IrishPsychology.com

16/10/2017

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10/10/2015

Depression

Of all mental health issues, depression has been described as one of the most common. Indeed, it is estimated that about 1 in 10 individuals in Ireland are affected by depression at any one time. Despite its prevalence, depression can have devastating effects on an individual’s life, social relationships and on society, especially if it is not managed effectively. However, because of numerous issues in diagnosis, including fear of stigma, depression is often left undetected or untreated.



Causes

The causes of depression are still unclear, but may involve several interrelated psychological, biological and environmental aspects. Indeed, low self-esteem, habitual negative thinking, negative core beliefs and childhood experiences are all psychological issues that have been related to the onset of depression.

There are also numerous theories on the biological underpinnings of depression, including genetics, though this is unclear in milder form of depression. Malfunctioning of the brain chemical, or neurotransmitter, serotonin has also been linked to depressive episodes, and has become a popular model for antidepressant medications. Depression has also been shown to be associated with many debilitating physical conditions, including heart disease and chronic arthritis. Although this relationship is complex, involving both biological and psychosocial issues, where physical health issues and depression co-exist patients are likely to have poorer outcomes.

Social or environmental factors related to depression can include negative life events, such as bereavement and trauma. The impact of social class and gender may also be associated with depression, and this is reflected the epidemiology of the disease, which shows that women may be much more likely to develop depression. However, depressive episodes can also occur without any obvious trigger



Symptoms

Although the central component of depression is a continuous low mood, it can also involve a number of other symptoms effecting mood, motivation, psychological and physical domains, which are often interrelated. Loss of pleasure from previously enjoyed activities, feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness are symptoms effecting mood and motivation that can often be experienced during a depressive episode. Psychological effects include an unwarranted or inflated sense of guilt, an overall negative attitude towards the self, an inability to concentrate, and suicidal thoughts. The physical symptoms of depression can involve lack of energy, insomnia and disturbed appetite leading to weight fluctuation. All these symptoms can interfere with social functioning, leading to issues in daily functioning, difficulties in family life and social withdrawal.



Types of Depression

Depression can occur in numerous forms, and each identified subtype aims to inform diagnoses and appropriate treatment.

● Major depressive disorder (MDD): Symptoms of this disorder are often more severe that many other forms of depression. Although some people may experience isolated episodes, MDD it is usually recurring, and an episode can last for several months if left untreated.

● Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): PDD, previously known as dysthymia, is characterised by episodes that can last up to 2 years, although the severity during this time can range from mild to severe.

● Bipolar disorder: Bipolar disorder is characterised by cyclical mood changes, from periods of intense feelings of euphoria, impulsivity and lack of sleep, to episodes of low mood and depression.



Depression can also develop under specific biological or situational circumstances. These can include –

● Postpartum depression: Depression that can occur in women after pregnancy in relation to new situational pressures, hormonal and physical changes.

● Seasonal affective disorder Depressive symptoms that appear to be triggered by limited exposure to natural light. The onset usually occurs during the autumn, and symptoms tend to improve during spring.

● Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Depressive symptoms, mood instability and physical discomfort that can occur in women before the onset of menstruation, usually easing within a few days.



Treatment

Medication

Antidepressant medication, as part of a wider treatment plan which includes psychosocial interventions, can be effective in more severe forms of depression. These medications generally work on neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, and in some medications dopamine. More recent medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have been shown to have fewer side-effects than previous antidepressants. Although some individuals report experiencing headaches, insomnia and nausea, these generally ease over time. Sexual dysfunction can also be experienced while taking these medications, though this can sometimes be eased by adjusting the dosage or changing medication. With all antidepressant medication, effects may not be experienced until 4 to 6 weeks after starting the course. Even if symptoms improve, medication should not be stopped without medical supervision, as gradual adjustment will minimise the potential of a relapse.



Psychosocial Intervention

Counselling, usually in combination with antidepressant medication can be effective is some circumstances, especially when targeting a particular area, such as relationship issues or bereavement. However, more structured psychotherapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) have been shown to be generally more effective that non-directive approaches, especially when combined with pharmaceutical intervention. CBT targets the negative thought processes that can lead to depressive symptoms and maladaptive behaviours by retraining the individual to interpret their environment and thoughts in a more positive way. IPT helps individuals understand and work through difficult relationships that may be exacerbating or triggering depressive episodes.



Managing Depression

Finding motivation during difficult periods can be challenging, but there are certain steps individuals experiencing depression can take that may improve their mood and quality of life, or prevent the onset of a depressive episode. These steps include cultivating supportive relationships, which would enable the individual to stay socially active and open up to trusted friends. This could be as simple as going out for coffee and a chat with a friend regularly. Joining a support group is also a proactive way to interact with individuals who understand depression.

Learning to be self-compassionate can also aid in coping with depression. This can be achieved through challenging negative thinking, by first becoming aware of what triggers these thoughts, and offering more compassionate and realistic alternatives. Keeping a reflective diary can help with this process.

