24 January 2023

The Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Online Doctorate in Psychology Program Information Resources

The Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

A doctorate in psychology program can prepare students to work as clinical psychologists. If you wish to own your own practice one day, consider one of these programs.

Students who decide to pursue a doctorate in psychology can earn a terminal degree in one of the most popular and applicable academic fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists earned a median annual salary of $82,180 as of May 2020. Between 2020 and 2030, the BLS projects 8% job growth for these professionals, which is comparable to the average projected growth rate for all occupations.

While academia, research, and clinical practice are popular paths for graduates, psychology doctorate-holders can apply their knowledge to almost any sector. As Dr. Inna Post, who holds a Ph.D. in psychology, says, "A degree in psychology applies to any field." (Source: BestColleges)

Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs Information
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Phd Psychology Programs
  • What Can I Expect From an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program?
  • What Courses Will I Take in an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program?
  • What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program?
  • What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Psychology Degree?
  • Learn more about Psychology Careers
  • How Do I Choose an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program?
  • Best Accredited Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs
  • Explore More College Resources

Learn more about 'The Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs' on the BestColleges website.

Source / Reference: BestColleges

Published with permission from BestColleges

Scholarships for Psychology Majors

Psychology Scholarships and Available Financial Aid

Scholarships for Psychology Majors

Learn about scholarships and financial aid available for students pursuing a degree in psychology.

Earning a psychology degree prepares you for a variety of professions focused on making a positive difference in people's lives. You'll also learn how to analyze data, understand human behavior, and communicate effectively.

The ever-increasing costs of higher education has made financial aid resources for psychology students more important than ever. These resources may include subsidized federal loans, grants, and general or psychology degree scholarships. (Source: BestColleges)

Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships for Psychology Majors
  • How do you pay for a degree in psychology?
  • Are there many scholarships available for psychology students?
  • Are there grants for psychology students?
  • How do I qualify for a psychology scholarship?

Is There Financial Assistance for Psychology Students?
  • Psychology Loan Repayment and Forgiveness
  • Psychology Grants

Psychology Scholarships
  • Featured Psychology Scholarships

Additional Financial Aid Resources
  • An Overview of Financial Aid
  • Financial Aid for Online Students
  • Financial Aid for Students With Disabilities
  • Scholarships for Single Parents
  • Financial Aid for Veterans and Active Military

Explore More College Resources


Learn more about 'Scholarships for Psychology Majors' on the BestColleges website.

Source / Reference: BestColleges

Published with permission from BestColleges

23 January 2023

Mental Health Career Resources

 Careers in Mental Health  : Career Choices, Job Types and Guidance Information

Mental Health Career Resources

If we do not lay out ourselves in the service of mankind whom should we serve?
— John Adams
Careers in Psychology and Psychiatry

Careers in Mental Health Support Services

Mental Health Career / Job Information

Mental Health Job Options

Best (Top 10) Global Universities for Psychology / Psychiatry US News
  • Harvard University
  • King's College London
  • Stanford University
  • Colombia University
  • Yale University
  • University of Oxford
  • University College London
  • University of Toronto
  • University of Amsterdam
  • University of California - Los Angeles

  • Clinical psychologists
  • Cognitive and perceptual psychologists
  • Community psychologists
  • Counseling psychologists
  • Developmental psychologists
  • Educational psychologists
  • Engineering psychologists
  • Environmental psychologists
  • Evolutionary psychologists
  • Forensic psychologists
  • Health psychologists
  • Industrial / organizational psychologists
  • Neuropsychologists (and behavioral neuropsychologists)
  • Quantitative and measurement psychologists
  • Rehabilitation psychologists
  • School psychologists
  • Social psychologists
  • Sport psychologists

Career Options for Mental Health Professionals University of Massachusetts Global

Career Paths with a Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Developing your Career in Mental Health The Open University

Education and Training in Rehabilitation Psychology Oxford Academic

Forensic Psychologist: Requirements & Degree Paths Careers in Psychology

Guide to a Career in Mental Health Psychology Jobs

How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychologist? Verywell Mind

How to become a Mental Health Counselor Career Explorer

How to become a Psychiatrist University HQ

How to become a Psychiatrist - Insights into Psychiatry from UMHS School of Medicine UMHS

How to Become a Psychologist: Step-by-Step Walkthrough Guide STEPS

How to Pursue a Career in Mental Health The Light Program

International Mental Health Job Opportunities Mental Health and Motivation

Is a Career in Mental Health For Me? TFS Healthcare

Learn How to Become a Psychologist All Psychology Schools 

Learn more about careers involving Psychological Research and applications in the Legal arena
American Psychological Association

Lifelong career learning in Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Wellness, Resiliency & Recovery Academy for Psychiatric Rehabilitation & Recovery Academy for Psychiatric Rehabilitation & Recovery

