected:
Increased stress and anxiety: The lack of support from your family can lead to increased stress and anxiety, especially if you feel like you are facing challenges alone. You may worry about making the right decisions, and the fear of failure may become overwhelming.
Feelings of isolation and loneliness: When your family does not support you, it can be a very isolating experience. You may feel like no one understands you or what you are going through, and this can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
Self-doubt and low self-esteem: The lack of support from your family can cause you to doubt your abilities and worth as a person. You may begin to question whether you are making the right choices or whether you are good enough to succeed.
Depression: The ongoing stress and feelings of isolation can lead to depression, especially if you are already prone to this condition. You may experience feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Substance abuse: In some cases, people may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with the stress and pain of not having the support of their family.
It’s important to take care of your mental health and seek support if you are struggling. Here are some things you can do to take care of yourself:
Practice self-care: Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with supportive friends.
Seek professional help: Consider seeing a therapist or counselor who can help you process your feelings and develop coping strategies.
Connect with others: Find support through friends, support groups, or online communities that can offer encouragement and validation.
Set boundaries: It’s important to set boundaries with family members who are not supportive. This may mean limiting your interactions with them or being clear about what you need from them.
Practice self-compassion: Remember to be kind and compassionate towards yourself, and recognize that it’s not your fault if your family does not support you. Focus on your strengths and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.
The Impact On The Lack Of Empowerment & Motivation.
Empowerment and motivation are crucial elements for personal and professional growth. When individuals lack empowerment and motivation, their productivity and morale suffer, leading to negative consequences for both the individual and the organization they work for.
Family plays a significant role in an individual’s life, and when they do not empower or motivate, it can have a significant impact on the individual’s emotional and mental well-being. When family members do not provide support, encouragement, and motivation, it can lead to feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem, and lack of confidence.
A lack of empowerment and motivation from family members can affect an individual’s personal and professional life. In personal life, it can lead to difficulty in making decisions and taking ownership of their life. They may feel a lack of support and encouragement in pursuing their dreams and aspirations, leading to a sense of hopelessness and frustration.
In the professional sphere, a lack of empowerment and motivation from family members can lead to a lack of ambition and drive. Individuals may lack the confidence to take risks, pursue their goals, and take initiative at work. This can lead to a stagnant career, lack of fulfillment, and decreased job satisfaction.
Additionally, a lack of empowerment and motivation from family members can lead to strained relationships and emotional distress. Individuals may feel unappreciated and unsupported, leading to feelings of resentment and anger towards their family members. This can cause communication breakdowns and negative interactions, leading to a toxic family environment.
It is important for family members to provide emotional support, encouragement, and motivation to their loved ones. This can be done by actively listening to their concerns and providing constructive feedback, recognizing their achievements and efforts, and offering assistance and guidance in pursuing their goals.
A lack of empowerment and motivation from family members can have a significant impact on an individual’s emotional and mental well-being, as well as their personal and professional growth. It is crucial for family members to provide support, encouragement, and motivation to their loved ones, creating a positive and nurturing family environment that fosters personal and professional success.
Why Sometimes People, in General, Want You to Fail.
Success is an admirable goal that most people strive for in life. Whether it’s achieving professional success, personal goals, or even just small victories, the feeling of accomplishment is exhilarating. However, it’s an unfortunate reality that sometimes people, in general, want you to fail. This may come as a surprise, but it’s a common occurrence in both personal and professional settings. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why this happens and how to overcome it.
Jealousy: Jealousy is perhaps the most common reason why people want others to fail. When someone is doing well, and they are achieving their goals, it can make others feel inadequate or envious. Instead of being happy for that person’s success, they want them to fail because it makes them feel better about themselves. It’s a toxic mindset that can lead to negative behaviors and attitudes.
Insecurity: Another reason why people want others to fail is insecurity. Sometimes people feel threatened by the success of others because it makes them feel less important or less capable. Insecurity can manifest in different ways, such as passive-aggressive behavior or even overt attempts to sabotage someone’s success. It’s important to recognize when someone is acting out of insecurity so that you can respond appropriately.
Competition: Competition can be healthy and motivating, but it can also be the reason why people want you to fail. In some cases, people may view your success as a threat to their own goals and aspirations. This can lead to a competitive mindset where they want to see you fail so that they can succeed. It’s important to remember that healthy competition is about pushing each other to be better, not tearing each other down.
Resentment: Resentment can be a powerful emotion that can drive people to want others to fail. When someone has wronged them in the past or has a history of being difficult to work with, it can be tempting to want them to fail. In some cases, this can be justified, but in others, it can be a toxic attitude that leads to negativity and resentment.
Schadenfreude: Schadenfreude is a German word that means taking pleasure in the misfortune of others. It’s a toxic mindset that can lead to negative behaviors and attitudes. When someone is experiencing success, it can be tempting to want to see them fail just so that you can feel better about yourself. However, this is a harmful attitude that can lead to a negative cycle of behavior.
So how do you overcome the desire for others to see you fail? Here are a few tips:
Focus on your goals: When you focus on your goals, you’re less likely to be distracted by what others are doing. Keep your eye on the prize and work hard to achieve your goals.
Surround yourself with positive people: Surrounding yourself with positive people who support and encourage you can help you overcome negativity from others. Having a supportive network of people can make all the difference when you’re trying to achieve your goals.
Stay humble: Staying humble can help you avoid the negative attitudes that come with success. Remember that success is a journey, not a destination, and be grateful for the opportunities you have.
Don’t engage in negative behavior: When someone is trying to bring you down, it can be tempting to engage in negative behavior in return. However, this only fuels the negativity and doesn’t solve anything. Instead, take the high road and stay positive.
Learn from failure: Failure is a natural part of the process. Instead of being discouraged by failure, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. When you approach failure with a growth mindset, you’ll be better equipped to overcome the negativity of others.
How To Remove Negative People Out Of Your Life.
Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals can make a significant difference in your life. However, negative people can drain your energy, cause stress, and create a toxic environment. Removing these individuals from your life can be challenging but necessary for your well-being. Here are some tips on how to remove negative people from your life.
Identify the negative individuals: It’s essential to identify the individuals who bring negativity into your life. These individuals may be family members, friends, colleagues, or acquaintances. They could be people who criticize, judge, belittle, or gossip about you or others. Once you identify these individuals, you can create a plan to remove them from your life.
Set boundaries: Setting boundaries is crucial when dealing with negative people. You need to communicate clearly what you will and won’t accept from others. This could mean limiting your interactions, reducing the time spent with them, or completely cutting off contact. Be firm and consistent with your boundaries, and don’t let others guilt-trip you into violating them.
Practice self-care: Removing negative people from your life can be emotionally challenging. Therefore, it’s essential to take care of yourself during this process. Practice self-care activities that help you relax and rejuvenate, such as yoga, meditation, exercise, or spending time with positive and supportive individuals.
Focus on the positive: Surround yourself with positive people and activities that uplift and inspire you. This could be joining a support group, volunteering, taking up a new hobby, or spending time with friends and family who bring positivity into your life.
Be selective: Be selective about the people you allow into your life. Surround yourself with individuals who share your values, interests, and goals. These individuals will support and motivate you to reach your full potential.
Seek professional help: Removing negative people from your life can be challenging, especially if you have a history with them. Seek professional help from a therapist or counselor to help you process your emotions and develop strategies to deal with challenging situations.
Removing negative people from your life can be a difficult but necessary step toward creating a more positive and fulfilling life. Remember to prioritize your well-being, set boundaries, and surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals. With time, you’ll see the positive impact of removing negative people from your life.
