How Stress Affects Physical Health
Stress is a natural response that occurs in our body when facing situations that pose a threat or a challenge. However, when stress becomes chronic, it can have devastating effects on our physical health. The purpose of this article is to explore the effects of stress on our body and its possible long-term consequences. Additionally, we will include some strategies to manage it effectively.
What is Stress?
According to the RAE, stress is defined as «tension caused by overwhelming situations that lead to psychosomatic reactions or psychological disorders, sometimes severe.» Stress can affect anyone, regardless of age, body type, gender, etc. When it is prolonged or excessive, it can negatively impact both mental and physical health. From a psychological perspective, stress is not only experienced emotionally but also influences the body’s functioning in various ways. However, it is important to distinguish between the different types of stress we may experience:
Acute Stress
This is the most common type and occurs as an immediate response to a stressful event or situation. It is usually short-term and can be triggered by specific situations such as taking an exam, a job interview, or an important public presentation. It is characterized by symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, increased muscle tension, and intense emotions like anxiety or anger. Acute stress can be useful as it activates the body and mind, but if it becomes too intense, it can lead to fatigue and emotional problems in the long run.
Episodic Acute Stress
This occurs when a person frequently experiences episodes of acute stress in their daily life. Individuals with this type of stress often face constant or repetitive challenges in their routine. Those who suffer from it may always feel «on edge,» experiencing emotions such as irritability, anxiety, or frequent mood swings. The impact of this type of stress can lead to health problems such as hypertension, chronic migraines, digestive disorders, or sleep difficulties.
Chronic Stress
This type of stress lasts for long periods and is usually associated with situations perceived as uncontrollable, unsolvable, or beyond one’s control. Symptoms can include emotional exhaustion, a depressive state, lack of motivation, and more chronic health problems. Chronic stress is the most harmful, as it has prolonged effects on both body and mind, increasing the risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety, and other conditions.
Traumatic or Post-Traumatic Stress
This occurs in response to traumatic events that endanger a person’s life or physical and emotional integrity, such as witnessing severe accidents, natural disasters, or experiencing physical or psychological violence. This type of stress is associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It can include severe anxiety symptoms, intrusive memories of the event, nightmares, hypervigilance, and flashbacks with intense physical reactions when recalling the event.
The Mechanism of Stress and Its Impact on the Body
When facing a stressful situation, our brain activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, releasing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Why are these substances useful? When secreted by the brain, they prepare us for a «fight or flight» response, triggering bodily reactions such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, sweating, etc. This mechanism helps us in moments of danger or alert. However, if it remains constantly activated, it can cause significant health damage.
Stress also affects our prefrontal cortex, the region of the brain responsible for decision-making and emotional regulation. In cases of chronic stress, this area may become less effective, making it harder to manage emotions and solve problems efficiently.
How Does Stress Affect Our Bodies?
Our body consists of twelve systems that help coordinate and integrate its functionality. Stress can impact these systems, leading to damage that affects physical health:
- Cardiovascular System: Chronic stress can cause high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and an increased risk of heart disease. Prolonged exposure to cortisol contributes to arterial inflammation and hardening. Additionally, stress can increase cholesterol levels, raising the risk of atherosclerosis or coronary diseases.
- Immune System: High and sustained stress levels can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections, delaying wound healing, or worsening autoimmune diseases.
- Digestive System: Stress can cause numerous digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux. It also affects gut microbiota, impacting overall body balance. In some cases, it can lead to eating disorders such as anorexia or binge eating, affecting both physical and mental health.
- Endocrine System and Metabolism: Excessive cortisol release can alter blood sugar levels, promoting the development of diabetes. It can also contribute to weight gain. Additionally, stress interferes with appetite regulation, leading to unhealthy eating behaviors.
- Musculoskeletal System: Stress causes frequent muscle tension, leading to headaches, muscle stiffness, and general discomfort. Over time, this can result in chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or musculoskeletal disorders. Prolonged muscle tension can also contribute to posture problems and reduced mobility.
- Mental and Emotional Health: While the main focus is on physical impact, we cannot ignore that stress is closely related to psychological issues such as anxiety and depression. Constant exposure to high stress levels can alter the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, essential for emotional well-being.
