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The search for inner peace is a common aspiration, but it is often surrounded by myths and misunderstandings.
Inner peace, a deep sense of tranquility and well-being, is not always easy to achieve, and false beliefs can make it difficult to attain.
In this article, we will explore five myths and truths about inner peace, unraveling what it means and how we can cultivate it in our lives.

Myth 1: Inner peace means absence of problems.

One of the most common myths about inner peace is that it is a life without problems and conflicts.
This belief can lead to disappointment, since problems are an inevitable part of life.
Truth: Inner peace is not the absence of problems, but the ability to remain calm and clear-headed in the midst of them.
It is an attitude and a way of being that allows you to face challenges with serenity and equanimity.
People who have achieved inner peace have learned to accept that problems are part of life and not to be overwhelmed by them.
Instead of avoiding problems, they develop skills and strategies to handle them effectively, maintaining their emotional well-being.

Myth 2: Inner peace is achieved through the accumulation of material goods.

Another erroneous belief is that inner peace can be achieved through the accumulation of material goods and external success.
Many people believe that having more money, property or social status will bring them lasting peace of mind and happiness.
Truth: Inner peace is not bought or obtained through the accumulation of material goods.
Although material comforts give a temporary sense of satisfaction, true inner peace comes from within.
It is the result of a deep connection with oneself and one’s personal values, rather than external possessions.
Inner peace is cultivated through introspection, meditation, gratitude and acceptance of self and others.

Myth 3: Inner peace means always being happy.

Many people believe that inner peace means always being in a state of constant happiness and never experiencing negative emotions such as sadness, anger or frustration.
Truth: Inner peace does not mean always being happy.
Negative emotions are a natural part of the human experience and do not disappear because someone has achieved inner peace.
True inner peace involves the ability to accept all emotions, both positive and negative, without being dominated by them.
It means being able to observe and experience emotions without over-identifying with them, while maintaining an attitude of acceptance and compassion towards oneself.

Myth 4: Inner peace is a permanent state.

There is an idea that once inner peace is achieved, it is a permanent and continuous state that does not fluctuate with time and circumstances.
Truth: Inner peace is not a fixed and permanent state; it is a continuous practice.
Life circumstances change, and with them, our emotions and mental states.
Inner peace is cultivated through the daily practice of mindfulness, meditation and other self-care techniques that help maintain emotional balance.
It is normal for inner peace to fluctuate and sometimes be challenged by external events.
The important thing is to have the tools and willingness to refocus and find balance again and again.

Myth 5: Inner peace is achieved by isolating oneself from the world.

Some people believe that in order to achieve inner peace it is necessary to withdraw from the world, to live in solitude or in an environment free of distractions and challenges.
Truth: Inner peace does not require isolation from the world.
While taking time for oneself and reducing external noise is beneficial, true inner peace is that which is maintained in the midst of daily life.
It is the ability to find serenity and balance in any situation, even in noisy and chaotic environments.
Inner peace is cultivated by interacting with the world and learning to manage distractions and challenges effectively.

Depression is a mental illness that affects millions of people worldwide.
Despite its prevalence, there are many aspects of depression that are not well known.
Understanding these aspects can help reduce the stigma associated with the disease and provide better support for those who suffer from it.
Here are eight things you may not have known about depression.

It’s not just sadness

One of the most common misconceptions is that it is all about being sad.
However, depression is much more complex and encompasses a wide range of symptoms.
Depression can manifest itself in many ways, including a deep sense of emptiness, hopelessness, irritability, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, changes in appetite and sleep, and difficulty concentrating.
causes physical symptoms such as unexplained aches and pains.
Unlike sadness, which is usually temporary, it can last for weeks, months or even years.
It is a persistent condition that requires appropriate care and treatment.

It is not always triggered by a specific event.

It is often thought to be triggered by a traumatic event or a series of stressful events, but this is not always the case.
Depression can be related to chemical imbalances in the brain, genetic and biological factors, and not to external events.
Some people have a genetic predisposition to depression, which means they develop it for no apparent reason.
Although stressful events can trigger depressive episodes, it is often the result of a combination of biological, psychological and social factors.

It can affect any person

There is a belief that certain people are more prone to depression because of their personality or lifestyle, but the truth is that depression does not discriminate.
It affects people of all ages, genders, races and social classes.
No matter how successful, happy or stable someone appears to be from the outside, everyone is susceptible to depression.
Because of the stigma associated with mental illness, many people who suffer from depression do not seek help if they believe they “shouldn’t” feel depressed because of their favorable circumstances.

Depression can be “invisible

Sometimes people with depression appear normal or even happy in the eyes of others, making it difficult to understand their condition.
Many people with depression learn to hide their symptoms and function in their daily lives, leading to the misperception that they are fine. This ability to mask their suffering makes it more difficult for others to recognize that they need help.
Although someone may appear to have their life under control, depression is causing deep internal pain and suffering that is not evident to others.