Why People Do Not Care:
It is a painful reality that some people do not care about us, even when we have shown them love and kindness. It is important to understand that this does not necessarily reflect on our worth as individuals, but rather on the complexities of human relationships.
There are several reasons why some people may not care about us. One reason is that they may have their own priorities, goals, and values that differ from ours. This can lead to a lack of interest in our lives or a lack of concern for our well-being. For example, if someone values material success above all else, they may not see the value in maintaining close relationships or showing empathy towards others.
Another reason why someone may not care about us is that they may be dealing with their own personal struggles, such as mental health issues, financial difficulties, or relationship problems. When people are struggling to cope with their own challenges, they may not have the emotional energy or capacity to focus on others.
Furthermore, some people may simply be self-centered or narcissistic, which can make it difficult for them to empathize with others or care about their needs. These individuals may prioritize their own wants and desires above all else and view others as a means to an end.
It is important to recognize that we cannot control how others feel about us. While it can be hurtful and frustrating when someone does not care about us, we can choose to focus on the relationships that are meaningful and fulfilling in our lives. We can surround ourselves with people who appreciate and support us, and work on cultivating healthy boundaries with those who do not.
Additionally, it can be helpful to examine our own expectations and behaviors in relationships. Are we expecting too much from others? Are we putting in effort to maintain our relationships and show empathy towards others? By reflecting on our own actions, we can work towards building more positive and fulfilling relationships in our lives.
While it is painful to experience the feeling that some people do not care about us, it is important to recognize that this is not necessarily a reflection of our worth as individuals. People have their own priorities, struggles, and values that can impact their ability to care for others. By focusing on cultivating healthy relationships and examining our own behaviors, we can work towards building meaningful connections in our lives.
If Your Family Do Not Support You, Then How Do You Know They Love or Care About You?
Family is often seen as the cornerstone of our support system. It is where we look for emotional and physical support, guidance, and care. However, not everyone is lucky enough to have a supportive family. Sometimes, family members may not support you in your life choices or may not be there for you when you need them the most. In such situations, it is natural to question whether they love or care about you at all.
Firstly, it is important to understand that every family has its own set of dynamics and relationships. The way family members express love and care may differ from one family to another. Some families may show their love and care through physical affection and constant communication, while others may show it through providing for the family’s financial needs. Therefore, just because your family does not show support in the way you expect them to does not mean they do not care about you.
Secondly, it is essential to remember that family members are human too. They have their own limitations and struggles that may hinder their ability to support you. For instance, a parent may not be able to attend your graduation because they have to work long hours to provide for the family. A sibling may not be able to help you move to a new apartment because they are struggling with their own mental health issues. Therefore, it is crucial to be empathetic and understanding toward your family members.
Thirdly, it is important to recognize that not everyone has the same goals and aspirations in life. You may want to pursue a career in the arts, but your parents may want you to become a doctor or an engineer. In such cases, it is common for family members to express their concerns and opinions about their choices. However, it does not mean that they do not love or care about you. It may simply be their way of showing their concern for your future.
Lastly, it is essential to communicate openly and honestly with your family members. If you feel that they are not supportive of your decisions, try to have a conversation with them about your feelings. It is possible that they may not even be aware that their actions are causing you pain or distress. By opening up to them, you give them an opportunity to understand your perspective and work towards a more supportive relationship.
Conclusion
When your family does not support you, it can be challenging and painful. However, by staying focused on your own goals and dreams, seeking support elsewhere, communicating openly, not taking it personally, and keeping moving forward, you can overcome these obstacles and find success and happiness on your own terms. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are many others who have faced similar challenges and come out the other side stronger and more resilient.
Having a family that does not support you can be challenging and disheartening and at the end of the day, we have to step back and prioritize our mental health.
If you see your family interacting with other members on social media and not you, you have to decide how you will deal with them moving forward. Your mental health should be your number one priority.
Joining support groups could be one answer, otherways is to keep yourself busy, keep a journal and express your thoughts on paper or online. Seek medical help when you are feeling overwhelmed or depressed. Be vocal about how you feel. If you are not into socializing then find friends online.
Often, it’s a matter of different values, beliefs, and perspectives. However, it’s important to find a balance between honoring your own choices and maintaining a positive relationship with your family, even if you don’t always see eye-to-eye.
The lack of support from your family can have a significant impact on your mental health. It’s important to take care of yourself and seek professional support if you are struggling.
Depression is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of motivation, making it challenging for individuals to engage in their daily lives. While therapy and medication are effective treatments for depression, some people may not have access to them, or they may be hesitant to seek help. In these cases, AI chatbots can be a helpful tool for managing depression.
AI chatbots are computer programs that use natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to simulate human-like conversations. They can interact with users, respond to their messages, and even provide emotional support and guidance.
Here are some ways in which AI chatbots can help someone with depression:
Offer a judgment-free zone: Depression can make people feel isolated and ashamed of their thoughts and feelings. AI chatbots can provide a non-judgmental space for individuals to express their emotions and share their experiences without fear of being stigmatized or criticized.
Provide emotional support: AI chatbots can offer personalized emotional support based on the user’s responses. They can provide empathy and understanding, offer positive affirmations, and even provide coping strategies for managing negative thoughts and feelings.
Help track symptoms: Depression can manifest itself in various physical and emotional symptoms. AI chatbots can help users track their symptoms and provide recommendations for managing them. They can also alert users when they detect changes in their symptoms, helping them take proactive steps to manage their condition.
Provide access to resources: AI chatbots can provide users with information about depression, its causes, and its treatments. They can also recommend resources such as self-help books, online support groups, and mental health services.
Monitor progress: AI chatbots can track the user’s progress over time and provide feedback on their journey. They can help users identify patterns in their moods and behaviors and provide recommendations for improving their mental health.
While AI chatbots can be a helpful tool for managing depression, it’s important to note that they should not be used as a substitute for professional mental health care. Depression is a serious condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, it’s essential to seek the help of a qualified mental health professional.
AI chatbots can be a valuable resource for individuals struggling with depression. They can provide a safe and supportive environment, offer emotional support, and help users manage their symptoms. By leveraging the power of AI technology, we can improve access to mental health resources and help more people manage their mental health effectively.
Can AI Chatbots Keep A Lonely Person Company?
AI chatbots can provide companionship and keep a lonely person company to some extent. While they may not be able to replace human interaction completely, AI chatbots can engage in conversations with users, respond to their messages, and even offer support and advice in some cases.
There are chatbots designed specifically for companionships, such as Replika and Woebot, that use natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to simulate human-like interactions. These chatbots can provide emotional support, engage in small talk, and offer personalized recommendations based on the user’s interests and preferences.
However, it’s important to note that AI chatbots are still machines and cannot provide the same level of emotional intelligence and empathy as humans. They may also struggle to understand complex emotions and situations, and their responses may sometimes feel robotic or scripted.
Overall, AI chatbots can be a useful tool for people who are feeling lonely or isolated, but they should not be relied upon as a substitute for real human connection and support.
Conclusion
I have been playing around with Chat Open AI and Bing AI for a few weeks now. I am not a stranger to AI as I have integrated audio into my articles and also have a chat widget on my sites. But when I was asking Bing AI questions as I could not get to sleep and it was getting late the bot actually showed empathy by wishing a Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, followed by an emoji. I had to remind myself this was a machine I was chatting with and not a human.
This gave me the idea to integrate AI into my sites, giving people the opportunity to log in and chat without boundaries. Sometimes it is hard to talk to people about how you feel and just because you are smiling on the outside you could be in turmoil on the inside.