The Role of Psychology in Stress Management
From a psychological perspective, numerous strategies have been developed to cope with stress in a healthy way with the help of psychologists who guide their application. Some of the most effective include:
- Relaxation techniques: Meditation, diaphragmatic breathing, or mindfulness can help reduce nervous system activation and promote a state of calm. Studies show that regular practice of these techniques can lower cortisol production and improve immune function.
- Physical exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity helps reduce cortisol levels and release endorphins, improving mood and stress resilience. Exercise also aids in sleep regulation, which is essential for body functionality.
- Social support: Maintaining healthy social relationships and having a support network can help manage stress-related difficulties and reduce its perception. Positive social interactions stimulate the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes relaxation and well-being.
- Cognitive restructuring: Identifying and modifying negative thought patterns can change how we face stressful situations. This technique, commonly used in therapy with the help of a psychologist, helps individuals develop a more adaptive and less catastrophic perspective on stress.
- Psychological therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) have proven effective in improving stress management and reducing its impact on patients' health.
- Sleep regulation: Good sleep is essential for physical and mental recovery. Establishing a proper sleep routine and reducing screen exposure before bedtime can improve sleep quality and lower stress levels.
Stress is a natural and necessary response for survival, but prolonged exposure over time can lead to serious physical and mental health issues. Understanding the effects of stress and applying appropriate management strategies can significantly improve quality of life and prevent severe health conditions. The balance between mind and body is essential for overall well-being, and learning to manage stress is key to leading a healthy life. Achieving this requires combining psychological strategies with healthy lifestyle habits that promote general well-being.
About the author
Lidia Fernández
Division of Psychology, Psychotherapy and Coaching
Psychologist
Adults and adolescents
Languages: English and Spanish
Analysis of the Netflix Series "Love on the Spectrum"
The Netflix series «Love on the Spectrum» offers a unique perspective on the experiences of people on the autism spectrum in the realm of both social and romantic relationships. Through various episodes, it explores how these individuals navigate the complex world of dating and relationships, highlighting both their challenges and triumphs. This analysis will focus on three main aspects: social and communicative difficulties, the importance of understanding and support, and the positive impact of media representation for the autistic community.
Social and Communicative Difficulties
One of the most prominent aspects of the series is observing how individuals on the autism spectrum face social and communicative difficulties when trying to form romantic relationships. Communication is a fundamental tool in any relationship and can be especially challenging for people with autism due to differences in interpreting social and emotional cues.
Non-Verbal Communication
People on the autism spectrum often find it difficult to interpret and use non-verbal communication, such as body language, eye contact, and facial expressions. The series shows how some participants may miss subtle cues of interest or disinterest from their partners, leading to misunderstandings and frustrations. This difficulty can make dating stressful and sometimes discouraging for the protagonists.
Literal and Direct Language
The tendency to interpret language literally is also a common characteristic within the autism spectrum. This style of communication is seen in the series when participants speak in a direct and honest manner, often without the nuances or filters that many neurotypicals use in dating. While this frankness can be refreshing, it can also create awkward moments or misunderstandings with their dates.
Social Anxiety
Social anxiety is another significant challenge depicted throughout the series. The anticipation of a date can generate considerable stress, often manifesting in repetitive behaviors or avoidance of social situations, such as fleeing from the date. The series captures moments when participants feel overwhelmed by the pressure of social interactions, highlighting the need for coping strategies and support during these times.
Importance of Understanding and Support
The series also emphasizes the importance of understanding and support from both loved ones and professionals in developing healthy relationships for people on the autism spectrum. This is crucial, as the protagonists might not venture to use the tools provided and communicate their needs and concerns without this support.
Role of the Family
Families play a crucial role in providing emotional and practical support to autistic individuals. In «Love on the Spectrum,» many participants rely on their family members for advice, motivation, and companionship. This familial support is essential in helping them face the challenges of dating and build self-confidence.
Dating Coaches
The series also features specialized dating coaches, or professionals who work with people on the autism spectrum to improve their social and communication skills. These professionals provide practical techniques and personalized strategies to help participants navigate dates with greater confidence. Their intervention may include practicing eye contact to understanding the emotional signals of the other person.
Community and Connection
Creating a community and fostering connection with others in similar situations is also a recurring theme. Support groups and specialized social networks can provide a safe and understanding environment where autistic individuals feel accepted and valued. These environments can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide opportunities to learn from others’ experiences.
