Psychological illnesses:
a hypothesis about their origins in neuroscience, neurobiochemistry and psychology
The accumulation of elements that shape our perception
The perception of perspective and depth results from the different viewpoints offered by our two eyes. In the brain, information is stored in various areas according to its nature. First recorded by the neurons of the eye, it is then sorted, segmented and analysed—for example, to recognise facial details, locate an object in space-time or identify outlines and colours—before being automatically compared with pre-established algorithms. Thus, each piece of information, as well as their combination, is classified according to its depth and importance, and an algorithm, with or without intensity, is stored in a specific location or combination of locations.
From the embryonic stage
The brain manages thousands of static and dynamic data concerning all kinds of subjects—objects, people—which give our existence a dimension of depth, both literary and philosophical.
Since our stay, like an astronaut, in our mother's womb, we have accumulated data that form the foundations, pillars and reference points of our mental health.
Biochemical amplification
Certain information and sensations benefit from biochemical amplification through neurotransmitters, for various reasons, and are thus recorded with varying intensity.
Beyond these pillars that form a solid base, certain significant events can disrupt mental balance. Sometimes a neuronal discharge, like a pistol shot, alters or erases files in various areas of memory.
How can this construction be compromised?
● Poor recording
● Poor information processing
● A fragile mental construction, disturbed from childhood
● Paradoxical information
● Inadequate distribution of neurotransmitters
● The use of drugs and medicines
● Strong emotions
● Cerebral microlesions
● Disturbances of the senses
● An imbalance in metabolism or digestion, or a dysfunctional thyroid
Some examples that weaken the robust structure of our mental health:
● child abuse
● incest (which disrupts parent–child roles)
● violence
● separation
● losses
● wars
● famine
● poisoning
● divorce
Everything that shocks and disrupts mental balance, as well as social and mental pressure. The foundations weaken and the tipping point becomes imminent.
To assess the mental health of a child or adult, it is essential to check the stability of their pillars and reference points, such as:
● the state of the unconscious (laden or untouched)
● awareness of the present moment
● the construction of identity
● the place the individual occupies in their life
● trust
● the expression of love
● the ability to envision the future
● the expression (or absence) of joy
● the ability to relax
Executive abilities, as well as original skills and know-how, should also be assessed.
How can this balance be restored? Must these pillars be rebuilt? How does autism, with its diversity, fit into this synthesis? What differences do we observe?
What is this “construction square” of balance in mental health?
● A balanced family life, in all its possible forms
● A harmonious, suitable environment
● An enlightened outlook on life
● Freedom of expression
Daily management and getting into shape
Expression
Freeing your voice, making sounds, singing, breathing well, meditation, structuring your thoughts, making movements, improving your circulation, training your willpower, adapting your diet, exercising, coming into contact with the elements, nature, earth, water, air, space.
Disturbances
Where do blockages occur? Where do things get stuck? Emotions that are too intense and too intimate are systematically set aside. On the dietary side, poor elimination of toxins from the brain and intestines creates microinflammations that disturb the brain and digestion and prevent the nervous system from finding calm.
Energy demand
The transport and production of energy disrupt harmonious functioning, both physically and psychologically.
Managing emotions
Agitation, distortion of information, obsession, depression, poor integration of information, and working memory disrupted by an overload of information from the environment.
The thyroid
The dysfunction of this great regulator of energy, digestion, hormones and neurotransmitters—the thyroid—seeks and loses its balance.