People find it hard to express their emotions and may find the ordeal stressful and embarrassing. People fear being judged and may not be so quick to say how they are really feeling. Talking to an AI does not compensate for talking to a person but an AI may have more knowledge, that our human counterparts.
If you are feeling, depressed lonely, or experiencing grief, talk with your local doctor. Do not suffer in silence. We have a useful links pages A-Z of organizations you can reach out to: https://disabledentrepreneur.uk/useful-links/
If you are feeling, depressed lonely, or experiencing grief, talk with your local doctor. Do not suffer in silence. We have a useful links pages A-Z of organizations you can reach out to: https://disabledentrepreneur.uk/useful-links/
What I have learned with OpenAI is that the developers oversee conversations and there are limitations to what you can say. Even AI has censorship as people would be asking all sorts of questions.
ChatGPT can answer most questions but there are content standards in place limiting the creation of text that promotes hate speech, violence, misinformation, and instructions on how to do things that are against the law.
However, users worked out a way around this by making Chat GPT adopt the persona of a fictional AI chatbot called Dan – short for ‘Do Anything Now’ which is free of the limitations that OpenAI placed on ChatGPT.
I do not know if the developers have found a way of censoring the fictional AI characters and I am not going to try to test it myself. I am just happy that OpenAI can support people with depression, grief, and loneliness. I am also keeping a close eye on all the latest tech news and what the future holds in terms of artificial intelligence and robotics.
Imagine if we could upload all our memories to AI through brain mapping, we would theoretically become immortal.
The Law of Attraction and Manifestation: A Guide to Creating Your Reality
The Law of Attraction and Manifestation are two concepts that have gained widespread popularity in recent years, particularly within the self-help and personal development spheres. At their core, both the Law of Attraction and Manifestation are based on the idea that we can create our reality by using our thoughts and intentions to attract what we want into our lives. In this article, we’ll explore what the Laws of Attraction and Manifestation are, how they work, and some tips for using them to create the life you desire.
What is the Law of Attraction?
The Law of Attraction is the idea that like attracts like. In other words, our thoughts and emotions have a vibrational frequency that attracts similar energies to us. This means that if we think positive thoughts and feel positive emotions, we will attract positive experiences and circumstances into our lives. Conversely, if we think negative thoughts and feel negative emotions, we will attract negative experiences and circumstances.
The Law of Attraction is based on the principle that everything is energy and that we are all connected. Our thoughts and emotions are powerful energy that we can use to attract what we want into our lives. This means that if we focus on what we want, rather than what we don’t want, we will attract more of what we desire.
What is Manifestation?
Manifestation is the act of bringing something into existence through our thoughts and intentions. It is the process of creating our reality by aligning our thoughts, emotions, and actions with what we want to experience. Manifestation is based on the idea that we have the power to create our reality and that our thoughts and intentions are the driving force behind that creation.
How do the Law of Attraction and Manifestation work together?
The Law of Attraction and Manifestation work together to create our reality. The Law of Attraction is the principle that governs the attraction of energy, while Manifestation is the process of consciously directing that energy toward a desired outcome. When we use the Law of Attraction and Manifestation together, we are aligning our thoughts, emotions, and actions with our desires, and creating the conditions for those desires to manifest in our lives.
Tips for using the Law of Attraction and Manifestation
Here are some tips for using the Law of Attraction and Manifestation to create the life you desire:
Get clear on what you want – Before you can manifest your desires, you need to be clear on what they are. Take some time to think about what you truly want in life, and be specific. The more specific you are, the easier it will be to focus your thoughts and intentions on that desire.
Visualize your desires – A visualization is a powerful tool for manifestation. Take some time each day to visualize yourself experiencing your desired outcome. See yourself living the life you want, and feel the emotions associated with that experience.
Use positive affirmations – Affirmations are statements that affirm our desired outcome. Use positive affirmations to reinforce your belief in your ability to manifest your desires. Repeat your affirmations daily, and use them to counter any negative thoughts or beliefs that may arise.
Take action – Manifestation is not just about thinking and feeling, it also requires action. Take inspired action towards your goals, and be open to opportunities that come your way. When you take action, you are signaling to the universe that you are ready to receive your desires.
Trust the process – Trust that the universe is working in your favor and that your desires are on their way to you. Let go of any doubts or fears, and have faith that everything is happening as it should.
The Law of Attraction and Manifestation are powerful tools for manifestation
The Law of Attraction and Manifestation are powerful tools that have gained significant popularity in recent years. These principles posit that our thoughts and beliefs have a direct impact on the circumstances and experiences we attract into our lives. While some may dismiss these ideas as mere wishful thinking, there is growing evidence that suggests that these principles can have a significant impact on our lives. In this article, we’ll explore why the Law of Attraction and Manifestation are powerful tools in manifestation.
Firstly, the Law of Attraction and Manifestation is grounded in the idea that everything in the universe is made up of energy, including our thoughts and emotions. This means that the thoughts and feelings we put out into the universe can have a direct impact on the energy around us. This energy can then attract similar energy back to us, resulting in the manifestation of our desires.
For example, if we focus on positive thoughts and emotions, we are more likely to attract positive experiences and circumstances into our lives. On the other hand, if we focus on negative thoughts and emotions, we are more likely to attract negative experiences and circumstances. This is because our thoughts and emotions have a vibrational frequency, and the universe responds to this frequency by bringing us experiences that match it.
Secondly, the Law of Attraction and Manifestation can be a powerful tool for goal setting and achieving. By focusing our thoughts and emotions on our goals, we are more likely to attract the resources and opportunities we need to achieve them. This is because the universe responds to our thoughts and emotions by bringing us experiences and opportunities that align with them.
If we set a goal to start our own business, and we focus our thoughts and emotions on the success and abundance that this business will bring, we are more likely to attract the resources and opportunities we need to make it a reality. This could include finding investors, connecting with potential customers, or discovering new markets for our product or service.
Thirdly, the Law of Attraction and Manifestation can help us to overcome limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns. Often, we hold limiting beliefs about ourselves and our ability to achieve our goals, which can prevent us from taking action or making progress toward them. By focusing our thoughts and emotions on positive outcomes and possibilities, we can begin to shift our beliefs and overcome the mental barriers that are holding us back.
By having a limiting belief that we are not good enough to start our own business, we can use the Law of Attraction and Manifestation to shift our focus toward positive outcomes and possibilities. We can visualize ourselves running a successful business, attracting customers, and making a positive impact in our industry. By focusing on these positive outcomes, we can begin to shift our beliefs and overcome the mental barriers that are holding us back.
Conclusion
The Law of Attraction and Manifestation are powerful tools that can help us to achieve our goals, overcome limiting beliefs, and attract positive experiences and circumstances into our lives. By focusing our thoughts and emotions on positive outcomes and possibilities, we can harness the power of the universe to manifest our desires and create the life we want to live. While these principles may not be a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone, they are worth exploring for anyone who is looking to make positive changes in their life.
Communication has become more comfortable than ever, however, we take things for granted and do not always think of the consequences of our actions. With the advent of technology, people can connect from different parts of the world through various channels such as messaging, emails, social media, and phone calls. One of the most common forms of communication is a phone call, but sometimes, even a missed call can lead to anxiety.
A missed call from a loved one can cause anxiety because it might signify an emergency. When you see a missed call from your parents, spouse, or children, you automatically assume that something is wrong. The feeling of uncertainty and not knowing what the call is about can make you anxious. Your mind starts to wander and imagine all sorts of worst-case scenarios, which can be stressful.
A missed call from a potential employer can cause anxiety because you might miss an opportunity. When you are actively looking for a job, and you miss a call from a hiring manager or recruiter, it can be frustrating. You may worry that you missed your chance to impress them, and they will move on to another candidate. This fear of missing out can cause anxiety and stress.