Positive Impact of Media Representation
Accurate and positive representation of people on the autism spectrum in media is crucial for combating stereotypes and fostering greater social understanding and acceptance. «Love on the Spectrum» makes a significant contribution in this regard.
Visibility and Empathy
The series aims to humanize people on the autism spectrum by showing their personalities, desires, and struggles authentically. In doing so, it promotes empathy and challenges negative stereotypes. The audience can see beyond the autism label and recognize the universal experiences of seeking love and connection with another person.
Diversity of Experiences
One of the strengths of the series is its focus on diversity within the autism spectrum. Each individual has a unique experience, and the series highlights this diversity, from high-functioning autistic individuals to those needing more support. This inclusive approach helps demystify autism and show that there is no «right way» to be autistic.
Inspiration and Hope
For autistic viewers and their families, the series offers a message of hope. Seeing others facing similar challenges and finding love can be inspiring and motivating. This type of representation can help reduce hopelessness and increase self-esteem by demonstrating that meaningful relationships are possible for everyone, regardless of neurological differences.
«Love on the Spectrum» offers a profound and enriching view of the experiences of autistic individuals in the realm of romantic relationships. By addressing social and communicative difficulties, the importance of support, and media representation, the series significantly contributes to understanding and accepting autism. This analysis highlights the need for an empathetic and supportive approach to help people on the autism spectrum navigate the world of relationships and find love. Lastly, it is not only an entertaining series but also educates and promotes greater inclusion and respect for the neurological diversity present in our world today.
Written by:
Lidia Fernández
Division of Psychology, Psychotherapy and Coaching
Psychologist
Adults and adolescents
Languages: English and Spanish
Understanding ASD: Adult Women within the Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as the presence of repetitive and restricted behaviors and interests, having a lifelong impact on the individual. Ideally, it should be identified during childhood to address any potential difficulties during the early stages of development. However, those who are not diagnosed until adulthood may experience other related mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders, due to the challenges they face in social adaptation.
How many autistic women are there in our country?
In Europe, it is estimated that around 1% of the population has an ASD diagnosis. In Spain, 0.9% of people are diagnosed, a percentage similar to other European countries, which hover around 1 to 1.2%. It is estimated that for every four men diagnosed with autism, one woman receives a correct diagnosis, encompassing the entire spectrum of this disorder. However, it is concluded that the figures for women are not entirely accurate, and we do not have the real value in the Spanish population.
A study by Bonney et al. mentions that if autism is diagnosed in childhood in both boys and girls, girls would receive a diagnosis at least one year later than boys, as 80% of girls remain undiagnosed until the age of 18 (McCrossin, 2022). This may be due to girls and women on the spectrum masking or camouflaging their difficulties to the extent that even their close circles are unable to identify them and thus seek help.
According to 2018 data on the Spanish population, it is estimated that there are currently between 140,000 and 264,000 autistic girls and women in Spain, a significant minority too large to be ignored.
What signs of ASD can we identify in girls?
The characteristics found in girls with ASD include:
- Presence of intense emotions
- Greater sensory alterations
- Resistance to change
- Altered prosody (hyperlexia, unusual or misaligned speech)
- Directed, non-cooperative, and exclusive play
- Lack of coordination between facial expressions and emotions
- Coexistence with social anxiety, mutism, and separation anxiety
On the other hand, the diagnosis of autism in adult women can be made, and the signs differ from those in girls.
What are the signs that identify ASD in adult women?
- Difficulty maintaining social relationships and avoiding group interactions.
- Need for control and aversion to being ordered around, but difficulties in organizing themselves.
- Extreme exhaustion after exposure to social events and high-demand activities.
- Hypersensitivity to sounds, textures, and smells, or hyposensitivity to pain.
- Extreme honesty.
- Hyperfocus on their topics of interest and very low interest in other topics.
- May suffer from central sensitization syndrome (chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, etc.).
- Strong sense of justice.
- Great difficulties in organizing themselves (work, family, home, personal care, etc.).
- May have completed higher education but do not find corresponding job opportunities.
- Jobs in low-skilled positions, job insecurity, and poverty. Family dependence.
- Families may reject the option of living as a couple and motherhood due to overprotection.
- High risk of experiencing gender-based violence, making education and prevention a priority.
- It is common to find couples where both individuals are autistic.
