Yesterday was World Suicide Prevention Day. This awareness day is so important as the rate of suicides in the UK and globally is increasing. About 10 years ago, I devastatingly lost a family member I loved dearly to suicide 💔- mental health treatment, awareness and support is so important. Often, even with these, people are still dying. I know myself the power of medicines, therapy and kindness from loved ones.
One of the reasons I wrote my children’s picture book ‘Arabella and the Worry Cloud’ (illustrated by Shelley the Artist) is because I believe that mental health education and understanding our feelings from a young age is so important. My book focuses on teaching children the power of positive thinking to relieve anxiety. So maybe it can do a bit of good in the world! I definitely didn’t have a book like this as a child.
So, I am so thankful today for the No Panic charity team who have shared this blog about my book today.
In 2024, there is a growing awareness of the effects associated with constantly consuming negative news, a behaviour commonly known as “doomscrolling.” Media and constant news updates often fuel this habit of seeking out distressing information. Sadly, this can have serious implications for both physical and mental health.
Recent conversations among health experts have shed light on the link between doomscrolling and the increase in Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder (SIAD) as well as panic attacks. As someone who writes on mental health, I wanted to delve into this correlation, providing insights and practical tips to protect your health in a world that appears to be in a perpetual state of crisis.
What is the Meaning of Doomscrolling?
Doomscrolling involves the consumption of news. Consumers caught up in this cycle feel compelled always to follow disasters, political unrest, environmental crises, and other distressing events, resulting in prolonged exposure to negative media. Additionally, some may even engage in extended sessions of watching vertical, short-form videos without awareness of the passage of time.
We can admit staying informed is important. However, constant focus on distressing media can affect one’s well-being.
Psychological Effects of Doomscrolling
The brain is naturally inclined to react to threats with a fight-or-flight response—a survival instinct ingrained in our biology throughout history.
However, when the mind is activated by immediate non-physical threats, like distressing news, it can result in prolonged stress. This prolonged state of vigilance can heighten anxiety levels over time potentially leading to anxiety disorders and panic episodes.
However, why is it so addictive to watch distressing news? Well, engaging in doomscrolling triggers the activation of dopamine receptors, which provides short relief from anxiety, despite the eventual worsening of mood.
What is more concerning is individuals often revert to doomscrolling in an attempt to alleviate their distress, perpetuating the cycle of negative emotions.
Link to Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder
Substance-induced Anxiety Disorder (SIAD) begins to show its ugly face when symptoms of anxiety or panic stem directly from substance consumption, withdrawal, or exposure to substances. Common culprits include caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and certain prescription drugs.
People who engage in doomscrolling may resort to substances like alcohol or prescription drugs as a coping mechanism for the anxiety and stress triggered by the news they consume. This could establish a cycle where substance use provides relief from anxiety symptoms but later worsens them, possibly resulting in SIAD.
Real World Implications – Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are episodes of fear that may manifest as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, etc. Sometimes there is even an overwhelming sense of dread and fear of losing control.
For those who are exposed to negative news, unfortunately their threshold for panic attacks may be lower. Substances used to manage this stress can further decrease this threshold, making panic attacks more frequent and intense.
(image: Mark Adriane, Unsplash)
Tips for Breaking This Habit
Breaking free from the cycle of doomscrolling requires effort and specific strategies. Here are some “practical?” steps you can follow;
1. Establish Strict Time Boundaries
Hold yourself to designated times during the day for checking the news and make a commitment to stick to these schedules. Utilizing apps restricting your access to websites or social media platforms can help you maintain this routine.
2. Customise Your Social Media Content
Take a role in curating your social media feeds by including uplifting content. Follow accounts that share stories or even your city media feeds to create a balanced experience alongside the inevitable negative news we all have to see.
3. Try Healthy Coping Mechanisms
It may be time to hit the gym. Or engage in activities such as yoga or jogging. Better yet, incorporate mindfulness techniques like meditation or diaphragmatic breathing. Finally, find a way to express yourself through creative endeavors like writing or painting.