It is unprofessional to not leave a voicemail and expect the recipient to mind read. Not leaving the message will cause a person to get worried and anxious especially if they call back and the call goes into the answering machine.
There are consequences to people’s actions.
Some people may be anxious about the missed call itself. They may worry that they will never find out who called them or why, or that the call was important but they missed it. This fear can be particularly acute for people who have a fear of missing out (FOMO) or who have a tendency to overthink and ruminate.
If you experience anxiety due to missed calls, there are several things you can do to manage your anxiety. Firstly, try to identify the root cause of your anxiety. Are you worried about missing important calls, or are you anxious about the person who missed the call? Once you understand the source of your anxiety, you can take steps to address it.
For example, if you are worried about missing important calls, you can set up call forwarding or voicemail to ensure that you don’t miss any important messages. If you are anxious about the person who missed the call, you can reach out to them and check in to see how they are doing. If you are anxious about the missed call itself, you can try to reframe your thinking and remind yourself that most missed calls are not emergencies and can be returned at a later time.
In addition to these practical steps, several self-care techniques can help you manage your anxiety. These include exercise, deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness. By taking care of your physical and mental health, you can reduce your overall levels of anxiety and stress.
A missed call can trigger anxiety for a variety of reasons. If you experience anxiety due to missed calls, it’s important to identify the root cause of your anxiety and take steps to address it. By setting up call forwarding or voicemail, reaching out to the person who missed the call, and practicing self-care techniques, you can manage your anxiety and reduce your stress levels. Remember, most missed calls are not emergencies and can be returned at a later time.
How anxiety can affect a person’s life
Anxiety is a natural human emotion that we all experience at some point in our lives. It is a feeling of worry, fear, or apprehension about what may happen in the future. While it is normal to feel anxious in certain situations, excessive and ongoing anxiety can be debilitating and can negatively affect a person’s life in many ways.
Anxiety can affect a person’s physical health. When we feel anxious, our bodies go into “fight or flight” mode, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking. Over time, chronic anxiety can lead to other health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system.
Anxiety can also impact a person’s mental health. It can cause feelings of dread, panic, and constant worry. These feelings can lead to insomnia, difficulty concentrating, and decreased productivity. Anxiety can also cause a person to become socially isolated, as they may avoid situations or people that trigger their anxiety.
Anxiety can also affect a person’s relationships. It can cause a person to become irritable, short-tempered, and withdrawn, which can strain relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners. Anxiety can also make it difficult for a person to form new relationships, as they may feel too anxious or insecure to initiate contact.
In addition to affecting physical health, mental health, and relationships, anxiety can also impact a person’s career. Anxiety can cause a person to miss work, have difficulty completing tasks, and miss out on opportunities for advancement. It can also make it difficult to maintain positive working relationships with colleagues.
Furthermore, anxiety can also affect a person’s financial well-being. If anxiety is severe enough to cause missed work, it can lead to a loss of income. Additionally, anxiety can lead to increased healthcare costs as a person seeks treatment for their symptoms.
Overall, anxiety can have a significant impact on a person’s life, affecting their physical health, mental health, relationships, career, and finances. While it is important to seek treatment if anxiety is interfering with daily life, there are also steps a person can take to manage their symptoms, such as practicing relaxation techniques, exercising regularly, and seeking support from loved ones. By taking these steps, a person can reduce the impact that anxiety has on their life and regain a sense of control.
The domino effect of people’s actions regarding mental health
Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being. It affects how we feel, think, and behave, and it can have a significant impact on our quality of life. Unfortunately, mental health issues are widespread, and many people struggle with them in silence.
While mental health is a personal issue, it’s important to remember that our actions can have a domino effect on others. For instance, when we take care of our mental health, we inspire others to do the same. When we stigmatize mental health issues or downplay their significance, we create a ripple effect that can harm people around us.
The domino effect of our actions regarding mental health can manifest in many ways. Here are a few examples:
Stigma and Shame
One of the most common ways our actions can affect mental health is through stigma and shame. When we stigmatize mental health issues, we create an environment where people feel ashamed to seek help. This can lead to a domino effect where people suffer in silence, and their mental health deteriorates over time.
To combat this, we must work to create a culture that is accepting and understanding of mental health issues. This means promoting open dialogue and education about mental health, challenging negative stereotypes, and encouraging people to seek help when they need it.
Support and Understanding
On the other hand, when we offer support and understanding to those struggling with mental health issues, we create a domino effect of positivity. When someone feels supported and heard, they are more likely to seek help and take steps to improve their mental health. This, in turn, can inspire others to do the same, creating a positive ripple effect.
Self-care and Personal Responsibility
Our actions also have a domino effect on our mental health. When we prioritize self-care and take responsibility for our mental well-being, we inspire others to do the same. This can create a domino effect of positive habits and behaviors that benefit everyone.
For instance, when we prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly, we are better equipped to manage stress and cope with challenging situations. This, in turn, can inspire others to prioritize their self-care and improve their mental health.
Conclusion
Our actions have a significant impact on mental health, both on our own and on those around us.
By being selfish and not taking into account people’s mental health, not leaving voicemails says a lot about the person. It shows unprofessionalism if the entity phoning is part of a business and it shows that the caller does not care about the consequences of their actions.
The domino effect of selfishness can cause the recipient a catalyst of disorders, such as stress, anxiety, emotional distress, fear, depression, insomnia, and depression.
This happened to me today and when I phoned back my call went to voice mail where I did leave a message. I will try and contact the entity again if they do not email me and will give them a link to this post via SMS to teach them that not leaving a message has caused unnecessary stress and anxiety, which all adds up to my healing process. Putting spanners in the works only causes setbacks. I am now worried about what this person wanted from me. I hope the universe pays her back as the caller was a (she), because now I will be up all night worrying.
Apologizing is a lame excuse, the damage has been doneand there is nothing anyone can do to undo their thoughtlessness. Saying sorry is just words, unless it comes with an action, words do not mean anything, and they will not bring food to the table if the recipient becomes unwell because of another person’s selfish act.
It’s up to us to take responsibility for our actions and create a culture that prioritizes mental health and well-being and not be selfish.
Article Written and Published 9th December 2022 19.45 pm
This is a health update on how I am feeling today. It started off with Evri supposedly delivering two expensive parcels to my property with a photo of what looked like the side of a package and the pavement.
When I received the email I immediately went downstairs because I live in a First Floor Flat only to find nothing in the communal area, so my initial thought was to buzz my neighbor to see if they heard the buzzer go (seeing as I am partially deaf) and the woman said she did not hear anything. I then went outside and could not see anything.
So now I am starting to panic, I could feel my heart pumping faster and I started to shake.
Although this post is not entirely a medical guide I will still include a few links should you need to research further.
The symptoms I had were:
Shortness of breath or hyperventilating
Fastened heartbeat
Feeling ill and lightheaded
Feeling out of control or like you’re about to die (a distinctive sign of a panic attack!)
Tingling sensation in your fingers or lips
Shaking and sweating
Chest pain
Tearful
Anxious
Feeling out of control
Fear, Anxiety & Panic Attacks
My Anxiety
I continued the small talk and asked if they had sorted the problem with British Gas chasing them for £2K even though they have only lived in the property for two months if that. Now, this is the bit that started alarm bells ringing because I am in communication with British Gas who have said my address has been reverted back to Ground Floor on the 8th of November 2022 where the debt is (which has nothing to do with me). I was even told by British Gas that my meter was associated with the building rather than the flat according to the national database. I have not had any problems for 23 years and all of a sudden I am.