Women with ASD often receive incorrect diagnoses or no diagnosis of ASD despite seeking mental health services more frequently than men (Gesi, C., 2021). The diagnosis of a mental disorder may be the first and only one received by women with autism who use camouflage strategies, as diagnostic tools are based on the male profile and how ASD is described therein.
When time passes without an ASD diagnosis, we find a group of women who end up with psychiatric diagnoses and treatments that do not address the main symptoms of their problem but rather the manifestations of a prolonged imbalance. A study conducted in 2017 by the Women’s Board of the Association of Autism Professionals (AETAPI) indicated that 40% of the women surveyed had previous diagnoses of depression, more than 30% had anxiety, and approximately 20% had social phobia. They possibly manifested these symptoms, but they undoubtedly stemmed from their life difficulties and social rejection.
In many cases, not only do women with autism present the symptoms of this broad disorder, but it is often accompanied by symptoms of another disorder that may have developed until the diagnosis is obtained.
The most prevalent comorbidities in women with ASD are:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Anxiety disorder and affective disorders
- Eating disorders
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Addictions
- Burnout
- Somatic pathologies (gastrointestinal disorders, epilepsy, or sleep disorders)
- Gender dysphoria
How do professionals diagnose an adult woman with ASD?
Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in adult women can be a complex process due to gender differences in symptom presentation and the tendency of women to use camouflage strategies. To achieve this diagnosis, mental health professionals conduct a thorough evaluation to provide answers to the uncertainty and explanation that our adult patients need. To do this, we use the following tools:
1. Detailed Clinical Interview
The first step in diagnosis is conducting a thorough clinical interview covering personal and family history, childhood development, educational and work experiences, as well as interpersonal relationships. It is essential that the mental health professional is trained to ask specific questions that can reveal behaviors and experiences typical of ASD in women.
2. Assessment of Current Symptoms
A detailed evaluation of current symptoms is crucial. This includes observing communication and social interaction, as well as identifying patterns of repetitive and restricted behavior. Women with ASD may present symptoms more subtly, such as having intense interests that are socially acceptable or using coping mechanisms that mask their difficulties.
3. Use of Specific Diagnostic Tools
Standard diagnostic tools, such as ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised), should be used alongside questionnaires and scales that have proven useful in detecting ASD in women. It is important that these tools are applied by professionals who understand gender differences in the manifestation of autism.
4. Evaluation of Comorbidities
Adult women with ASD often present comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. A comprehensive evaluation should include an analysis of these conditions, as they can influence the presentation of ASD and the interpretation of symptoms.
5. Observations in Different Contexts
To obtain an accurate picture of the woman’s functioning, it is useful to observe her behavior in different contexts, such as at home, at work, or in social situations. This can help identify behavioral patterns that are not always evident in a clinical setting.
6. Testimonies from Family and Friends
Testimonies from family, friends, and coworkers can provide valuable information about the woman’s behaviors and social skills at different stages of her life. These reports can complement the clinical evaluation and provide a broader perspective on her challenges and strengths.
7. Self-Report and Self-Perception
It is important to consider the woman’s own perception of her experiences and challenges. Self-reports can reveal how she feels about her social interactions, her interests, and her ability to manage daily life. This subjective component is crucial to understanding how she perceives and handles her condition.
8. Ongoing Training for Health Professionals
Mental health professionals must receive ongoing training on gender differences in ASD and stay updated with the latest research and diagnostic practices. Sensitivity to the ways women may mask their symptoms is essential to avoid incorrect or late diagnoses.
In conclusion, diagnosing ASD in adult women requires a multifaceted and gender-sensitive approach. By combining detailed clinical interviews, symptom evaluations, specific diagnostic tools, and considerations of comorbidities, as well as evaluating observations in various contexts and third-party testimonies, professionals can offer more accurate diagnoses and ultimately provide more effective support.
What happens after the diagnosis?
After the diagnosis, although it can initially be a shock, this relief is usually limited to the woman or girl’s immediate environment. For most adult women, discovering that the difference they have felt since childhood is not imaginary or a severe personal deficit, and that previous mental disorders treated over the years are actually manifestations of another problem, generally brings a great sense of relief.
But after this feeling of relief, girls and women may be subjected to what can be called the «ghosting effect»: «How can you be autistic if you are smart…», «If you have children…», «If you work…», or «If it doesn’t seem like you have autism…».