Making a Difference in a Mental Health Career Become

Mental Health America Career Centre MHA

Mental Health Careers - Comparing Your Options The Balance Careers

Mental Health Careers: 3 Types Of Mental Health Professionals Open Colleges

Mental Health Careers Without a Degree Indeed

Counseling Careers Without a College Degree Learn

Mental Health Jobs and Ways To Succeed in the Field Indeed

Mental Health Therapist Jobs & Career Guide Psychology Jobs

Planning Your Education and Training in Rehabilitation Psychology: A Guide for Graduate Students PDF Document Download

Resources to Supplement Psychology Curriculums Online Psychology Degrees

Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist: Which Career Is Right for You? Walden University

Psychology Jobs Guide: Understanding Mental Health Careers Husson University

Psychological Professions - NHS Health Careers NHS

Rehabilitation Psychology Post-Doctoral Training Ohio State University

Rewarding Careers in the Mental Health Field NSHSS

The Best Medical Schools for Psychiatry in the US Inspira Advantage
  • Yale University Medical School
  • Harvard University Medical School
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
  • University of California — San Francisco
  • Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
  • University of Pittsburgh Medical School
  • David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California — Los Angeles
  • Stanford University School of Medicine
  • Duke University School of Medicine

The Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs BestColleges

The 6 Most in-Demand Jobs in Mental Health Victoria University 

The Mental Health Professions Career Test Dr. Joseph H. Hammer

Tips for Choosing the Right Mental Health Career for You Career Tipster

The South African Mental Health Industry Career Choices SACAP

Top Psychology Career Paths Accredited Schools Online

Types of Mental Health Professionals Healthline

What can I do with a Psychology Degree? Prospects

Which Psychology Career Is Right for You? Verywell Mind

World Top 10 University Rankings for Studying Psychology QS World Universities
  • Harvard University
  • Stanford University
  • University of Oxford
  • University of California, Berkley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University College London (UCL)
  • Yale University
  • University of Amsterdam
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  
Working in Mental Health: Is this the right Career / Job for You?
Allied Services Integrated Health System

10 Psychology Careers To Know About : Video

17 January 2023

Time Management Techniques for Daily Productivity

Five Time Management Techniques To Help You Make The Most of Each Day

Time Management Techniques for Daily Productivity

Making the most of each day is a real challenge, especially when you consider the many distractions we’ve all become accustomed to. Getting around this means taking a smart approach to managing your time.

That said, most time management techniques aren’t so much about time itself, but more to do with self-management and good habit development. If you want to prioritize tasks and get more done during the day, you need to start by looking inward.

This is about managing your time, focus and energy. It's a combination of using smart tools alongside timeless wisdom to ensure you get the most out of your day.

And not everyone will benefit from the same techniques. What works for me may very well not work for you, which is why you first need to understand what your goals are, what are the different ways to achieve them, and what your options are for tackling them.

There are quite a few time management techniques out there. Before we list the five most effective, we’ll look at some useful time management principles that everyone can benefit from, in both their personal and work lives.

So let’s get to it - here’s how you can take control of your schedule as you lead a more focused and organized life. (Source: Fingerprint for Success)

What is time management?

Why is time management important?

Six ways to improve your time management skills
  • First, make a plan
  • Prioritize tasks
  • Set SMART goals
  • Avoid multitasking if you can
  • Manage distractions
  • Track your time

What are the five best time management techniques?
  • Parkinson’s Law
  • Pomodoro
  • Kanban
  • Getting Things Done
  • Eat That Frog

Above all, do your own thing

Learn more about  'Five time management techniques to help you make the most of each day' on the Fingerprint for Success Website.

Source / Reference: Fingerprint for Success

Published with permission from Fingerprint for Success

04 January 2023

Addictions in College: What They Are & How to Avoid Them

Why Do Students Develop Addictions? : Types of Addictions among Students

Addictions in College: What They Are & How to Avoid Them

College is, without a doubt, a life-changing experience. For many, it’s the first time they’re no longer surrounded by their family, and their parents can no longer control them. There is so much to learn, so many things to do, and countless decisions to make.

Amidst all of these newfound freedoms, it becomes very easy to develop an addiction. Statistics say that as many as 37% of students abuse alcohol or illegal substances. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to prevent this grave problem. (Source: Psychology Writing)

From this article by our psychology writing experts, you will learn:
  • Main types of addiction in students
  • Ways to avoid developing them
  • Where to look for help in case things get out of control

Why Do Students Develop Addictions?

Risk Factors for Developing Addictions in College

Types of Addictions among Students
  • Alcohol Addiction
  • Nicotine Dependence
  • Drug Addiction
  • Technology Addiction
  • Food Addiction
  • Caffeine Dependence

How to Avoid Addictions in College: 12 Effective Tips

Where to Seek Help

How to Know It’s Time to Stop

References

Learn more about  'Addictions in College: What They Are & How to Avoid Them' on the Psychology Writing Website.