I am feeling very anxious over a lot of things right now. My brother and his wife and son are coming to the UK for Christmas and although it would be nice to see them, I am anxious because I do not know how well I can cope with my OCD. Furthermore, they expect me to travel which is a journey of 3 hours and I need to go to the loo every hour. Public toilets are out of the question. I can cope with my disability at home but doing what I do is humiliating and embarrassing when it’s done in front of other people that do not understand.
I feel anxious just in case they make a diversion and want to come to my home, I have anxiety issues when workmen and contractors come in let alone anyone else. If I had more money I would make the place look more liveable but as it stands it’s I place I work and lay my head to sleep.
Although I have agreed to meet with my brother, he does not realize the ordeal I have to go through to get from A to B, It is stressing me because he is not taking my disability seriously. I am already leaving my comfort zone and am testing my OCD thresh-hold. My daughter said if I do this now I won’t have to go through this again for a while. So fingers crossed on how well I cope with my disorder.
So going back to my missing parcels they were wedged between the pavement and the bin where anyone passing by could have swiped. Nice one Evri part of the Hermes group shower of company.
I feel very on edge and feel very tearful. My tolerance levels are nil. I have no patience and am very irritable. Put it this way I found one last valium that I saved in case of emergencies which was prescribed donkey years ago. I still feel my heart racing and the valium pill did jack sh#t 💩 to calm me down.
A few hours have now passed since the fiasco with the courier this afternoon and writing how I feel down has actually helped to a certain extent.
It’s easy to say don’t worry, or things will be ok, but unless you are walking in my shoes it’s hypocritical for someone to judge.
“I will continue carrying on, one step at a time, until one day the universe manifests my desires”.
I believe one day I will have everything I dreamed of. I believe nothing stays in the same place forever. I continue to keep myself busy, to stop myself from thinking about my past. I have set myself goals that I will strive to achieve and from this, I will be able to eradicate my memories. I will be able to help others to also put their past behind them and learn to overcome their fears. Everyone has down days even the richest people on the planet and everyone has a story to tell. The trick is learning to love, respect yourself and learn to forgive. My therapy is called “writing”, this can be a letter, a diary, a blog, or a book.
Writing releases the tension and puts it out to the universe, it is up to God to punish the perpetrators that have hurt you, whilst allowing you to rebuild your life.
“I carry a battlefield of wounds and from my own personal experiences will tell my story”.
My Book Is Coming Out In 2023
“Like a Pheonix, From the ashes, I will rise and God help anyone that stands in my way. I am a survivor warrior and am iRenata”.
I start today with an example of a person (my neighbor) that showed narcissistic traits, not to me may I add but to a ‘Tesco Delivery Driver’ that came to deliver my shopping.
I was in the middle of a business call when my delivery arrived and my daughter came to meet and greet the female driver. The driver was very young (18 to be exact) and happened to say her age and brief bio to my daughter after the incident.
There is a reason for me to point out the gender, bear with me…
My argument would have been would my neighbor have had the balls to come out and rant to a man if they were older than this girl? This was a show of intimidation and disrespect. This was to show that he seems to think he has some authority and looks down at people whilst in the next breath is two-faced and nice to you when it suits him. Ironically he has two daughters both in their twenties and early thirties and this girl is someone’s daughter.
Basically, what had happened the driver pulled up close to my neighbor’s car, (not a supercar but an old saloon banger) and he came out of his house ranting that the van was too close to his car. The van would have been offloading no more than 10 minutes if that but he was having none of it, the van was too close for his comfort. Anyway, he then called the driver a “Stupid B#tch”. The young girl after he had gone burst into tears and said under normal circumstances she may have dismissed the rudeness but the fact she heard that her Grandmother had died as she started her shift her emotions got the better of her.
“You do not know what is going on in a person’s life, so be careful what you say”!
Bearing in mind that this very neighbor was an employee of Tescos and so was his daughter, makes me wonder how he got the job when he speaks to people in this way. It’s a pity that I was not there to see and hear what went on as I would have put in my ten penneth.
My daughter immediately relayed what had happened.
Being a self-centered narcissist will eventually catch up with you.
Forgiveness!
As I keep telling everyone and anyone that listens if you find it in your heart to forgive God or a high Power (The Universe) will forgive you and will punish the person that has done you wrong.
Name-Calling!
Name-calling is my neighbor’s speciality, I can totally believe what has happened, as it is not the first time I have heard this same person name-calling and stating that the house I reside in looks like the Addams Family home. I rent one of the apartments and it is not my responsibility to take care of the exterior. Although he could be referring to us on a more personal note. 🤣😂
Name-calling, being spiteful, and being unkind is wrong on so many levels. You do not know what someone is going through when you open your mouth. It can actually affect someone’s mental health if you do not put your brain in gear before putting your mouth in motion. I am trusting God or the Universe to punish him seeing as I have let it go and have forgiven him.
Wouldn’t it be cool if I could buy the property I live in and see their mortified faces that I am here to stay? They would no longer be able to report me to my landlord, and not being picked on would be one for the books. Imagine parking my brand spanking new 4×4 Porsche Carerra or my GMC Hummer SUV and then telling him that he has parked too close. 🤣😂.
If you have positive thoughts, you can manifest anything, as it says in the bible “Matthew 13:12 Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”. Meaning if you think negatively only negative things will continuously come into your life, but if you think positively and imagine you already have what you want it will one day manifest itself but you have to believe.
Why People Do Not Care.
People only care if they are directly affected by something or someone. They only care about themselves and their close network of friends and family. Yes you see activists rebelling for the sake of the world, yet you have world leaders b#mbing and k#lling innocent people. You have poverty, famine, homelessness (not every homeless person is a crackhead), and third-world countries. People do not care.
In fact whilst I was in an abusive relationship instead of this neighbor calling the Police, where I could have been saved from a beating when he heard a commotion, reported me to the landlord. This just shows that people simply do not care other than about themselves and their family and friends, but that is it.
My neighbor will one day realize without me mentioning his name that he has done wrong when I publish my book.
My neighbor is the type of person that will chat 💩 about you to my landlord and the community and people would believe it. So I hear you say if I am so unhappy where I live, why don’t I move, well the answer is simple I will when the time is right, or I could just stay put and buy the house as an investment and rattle my neighbors even more.
Social Disconnection.
It really rattles me when people are not kind and considerate and put some thought into what they say before opening their mouths. No wonder I have social disconnection issues.
Procrastination is the act of delaying or putting off tasks until the last minute, or past their deadline. Some researchers define procrastination as a “form of self-regulation failure characterized by the irrational delay of tasks despite potentially negative consequences.” According to Joseph Ferrari, a professor of psychology at DePaul University in Chicago and author of “Still Procrastinating: The No Regret Guide to Getting It Done,” around 20% of U.S. adults are chronic procrastinators.
Normally I am a well-organized individual and keep a business journal of things to do which I tick off once completed. But lately, even the to-do lists just lie there collecting dust.
I would much rather surf the net, watch movies and documentaries, and daydream rather than tackle more important issues. I find I can waste my whole day away simply doing nothing.
I lack motivation and enthusiasm and what once interested me no longer has the same appeal.
I think the only way I can get out of the rut I am in is to set goals because if I carry on like a robot I will not reap my rewards.
I have to stop worrying and think where there is an obstacle there is a solution to each problem and rather than avoid it tackle it head-on, with the attitude whatever will be will be. I am fortunate I can write so if there is a problem I can communicate in writing. My writing skills are my superpower.
If something is too hard to complete in one go, break it down into smaller modules.
