In this video, we’re going to talk about the phenomenon called projection. Projection is a defense mechanism used to deal with feelings of insecurity and inadequacy. We all have times when we project our own insecurities onto other people. Sometimes, this happens unconsciously, and we don’t even realize it. In this video, we’re going to explore the different ways in which projection can occur, and how you can overcome it. By understanding projection, you’ll be able to stop falling victim to it and start living your life to the fullest!
DISCLAIMER: This article is meant for educational purposes. We are not attacking or diagnosing any individual(s). If you feel you or a loved one is projecting onto others, please contact a mental health professional.
Did you know that your trauma can cause unhealthy coping mechanisms? We made a video all about that here:
Writer/Researcher: Monique Zizzo
Editor: Brie Villanueva
Script Manager: Kelly Soong
Voice Over: Amanda Silvera (http://www.youtube.com/amandasilvera)
Animator: Gabriele Garcia
YouTube Manager: Cindy Cheong
References
ChoosingTherapy.com. (2022, October 11). Projection: Definition, Examples, & Use as a Defense Mechanism. Choosing Therapy. www.choosingtherapy.com/projection/
Gillette, H. (2021, October 22). What Is Projection? Psych Central. psychcentral.com/health/what-is-projection
Newman, L. S., Duff, K. J., & Baumeister, R. F. (1997). A new look at defensive projection: Thought suppression, accessibility, and biased person perception. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 72(5), 980–1001. doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.72.5.980
Brenner, G. We Project Onto Romantic Partners Our Own Desires to Cheat. www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/experimentations/201710/we-project-romantic-partners-our-own-desires-cheat
MyTherapist.com. What Is Projection Psychology and What Does It Reveal About People? www.mytherapist.com/advice/psychology/what-is-projection-psychology-and-what-does-it-reveal-about-people/
Depression – What You Need to Know
Depression is a mood disorder that causes sadness, loss of interest in activities, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. It can be a serious health condition and is often associated with other medical conditions such as heart disease or cancer.
There are many things that can cause depression, including a change in hormone levels caused by pregnancy, postpartum issues, menopause or thyroid problems. Stressful life events, such as losing a job or a loved one, can also make you feel depressed.
Genetics and brain chemistry are also thought to contribute to depression. Depression runs in families and if you have a first-degree relative (a biological parent or sibling) with the condition, you are about three times as likely to develop it yourself.
Personality, lifestyle and environment can also contribute to depression. People who have poor self-esteem, who are prone to stress or who live in environments where violence or abuse is prevalent may be more likely to suffer from depression.
Treatment for depression is aimed at helping you feel better by changing the way you think and behave. It can include taking antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Medication for depression is usually based on the same idea that drugs for pain help relieve symptoms by restoring the right balance of chemicals in your brain, called neurotransmitters. The most common antidepressants work by increasing the availability of these chemicals, but others do it in different ways.
When it comes to medications, you and your doctor will work together to decide which one works best for you. Your doctor will also take into account your other health conditions and your preferences.
Drugs that increase the availability of serotonin in the brain can be particularly helpful. These are called SSRIs and are the most common type of depression medication. They are available as capsules, tablets and liquids.
Other types of antidepressant medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and the antipsychotic drug risperidone, are less commonly used but can be effective in some cases. They are often prescribed along with other medications to provide the best possible results.
It’s important to talk to your doctor and therapist before changing or stopping any medication. Sudden changes can lead to withdrawal effects and may cause a recurrence of your depression or other problems.
The main goals of therapy are to reduce the symptoms of depression, improve your self-esteem and increase your confidence and resilience. Your therapist will also work to teach you skills to manage depression and cope with stressful situations.
You might be able to manage your depression on your own with some simple self-help techniques such as talking to friends and family, exercise, or eating healthy. However, if you have serious symptoms of depression, or if your feelings are making it hard to function in daily life, then you should talk to your doctor.
Depression is a serious health condition and needs to be treated promptly and properly. If left untreated, it can become a major health concern, leading to disability and even death. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, or if your partner or someone you care about is suffering from the condition, seek help immediately.