Source / Reference: Psychology Writing

Published with permission from Psychology Writing

01 January 2023

International Mental Health Trends 2023

 Global Mental Healthcare Awareness, Trends and Research 2023

International Mental Health Trends 2023

“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them—every day begin the task anew.” –Saint Francis de Sales

Mental Healthcare and Wellness Trends 2023

Mental Healthcare Research Trends 2023

2023 Wellness Trends We’re Watching FITON

Designing and Scaling up Integrated Youth Mental Health Care NIH

Digital health and wellness trends for 2023 burnalong

Emerging Trends American Psychological Association

Focussing on Oneself: Key Health and Wellness Trend for 2023 Black Box

Future of Mental Health in the Metaverse BMJ Journals

Global Behavioural Health Market Outlook EMR

Health & Self-Care Trends for 2023 CHJ

Here’s What to Expect in the World of Wellness in 2023 Elle

Holistic Self-Care Trends to Offer in 2023 WellSpa 360

Learn how Technology and mental Health meet in the Future Microsoft

Major Healthcare Technology Trends of 2023 Tateeda

MediKeeper Sees Mental Health Challenges Will Continue & Financial Health in an Inflationary World Topping Wellness Trends For 2023 24-7 Press Release

Mental Health Technology Market Strategies, Future Plans, Competitive Landscape, Emerging Trends & Growth Opportunities by Latest Research Report 2023-2028 MarketWatch

Mental Health Trends Moving Toward 2023 — Psychedelic Research and Social Media Boundaries SETUK

Mental Health Trends to Watch in 2023 Gupta Psychiatry

Mindfulness: The Top Wellness Trend of 2023 Women Fitness

New Mental Health Trends and the Future of Psychiatry Maryville University

Spirituality and Soft Living: GWS predicts 2023 Wellness Trends European Spa Magazine

The Buzziest Wellness Trends To Watch Out For In 2023 Forbs

The Forecast for 2023: 6 Key Mental Health Trends Everfi

The Future of Mental Health Care: Trends and Forecast Researchgate

The growing field of Digital Psychiatry: Current Evidence and the Future of Apps, Social Media, Chatbots, and Virtual Reality World Psychiatry

Top 10 Healthcare trends expected to take 2023 by Storm Healthcare Transformers

Top Behavioral & Mental Health Marketing Trends for 2023 Cardinal Digital Marketing

Trends and Predictions for the Future of Mental Health The Week

Trends in Child and Adolescence Mental Health: Priorities for Research University College London

Trends Shaping Corporate Wellness Programs In 2023 linchpinseo

Vision 2030: Blueprint for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Australian Government

Virtual Reality: An Immersive Tool for Social Work Students to Interact with Community Environments Springer

Wellness Trends of 2023 In Nutrition, Supplements & Health Daily Stamina

Wellness Trends to Watch in 2023 Evolve Spa

🎓 Mental Health, Psychology and Relationship Resources

Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

 Mental Health Nursing Essays, Dissertation and Research Topics

Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

"As a nurse we have the opportunity to heal the mind, soul, heart, and body of our patients. They may forget your name but they will never forget how you made them feel." – Maya Angelou

Mental Health Nursing Dissertation Topics

Mental Health Nursing Essay Topics 

Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

Clinical Issue in Psychiatric Nursing Practice Essay Aceyourpaper

Core Values In Mental Health Nursing - Nursing Essay UKessays

Dissertation Topics in Nursing (30 Examples) For Research Writing DissertationTop

Essay on Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing NursingAnswers

Essay Writing on the Role of the Mental Health Nurse - Nursing Student Study Coach UK

Ethical Issues and Moral Distress in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Essay Online Nursing Papers

Generating Research in Mental Health Nursing ScienceDirect

International Journal of Mental Health Nursing Wiley Online Library

Interesting Nursing Research Topics To Choose indeed

List Of Nursing Dissertation Writing Ideas About Mental Health Deutsch Institut

Mental Health Essay Topics StudyCorgi

Mental Health Nursing Dissertation Topics You Should Choose The Academic Papers

Mental Health Nursing Dissertation Topics | Research Ideas DissertationSage

Mental Health Nursing Dissertation Topics Research Prospects

Mental Health Research Resources Mental Health and Motivation

Mental Health Research Topics in Nursing Custom Writing

Mental Illness Essay Topics Examples and Ideas EduBirdie

Nursing Essay Example on Contemporary Nurse and Mental Health Elite Writings

Nursing Essay Topics (With FAQs and Essay Writing Tips) RN Speak

Nursing Research Topics to Investigate StudyCorgi

Psychiatric Nursing Assignment by Best Assignment Tutor My Assignment Help

Psychiatric Nursing Dissertation Topics DissertationSage

Psychiatric Nursing Dissertations Topics and Mental Health BAW United Kingdom

Research Papers/Topics in Psychiatric Nursing Afribury

Therapeutic Nursing Relationship Nursing Essay Uni Assignment Centre

The Role of a Mental Health Nurse - Essay Example StudentShare

The Role Of Mental Health Nurses Nursing Essay UKessays

Top-Notch Nursing Essay Topics to Write About EssayShark

How do I Choose My Nursing Dissertation Topic and Research Question? Tips For Nursing Students 