4. Consider Professional Support
If needed, and if feelings of anxiety or panic become overwhelming, seek assistance. A health professional can always be beneficial. Therapists can offer personalized coping strategies tailored to meet your needs, as we are all different in what triggers our anxiety.
5. The Inevitable – Keeping in Touch
Even as a mental health writer, I can be better at this one. Having ties with friends and family can ease stress and worry. Interacting regularly can shift our focus away from the constant stream of negative news.
In the end, while staying informed is important, it’s also vital to strike a balance in how we consume news. Recognizing the signs of scrolling through distressing content and taking proactive measures to lessen its impact can help prevent the development of more severe anxiety issues and panic attacks. The world has changed, and mental health is important, so by being mindful and adopting coping strategies, we can safeguard our well-being during these challenging times (no matter where we are located.)
By being aware of how our media intake affects our health, we can navigate the age without falling prey to its negative aspects. Remember, it’s completely fine to unplug for the sake of your well-being.
Addiction is a multifaceted problem that can impact individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their age, gender, or background. Whether it’s substance abuse, alcohol addiction, or behavioural disorders, seeking help is the first step to recovery. In this article, we will explore five ways to combat addiction and pave the way to a healthier, addiction-free life. Whether you’re personally grappling with addiction or you’re supporting someone on their path to recovery, these insights will provide valuable guidance for understanding and combating addiction effectively.
Seek Professional Help
The journey to recovery from addiction frequently commences with the essential step of seeking professional help. Therapists, counsellors, and healthcare providers play pivotal roles in guiding individuals toward a healthier, addiction-free life. For those dealing with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders, specialised treatment centers, known as dual-diagnosis treatment centers, offer a higher level of care and a tailored approach to recovery. These centers are equipped to assess and address the root causes of addiction, including the often complex interplay of underlying mental health issues.
Build a Support System
In the journey of addiction recovery, building a robust support system is an invaluable asset. Building a support system involves connecting with loved ones and friends or engaging in support communities, like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). The path to recovery is undeniably challenging, and having a network of individuals who understand and care can make a significant difference.
Sharing experiences and challenges with others who have faced similar struggles can provide a unique bond and a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation and alienation that often accompany addiction. This shared journey toward recovery cultivates a sense of hope and resilience, proving to individuals that they are not alone in their pursuit of a healthier, addiction-free life.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Behavioral therapy (CBT) is a known and highly effective method used in addiction treatment. CBT zeroes in on identifying and transforming negative thought patterns and behaviors intricately linked to addiction. Through collaboration with a therapist, people gain the ability to explore the seated origins of their addiction, which are frequently connected to past events or instances of trauma.
This profound self-reflection is a crucial initial step toward recovery. CBT equips individuals with the tools to challenge and modify self-destructive habits and beliefs, empowering them to break free from the cycle of addiction and pursue a life of lasting sobriety. CBT is not merely a therapeutic intervention; it’s a transformative journey that enables individuals to regain control over their lives, nurturing emotional resilience and self-awareness as they navigate the path to recovery.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted therapy (MAT) contributes to aiding individuals in their quest to conquer addiction. This comprehensive strategy combines counselling and behavioural therapies with specific medications designed to reduce cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Substances like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can be prescribed as part of MAT, tailored to an individual’s unique needs. MAT is a significant aid in addressing the physical aspects of addiction, facilitating a more comfortable and effective journey toward recovery. By helping to manage the intense cravings and symptoms of withdrawal, MAT can make the process more manageable and increase the chances of successful, long-term recovery.
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care
In the pursuit of addiction recovery, the role of lifestyle changes and self-care cannot be overstated. A healthy lifestyle is a cornerstone for maintaining lasting recovery. Incorporating regular physical activity, adopting a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep are fundamental steps in restoring both physical and emotional well-being. These changes not only promote physical health but also contribute to emotional stability, fostering a more robust foundation for recovery. Additionally, self-care practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and stress management techniques play an instrumental role in reducing the risk of relapse.