Caring for oneself both emotionally and physically can help in managing depression. For example, mindfulness and meditative activities such as yoga can help individuals regulate their emotions, physical responses and control stress. Partaking in enjoyable activities can also improve one’s mood and relieve stress. Exercising regularly, especially outdoors with sun exposure, can also have therapeutic effects. Further, eating a balanced diet and getting adequate sleep may also aid in managing depression.

However, if depressive symptoms worsen, professional help needs to be sought. These self-management tips can be used in combination with other interventions to help alleviate symptoms and prevent relapse.



AUTHORS

Dr. Gillian Moore-Groarke, Consultant/Registered Psychologist.

Ms. Amy-Rose Hayes, Psychology Graduate PSI.

IrishPsychology.com, 5A Harley Court, Wilton, Cork.
Telephone: 021-4343073 www.IrishPsychology.com

09/10/2015

The evolving role of the Psychologist in Irish Law

In a system that is presented every day with complex and challenging issues relating to human behaviour, expert psychological input can serve to be invaluable in Irish law. However, the Irish court system, particularly in regards to family law, has been deemed as inadequate and insensitive to the promotion of justice, and to the psychological and emotional needs of vulnerable groups, such as children. In this vein, the role of the psychologist in Irish law, the shortcomings of the Irish court system, and the potential for change through the lens of psychological theory and input.

Although law and psychology are perceived as two separate disciplines, in reality they both share several commonalities, as both fields make assumptions about what causes people to act in certain ways. However, while the role of law is to regulate human behaviour, the function of psychology is to understand it. As you can imagine, there are numerous situations where both must work in tandem, as the regulation of human behaviour and assessing outcomes for legal cases often involves being confronted with emotive and sensitive issues that require an in-depth understanding of psychological processes, and what may enhance or hinder human dignity. In cases that involve such complex issues, the input of experienced psychological expertise is invaluable.

Indeed, the role of the psychologist in Irish law is multifaceted, and is still evolving. For example, in civil cases, psychologists may be engaged as experts to assess emotional factors and psychological issues related to personal injury litigation, such as post-traumatic stress, depression, chronic pain or anxiety. Psychologists can also be involved in the assessment of psychological factors related to bullying or sexual harassment in the workplace, discrimination issues, and psychological disability. Psychologists may also be asked to evaluate the impact of victimization related to a criminal act, and provide counselling and psychotherapy to victims.

In criminal cases, the experienced psychologist’s expertise is often invaluable to the court. Psychological evaluation of a defendant’s history and current mentality may aid in identifying psychological issues underlying criminal acts, and may inform treatment recommendations, which are often an important part of any plea agreements. For example, a juvenile delinquent from a low socio-economic background with a history of neglect may be required to attend counselling Additionally, psychologists provide counselling and psychotherapy for individuals accused of criminal acts, and for the victims of crimes, especially for those of a violent or sexual nature.

Psychological consultation in family law is particularly complex, as outcomes that are in the best interest of the child are the psychologist’s ethical priority. Psychologists are often requested to provide custody or visitation evaluations to determine what arrangement is best for the child. Psychologists also provide family counselling, parenting skills training, therapeutic supervised visitation, anger management, divorce adjustment counselling, and parental communication skills training.
However, Irish law in practice does not always serve to promote and maintain human dignity. Little improvement has been made to Irish court law since the 1996 report of the Law Reform Commission, which stated that the Irish family law system was in “crisis”, and many have argued in recent years for an urgent change in the Irish family court system.

Indeed, Roisín O’Shea (2014) indicated in her extensive empirical review on Irish family court, that outcomes for children, separated fathers and foreign nationals leave much to be desired. O’Shea also concluded from interviews with Judges who hear family law cases, that the majority indicated an intense dislike for the emotional context of family law, and stated that they found disputes over arrangements for children difficult and sometimes distasteful. O’Shea’s findings indicate a worrying ignorance of the emotional and psychological dynamics of relationship breakdown, and an absence of judicial training.

Indeed, the Judge in family law cases generally acts as the sole arbiter. Research in social psychology also indicates that subjective mental processes have a significant impact on our decision making, especially when such processes aren’t brought to our awareness. Because of these mental short-cuts we use in everyday life, we exhibit a tendency to pay increased attention to information which is in line with our own values and beliefs. ( Judges are thus charged with carrying out resolution processes in a fair, impartial and efficient manner). (Naughton et al 2015)

Further, the issue of over-subjectivity in court becomes more salient when we look at Irish court outcomes. Indeed, research indicates that Irish family court Judges display a commitment to the traditional family unit (Naughton et al., 2015).

These issues raise many questions regarding the future role of the psychologist in Irish family law, from one where the role, although multi-faceted, is regarded as peripheral, to one, which will underpin the framework from which Judges and other court staff will inform their outlook and decisions. Indeed, training and insights into emotional and psychological processes such as attachment and trauma should be prerequisites for any professional dealing with sensitive and life-altering issues regarding children. Although psychologists aren’t exempt themselves from allowing subjective processes and prejudices to influence their decisions and behaviours, it is hoped that through training and bringing such processes to conscious awareness, Judges and other court staff will be encouraged to avoid faulty decision making that adversely impacts families and individuals in family court. In the promotion of justice, dignity and equality, both disciplines should strive to work in unison, as the absence of emotional and psychological knowledge in litigation is having stark consequences on those who are most vulnerable.

