Excel Psychology Articles

As the end of the year approaches many of us begin an exhausted struggle to the finish line. The anticipation for some much needed downtime can start to make the days feel longer, the exhaustion feel somehow heavier, and the energy to be motivated or productive feeling like it needs a low power mode. As the stressors of the year have snowballed, alongside the looming pressures many of us face over the festive season, burnout may begin to tap us on the shoulder.

The resurgence of interest in psychedelic substances for therapeutic purposes has brought to light not just their potential benefits but also the challenges they can present. One of the most distressing experiences associated with psychedelics is what is commonly known as a “bad trip.” These intense, often overwhelming experiences can leave individuals feeling confused, scared, and even traumatized. Integration therapy has emerged as a crucial process for helping individuals navigate and heal from these difficult encounters.

Relationships can be the source of great joy, fulfillment, and growth. They can also require constant effort, communication, and compromise. How can we make our relationships happier and healthier? What are the secrets of couples who stay together and thrive?

Do you ever find yourself trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and criticism? That relentless voice inside your head that picks apart every decision, every action, leaving you feeling inadequate and unworthy? You’re not alone. Many of us grapple with our inner critics, especially during times of stress, anxiety and depression. But what if you could learn to tame that voice, to quiet its harsh judgments and cultivate a kinder, more compassionate inner dialogue?

Many people in Australia, including psychiatrists, were surprised when earlier this year the medicines regulator down-scheduled MDMA, known colloquially as ecstasy, and psilocybin, from magic mushrooms.

This means that under certain circumstances from July 1, authorised psychiatrists will be able to prescribe MDMA to treat post-traumatic stress disorder and psilocybin to treat depression that has not responded to other treatments. Patients must also undergo psychotherapy (talking therapy).

It all sounds very certain but it’s not really.

Within this digital age, our access to a vast and expansive variety of podcasts and social media platforms seems limitless. How many times have you heard someone say, “have you heard…?” or “did you see…?”. As we explore this expansive world, we find an array of content, perspectives, and voices that can entertain and excite. However, it can also significantly contribute to our mental well-being. This journey is not just about entertainment; it’s a quest for understanding, connection, and self-discovery. While we remain mindful of the time we spend in these worlds, we can also be conscious of what we choose to consume so it can benefit us.

As Taylor Swift wins her 13th grammy (woohoo!) and announces her 11th studio album (woohoo!!), let’s talk about the positive impact Taylor Swift has had in the lives of her listeners.

Many of us have grown up with Taylor’s music and commonly share a feeling of deep connection and comradery through Taylor’s powerful lyrics and personal growth. With each new album we get a window into that period of her life and often see many of our own feelings and experiences reflected back to us.

Plants look so different from animals, that it’s easy for many people to think of them as alien and separate from us. Most people appreciate how pretty flowers and trees look and know photosynthesis is essential to life. But our mental and physical connection to plant-life runs deeper than you might expect.

The scientific evidence that plants play a fundamental role in shaping our mental state and decreasing the risk of mental and physical illnesses is mounting.