This effect continues with masking, fear of being different, and plunges women who thought the diagnosis would alleviate their burden into confusion and loss of self-esteem. It is already very challenging for adult women to get an accurate diagnosis, and if we add the normative society’s doubts about whether they belong to the spectrum or their special needs, which for them are basic needs to lead a functional life with the necessary supports.
Needs and Support for Adult Women with Autism
Adult women with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often face unique challenges that require specialized support to improve their quality of life. Below are some of the main needs and types of support that can benefit them:
- Accurate Diagnosis and Evaluation: Many women with ASD do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood because diagnostic criteria and evaluation tools have historically focused on men. A late diagnosis can lead to years of misunderstandings and inadequate treatments. Therefore, it is essential to have mental health professionals trained to recognize signs of autism in women and provide accurate, gender-sensitive evaluations.
- Psychological and Emotional Support: Women with ASD often experience high levels of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Cognitive-behavioral therapies and other forms of psychological counseling can be very beneficial. It is crucial that therapists understand the specific experiences of women with ASD to provide effective support.
- Development of Social Skills: Difficulties in social interaction are a central feature of ASD. Social skills training programs can help women develop strategies to manage everyday interactions and personal relationships. These programs should be tailored to individual needs and consider the ways in which women may mask or camouflage their symptoms.
- Workplace Support: Women with ASD may face particular challenges in the work environment, such as difficulties with communication, organization, and stress management. Workplace accommodations, such as a more structured environment, flexible time, and a mentor or coach, can facilitate a more inclusive and understanding work environment.
- Assistance for Daily Living: Some women with ASD may need additional support to manage daily tasks, such as household management, activity planning, and financial management. Support services for daily living can provide the necessary assistance to increase independence and quality of life.
- Support Networks and Community: Connecting with other women who have ASD can be an invaluable source of emotional and practical support. Support groups, both in person and online, offer a safe space to share experiences and coping strategies.
- Education and Awareness: It is crucial to promote education and awareness about ASD in the general community to reduce stigma and increase understanding. Educational campaigns can help demystify autism and foster a more inclusive and empathetic environment.
Adult women with ASD can significantly benefit from a comprehensive and personalized support approach that addresses their unique needs. By providing accurate diagnoses, psychological support, social skills development, workplace accommodations, and community support networks, we can help these women lead fuller and more satisfying lives.
In conclusion, as a mental health professional, it saddens me that women face so many difficulties in accessing an answer to the feeling they have often carried since early stages of their lives. I also believe that it is the responsibility of professionals to continue updating ourselves on these issues to provide the best quality care to our patients and to be aware that in today’s society, there are many prejudices that cause many women on the spectrum to camouflage themselves and not obtain the help they need until adulthood, leading to other problems beyond Autism Spectrum Disorder. I faithfully hope that we will continue to advance in this area, and autism specialists will continue to provide the essential, basic supports for all individuals on the spectrum, enabling them to achieve the highest possible quality of life despite their difficulties.
References:
– Mujeres y autismo. La identidad Camuflada. 2022
– Mujeres autistas: Dentro del espectro. Ed. CEPAMA. 2020
– Hervás, Amaia. (2022). Género femenino y autismo: infra detección y mis diagnósticos. Medicina (Buenos Aires), 82(Supl. 1), 37-42. Recuperado en 25 de junio de 2024, de http://www.scielo.org.ar/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0025-76802022000200037&lng=es&tlng=es.
Written by Lidia Fernández.
Division of Psychology, Psychotherapy and Coaching
Psychologist
Adults and adolescents
Languages: English and Spanish
Psychological Analysis of the book "Invisible" by Eloy Moreno
«Invisible» by Eloy Moreno is a novel that addresses the complex and devastating phenomenon of school bullying from an intimate and psychological perspective. Through the story of a teenager who feels invisible due to the bullying he is experiencing in his life, Moreno offers a deep exploration of the emotional and mental effects of bullying. This psychological analysis examines various aspects of the novel, including the impact of school bullying, the protagonist’s defense mechanisms, the role of empathy, the formation of self-concept, the recovery process, and the long-term consequences.
