Who would study psychology unless they had some issues?!
Chapter 407 - 400: The Impact of Reality

Chapter 407: Chapter 400: The Impact of Reality

[Briefly describe the life changes of the past week.]

Since the second consultation began, this question has almost become the opening line for every session.

Li Minglu has become quite familiar with it.

So much so that before coming to see Nan Zhubin, he might have already drafted a mental note.

This ensures his subsequent narrative is more complete.

Upon hearing Nan Zhubin’s question, Li Minglu’s body relaxed even more, and his gaze began to shift.

While recalling, his eyes fixated on the coffee table between them, or somewhere else.

"I’ve mentioned to you before, Teacher Nan, haven’t I? I’ve moved into a few friends’ studios, and now it’s like I’ve joined their group. They have more channels to receive work, and I’m able to try creating pieces in different styles."

"Of course, I’m still in touch with Old Xue. I finish his projects first before working on the studio’s assignments."

Old Xue used to be Li Minglu’s editor.

He is an important part of Li Minglu’s [social support system].

"My buddies all know my preferences, so they give me tasks I’m more willing to handle."

"Overall, things are getting better for me in terms of work. I’m earning more money and feeling happier while painting."

Li Minglu said.

"Then, in our spare time, we often hang out together. Those guys claim they’re seeking inspiration and brewing ideas, but it ends up with us playing cards, drinking, having midnight snacks, or doing some performance art—"

At this point, Li Minglu exchanged a brief glance with Nan Zhubin.

As if wanting to convey some emotion.

"And when we’ve drunk too much, we talk about the past, cry, laugh. I can’t laugh as loudly as them, laughing until tears come out, but when speaking of past events—"

At this, the corner of Li Minglu’s mouth curls slightly: "I can feel happy... Yes, I can feel pleased."

Nan Zhubin nodded without commenting, knowing that Li Minglu’s narrative had much more to continue.

"In short, I feel life now... good, it’s much better than before. Just felt physically lighter, mentally lighter, fewer thoughts daily."

"Work when there’s work to be done, and when not wanting to work, I go to the living room to look at art books. Inevitably, there’ll be another person who doesn’t want to work, pulling me in to have fun."

Li Minglu concluded: "It’s just—relaxation."

After objectively narrating life experiences, the visitor continues talking about his feelings and evaluations of life.

Though the vocabulary Li Minglu uses to describe life remains scarce and monotonous, considering his previous condition—it’s quite significant growth now.

...

Li Minglu’s narration continued.

"Besides that, I can feel that everyone’s state is fluctuating too. There are others whose state is similar to how mine was—though, of course, milder."

"Sometimes, they suddenly don’t want to paint; they can’t create anything, roll on the floor in frustration, end up covered in paint."

"Naturally, when they encounter such scenarios, they call people together to eat, drink, play. Sometimes, they mutter ’Am I depressed?’ then again say, ’Looks like I am truly an artist now.’"

"I’m even considering recommending Teacher Nan to them, suggesting they come to talk with you."

Nan Zhubin didn’t comment, simply aided his response to Li Minglu with a raised eyebrow and quick smile.

At this point, Li Minglu suddenly chuckled and showed a helpless expression.

"I mentioned to you, Teacher Nan, right? Previously, I told them I had [depression], so moved out of home. Their first reaction was to say ’A-lu is going to become famous! Your paintings will increase in value! You’ll be in textbooks later!’"

After narrating objective events, Li Minglu spoke of his feelings about this section.

"It’s just when I’m with them, I feel like... everyone is the same. Now I feel my issues might not be severe, and I needn’t worry about bothering others. Psychologically... I feel lighter."

Nan Zhubin nodded slightly.

Many things Li Minglu talks about now have been shared in previous consultations.

It’s just from different angles, and the degree has changed.

Toward this aspect, Nan Zhubin is quite optimistic.

It’s an upward-moving realistic atmosphere.

As Li Minglu realizes those around have similar issues, and they maintain quite a relaxed attitude towards it, the biggest effect is reducing loneliness and creating a sense of group belonging.

It’s similar to the effect of [Group Therapy]—not [Group Counseling], but [Group Therapy].

Meanwhile, Li Minglu will gain [destigmatization] experience individually in this process, no longer seeing [depression] as a disaster, a hassle, reducing self-criticism;

His assessment of [depression] will also be restructured with references, generating renewed hope in life.

Of course, unlike [Group Counseling], such spontaneous gatherings of people with similar issues can easily spiral out of control.

Besides creating an upward atmosphere, there may also be many negative impacts.

Like negative resonance, competitive complaining, ultimately leading to [symptom reinforcement cycle].

Or helplessness spreading, letting negative emotions transmit interpersonally, ultimately causing [negative emotion contagion].

Or friends repeatedly discussing problems and their negative feelings without seeking solutions, forming [shared rumination].

However, based on Li Minglu’s narrative, these are currently nonexistent.

Also, aside from the negative influences above, even if this similar gathering atmosphere is upward-moving, it may create cognitive biases for depression patients.

For instance, [normalization bias]: When individuals find their negative experiences or symptoms common within the group, they’ll tend to regard them as "normal" or "acceptable," rather than "issues" needing intervention.

This further hinders recognizing the need for professional help, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Fortunately, during accepting such influence, Li Minglu already had a strong sense of seeking help in consultation and built a robust counseling relationship with Nan Zhubin.

Therefore, under Nan Zhubin’s guidance, his current change in living situation can positively influence him.

Even this lifestyle influence may assist Li Minglu far more than what Nan Zhubin does in the counseling room.

"However..."

The smile at the corner of Li Minglu’s mouth suddenly faded a bit.