AUTHORS

Dr. Gillian Moore-Groarke, Consultant/Registered psychologist and expert witness.

Ms. Amy-Rose Hayes, Psychology Graduate PSI.

IrishPsychology.com, 5A Harley Court, Wilton, Cork. Tel 021-4343073

24/08/2015

Free Public Lecture at The Kingsley, Cork

“A Post Trauma Observed”

Audrey O’Carroll, Musician & Teacher reflects on what caused her own Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – An attempt on her life!

The Deane Suite, The Kingsley, Cork
8pm, Thursday, 3 September 2015

As part of our celebration of 25 years in practice, Dr. Gillian Moore-Groarke, Consultant Psychologist, cordially invites you to our free public lecture series.

The second in the free lectures series will be given at The Deane Suite, The Kingsley, Cork, at 8pm on Thursday, 3rd of September 2015.

The opening address will be given by former Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Mary Shields, which will be followed by a lecture titled “A Post Trauma Observed” given by Ms. Audrey O’Carroll, who will speak about an attempt on her life and the subsequent trauma that she endured.

Audrey is a musician by profession and she will describe her background story and the dis-empowerment she felt and how what she experienced had enormous personal consequences for her.
Her resilience led her to draw on her love of music and creativity to help her cope.

For the first time in her life she found herself part of the mental health industry, but her steadfast endurance has led her to change her life, and in the next couple of months publish a book on her experience.

Ms. O’Carroll was treated by Dr. Moore-Groarke for a number of years and in her lecture she will emphasise the importance of having a ‘safe holding’ during her traumatic experience. She will also go on to critique the DSM’s view of PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder).

Her courage and openness is to be admired and she promises to give much inspiration to those who attend and to the many people out there who too have had their own encounter with trauma.

Audrey O’Carroll, MA, is a musician, teacher, board examiner, trainee counsellor and sometime writer. In this lecture, she reflects on her experience of PTSD which she logged over many years. She highlights its complexity and depth and the role of individual creativity in meeting its challenges.

While the lecture is free, early booking is essential.

To register please email [email protected] or telephone (021) 4343073.

http://www.irishpsychology.com/free-lecture/

27/04/2015

Experts to draft plan on online bullying
http://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/experts-to-draft-plan-on-online-bullying-327136.html #.VT4NVBTGMdN.twitter

Exports are set to draft a plane to with online bullying, with nine deaths in Ireland linked to cyberbullying

31/03/2015

Due to an overwhelming response all seats for our lecture are now filled. Thanks to everyone for supporting our public lecture series.

27/03/2015

Today is - A day to remember our loved ones - always in our hearts. Support the Irish Cancer Society

26/03/2015

UPDATE: SORRY THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL
THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT

Places filling up fast for our free Mindfulness lecture at The Kingsley, Cork.

Mindfulness – Healing and Well-being
Timothy Sweeney

The Deane Suite, The Kingsley, Cork
8pm, Thursday, 2 April 2015

The lecture entitled ‘Mindfulness Healing and Well-being’ will be given by Timothy Sweeney who has been practising mindfulness for over 38 years. In 1993, 2009 and 2013 he completed professional training with Jon Kabat – Zinn, Saki Santo Nellie and Florene Melio-Meyer from the Centre for mindfulness – UMASS Medical School. He has spent long periods in silent mediation retreats. He has been teaching MSBR in Ireland since 2004.

Register at http://irishpsychology.com/free-lecture/

05/03/2015

Well done Scoil Barra Naofa, Monkstown. An excellent experiment. Stay safe online.

Results: Thanks to all who liked and shared the post by 4th class! Below are the results as of 9:15am this morning after just 17hrs!!

We reached over 125,000 people, were liked by 1,234 and 660 had told us their location... Some as far away as Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, Taiwan, Argentina, Brazil, South Africa, Uganda, Ghana, Qatar, Saudia Arabia, Kazakstan, USA, Canada and Mexico to name a few!!!

Antarctica is the only continent that we haven't reached ... Well not yet anyway!

With 23 hrs gone - not even a full day, we have reached 118,112 profiles, have 1931 likes and 912 comments with locations!

Thanks to everyone who liked and shared to help us with our experiment! We'll update you all again next week!

Míle Buíochas!

04/03/2015

Gerry Collins died a year ago on March 2, 2014, but his courage has inspired over 200,000 quit attempts since he left us.

Thanks Gerry.

03/03/2015

UK teenagers without the Internet are ‘educationally disadvantaged’

http://blogs.oii.ox.ac.uk/policy/uk-teenagers-without-the-internet-are-educationally-disadvantaged/

01/03/2015

DO you know what your children post on Facebook? Do you know what they do on Snapchat and on Viber? What children do online is a mystery that a new book, Screen-Smart Parenting, demystifies for parents.