🎓 Mental Health, Psychology and Relationship Resources

Schizophrenia Resources

Schizophrenia Disorder Awareness, Research and Resources 

Schizophrenia Disorder Awareness, Research and Resources

“With schizophrenia, we know that we are dealing with a range of disorders of varying severity which arise from a mosaic of one or more factors – genetic, biochemical, neurological – interacting in complex ways with the person's environment and personality.”― Anne Deveson

What is Schizophrenia?

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia Research

Treatment for Schizophrenia

A New Approach for Treating Schizophrenia Wellcome

Alternative Treatment for Schizophrenia without Medication Lighthouse Network

Awareness of Action in Schizophrenia ReseachGate

Digital Shareables on Schizophrenia NIH

Dopamine Dysregulation a Causative Culprit in Schizophrenia? Medscape

Evolving Concepts of the Schizophrenia Spectrum: A Research Domain Criteria Perspective Frontiers in Psychiatry

False Dogmas in Schizophrenia Research: Toward the Reification of Pathway Phenotypes and Pathway Classes Frontiers in Psychiatry

High-impact research from the Schizophrenia Bulletin Journals Oxford Academic

Important New Research on Schizophrenia Genetics Provides Strongest Evidence to Date of Problems at the Brain’s Synapses Brain & Behavior Research Foundation

Latest Schizophrenia Research WebMD

List of 50+ Schizophrenia Medications Compared Drugs.com

Milestones in the History of Schizophrenia. A Comprehensive Chronology of Schizophrenia Research: What Do We Know and When Did We Know It American Psychiatric Association

New Study Pinpoints Genetic Mechanism Linking Dopamine to Schizophrenia Medical Press

Psychosis and Schizophrenia-Spectrum Personality Disorders Require Early Detection on Different Symptom Dimensions Frontiers in Psychiatry

Researchers Discover Second Type of Schizophrenia Penn Medicine

Schizophrenia Diagnosis and Treatment Mayo Clinic

Schizophrenia International Research Society SIRS

Schizophrenia Key Facts WHO / World Health Organisation

Schizophrenia Medications. A closer look at Medication for Schizophrenia and finding the right treatment for you PSYCOM

Schizophrenia Research and Treatment Hindawi

Schizophrenia Research Program Massachusetts General Hospital

Schizophrenia Symptoms: Behavior, Delusions, and Coping Healthline

Schizophrenia Treatment: Types of Therapies and Medication WebMD

Schizophrenia: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Cleveland Clinic

Stanford Scientists solve Secret of Nerve Cells Marking a form of Schizophrenia Stanford Medicine

Treatment Outcomes in Schizophrenia: Qualitative Study of the Views of Family Carers BMC

Types of Schizophrenia Mental Health UK
  • Paranoid schizophrenia
  • Hebephrenic schizophrenia
  • Catatonic schizophrenia
  • Undifferentiated schizophrenia
  • Residual schizophrenia
  • Simple schizophrenia
  • Unspecified schizophrenia

Varieties of Self Disorder: A Bio-Pheno-Social Model of Schizophrenia NIH

What Do You Want to Know About Schizophrenia? Healthline

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia? Rethink

What is Schizophrenia? American Psychiatric Association

What is Schizophrenia? NAMI / National Alliance on Mental Illness (USA)

What is Schizophrenia? Therapeutic Communication Nursing - Video

20 Relationship Red Flags I Unfortunately Ignored for Months

Red Flag Antisocial Behaviour Awareness and Manifestations

Relationship Red Flags I Ignored for Months : Vernon Chalmers
Never Ignore Relationship Red Flags

"The red flags are usually there, you just have to keep your eyes open wider than your heart."— April Mae Monterrosa

You will never know how damaged a person is until you try to love them.” — Anonymous

Relationship Red Flag Behaviour Warning Signs

Relationship Red Flag Behaviour could be Permanent Behaviour

Red Flag Behaviour / Relationship Conclusions 

For months I was witness to / and on the receiving end of the most abusive and antisocial relationship behaviour that I have ever experienced in my life. I started living with my ex-girlfriend during the first Covid-lockdown period where her unprovoked abusive behaviour towards me happened on a regular basis.

