Shock Therapy or Bad Language? Psychiatrist's Viral Video Sparks Debate

Catastrophizing: A Mental Health Expert's Controversial Approach MINSK, BELARUS – May 15, 2025 – A recent video by Belarusian psychiatrist Dr. Dmitry Sokolov has sparked debate. The video, titled "Rules for a Miserable Life: Catastrophizing," uses explicit language to explain the cognitive distortion of catastrophizing. Dr. Sokolov argues that people often exaggerate the negative consequences of events, leading to unnecessary anxiety. "People make mountains out of molehills," he explains. His approach, while effective in grabbing attention, has also drawn criticism for its harsh vocabulary. The video's unconventional style has generated significant online discussion. While some viewers appreciate the directness, others find the language offensive. Dr. Sokolov defends his method, stating, "Sometimes, you need a shock to wake people up." The video's popularity highlights the ongoing challenge of communicating complex mental health concepts in an engaging and accessible way. Despite the controversy, the video's central message about the importance of managing negative thinking remains valuable. The debate it has sparked encourages a crucial conversation about the best way to communicate mental health information to a wide audience.