By nurturing mental and emotional resilience, individuals can better cope with the challenges they may encounter on their journey toward a healthier, addiction-free life. These practices instill the necessary tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional triggers, ultimately enhancing an individual’s ability to make healthy choices and maintain a life free from addiction.
Conclusion
Overcoming addiction is a demanding yet crucial path for individuals battling it and their families. Seeking professional help, building a support system, engaging in therapies like CBT, considering medication-assisted treatment, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve the chances of recovery. It’s important to remember that addiction is a treatable condition, and with the right strategies and support, a fulfilling, addiction-free life is achievable.
Massage, the manipulation of muscles and soft tissue, has been used as a therapeutic practice for centuries. From traditional therapies in ancient civilisations to modern practices, massage has continued to prove its efficacy in promoting physical and emotional relaxation, pain relief, and stress reduction. Let us explore the many health benefits that come with getting a massage.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Research has shown that massage has a positive impact on both physical and mental wellbeing. One of the primary benefits of massage is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Massage helps to lower the levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline while increasing the levels of feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin. As a result, getting a massage allows us to feel more relaxed and at ease, improving our overall emotional and mental health.
Promote Better Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for optimal physical and mental health. Regular massage therapy can help bring about restorative sleep by relaxing the muscles, increasing circulation, and reducing tension. Studies have shown that massage therapy can help reduce the symptoms of insomnia and other sleep disorders, thereby promoting better sleep.
Relieves Pain
Many of us deal with chronic pain on a daily basis. Massage therapy can be used to relieve pain and discomfort caused by various factors such as muscle tension, injury, or poor posture. Massage improves circulation, reduces inflammation, helps muscles to relax, and stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Regular massage therapy can provide long-term pain relief and improve flexibility and range of motion.
Boosts Immunity
Another health benefit of massage therapy is its ability to boost the immune system. Studies show that regular massage sessions increase the production and activity of white blood cells, which play a vital role in fighting off infections and illness. Increased circulation and improved lymphatic flow help the body flush out toxins and improve its overall immunity.
In conclusion, massage therapy is an ancient practice that offers numerous health benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving sleep, relieving pain, and boosting the immune system, regular massage sessions are a great way to promote a healthy lifestyle. If you’re dealing with any of the issues mentioned above or simply wanting to relax and unwind, schedule a massage appointment today. Your body and mind will thank you!
This article is by freelance writer Hannah Whittenly.
Anxiety has become increasingly prevalent in today’s fast-paced and demanding world, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Fortunately, counselling has emerged as an effective therapeutic approach to help individuals manage and overcome their anxiety. By providing guidance, support, and evidence-based strategies, anxiety therapy can empower individuals to strengthen their mental health and lead fulfilling lives.
Understanding Anxiety
Before delving into the role of anxiety counselling, it is crucial to grasp the nature of anxiety itself. Anxiety is a normal human emotion, but when it becomes chronic and interferes with daily functioning, it can be classified as an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions such as generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, and specific phobias.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the first steps towards seeking counselling is breaking the stigma associated with mental health. Many individuals hesitate to reach out for help due to fears of judgment or shame. However, anxiety therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can openly discuss their concerns and experiences. Counsellors are trained professionals who understand the complexities of anxiety and can offer empathy and support.
Identifying Underlying Triggers
Therapy helps individuals identify and understand the underlying triggers that contribute to their anxiety. Counsellors utilise various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or talking therapies, to explore thought patterns, behavioural responses, and experiences that may be fuelling anxiety. Gaining insight into these triggers is essential for developing the coping strategies individuals need to manage their anxiety more efficiently.
Learning Coping Mechanisms
One of the key benefits of anxiety therapy is that people are provided with a diverse range of coping mechanisms tailored to their specific needs. Counsellors can teach relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices to reduce present anxiety symptoms. Additionally, individuals learn to challenge and reframe negative thought patterns, replacing them with more realistic and positive ones.
Building Resilience
Anxiety therapy focuses on building resilience, which is crucial for long-term mental well-being. Counsellors work with individuals to develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve problem-solving skills, and enhance emotional regulation. Individuals who build resilience become better equipped to handle stressors and bounce back from setbacks, leading to improved mental health outcomes.