I observed many of her communication and behaviour patterns as potential red flags early on in the relationship (even before our lockdown), but foolishly ignored most of them. It was only when her threatening behaviour escalated into physical assault and perpetual verbal abuse that I realised the seriousness of the situation. It wasn't an easy decision, but after this realisation (and the fact that her behaviour against me could deteriorate further) I took the necessary action to withdraw from the toxic relationship.

From red flag incidents to serious antisocial behaviour manifestations 
I will briefly describe twenty of the most profound red flag incidents that occurred during the course of the relationship. This will be followed by associating the incidents with specific irrational behavioural manifestations / characteristics - as perceived and identified by me during an approximately nine-month period.

Red Flag behaviour / incidents that had the biggest impact on me (and the relationship):

  • She was rarely ever on time when she visited my apartment. To be more than an hour late sometimes is no exaggeration. I phoned her once after she did not arrive for more than three hours - she merely told me she forgot (and this was while she was in my area on business prior to our confirmed appointment).

  • I lived like a guest in her apartment. In the three to four months I lived with her she never made me feel at home and / or offered me any shelf space for my clothing. I changed clothes out of my bags in the lounge (mornings and nights). She never discussed this with me other than to tell me there is no space for my stuff.

  • She never offered to wash my clothing during the entire lockdown period, but she would do hers once a week. During a four month period I asked her twice - which she then did. The rest of the time I made alternative arrangements. 

  • I was never thanked for anything I did or purchased. She showed no gratitude whatsoever. Not for food, flowers, gifts, weekends away etc. - I was never thanked for any of my efforts and / or any payments for whatever she / we needed.
     
  • From very early on in the relationship I was asked when are we getting married. I was flattered the first time she asked, but felt uneasy with frequent reminders (as I was learning the rest of her red flag behaviour). 

  • A few months into the relationship (as I was about to discuss my concerns about her behaviour) I was told the food that I purchased / cooked for us made her fat. This after she selected most of the shopping herself. For this I chased her out of my apartment - of which I immediately aplogised the next day. She never apologised for her inconsiderate comment or behaviour ever.

  • She told me in the beginning of the relationship of a previous boyfriend taking over in her kitchen. Well, after a few months, she bestowed exactly the same fate upon me. This after I tiptoed 'on egg shells' in her kitchen (and never really taken any initiative unless we were cooking together).

  • My text messages to her were regularly misinterpreted and / or treated with cold disdain. It was almost if any written communication / text messages were perceived as negative communication (or she had little interest reading them in full). Many of my messages were left unanswered.

  • I was never trusted with assisting her. She would ask for my assistance with many (financial) projects, but when it came time to assist her she would postpone /or just forget about it. She was very quick to accept any monetary assistance (which I offered through a CFD trading portfolio I created for her). I was never thanked for any profit generated or for the subsequent transfers into her bank account.

  • She told me one morning she felt like a second-class citizen living in her own apartment with me there. A the time I did not say anything, but I was rather disappointed and taken aback by her comment. 

  • I was accused early into the relationship that I do not see / responded to her crying (one evening). The more I apologised (over many weeks) that I did not see or heard it, the more she was of opinion that I was lying. 

  • I was threatened with her chef's knife (with the words - 'I will kill you') after she lost a few games of chess against me one evening. The verbal abuse that followed scared me more. I was shocked to the core - this was the first incident of a serious threat and verbal abuse, but unfortunatly not the last.

  • I was physically assaulted one evening for switching off the television (without her even watching). I was punched, kicked and my shirt ripped from my body. A large chocolate Easter bunny was bashed over my head while I was grabbing my bags to go home. Even then I was still determined to make the relationship work. How naïve of me... 

  • She was verbally abusive on many occasions. Mostly over the telephone and it escalated to weekly episodes towards the end of the relationship. It was so bad at times that I had to switch my phone off.

  • She never apologized for anything. She even sent me a follow-up message to remind me that I deserved to be assaulted be her - referring to the physical assault and Easter bunny incident. No remorse or compassion were ever shown towards me.  

  • I have never met a more obtuse racist in my life. Needless to say that I have never witnessed  bigotry of this nature from anyone in any personal, social or business relationship before. I was concerned with her blatant racist name calling and belittling from very early in the relationship.

  • Her frequent (and vulgar) swearing made me cringe at times. She would swear at her mother (over the phone) when she did not get her way. It did not take her very long to engage with me in exactly the same tone of verbal abuse (and swearing) as she did towards her mother.

  • Asked me to hide (or leave) for three hours when a male friend was about to visit her one weekend. I was very upset about this. Apart from her mother and brothers (and one friend) she did not introduce me to anybody else in her life - not even to one of her employees when we visited her clothing boutique one afternoon. 