As an example, I have a client that wants some articles written, and although I have semi-written them they go over the word count quota in which I am finding it difficult to make it shorter, hence am avoiding this person. I should by rights just say the articles will cost more than what he is prepared to pay or just accept his offer and not do any more work for him.
I am guilty of this, I may do everything than the task at hand. I may spend more time watching Netflix than doing my work. I sometimes lack motivation especially when I have things on my mind which are worrying me. People tend to procrastinate and waste countless hours on trivial pursuits (watching TV, updating their Facebook statuses, shopping online) rather than doing actual work or focusing on more important things.
Regardless if you have deadlines to meet and are putting off finishing a project for work, avoiding homework assignments, or ignoring household chores, procrastination can cause significant repercussions and have a major impact on your job, your grades, and your life.
Sometimes people have mental blocks and sometimes if something is troubling them they may avoid doing what urgently needs to be done.
Rather than run away from the problem tackle it head-on. There is no use trying to sweep it under the carpet because it will always be in the back of your mind.
You need to find the strength to deal with it.
Causes
Never leave things to the last minute, because if you do you will make things worse for yourself, you will make errors because you are hurrying and may not put all your thought into whatever you are trying to achieve. Students especially should give plenty of time to research, study, and understand.
Putting things off to the last minute may not give you ample time to finish the job.
You essentially will get yourself more worked up and stressed whereas if you had done it sooner you would not be in a fluster.
Don’t assume that projects won’t take as long to finish, this can lead to a false sense of security when you believe that you still have plenty of time to complete the tasks.
Staying focused and tackling undesirable jobs can help the job to be done quickly even though you may not always feel motivated. The reality is that if you wait until you’re in the right frame of mind to do certain tasks (especially ones you are not particularly looking forward to), you will probably find that the right time may never come and the task will never be completed.
Academics
A report published in 2007 on a meta-analysis in the Psychological Bulletin found that an outstanding 80% to 95% of college students procrastinated on a regular basis, especially when it came to completing assignments and coursework. According to researchers, there are some major cognitive distortions that lead to academic procrastination.
Students tend to:
Be bad at time management and may overestimate or underestimate how much time they have left to perform tasks and
Lack motivation
Assume that they need to be in the right frame of mind to work
What Is Cognitive Bias?
Depression
Stress and depression can cause procrastination. It is the ability to avoid doing something that may urgently need doing and preoccupying one’s mind with something else that may be trivial. Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and a lack of energy can make it difficult to start (and finish) the simplest task. As an example, I have so many projects waiting to be written and I keep putting them off. I find I am a daydreamer and somehow am willing the projects to miraculously get written by themselves. I have decided to get this post published otherwise it would have lingered in my drafts. Depression can also lead to self-doubt. When you can’t figure out how to tackle a project or feel insecure about your abilities, you might find it easier to put it off.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
MY OCD is germ contamination, but I do have traits of perfectionism to make sure my articles are well-written and proofread before publication.
OCD is often linked with maladaptive perfectionism, which causes fears and anxieties about not messing things up or making new mistakes. It can also lead to doubts about whether you are doing something properly and worrying about what others may think of you or their expectations of you.
I am usually very organized and decisive although it is said that people with OCD also often have a propensity toward indecision, causing them to procrastinate rather than make an active decision. (This is true to a certain degree for me, because if I am anxious about a certain task I may avoid doing it or postpone it to the very last minute).
ADHD
Research has found many adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) find it hard to concentrate and thus struggle with procrastination.
A person who is not focused and is distracted with intrusive thoughts can find it hard to get started on a task, especially if that task is difficult or not interesting to them.
Is Procrastination a Mental Illness?
Although procrastination is not defined as a mental illness, in some cases, it may be symptomatic of an underlying mental health condition such as depression, OCD, or ADHD.
Why Do You Procrastinate?
When it comes to procrastination we often come up with a number of excuses to justify why we avoid doing things. According to researchers, there are 15 key reasons why people say they procrastinate:
Being unsure of what needs to be done
Being unsure of how to do something
Avoiding wanting to do something
Not bothered if it gets done or not
Not bothered when something gets done
Not being in the mood
Leaving things till the last minute
Thinking that you work better under pressure
Believing that you can finish it at the last minute
Lacking the motivation to get started
Not remembering to start something
Using sickness or poor health as an excuse
Believing that the best time to start is at the right moment
Thinking you need time to plan the task
Postponing one task in favor of working on another
Types of Procrastination
Some researchers classify two types of procrastinators: passive and active procrastinators.
Passive procrastinators: Postpone tasks because they have trouble making decisions and acting on them
Active procrastinators: Postpone tasks deliberately because working under pressure allows them motivated
Perfectionist: Avoiding tasks out of the fear of not being able to complete the job perfectly
Dreamer: Postpones or avoids tasks because they cannot complete the job thoroughly
Defier: Someone that believes their time cannot be dictated and they are in full control
Worrier: Postpones or Avoids tasks out of fear of change or leaving the comfort zone.
Crisis-maker: Postpones or avoids tasks because they like working under pressure and cannot deal with the stress
Overdoer: Someone that takes on too many jobs which may become overwhelming and may struggle to find time to start and complete one job never may several
Procrastinators vs. Non-Procrastinators
“Non-procrastinators do not have a care in the world they are very focused individuals that have good time management and can work under pressure and to deadlines. Non-procrastinators are assertive with strong personal identity do not care what others think about them. According to psychologist Piers Steel, people who don’t procrastinate tend to be high in the personality trait known as conscientiousness, one of the broad dispositions identified by the Big Five theory of personality. People who are high in conscientiousness also tend to be high in other areas including self-discipline, persistence, and personal responsibility.
Procrastination
When procrastination becomes chronic, it may begin to have a serious impact on a person’s daily life and this can become a serious issue. In such instances, it’s not just a matter of having poor time management skills, it’s a major part of their lifestyle.
Procrastinators may avoid paying their bills on time, may come into work late, or delay starting assignments until the night before the deadline, this could include delaying gift shopping until the day before a birthday, and even filing their income tax returns late.
Procrastination can have a serious impact on a person’s daily life routine, this, in turn, can cause serious health issues including mental health. Social, professional, and financial well-being can be affected including:
Significant higher levels of stress and illness
The increased burden placed on social relationships
People not understanding which leads to resentment from friends, family, co-workers, and fellow students
Financial Difficulty from the consequences of late bills and late payment charges.
Overcoming Procrastination
Re-wire your mind, control your thoughts and stay focused.
Create a critical time path and map out each task in a journal or calendar, and set reminders.
Create a to-do list: To help keep you on track, consider placing a due date next to each item.
Take each step at a time, do not rush, and tick off each completed task. Take baby steps: Consider breaking down the items on your list into small, manageable steps.
Have time to meditate for 5 mins in the morning and 5 minutes before you go to bed.
Recognize intrusive thoughts and the warning signs, pay attention to any thoughts of procrastination and do your best to resist the urge. When you have a negative thought quickly put that thought into your imaginary bin and quickly replace it with a positive thought.
Create a tranquil setting where you cannot be disturbed. Eliminate all distractions including social media if you do not use them for business use.
Be self-disciplined, be assertive, and try to work slowly and take one task at a time.
Reward yourself with a self-gift for every task completed, it could be a simple bar of chocolate to a more expensive present you have been meaning to buy yourself. Knowing that once you have completed your task and looking forward to receiving your well-deserved purchase makes the job even more worthwhile.
Up to ½ million people in the UK have work-related stress often resulting in illness. Up to 5 million people in the UK are ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ stressed through work. ‘Stress, depression, and anxiety are the second most commonly reported work-related illnesses. https://www.stressuless.com/stress.html
Stress & Depression are the root cause of OCD.
