depression

We welcome guest author, Maureen Sanford, who shares an informative guide on depression and mental health specifically relating to the UK. Especially interesting to note are the ‘gender divide’ and how our younger generation is affected by mental health issues. Like Maureen, raising awareness of a subject that is often misunderstood (even by those to whom we are close) is very close to my heart – not only as I see this in my role as a counsellor but as previously in my experience of 18 years as a paramedic.

Although one in six people experience a common mental health problem every week, issues are often misunderstood and people can feel isolated. The triggers can be varied, and affect people from all walks of life. Overwhelming stress at work, school or home, constant money problems, the loss of a social support system and a family history of mood disorders are among the causes. [Read more…]

As featured on Psychreg – Let’s talk about behaviour, this is an excerpt from my article (The ‘Fatal Flaw’ Found in Adulthood) discussing emotions, CEN and trauma. [Read more…]

We welcome back, guest author, Alice Porter who shares her thoughts on what to look out for in spotting the signs of mental health issues in our elderly and how we can help them to improve their mental health. [Read more…]

Guest author, Herbert, is a creative writer at Greatpaper. He values the importance of family towards his craft, and travels to give his writing a fresher perspective. He is fond of hiking, biking, and engaging in extreme sports. This week Herbert is sharing in our continued discussion on the subject of anxiety and his relapse with GAD. [Read more…]

Okay, to be truthful and perhaps more accurate, it MIGHT be alright through this one caveat. When I find unconditional acceptance for all! But what does that mean for us?  [Read more…]

Stop fighting it; it’ll only get stronger. How am I any different from some of you? Acceptance is key, but how?  [Read more…]

I provide CBT for many clients, mostly in-person, but also online. I am not, however, a one-trick-pony! CBT simply isn’t for everyone for a number of reasons. And if it is for you, how will you know? [Read more…]

Are you getting a regular, good night’s sleep?

Having spent almost two decades working 24/7 shifts, I understand only too well the impact this has on our health, relationships and our productivity in the workplace.  I also, wrote about this subject a few years ago as insufficient sleep is viewed as a common contributory factor for those suffering prolonged periods of depression, anxiety and relationship problems, including parenting. [Read more…]

Many cultures have created an unhealthy attitude to the psychological turbulence we all experience from time to time. It now appears intuitive to fight back against that which we think and feel threatens us, but is this really an effective strategy? [Read more…]

Catherine provides a young voice and a touching account as our wonderful guest author for Day 4 of this week long series. She is courageous in sharing her story and I found when reading this account, whilst preparing it for publication, a number of thoughts and emotions. I felt incredible compassion but also a sense of hope – that with the determination Catherine holds, she will continue to grow trust in the world. [Read more…]