  • On occasion I did nor respond to her threatening text messages and she phoned my sister to inform her in no uncertain terms that she wants to kill me. My sister put the phone down after getting verbally abused by her, but phoned her back a while later to engage in a normal discussion.

  • Bad-mouthing of a previous boyfriend over and over again. In the beginning of the relationship I believed her, now I know he must have gone through the same patterns / red flags as me. Today I am probably as bad a statistic as him (and others) in her mind. 

Classic Antisocial Behaviour Characteristics identified from my Red Flag list:
  • Aggressive Disposition / Anger  
  • Callousness / Controlling Nature / Disrespectful
  • Emotionally unavailable / Excessive swearing
  • False Sense of Entitlement / Grandiosity
  • Inconsiderate Behaviour / Lack of Trust / Confidence
  • No Empathy / No Compassion / No Gratitude 
  • No Remorse / Physical Assault / Poor Communication
  • Poor Decision-Making / Poor Financial Planning
  • Poor Time Management / Racism / Rage
  • Negative Score Keeping  / Self-Centred
  • Selfishness / Verbal Abusive / Violence
  • Self-Absorbed / False Sense of Self


Despite the waving red flags...
There were many other intermittent, but less obvious red flag incidents. The (silent) warnings signs were omnipresent, like tiny flashing needles, slowly weaving disturbing patterns into an unhealthy codependent relationship tapestry - from the first day I met her until literally the cathartic final week. I still wonder many times why I did not leave earlier. There were many days when I knew I had enough, but still decided to stay. I really believed, against my own better judgement, that we could have worked things out. I wanted this particular relationship to be normal for both of us - with mutual love, trust and respect. Unfortunately, I knew from early on that she would not or could not be that special person to spend the rest of my life with.

Distorted sense of self
She did not see anything wrong from her side of the relationship. She kept on lecturing me / reminding me ever so often about all the so-called things I did wrong - to the extend that I asked her if she kept an Excel spreadsheet for scoring / updating my (bad) behaviour and judgements. An important note here is that her lecturing always occurred when I wanted to discuss the state of the relationship. Towards the end she gave me one opportunity for discussing the relationship without interrupting me - and that was the unfortunate moment I realised that 'the lights were on, but no-one's home'.

Antisocial behaviour concern
One of my major concerns was her relentless lack of empathy, gratitude, guilt and remorse during the relationship. The growing awareness of these chronic rudimental behaviour deficiencies manifested to such an extend inside me that I started questioning my own sanity to ever 'live up to her standards and / or perfectionism'. It was only settled within me after I took a step back and rationally assessed her overall behavioural disposition on my own / and with the guidance of one of my professional mental health / life coach friends. My friend's honesty stung at first, but it was exactly the objective re-assurance I needed to hear that I am involved in a (codependent) relationship with someone displaying frequent narcissistic and antisocial behaviour tendencies.

'Justification' for abusive behaviour
Towards the end of the relationship I received a text message to let me know that I deserved to be attacked by her - referring to the insident where she hit me over the head. Probably her own callous 'justification' that she did the right thing. I did not respond. A while later I received a second message inviting me to have lunch with her the following day. I responded more than 24 hours later to let her know that due to her first message lunch would never have been an option. This was perhaps the final straw that broke the camel's back. It was the first time that I enforced a boundary for not accepting an invitation and / or meeting with her. 

Reflecting on the troublesome relationship
In hindsight it is easy to say I could have handled the relationship / her Jekyll and Hyde behaviour towards me differently. I wish I could, but at the time things were moving so quickly and for what it's worth I had some of the best times of my life. Reflecting on the relationship red flags / other disparities I have identified my own inter-personal relationship challenges with regard to my cognitive dissonance and my relationship codependency shortcomings. Working towards a healthier inter-personal and relationship boundary framework is one of my first behavioural goals for creating a more confident approach towards other / future relationships.

© Vernon Chalmers : Mental Health and Motivation (Relationship Red Flags)


Acceptance, Healing and Rebuilding after Grief and Loss

Acceptance and Moving on After Grief and Loss

Acceptance, Healing and Rebuilding after Grief and Loss
Acceptance, Healing and Rebuilding after Grief and Loss : Image Copyright Vernon Chalmers
The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not ‘get over’ the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to.” — Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler

This quote by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler are having a significant impact on my understanding and processing of grief and loss during the last 18 months.

A Perspective on Closure 

I use many quotes on my Mental Health and Motivation website, all of them are special, but this quote gave me real perspective and closure.

The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not ‘get over’ the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to.” — Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler

I respect the fact that different people will interpret the same quote differently, for different losses. I have read the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler quote 6 months after publishing my “A Year After Leaving an Abusive and Toxic Relationship' and in total 18 months after I walked away from what I considered (at the time) of what would of been the rest of my life.