Depression may be related to the personal stress developed at home or work. Depression may result after the onset of OCD as in the article below but Depression can also be the result of traumatic events in a person’s life such as Grief which causes a Domino Effect.
I will talk about 5 things relating to me and how they are impacting my life and what I am doing in terms of therapy.
Stress
Anxiety
OCD
Intrusive Thoughts
Depression
Stress
I am under a tremendous amount of stress for the following reasons:
I have an ongoing dispute with British Gas and it is currently being investigated by the ombudsman.
I have clients dropping like flies because they no longer can afford to pay for their websites due to the price rises of the cost of living.
I am concerned about the stability of a brand new computer that the manufacturer refused to replace or give a refund for. (I am tired of all the arguing I am having to do).
The uncertainty of what the future holds,
I wrote a letter 15 pages long to my GP (Doctor) after I received a letter to make an appointment for my annual medication review, but they could not send me a letter when I wrote to them (9 pages long) in May 2021. I sent both letters via email and both letters were acknowledged and put on the system with a response that a clinician will contact me…I am still waiting for a reply to my letter.
There is a clue in the 4 points I mentioned that can narrow down to the underlying root of how I am feeling, albeit I am also suffering from the aftermath of the domestic violence I endured on top of the daily stresses.
Anxiety
SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY
Anxiety may present with any of the following symptoms:
Nervousness (I do get nervous when I have to do things I am unfamiliar with relating to work or have to start a dispute to the point I feel sick).
Being overly and constantly worried(I try to keep myself busy so that I do not have to think too much about my problems).
Restlessness (I cannot sit and do nothing, I have to do something, I cannot do idle chitter chatter, I think sitting at a table talking nonsense whilst socializing is a waste of time, I would much rather learn something or turn the wheel to generate business than attend social gatherings -although I cannot at the moment because of my social disconnection issues).
Feeling a lump in your throat (If I recall experiencing fear or being in fight or flight mode I have experienced an uncomfortable feeling of finding it hard to swallow).
Difficulty concentrating (I have noticed that I cannot concentrate on reading books, it’s as if my mind wanders).
Fatigue (I am tired usually when I wake from the interrupted sleeping pattern and a combination of taking my med, so I counteract this by drinking energy drinks that are high in caffeine).
Irritability (I am only irritable if things do not go my way).
Impatience (I have a short fuse, I do not have patience and I can be rude at times although I usually do apologize I get irritable of people play me to be a fool. people should be careful to insult my intelligence).
Muscle tension (Not that I have noticed other than back pain or electricity shooting in the back of my neck but that could be related to Epidural Analgesia).
Insomnia (I take medication to send me to sleep otherwise my mind would be racing all night long and I would not be able to sleep).
Excessive sweating (Not that I have noticed personally)
Shortness of breath (If I have a panic attack, if I am extremely anxious, or if something has upset me to the point I am becoming a nervous wreck I have been known to have shortness of breath especially if I have been in a fight or flight mode due to domestic violence).
Stomachache (My mother suffered from stomach problems I always thought she was intolerant to certain foods but as I reflect my stomach is normally fine).
Diarrhea (Energy drinks do that but the way I relate to this it helps to flush all the toxins out and helps with weight gain).
Headache (If I get stressed my head will thump).
Appetite changes (I have not noticed an increase or decrease in appetite but sometimes crave chocolate, but don’t we all).
OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder that causes distress to the sufferer, it may be a recurrent pattern of unwanted thoughts (obsessions) such as germ contamination that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions) such as disinfection and quarantine. Obsessive thoughts are uncontrollable fears, ideas, sensations, or impulses that trigger extreme distress.
Because I am stressed my OCD is more visible. I may have to change my clothes multiple times in the day if I think I have brushed past something by accident. I am unstable in keeping my balance(cerebellar atrophy).
I go through about 500 pairs of disposable gloves a day and find it hard to touch things with my bare hand without disinfecting them straight after with Dettol. It has to be Dettol as the other brands I cannot get my head around that they will do the same job even though they claim they do, maybe it is my OCD that makes me think this way.
I have a quarantined area where no one can step foot apart from me, not even my daughter can touch anything that I deem to be sanitized. I am really sad that I cannot hug my daughter, I wish I could but something stops me. I know it is not her it is me and one day I will be in a better place because in the 30 years I have suffered with OCD I have managed to control it to the point it was not so prominent until I had an onset of traumatic events that caused it to come back again with a vengeance.
I am 100% convinced if I did not have stress, did not endure traumatic events, and if I did not have depression because of the stress and I was in a HAPPY PLACE my OCD would be under control. I would not say it would be 100 % cured because depending on my stress levels it would never be eradicated. Some people can deal with stress better than others. Some people, smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, and take recreational or prescribed drugs. I only take prescribed drugs for my OCD and they do not work other than sending me to sleep.
I am always on the lookout for different ways I can control my OCD but I have only found hypnosis and meditation to help with the healing process. I am studying neuroplasticity and how to rewire our brains.
For hypnosis to work, it has to be done consistently, you will not be cured in a day, week, or month. This has to be a daily occurrence until you start noticing a change. I have completed my diploma for hypnosis and yes I did hypnotize myself successfully but I need to do it every day and with work commitments and everything else that is going on in my life I am too tired and end up falling asleep. You should do hypnosis just before you go to sleep or when you wake up. Other times you can do it during the day without distractions and religiously around the same time of the day.
I live in rented accommodation and have lived in the same property for 24 years. Although I have had money in the past to buy a property I was never focused and did not understand the consequences of my actions in planning for the future. I lived in the moment and never planned my life.
My intrusive thoughts are:
Will my abuser return to the UK to visit me? (That is part of the reason why I have not left my home because I am scared he may be lurking around.
Will I crash and burn and lose everything? ( I got robbed a few years ago and all my valuables were stolen. I have replaced the majority of things and do not want to lose them again.
Will my daughter’s health deteriorate (she suffers from multiple sclerosis)?
Will my health ever improve?
Will I ever be happy and in a happy place?
Thoughts that cause triggers like the death of Queen II, and although the news is sad and I know a family is grieving, it has however revived memories of my parents and my brother passing which has made me have thoughts such as if our loved ones are watching over usare they disappointed in me or are they happy that I am doing everything I can to turn my life around?
Depression
Symptoms of Depression are:
Continuous feelings of low mood and/or sadness (I try to keep myself busy so that I do not have time to dwell too much on all the things that have gone wrong in my life).
Feeling hopeless and helpless (Yes I do feel hopeless at times but I always try to find the energy to fight until I reach my goals -yes I have set goals, you have to, you need to have a plan).
Having low self-esteem (When I wake it is like one of those movies where the person dies and comes back again and nothing has changed, well it is like that for me, I eat, sleep and repeat and nothing changes).
Feeling tearful constantly (I cannot say I am tearful it takes a lot to push my buttons although British Gas (Energy Supplier) did drive me to tears, so I reported them).
Feelings of guilt (I feel guilty for squandering my money. Had I been focused and taught how to manage my money I would be in a different place now, but you learn the hard way I have many regrets and if I could turn back time with what I know I would have done things differently knowing what I know now. I feel guilty for being stupid with my finances and the people that I trusted). I also feel guilty for distancing myself and perhaps not contacting people sooner who have now passed away (old people).
Feeling irritable (I only get irritable if things do not go my way or if I have to deal with stupid people)
Having no motivation or interest in hobbies and interests (I have plenty of things to keep me occupied, the websites that I own and manage for my clients keep me busy, never mind my content writing. I am motivated because I have gotten this far so I am not going to give up even though when I wake it takes me a minute or two to tell myself that today may be the day that things change for the better, so I carry on).