Enhancing Self-awareness
Another essential aspect of anxiety therapy is enhancing self-awareness. Counsellors help individuals explore their emotions, beliefs, and values, promoting an understanding of themselves. When individuals gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, they can identify and challenge unhelpful patterns, leading to personal growth and improved self-esteem.
Strengthening Relationships
Anxiety often affects interpersonal relationships, leading to (often unfairly) strained connections with friends, family, and colleagues. Anxiety therapy provides individuals with the tools needed to improve their communication skills, establish healthy boundaries, and cultivate supportive relationships. Individuals experience a greater sense of belonging and social support by strengthening their relationships, and these elements are vital for mental well-being.
Preventing Relapse
Counselling for anxiety helps individuals manage their current anxiety symptoms while providing them with the skills needed to prevent relapse. Learning effective coping mechanisms and developing a toolbox of strategies is important for navigating future challenges with resilience and confidence. Counsellors also provide ongoing support and guidance, ensuring individuals have the necessary resources to maintain their mental well-being. When the underlying triggers are addressed and proactive strategies are implemented, people can develop a strong support system and maintain long-term stability in their mental health.
Promoting Self-Care and Holistic Well-being
Anxiety therapy emphasises the importance of self-care and holistic well-being. Counsellors guide individuals in implementing self-care practices that nurture their physical, emotional, and mental health. This may include regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting sufficient sleep, engaging in creative outlets, and practicing self-compassion. Individuals who prioritise self-care create a solid foundation for overall well-being and cultivate a healthier relationship with themselves and their anxiety.
Conclusion
Therapy is a powerful therapeutic approach that can significantly strengthen mental health. By breaking the stigma, identifying triggers, and learning healthy coping mechanisms, individuals can regain control over their anxiety and lead more fulfilling lives. Through building resilience, enhancing self-awareness, and improving relationships, anxiety therapy empowers individuals to face challenges with confidence.
When those struggling with anxiety reach out for professional help, they have ongoing support as they face anxiety and can work toward a brighter, healthier future.
This article was written by freelance writer Miranda Spears,
Have you heard about Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy but are not sure what it is or how it works? EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy that is mainly used to treat Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other similar conditions. This form of therapy has been known to produce incredible results in clients with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and overwhelming fear. If you are someone who wants to know more about EMDR therapy, you are in the right place. This guide explains everything you need to know about EMDR therapy in detail.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy designed to help individuals overcome the effects of trauma and other emotional disorders. EMDR works by reprocessing the negative emotions, memories, and sensations related to the trauma so that they no longer have the power to cause distress. During a typical EMDR session, the client is guided through a series of bilateral eye movements, which induce a rapid eye movement (REM) sleep-like state that enables swift processing of traumatic memories. This form of therapy is client-led, meaning that the therapist guides the client, but the client is in control of the process.
Who Can Benefit From EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is an ideal treatment option for individuals who suffer from PTSD and other traumatic or stress-related disorders. However, anyone experiencing emotional distress due to past events, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and other similar issues can also benefit from EMDR therapy.
The EMDR Therapy Process
EMDR therapy sessions typically last 50-90 minutes, and the total number of sessions required varies depending on the individual’s needs and symptoms. An initial intake session is held to assess the individual’s needs, symptoms, and goals. During subsequent sessions, the therapist helps the individual to identify and process the negative emotions and memories related to the traumatic experience. This is done through a specific protocol that involves the client’s recall of the traumatic event and the use of bilateral eye movements to enable swift and efficient processing. The therapy ends when the client reports that the distress related to a specific memory has reduced to an acceptable level.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy is a unique, non-invasive, and relatively quick way to process traumatic memories and help clients overcome negative emotions. The benefits of EMDR therapy include shorter therapy duration, increased treatment efficiency, less chance of retraumatisation, and more profound and long-lasting results. EMDR does not involve any medications or invasive techniques, making it a safe treatment option for most individuals.