I have integrated their quote as an update / conclusion 6 months after my original article. The timing for a complete understanding of their words came absolutely at the right time.

Hopefully some of you may also find comfort in their words should there be such need.

Herewith my conclusion of the Achievements / Lessons from an Abusive Relationship article:

Acceptance, healing and rebuilding
What made the acceptance so much more sustainable was the realisation that the grief of losing someone special does not have to go away. What did go away eventually was my fear of letting go. This quote by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler provided me with the necessary perspective and solace for moving on - “The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not ‘get over’ the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to.”

Having accepted the undercurrent ebb and flow presence of this grief I find myself thinking less and less of this horrific period and person. The ever-consuming dark thoughts of grief (and loss) made way for more coherent thinking and mindful living of being in the moment - focussing on the daily awareness of the here and now... It took time, introspection, reflection and soul searching to finally arrive at the other side of this profound and self-enriching journey.

© Vernon Chalmers : Mental Health and Motivation (Grief, Acceptance and Healing) 




Therapeutic Journaling Resources

Benefits of Journaling for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress 

Therapeutic Journaling Resources : Mental Health and Motivation

Journal writing, when it becomes a ritual for transformation, is not only life-changing but life-expanding.” – Jen Williamson

Benefits of Journaling

Creative Writing

Personal Writing Therapy

Therapeutic Journaling for Mental Health

Benefits of Digital Journaling Article

Benefits of Journaling for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Positive Psychology

Benefits of Writing for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Calmer

Creative Journaling For Mental Health (And How To Get Started) Lifehack

From Therapeutic Journaling to Online Publishing Mental Health and Motivation

How to Journal for Anxiety Medical News Today

How to Start & Keep a Mental Health Journal – Tips for Students Psychology Writing

Journal to the self : twenty-two paths to personal growth : open the door to self-understanding by writing, reading, and creating a journal of your life Kathleen Adams M.A.

Journaling have been used in treatment for various Mental Health Conditions Good Therapy
  • Anxiety
  • Communication skills issues
  • Depression
  • Eating disorders
  • Grief and loss
  • Interpersonal relationships issues
  • Issues related to chronic illness
  • Low self-esteem
  • Obsessive-compulsive issues
  • Posttraumatic stress
  • Substance abuse

Mental Health Benefits of Journaling Article

Powerful Health Benefits of Journaling Article

Top Evidence-Based Benefits of Journaling for Mental Health Holstee

The Mental Health Benefits of Journaling Psych Central

Therapeutic Journaling: An Introduction & Guide to Writing for Your Mental Health Article

Therapeutic Potential for Creative Writing: Writing Myself
Gillie Bolton

The Psychology of Creative Writing
Scott B. Kaufman / James C. Kaufman

What’s All This About Journaling? Article

Write Yourself: Creative Writing and Personal Development
(Writing for Therapy Or Personal Development) Gillie Bolton

Writing Routes: A Resource Handbook of Therapeutic Writing
Gillie Bolton / Victoria Field / Kate Thompson


How to use Journaling as a Therapeutic Tool | Mental Health & Wellness - Video

Healing Process After an Abusive Relationship

Emotional Healing and Acceptance After an Abusive Relationship
Healing Process from an Abusive Relationship :  Vernon Chalmers

“When a toxic person can no longer control you, they will try to control how others see you. The misinformation will seem unfair but rise above it, trusting that others will eventually see the truth, just as you did.” — Jill Blakeway

Healing Process After an Abusive Relationship : Prepared / Experienced by Vernon Chalmers

This is a personal healing process which I 'developed' after enduring a particular difficult two-year (narcissistic abusive) period of my life. It will most probably work differently for different people (and situations). I have learned a lot during this unfortunate relationship situation and its aftermath. 

Up to this day I am still learning, but have accepted the fact that this type of healing is a challenging process - as it to so many people all over the world. I am spending less and less time thinking / talking about this healing process, but here are the key healing stages of my observations, learning, self-enrichment, acceptance and recovery:
  • Recognising Abusive Behaviour
  • Decision to Leave
  • Going No Contact
  • Research and Self-Assessment
  • Letting Go...
  • Achievements after Leaving
  • Lessons Learned
  • Acceptance and Rebuilding
  • Recovery from Narcissistic Abuse
  • Perspective(s) on Self-Healing Progress
  • Disclaimer / Reference


© Vernon Chalmers : Mental Health and Motivation (Abusive Relationship Healing) 


Concluding Remarks after my Abuse Recovery

Domestic Abuse | Trauma Recovery : The Gift of Freedom and Gratitude

Abuse Recovery : The Gift of Freedom and Gratitude

Survivors of abuse show us the strength of their personal spirit every time they smile.”
― Jeanne McElvaney