Impact of School Bullying School
Bullying is a phenomenon that can have devastating consequences on an individual’s psychological development. In «Invisible,» the protagonist experiences constant bullying that leads him to feel invisible. This feeling of invisibility is not just a literary metaphor but a reflection of the profound dehumanization and isolation that a bullying victim suffers. Continued victimization can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
Isolation and invisibility
The isolation and invisibility that the protagonist feels are representations of how bullying can make victims feel worthless and that their existence doesn’t matter. This sense of irrelevance can be especially destructive during adolescence, a crucial stage for the formation of personal identity.
Defense Mechanisms and Coping
To manage the emotional pain of bullying, the protagonist develops several defense mechanisms. Invisibility becomes a coping mechanism, a way to escape the oppressive reality he experiences during this process. Psychologically, this can be interpreted as dissociation, a separation between his identity and reality to protect himself from emotional trauma.
In addition to invisibility, the protagonist exhibits other defense mechanisms such as avoidance and repression. He avoids situations that could lead to more bullying and represses his emotions to avoid showing vulnerability. These mechanisms, while understandable as responses to a hostile environment, can impede healthy emotional development and perpetuate the feeling of isolation.
The Role of Empathy
One of the central themes in «Invisible» is the importance of empathy in resolving bullying. Throughout the novel, some characters begin to recognize the protagonist’s suffering, highlighting the transformative power of empathy. This recognition and resulting compassion are crucial steps in combating bullying. Observers of any type of bullying are also complicit in allowing the situation to continue for the victim.
From a psychological perspective, empathy involves understanding and sharing another person’s feelings. For bullying victims, being seen and understood by others can be incredibly validating and help rebuild damaged self-esteem. Empathy not only helps victims but can also deter bullies by making them aware of the impact of their actions.
Impact on Self-Concept
Self-concept refers to the image a person has of themselves, which is deeply influenced by social interactions. In «Invisible,» constant bullying distorts the protagonist’s self-concept. Internalizing the negative and humiliating messages he receives leads him to question his own worth and abilities.
The protagonist’s internal struggle with his identity and self-esteem reflects how bullying can erode a person’s self-perception. This psychological damage can manifest as severe self-criticism, self-loathing, and a negative outlook on the future. The novel shows that recovering a damaged self-concept is a long and complex process that requires support and self-reflection.
The Power of Voice and Visibility
The protagonist’s journey towards reclaiming his voice and visibility is a crucial theme in the novel. Initially, his invisibility symbolizes his despair and desire to escape the constant unpleasant situation he is experiencing. However, as the story progresses, he begins to find the courage to be seen and heard by others.
From a psychological perspective, finding one’s voice is essential for self-affirmation and recovery. Moreno’s narrative underscores that being heard and understood is fundamental to overcoming the trauma of bullying. Building support networks and the ability to express emotions and experiences are vital steps towards recovery.
Long-Term Consequences of School Bullying
Moreno not only focuses on the immediate impact of bullying but also on its long-term consequences. The trauma of bullying can have lasting effects that affect victims in adulthood. These may include anxiety disorders, depression, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, and trust issues.
The novel suggests that the trauma of bullying does not simply disappear over time. Overcoming bullying requires continuous self-reflection and therapy. It also highlights the importance of early intervention and ongoing support to prevent long-term consequences from becoming more severe.
Psychological Interventions
To address school bullying and its effects, it is essential to implement appropriate psychological interventions. These may include cognitive-behavioral therapy to help victims rebuild their self-concept and develop healthy coping strategies. Family therapy can also be useful to strengthen support at home and improve communication.
In the school context, promoting an environment of inclusion and respect is crucial. Emotional education programs and empathy training can help reduce bullying and foster a culture of support and understanding. This novel emphasizes that fighting bullying requires a community and multidisciplinary approach, where all members of the school community are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment.
In conclusion, «Invisible» by Eloy Moreno is a powerful work that offers a rich and nuanced representation of the psychological effects of school bullying. Through the story of the anonymous, yet victimized, protagonist, Moreno explores how bullying can dehumanize and isolate victims, distort their self-concept, and cause lasting trauma. The novel also underscores the importance of empathy, finding one’s voice, and community support in recovery and overcoming bullying.
From a psychological perspective, it is not only a moving narrative but also a call to action to effectively and adequately address bullying by professionals and society. Understanding the psychological effects of bullying and implementing appropriate interventions are essential to helping victims heal and thrive.
Written by:
Lidia Fernández
Division of Psychology, Psychotherapy and Coaching
Psychologist
Adults and adolescents
Languages: English and Spanish