Sometimes science is really cool.  We’ve always known that as humans we are able to feel others pain and connect with how others are feeling, pretty interesting to see that this was figured out with the help of  science! 

This discovery of course relates to what some of us call empathy.

In the nineties, some very insightful Italian neuroscientists were able to discover that while mammals observe something consciously, the motor cortex is activated. This means your brain retains information of what you are observing as if you are also doing it... Wow.

Other people learnt about it and studied this more, they ended up finding that this also associated with our learning, communication and in our ability to be empathetic. 

On a good note, some researchers had been able to show that when we practice being compassionate we are better able to connect emotionally with one species to another, and thus able to be more empathic :  ).

#we'reonlyhuman
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"This can't be real" is a popular motto in life, sometimes. We get to thinking this way when things simply aren't working for us. In our bubble, we may start reflecting on how life is flying by and, like, were just going in endless circles! I remember back in my undergrad, I read about theorist/psychologist Abraham Maslow. He mentioned that at one point in a mature persons life, they come to a point where the questions go more like, "Is this it?" In my opinion, probably one of the most important parts of human life, and all of its' awesomeness that comes with it, is what Abraham coined as "self-actualization."

What is self-actualization? Like happiness, it is a level of satisfaction that arises from within ourselves- yup, that's right and it has been there since your very existence ; ). Self-Actualization is like how, you know how you feel when you somehow make a difference in someones life, for just being in their life... or maybe you can see how your life has some kind of purpose and meaning... or maybe simply that in some way or another, our life is worth living.

I've heard people suggest that happiness is all about money and power. That you can only really live happy once things are good financially and you have control of everything. I don't agree nor do I believe this! For me, happiness is about a deeper meaning, intellectually but also mindfully. We all as human beings, have unique talents and abilities. In my opinion, most of us forget to recognize our own birthright and find ourselves cornered by beliefs that limit our potential as a person and most importantly, as a human being. Over the years, I've really started reflecting on happiness and feel that it is about using those talents and abilities to its unlimited potential, all while supporting our inner self who is encouraged by making a difference within our life.

Well, that's enough wisdom for today, check out this short crash course series on perception and our beliefs!

#We'reOnlyHuman
#HealthierU

Have you ever wondered what really is the difference between a Psychotherapist, Psychologist, and Psychiatrist?  What really happens when you go to therapy? 

There are many professions out there that overlap. This ranges from Counsellors and Psychotherapists to Psychiatrists and Psychologists. 

The aim of Psychotherapy is to help clients overcome a wide scope of concerns. 

Some Psychotherapists/Counsellors teach skills to help you manage difficult emotions more effectively. For more severe conditions, such as psychosis, a Psychotherapist will normally work with other professionals (such as Psychiatrists). This allows for an effective, robust treatment plan.

Psychologists are normally described as being 'applied' or 'research-oriented'. Psychologist also have the licensing to diagnose individuals based on their assessments.

A psychiatrist is someone who has had medical training . The term psychiatry refers to the study of mental disorders. This includes their diagnosis, management and prevention. 

So basically,
​
Psychotherapists/Counsellors

• They help people with emotional/psychological concerns using talking therapies.
• It is recommended they be licensed through a professional body.
• Depending on their training, they can work with individuals, groups, families or couples.
• Sessions can take place face-to-face, via messaging, by email or over the phone.
• They cannot legally diagnose, even though they can conduct assessments.
• They encourage you to find your own solutions, rather than telling you what to do.

Psychologists:

• They are concerned with all matters of the mind. This includes everyday thought processes and behaviours.

• The title 'psychologist' on its own means someone has gained a Doctorate degree in psychology. 
• Psychologists can conduct assessments and diagnose.

Psychiatrists:

• They have had full medical training and have chosen to specialize in psychiatry.
• They can perform medical examinations and tests.
• They can prescribe medication

​Ensuring you can find someone who has suitable training and a background to match is essential. Finding a person who you feel comfortable talking to is equally important.

For more information on when you know or what to expect in therapy, check out our "getting help infographic".

For more in-depth views on psychotherapy, watch crash course psychology.

I hope this post has been helpful.
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#We'reOnlyHuman
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