Hassam Shabbir

Hi, I’m Hassam Shabbir, a psychology researcher, mental health advocate, and founder of Rise Above Minds. At PsychAndBrain, we explore the mind with curiosity, care, and scientific integrity. This platform exists to make psychology accessible, demystify mental health, and empower individuals with knowledge that fosters self-awareness, resilience, and growth.

Quiet Cracking: The Hidden 5 Stages of Burnout

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Five silhouettes representing the biological stages of burnout: Honeymoon Phase, Onset of Stress, Chronic Stress, Crisis Phase, and Habitual Burnout.

TL;DR Understanding the different stages of burnout is vital because burnout is a biological progression, not just a bad mood. It often begins with “Quiet Cracking,” where high performers maintain output while crumbling inside. This guide compares clinical models to help you self-assess your current mental state. We explain the shift from chronic stress to … Read more

Psychological Safety in Hybrid Teams: Trust Across Distance

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An illustration of a remote worker and an office team connected by a glowing bridge of light and thought bubbles under a protective dome, symbolizing psychological safety in hybrid teams.

YMYL Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not medical or legal advice. If you are in an immediate mental health crisis or facing legal workplace issues, please consult a licensed therapist or employment attorney. Author Note: This article is written by Hassam Shabbir, Psychologist, Researcher, Author, and Founder of Rise Above … Read more

Toxic Leadership Psychology: Signs, Science & Recovery (2026 Guide) 

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Toxic leadership in the workplace is showing stressed employees and a shift toward recovery and clarity

YMYL Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not medical or legal advice. If you are in an immediate mental health crisis or facing legal workplace issues, please consult a licensed therapist or employment attorney. Author Note: Written by Hassam Shabbir (Psychologist, Researcher, Author & Founder, Rise Above Minds). This article is … Read more

The 12 Stages of Burnout: Signs, Symptoms & Recovery Guide

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The 12 Stages of Burnout (Full Guide)

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. If you feel hopeless or have a medical emergency, please contact a doctor, mental health professional, or crisis helpline immediately. Burnout is a slow process. It does not happen overnight. It builds up over time due to chronic stress that is not … Read more

Workplace Psychology: The Complete Guide to Work and Mental Health (2026)

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Workplace Psychology: The Complete Guide to Work and Mental Health (2026)

Work has undergone unprecedented changes in the last few years. In 2026, we are not just tired; we are facing a global “identity crisis” at our jobs. Data shows that 83% of workers feel burned out, and employee engagement has crashed to a low of 64%. Why is this happening? Many of us are concerned … Read more