It is not cured simply by “thinking positive”.

A common piece of advice given to depressed people is to think positive or cheer up, but it is not cured by a change in attitude.
Depression is a medical illness that often requires professional treatment, either through therapy, medication or a combination of both.
Telling someone to “be positive” can minimize the severity of their condition and make them feel misunderstood.
Combating involves a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle changes, cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and emotional support from friends and family.

Depression can affect memory and concentration

In addition to affecting mood, it can have a significant impact on cognitive functions.
People with depression often have difficulty concentrating, making decisions and remembering things.
This cognitive impairment affects their performance at work or school, as well as in their daily activities.
This symptom, sometimes referred to as “mental fog,” can be frustrating and make everyday tasks feel overwhelming.
Recognizing these symptoms helps sufferers seek appropriate treatment.

Treatment can be a long and complex process

Treating is not always a quick or simple process.
It may require time and multiple approaches to find the right combination of treatments that works for each individual.
Finding the right treatment may require testing and adjustments.
Not everyone responds the same way to antidepressants, and what works for one person is not effective for another.
It is important to be patient and work with mental health professionals to adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Sometimes it can take time to see positive results, and it is crucial not to give up too soon.

Depression is treatable

As debilitating as it can be, depression is treatable, and many people manage to live full and satisfying lives with proper treatment.
There are many treatment options available, including cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, interpersonal therapy and alternative treatments such as light therapy and acupuncture.
A personalized approach that combines different methods is the most effective.
It is important to remember that many people have successfully overcome depression.
Seeking support, whether through support groups, therapy or friends and family, can make a big difference in the recovery process.

Starting a relationship is exciting and full of expectations, but it is also a crucial time to reflect and make sure you are making an informed decision.
Asking yourself important questions can help you better understand your feelings, expectations and compatibility with the other person.
Here are ten questions to ask yourself when entering into a relationship, so you know if you are making the right choice for that person and yourself.

Am I ready for a relationship?

The first question to ask yourself is whether you are ready for a relationship.
Reflect on your emotional state and whether you have left behind any pain or conflict from previous relationships.
Consider whether you are in a healthy place mentally to share your life with someone else.
Being ready involves having the ability to commit, communicate effectively, and being willing to invest time and effort into the relationship.

What are my expectations?

When starting a relationship, it is crucial to be clear about your expectations.
Ask yourself what you expect from a partner and from a relationship in general.
Reflect on what you consider essential, such as honesty, respect, emotional support, and compatibility in values and goals.
Having clear expectations will help you communicate better with your partner and avoid future misunderstandings.

Do we share the same values and objectives?

Compatibility in values and goals is critical when starting a relationship.
Ask yourself if you and your potential partner share similar beliefs and principles about important aspects of life, such as family, career, religion and lifestyle.
Aligning on these issues can help build a strong and lasting relationship.

Do I feel myself with this person?

It is essential to feel comfortable and authentic when entering into a relationship.
Ask yourself if you can be yourself with this person, without feeling the need to hide parts of your personality or change to be accepted.
Authenticity is key to a healthy and satisfying relationship.

How do we handle conflicts?

Conflict management is an inevitable part of any relationship.
Ask yourself how you and your potential partner handle disagreements and differences.
See if you can discuss respectfully and constructively, and if you are both willing to compromise and find solutions together.
Good conflict management is crucial to maintaining a strong and harmonious relationship.

Do we have common interests and activities?

Having interests and activities in common can strengthen the connection when starting a relationship.
Ask yourself if you and your potential partner enjoy similar hobbies and activities.
Sharing time together doing things you both enjoy creates positive memories and strengthens the bond between you.

Do I feel valued and respected?

Mutual respect and appreciation are essential in any relationship.
Ask yourself if you feel valued and respected by your potential partner.
Observe how he or she treats you and whether he or she shows appreciation for you and what you bring to the relationship.
Feeling valued and respected is critical to your emotional well-being and to the health of the relationship.

Am I willing to accept its shortcomings?

No one is perfect, and it is important to be willing to accept your partner’s flaws when entering into a relationship.
Ask yourself if you can accept your potential partner’s imperfections and weaknesses without trying to change them.
Accepting your partner as he or she is, with his or her strengths and flaws, is essential to building an authentic and lasting relationship.

Do we have open and honest communication?

Open and honest communication is the foundation of any successful relationship.
Ask yourself if you communicate openly and honestly with your potential partner.
See if you both talk about your feelings, needs and concerns without fear of judgment or criticism.
Effective communication is crucial to solving problems and maintaining a strong emotional connection.

Do I feel happy and secure in this relationship?

