Psychology Facts That Can Save Your Life

Introduction

• Importance of psychology in improving relationships, healing mental wounds, and coping with difficulties.
• Role of psychology in potentially saving lives.

The Bystander Effect

• Definition: The phenomenon where individuals are less likely to help a victim when other people are present.
• 2019 Study Findings:
  • Study tracked bystanders during violent incidents in Copenhagen.
  • More bystanders led to decreased likelihood of intervention.
  • Bystanders often think someone else will help.
• Strategy to Combat Bystander Effect:
  • In emergencies, point to specific individuals and delegate tasks (e.g., call the police).

Misjudging Dangerous Individuals

• Intuition about dangerous people can be misleading.
• FBI profiler Mary Ellen O'Toole:
  • We are often wary of strangers but overlook potential dangers from acquaintances.
  • Many violent criminals appear friendly and normal.
• Warning Signs of Dangerous Individuals:
  • Impulsive behavior, excessive anger, narcissism, lack of empathy, holding grudges.

Importance of Sleep

• Dangers of sleep deprivation:
  • Impairs brain functionality and increases stress hormones.
  • Study shows alertness drops to levels comparable to being over the legal alcohol limit.
• Recommended Sleep Durations:
  • Teenagers: 8-10 hours.
  • Adults: 7-9 hours.
• Military Sleep Method:
  • Get comfortable, exhale, release tension, relax, focus on breathing, and visualize a still lake to empty your mind.

Managing Panic Attacks

• Characteristics of panic attacks:
  • Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, sweating, and inability to think clearly.
• Effective Strategies During a Panic Attack:
  • Studies suggest that accepting the panic rather than suppressing it lowers anxiety.
  • Acknowledge the panic attack as temporary and allow feelings to pass.

Conclusion

• Summary of five key psychological facts that can save lives.
• Encouragement to share additional psychological facts in the comments.

Merchandise

• Promotion of "Psych2Go" plushie that symbolizes mental wellness and self-care.