Where to find therapists who understand our experiences of racism
I came across this useful article appropriate at this time, signposting to various bodies that provide therapy for black and ethnic minorities.
7 Life Affirming Lessons To Take Away From Lockdown
I came across this article (https://medium.com/stillpointspaces/7-life-affirming-lessons-to-take-away-from-lockdown-a64566a1f451) recently in which I think we can all find something to relate to.
The Addicts Shame
It is difficult to have compassion for people when presumed poor character is confused with the disease characteristics that undermine it. Compounding this is the common belief that people choose to become addicted, based on weakness, lack of will power and poor judgment. Again, looking beyond myth, science informs us that there is a genetic predisposition for addiction, as well as a range of environmental factors, especially those that occur in early childhood.
A delight in the misery of others?
There is no agreed definition of schadenfreude. Since ancient times, some scholars have condemned schadenfreude as malicious, while others have perceived it as morally neutral or even virtuous. Schadenfreude is an uncanny emotion that is difficult to assimilate. It can make you feel odd to experience pleasure when hearing about bad things happening to someone else.
Dysfunctional, not tragic.
In this article Ellen Savage looks for her heroine to be cantankerous, sexually perverse, too-smart-for-her-historical-situation, and possibly corrupt: tired and bored of the idea that women should have hope, achievement, and be wholesome in order to be feminist.
On falling in Love
For love to be grounded in reality it must be based on an accurate perception of the beloved, not fantasy, reverie or illusion. Love fuelled by a projection of a saint-like idealisation on to the beloved is bound to dwindle once the image of unbending perfection disintegrates and the real person, with her unsaintly flaws, is left in its place. Sustained only by fantasy and illusion, love that idealises the beloved is void of rationality.
Race in the consulting room
Re-posting an article from a year ago.
My experience of my difference means that on occasions I can’t quite tell if what I’m seeing has underlying bigotry, or it’s just a normal conversation and I’m being paranoid. I admit sometimes I see race and racism when its not there. That dynamic in itself is unsettling.
The link between the expression of words and emotional relief.
In 1977 Nemiah described the concept of psychic elaboration of emotion. Many of us struggle to put our feelings into words – developing this capacity is a life-long task in which we must all engage. Moreover the failure to foster this capacity in therapy can be one of the most common factors to undermine its success
On the potential usefulness of keeping a journal.
Another fab idea from Gwyneth 😉 7 reasons to create a journal
Mental Health support contact details
Whether you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, these helplines and support groups can offer expert advice. Please contact me if you need any further support.