Ask yourself if you feel happy and secure entering into a relationship with this person.
Reflect on whether the relationship brings you joy and satisfaction, and whether you feel secure.
Happiness and emotional security are key indicators of a healthy and satisfying relationship.

Experts say that couples counselling has a success rate of around 70%. Also, the Association of Marriage and Family Therapists of the United States reveals that 3 out of 4 couples who go to counselling find that their relationship improves.

This data is confirmed by psychologist José Bustamante, secretary and member of the AES (Spanish Association of Specialists in Sexology), who indicates that around 90 % of couples who attend counselling see an improvement in their state of mind. In fact, two thirds of them admit improvements in their work and health.

Why do I show you all this data? Because there are many reasons why a couple decides to seek therapy, but most of them have doubts about its effectiveness.

Sometimes, in my consultations as a therapist, patients start their session saying: Dr. Duany, there are many arguments in my home with my partner, I am upset, but the truth is that I don’t know if this counseling will work. To which I respond: “it will work if you commit yourself to the process, whatever the outcome”.

What is couples counselling?

First of all, couples counselling is not a magic act. It is not about the therapist pulling out a magic wand and solving all your marital problems. Much of the success of counselling depends on the couple.

Marriage counselling is a type of therapy in which the counsellor or therapist provides a safe space for the couple to resolve their conflicts, improve their bond or, if necessary, bring their relationship to a successful end.

As a therapist, I offer tools and support to couples who wish to find solutions so that their relationship can thrive and remain united by respect, love, understanding and listening.

No couple is perfect, nor can they expect their marriage to be. The healthiest thing to do is always to turn to a professional when the situation becomes complicated. That’s why today I want to share with you the pros and cons of counselling. This way you will be able to decide more clearly if you are ready to make the decision to see help.

Pros of couple counselling

Many people think that going to counselling is only for venting their sorrows or trying to keep the relationship going. This is not entirely true, because counselling is also effective if you want to make the break-up as painless and conflict-free as possible. So says Anfruns Nomen, psychotherapist and specialist in couple therapy.

In this respect, numerous case studies demonstrate the advantages of couple counselling for those who are willing to commit themselves to the process of growth and healing.

Tools for resolving conflict and managing change in the relationship

Doctor in Psychology, José Antonio García, from the UNED, explains that one of the biggest difficulties that can be seen in marriage counselling is that each partner blames the other for the problems. In addition, they place the responsibility for improving the relationship on their partner.

In this respect, one of the greatest advantages of counselling is the number of tools the therapist provides to resolve conflicts. It also allows both partners to listen to each other, to empathize with each other’s emotions and to express their feelings and vulnerabilities in a respectful atmosphere.

Increased communication

Studies show that 75 % of couples find couple counselling an effective way to communicate with their partner. Most of them also report that after having a free communication, where both partners listen to each other and talk freely, they feel greater marital satisfaction.

Contributes to reaffirming and improving the couple’s commitment to each other

When a couple comes to marriage counselling, they realize that they are both responsible for the situation they are in. I am not talking about guilt, but about responsibility, which is very different.

By becoming aware of the individual responsibility that each of them has within the relationship, they are able to reaffirm their commitment and achieve a more harmonious coexistence.

Increases empathy and mutual support

After several sessions, I have noticed that couples who attend couples counselling are more open and empathetic towards each other. Remember that both you and your partner come from different families, each have their fears, insecurities and shortcomings or areas for improvement.

In some cases, family or self-esteem problems of one partner may be the source of the problem. By reviewing this in counselling, the other partner can perceive their partner’s humanity and provide support as needed.

Cons of couple counselling

As much as marriage counselling has its benefits, I must also tell you that it has some aspects that can be categorized as “cons”. Let’s see what these elements are.

• It is necessary to attend on an ongoing basis. The couple must be committed to the process. Several sessions are required to achieve the above-mentioned benefits.
• The couple attending counselling should do so freely. They should not go to please the other, nor should they go out of obligation.
• There may be discharge of intense emotions, such as anger, rage, resentment.
• Culmination of the sentimental commitment. While it is true that therapy seeks to resolve conflicts and create meeting spaces in the relationship, it is possible that after several sessions the couple may realize that the best thing for both of them is to separate.
• The professional may cause confusion in the relationship. If the therapist who is accompanying the process does not have sufficient experience or only understands one version of the problem, it is likely that instead of helping, he or she will confuse the couple even more.

Remember that marriage counselling is not just for couples who have major conflicts or argue on a regular basis. Counselling is for all relationships that want to get to know each other better, reach agreements and find common ground that will make them grow as individuals and as a couple.

If you need to contact a qualified professional for couples counselling, you can call this number 407 618 0212. If you have any doubts about this topic, contact me, I am open to listening to you.