Don't judge yourself by what others did to you.
― C. Kennedy

"During the past two years I processed one of the most disappointing experiences of my life - facing and healing from extreme pathological behaviour from the person I once cared for the most. The subsequent journey to accept that I cannot take responsibility for someone else's abuse towards me that manifested through the inhumane disrespect of perpetual infringements of my expectations, norms, values, safety and quality of life. The renewed awakening of what humanity should be is indeed a gift that keeps on giving." ― Vernon Chalmers

Since my first year at university I was fascinated by (clinical / industrial) psychology and psychopathology - to a point where I became almost too overwhelmed with all the prescribed academic information (and research) available in understanding the 'sensitivity' in studying individual human behaviour characteristics (and the classification of various personality disorders with the many classic student / lecturer nature vs. nurture human behaviour development debates).   

Perhaps, due to this (and to find a balance between clinical psychology and other personal interests in economics and organisational behaviour), I pursued industrial psychology, economics, various managerial science subjects and elected post-graduate studies (and lecturing) in industrial psychology, human resources management, organisational behaviour and business administration. More here>>

Over the past two years, due to various personal 'strategic inflections points' of abuse, loss and related trauma I persisted for almost two years with intermittent therapeutic journaling here on the Mental Health and Motivation website. Through this highly effective process (and medium) I narrated my own recovery journey (for also redefining the self through the comprehension of a toxic mind field of narcissistic abuse, personal loss and subsequent trauma recovery). 

This extraordinary personal journey also facilitated a conscientious return to an existential interest in clinical psychology and neuroscience (with specific reference to emotional and cognitive intra-individual decision-making). Together with an extended range of peripheral research associations with regard to (undesirable) human behaviour dynamics and related trauma (of 'cause and effect') and impenitent psychopathological behaviour (towards me) I came to terms with definite antisocial characteristics challenging acceptable human behaviour expectations, values, standards and social norms. 

Throughout this journey I maintained a keen awareness of how the international mental health community; academia, institutions, practitioners and other associated research practices continuously research, define, identify (and attempt to rehabilitate) psychopathology, human behavioral discomfort and / or disorders in the development of contemporary emotional wellbeing practices and techniques.

I am humbled by the efforts of thousands of wonderful and caring people associated with the broad international mental health support community for their continuous (and in many cases priceless) contributions, research (and / or interventions) for assisting anyone diagnosed (or who is struggling) with any kind of behavioral / mental discomfort.

The mental health fraternity and associated formal / informal support services desire for assisting someone (or a couple / family and / or community) with various mental challenges and / or the development of emotional wellbeing practices is one of the greatest gifts I have had the privilege to research, witness and be part of (in recently also assisting so many others here on the Mental Health and Motivation website with relevant research and resources).

Relationship Abuse Recovery Article Index

© Vernon Chalmers (Mental Health and Motivation: Concluding Remarks after Abuse)

Cognitive Dissonance Resources

Cognitive Dissonance Awareness, Information and Resources

Cognitive Dissonance Resources

The question is not, do you have conflicts? The real question is, are you aware of your conflicts?” ― Abhijit Naskar

What is Cognitive Dissonance?

Cognitive Dissonance in Relationships 

Cognitive Dissonance and Decision-Making

A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance (book)
Festinger / Leon

Cognitive Dissonance Theory Article

Cognitive Dissonance Theory & Examples Study

Cognitive Dissonance in Narcissistic Abuse GoodTherapy

Cognitive Reframing of Intimate Partner Aggression Article

Everyday Examples of Cognitive Dissonance Healthline

Harnessing Cognitive Dissonance: Leading Deep Change to Benefit... Article

How Cognitive Dissonance Affects Your Relationships Everyday Health

How Cognitive Dissonance in Toxic Relationships Keeps You Trapped Article

How Contradictory Beliefs And Behaviors Affect Couples Article

Narcissist Abuse & the Torment of Cognitive Dissonance Article

Narcissists, Relationships, and Cognitive Dissonance Article

New Perspectives on Cognitive Dissonance Theory PDF Download

On the Origin of Cognitive Dissonance (book)
Peter Clemerson

Real-Life Examples of Cognitive Dissonance EveryDay Health

The Effects of Psychopathy and Machiavellianism on Cognitive Dissonance PDF Download 

Unreality Check: Cognitive Dissonance in Narcissistic Abuse Good Therapy

Vernon Chalmers - The Challenge of Cognitive Dissonance Mental Health and Motivation

What Causes Cognitive Dissonance? Article

What Is Cognitive Dissonance? Verywell Mind

What is Cognitive Dissonance in a Narcissistic Relationship? Discussion

What is the Root Cause of Cognitive Dissonance? Linkedin

Ways to Reduce Cognitive Dissonance Article

What is Cognitive Dissonance? - Video


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