Finding a Qualified EMDR Therapist
To ensure that you receive the intended benefits of EMDR therapy, it is crucial to find a qualified EMDR therapist who has the necessary training and credentials. If in the UK, EMDR can be found on the NHS but there are long waiting lists, so you may need to find a private therapist via the Counselling Directory. If in the USA, a certified EMDR therapist should be licensed in their state, have the required training, and be registered with the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). You can also check online reviews or ask for referrals from someone who has benefited from EMDR therapy.
EMDR therapy is a highly effective form of therapy that helps individuals process their traumatic memories, overcome negative emotions, and achieve lasting healing. If you or someone you love is suffering from PTSD or other mental health issues, we urge you to give EMDR therapy a try.
By following the EMDR therapy process, working with a qualified EMDR therapist, and staying committed to the treatment, you will be able to live a healthier and happier life. We hope this guide was helpful in introducing you to EMDR therapy, and we wish you the best on your healing journey.
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but sometimes it can become overwhelming and interfere with your daily life. If you’re struggling with anxiety, you don’t have to go it alone. There are many effective strategies for managing anxiety that psychiatrists and mental health professionals use every day. Here are 10 proven strategies for reducing anxiety and taking control of your thoughts and feelings.
Identify Your Triggers
The first step in managing your anxiety is to identify what triggers it in the first place. Is there a specific situation, person, or event that causes you to feel anxious? By recognizing these triggers, you can begin to take steps to avoid them or find ways of coping when they do arise.
Keep a Stress Journal
Keeping track of your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to gain insight into how your body reacts to certain situations and how best to manage them. Write down any physical sensations, emotions, or triggers that contribute to your anxiety so that you can better understand what’s causing it and how best to deal with it.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise is not only a great way to burn off pent-up energy but also helps release endorphins which act as natural mood boosters. Even just a few minutes of exercise each day can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mental wellbeing.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Taking time out of each day for relaxation is essential for keeping your stress levels low. Take up yoga, practice deep breathing exercises, or listen to calming music before bed each night—whatever works for you. Finding activities that bring about relaxation will help reduce the intensity of your anxiety over time and lead towards more peaceful days ahead.
Talk To Someone
Talking about the things that are causing you anxiety is often the first step in taking control of it again; whether it be with family members, friends, or even professional psychiatric services, like New Tele Doc, if needed. Having someone else who you trust to talk through issues with can help put problems into perspective and provide clarity on potential solutions going forward—something we often need when dealing with our own anxieties.
Get Enough Sleep
Lack of sleep can exacerbate existing anxieties so make sure you get at least 7-8 hours per night whenever possible; if not more depending on personal circumstances. If insomnia is an issue then try getting outside during daytime hours (weather permitting) as exposure to sunlight helps regulate the body’s natural circadian rhythm which aids in quality sleep later at night.
Eat Well and Drink Water
Eating well balanced meals throughout the day helps keep energy levels high while avoiding unhealthy snacks or sugary drinks which can cause blood sugar spikes/drops leading towards feelings of fatigue/anxiousness respectively. Similarly drinking lots of water helps ensure good hydration levels which makes us feel more alert mentally whilst providing physical benefits too.
Practice Mindful Meditation
Mindful meditation involves focusing on one’s thoughts without judgment in order to allow yourself some time away from any negative self-talk or worrying thoughts; allowing yourself time away from such things has been proven beneficial for those struggling with anxiety issues. It’s important however not to focus solely on this technique as other methods should always be employed alongside mindful meditation too when tackling any difficult issue such as this one.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
Both caffeine and alcohol are known stimulants which if consumed regularly can increase adrenal hormones leading towards heightened states of fear, anxiety, and nervousness. Try replacing coffee/tea based beverages (which contain caffeine) instead with green tea or fruit juices (which don’t!) as these are far healthier options overall particularly when trying to combat any pre-existing anxieties already present within oneself.
Break Negative Thinking Patterns
Lastly breaking negative thinking patterns involves challenging any irrational beliefs we may have about ourselves by looking at evidence objectively. This could involve writing down pros and cons for certain decisions we make before acting upon them so we have an understanding of why certain actions should be taken based upon factual evidence rather than assumptions made from our own potentially skewed perspectives.