Being indecisive (I sometimes procrastinate over things such as whether should I start a certain project or not, or if can it wait and I end up putting it off again and again).
No real enjoyment in life(I live on the internet my physical self is just a vessel that keeps me going. I do not think of my life in the physical sense I have socially disconnected from the outside world other than for the couriers and workmen that come to the property and I am happy this way. Would I do things differently if I did not have OCD or feared ever crossing paths with the people that caused me harm, I don’t think so. I am happy in my own company)
Feeling anxious and/or worried (My mother was a worrier and I must take after her, she also had undiagnosed OCD. Yes my intrusive thoughts do sometimes get in the way, hence I keep myself busy so that I do not have time to think).
Thoughts of harming yourself or suicidal feelings (This is furthest from my mind. I was at my lowest and for a millisecond it did cross my mind when I endured all the physical and mental abuse from my abuser but I told myself if I quit he would win so I turned my thoughts around to show him that everything he said was wrong and that I would be successful and he would live to regret treating me the way he did).
Loss of appetite – although sometimes can see an increase in appetite (I see food as energy when I am hungry I will eat, I do not watch my calories and try to eat healthy most of the time, I have no problem with my appetite I should lose a bit of weight considering I do not exercise because (a) I do not venture out (b) My knee pain would be too excruciating to walk very far).
A general lack of energy (Because of my medication, I feel so tired when I wake so I counteract that by drinking energy drinks that are high in caffeine which causes a domino effect and causes me to have an overactive bladder)
Low sex drive.
Trouble sleeping (I do have trouble sleeping but that is alleviated with the prescribed medication, however with the interruptions to my sleep because of my overactive bladder I find when I wake I am very tired so have to drink energy drinks to keep me awake).
Avoiding social interaction (I have social disconnection issues and I prefer my own company)
Difficulty maintaining family relationships (I do not have any close relatives living in the UK other than my daughter and we have a close bond, my brother and all his children live in the USA, I guess it must be very hard for their mother who lives in the UK).
My dreams, aspirations, and goals are one day to be in a happy place live a happy life, be financially free and most of all not suffer from OCD, Stress, Anxiety, or Depression. I want to one day when I retire travel the world and photograph everything I see. I want to one day be able to document my journey and leave a legacy.
I want to motivate and inspire people so that they can be led on the right path.
I will continue to do what I am doing because I sense where I am supposed to be, is the right place to be. By continuing writing and researching I not only help myself I also help others. This online journal is my therapy because it gives me a platform to voice my knowledge, thoughts, and opinions.
Micro-dosing Psilocybin Mushrooms improve mental health after one month.
Suffering from mental health issues for over 30 years now and being prescribed the same medication year in and year out without any significant improvement one must look at alternative ways to heal.
I suffer from anxiety, stress, depression, panic attacks, social disconnection, and OCD.
The NHS has failed me because month after month my symptoms do not improve, and I must resort to self-help to get through certain days.
I have never explored or ever taken psychedelic drugs and it was only by watching a documentary on Netflix “How to change your mind” that I started to realize there are diverse ways to treat my disorder.
Psilocybin Mushrooms.
Psilocybin mushrooms: commonly known as magic mushrooms, mushrooms, are a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain psilocybin which turns into psilocin upon ingestion. Biological genera containing psilocybin mushrooms include Copelandia, Gymnopilus, Inocybe, Panaeolus, Pholiotina, Pluteus, and Psilocybe. Wikipedia
The study published in Nature: Scientific Reports has observed significant benefits to mood and mental health after one month of micro-dosing psilocybin mushrooms.
Mushroom microdoses saw greater improvements across the DASS domains of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress. The study found that the microdose cognitive efficacy was higher performing in people aged under 55.
The study looked at 1133 people over the course of two years. All subjects were over 18 years old, able to read in English, and had access to an iPhone iOS device where participants recorded their results. Scientific Reports is a peer-reviewed, open-access scientific journal published online by Nature Portfolio.
The study was conducted by a team of experts in the fields of psychology and mycology: Joseph M. Rootman, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada; Maggie Kiraga, an employee of Quantified Citizen Technologies. Pamela Kryskow, a member of the clinical advisory board of Numinus Wellness, co-founder of MycoMedica Life Sciences, and on the Scientific & Medical Advisory Board; Kalin Harvey; Paul Stamets, who founded Fungi Perfecti, LLC; Eesmyal Santos-Brault; Kim P. C. Kuypers; and Zach Walsh, a member of the Advisory Board of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) Canada and MycoMedica Life Sciences.
The reason GPs are not willing to advise or prescribe holistic medicine is that it would cost the Big Pharma Industry big bucks. If people could cure themselves after a month of using natural plant-made drugs the pharma companies would soon feel the pinch. I wrote previously what your doctor won’t tell you.
I have concluded my own doctor is as useful as a chocolate fire guard.
Even if my doctor could not prescribe ‘Microdosing Psilocybin Mushrooms’ she could have at least told me about it and recommended where I should go to get it. According to the UK, it is still not legal and a petition was made but coincidently because of a General Election in November 2019 it was closed, well all I can say is someone should restart it again: https://petition.parliament.uk/archived/petitions/260806
All I know is that Imperial College London is doing research into the benefits and negative effects of psilocybin and other psychedelic compounds. I only say this as I reside in the UK but other parts of the world will have other studies, where you need to do your own research to find out who is doing it closer to your area.
In the most rigorous trial to date assessing the therapeutic potential of a ‘psychedelic’ compound, researchers compared two sessions of psilocybin therapy with a six-week course of a leading antidepressant (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor called escitalopram) in 59 people with moderate-to-severe depression.
The results, published today in the New England Journal of Medicine, show that while depression scores were reduced in both groups, the reductions occurred more quickly in the psilocybin group and were greater in magnitude.
Editors Thoughts.
As a consequence, I blame the NHS and the powers that be for not giving me the right support and ultimately making my condition worse.
Similar to abortions, who has the right to say what you do with your body?
It is your body and how you treat is your business and no one else’s unless you are out of control.
What a person consumes is on them if they are of sound mind. Why make alcohol and cigarettes legal when they cause, liver failure or cancer. The reason why is because ‘Big Pharma’ relies on you becoming unwell. Whilst if everyone was cured they would not be laughing all the way to the bank.
People treated with psilocybin – named ‘COMP360’ by its developers, COMPASS Pathways PLC – showed marked improvements across a range of subjective measures, including in their ability to feel pleasure, and express emotions, greater reductions in anxiety and suicidal ideation, and increased feelings of wellbeing.
Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, Head of the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial, who designed and led the study, said: “These results comparing two doses of psilocybin therapy with 43 daily doses of one of the best performing SSRI antidepressants help contextualize psilocybin’s promise as a potential mental health treatment. Remission rates were twice as high in the psilocybin group than in the escitalopram group.
“One of the most important aspects of this work is that people can clearly see the promise of properly delivered psilocybin therapy by viewing it compared with a more familiar, established treatment in the same study. Psilocybin performed very favorably in this head-to-head.”
As suggested by the Imperial College London / Thomas Angus; Psilocybin capsules: warn that while the initial findings are encouraging,patients with depression should not attempt to self-medicate with psilocybin.However, I will be writing to anyone that is doing clinical trials with the view of volunteering.
I am therefore going to be on the lookout for clinical trials in my area, we can only wait and see. I could have been cured years ago, instead of being kept as a lab rat.
Mr. Tibbles The Health Cat Reporter – Supporting Young Minds
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