Everyone experiences periods of worry from time-to-time but learning how best to manage those worries will increase your confidence in being able handle similar situations better next time they arise. By following the above 10 steps anyone suffering from regular bouts of anxiety will likely find their overall quality of life improving dramatically once proper management techniques become part of their daily routine! Psychiatric services such as therapy sessions/medication may also be necessary depending upon individual circumstances. Seeking medical advice should never be seen as a sign of weakness but rather strength instead because ultimately tackling problems head-on is better than running away from them indefinitely.
Considering the wellbeing of employees has never been more important, or more timely. With world events like the coronavirus pandemic having a serious impact on global mental health, more and more employers have begun to more seriously consider the overall wellbeing of their employees, not simply their productivity in the workplace.
It is therefore important for companies to consider ways to improve employee wellbeing. Below is a list of tips for improving the wellbeing of your employees.
Training and Long-Term Goals
The reason that many employees are unhappy at work is that they feel they have stagnated, spending years in a particular position without any opportunity for growth or new responsibilities.
It is therefore important to understand the individual professional goals of your employees and how you might deploy training and development schemes to help them achieve those goals. An employee is much happier if they feel they are working towards a goal or new opportunity, not simply stuck in a 9-5 grind.
It is well worth investing in personal development schemes to help employees recognise and develop their individual talents. These schemes can come in the form of lecture series or workshops, training schemes or bootcamps.
Flexibility
It has been reported by several studies that allowing employees greater flexibility regarding when and where they work can greatly improve mental health. Allowing flexible working hours and locations can help employees feel a greater sense of autonomy over their personal and professional lives.
Obviously this involves a degree of coordination, since employees must still be able to work collaboratively throughout the day, but studies have shown that more flexible scheduling can lead to greater wellbeing and productivity.
(image: Stefan Stefanovic: Unsplash)
Social Engagements
It is important for the wellbeing of employees to work in a friendly and collaborative workplace environment. Creating opportunities for social, non-work engagements for your employees is not just a chance for them to let off steam, it can be a vital way of helping employees build meaningful and productive social relationships with their colleagues.
If staff are on friendly terms, they are more likely to look forward to coming into work, as well as more likely to collaborate successfully with their colleagues on work-related tasks. A social and amicable work environment almost always leads to a happier and more productive workforce.
Creating a healthy office environment, full of friendly social links, can be achieved in several ways. One way is the more informal route of arranging after-work social engagements (or weekend trips) for your employees. Or you could go the more formal route of arranging dedicated team-building days or afternoons.
There are a myriad of ways of creating a friendly workplace environment, but it is inarguable that doing so will lead to greater wellbeing among all employees.
Strategize and Focus on Mental health
Many people believe that their mental health issues can at least partly be attributed to the pressures and strains of their professional lives or because they require financial assistance. It is therefore essential for employers to focus on creating an inclusive environment where mental health issues can be discussed and tackled in an open, honest and compassionate way.
There are many ways in which employees can address mental health issues in the workplace. One is to create, and follow, a comprehensive wellbeing policy. The policy should signpost ways in which the company works to address mental health issues as well as the resources that the company provides for employees in regards to mental health management.
Creating a workplace environment in which mental health is clearly seen to be a priority will foster a greater sense of emotional security and wellness for your employees.
On the 1st March 2016, I started this blog as a way to provide therapy for myself- as I was going through panic attacks, (caused by trauma). Can you believe that was 7 years ago?! I can’t! Since then I have had several years of therapy and my life changed so much too for the better- I met my husband, we got married and moved to our first home.
The blog has turned into a book Bring me to Light (with Trigger), writing for Metro.co.uk, Glamour, the Telegraph, Happiful, Rethink Mental Illness, Mind and other incredible organisations, I have partnered with large and small brands, charities, businesses, writers to create content that battles stigma on mental health. We have been awarded as a Top 10 UK blog by Vuelio since 2018 (thank you) and I love to share my story to help others and educate people about bipolar, anxiety, panic disorders, psychosis, mania and mental health in the workplace (amongst other mental health topics!). I have also recorded podcasts and have begun speaking in the community about bipolar with my Dad.
I cannot believe it has been 7 years since I opened up my computer to write- I was struggling. a lot. Writing has been such a therapy and a saviour to me.. and I hope this blog helps you too!
As always, I want to thank all my contributors and brands (sponsored or not), as well as the digital agencies and freelance writers who provide content too.
This year March 22- 23 we have featured (where it says my name, I wrote it!)
Most of us have bad habits that we’re aware of, whether it’s smoking, excessive drinking, or eating unhealthy foods. We may think that the only consequence of these habits is the occasional guilty feeling or a bit of embarrassment. Still, bad habits have far-reaching and unseen repercussions that can significantly affect our health. In fact, poor habits such as these can lead to various physical and mental health issues, such as depression, insomnia, and heart disease. The good news is that we can make changes to improve our health and overall well-being by understanding the unseen consequences of our bad habits.
Premature Ageing
Premature ageing is one of the most significant and often unseen consequences of bad habits. Smoking, for example, has been linked to premature wrinkles, age spots, and an overall aged appearance. The same applies to excessive drinking and unhealthy eating habits, contributing to poor skin health and general ageing.
Research has shown that bad habits can also contribute to accelerated ageing of the brain. Studies have found that excessive drinking, smoking, and other unhealthy habits can increase the risk of developing dementia and other age-related cognitive issues.
Decreased Mental Health
Bad habits can also have a negative impact on our mental health. Studies have found that smoking, excessive drinking, and unhealthy eating habits can all increase the risk of developing depression and anxiety. Additionally, poor habits can lead to an increased risk of developing insomnia, which can harm our mental health.
Additionally, unhealthy habits can also lead to an increased risk of developing stress and other negative emotions. Studies have found that smokers and excessive drinkers are more likely to experience emotions such as anger and frustration, which can lead to further mental health issues.
Reduced Motivation
Bad habits can also have a negative effect on our motivation levels. People with unhealthy habits often feel lethargic and lack the energy and drive to complete tasks or take on new challenges. This can sometimes be attributed to poor nutrition, as unhealthy foods leave us feeling sluggish and unmotivated. Similarly, those who smoke often feel tired and lack the energy to exercise, which can further decrease motivation levels.
Bad habits can increase the risk of developing chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. These conditions can cause fatigue, which can further reduce our motivation levels. Additionally, those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol are more likely to experience difficulty concentrating, which can decrease motivation and mental health.
Lifestyle Changes
Bad habits can lead to a dependence on these substances which could significantly alter your lifestyle. Just like you can lack motivation, you may also replace things you should do with bad habits, despite knowing it is not good for you.
If you develop a dependence on alcohol or drugs, you may ignore responsibilities, such as work, spending time with friends, or even parenting, to indulge in your bad habits. While any bad habit can affect your life and be a problem, these instances are where you have arguably hit rock bottom because you care more about the habit than you do anything else.
In these cases, seeking help through therapy or drug rehab is crucial. It can take time to accept you need help, but taking steps to find this support is the first stage of getting your life back.
Increased Risk of Health Conditions and Diseases
Finally, bad habits can increase the risk of developing severe health conditions and diseases. Those who smoke are more likely to experience a stroke, lung cancer, heart disease, and an increased risk of developing COPD and other respiratory conditions. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.
Furthermore, those who engage in unhealthy habits are more likely to develop obesity and type 2 diabetes and an increased risk of developing high blood pressure and high cholesterol. These conditions can lead to an increased risk of stroke and heart attack and even reduce our life expectancy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘bad habits’ can have far-reaching and unseen consequences that significantly affect our health and overall wellbeing. However, by understanding the unseen effects of our bad habits, we can make changes to improve our health and wellness for good.
This article was written by a freelance writer. If you need help for addictions or eating disorders, please reach for help from qualified professionals.
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