Category: Mental Health

Tips For Finding The Right Psychiatrist For Your Needs: by Brooke Chaplan

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: free image)

Mental health is just as important as physical health and seeking professional help can make a significant difference in one’s life. But choosing the right psychiatrist can be a daunting task. Finding the right person who understands your needs, and creates a treatment approach that suits you, can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some helpful tips for finding the right psychiatrist for your mental health needs.

Ask for Referrals (If Private)

Start by asking for referrals from trusted sources such as family, friends, or a primary healthcare provider if you are going privately. You can’t always choose who you get referred to on the NHS, if you live in the UK but have to trust your GP will refer you to someone good. It’s always a good idea to get recommendations from people who have gone through similar experiences and found a psychiatrist that was helpful to them. Additionally, you could check with your GP or local mental health clinic for referrals.

Check Credentials

Psychiatrists are medical doctors with additional education and training in psychiatry. It’s important to ensure that the psychiatrists you’re considering are board-certified in psychiatry, meaning they have undergone a rigorous training and certification process (in the NHS they will be certified). If going privately, check out their education, training, and professional experience to ensure they hold a reputable degree from a top-rated institution and possess the license to operate.

Consider Experience and Specialisations

A well-experienced psychiatrist would be more likely to handle specific issues than a psychiatrist who is new to practice. You’ll want to find a psychiatrist that has experience in treating the specific mental health conditions or concerns you may have. For example, if you’re dealing with anxiety, you’ll want to seek out a psychiatrist who specialises in anxiety disorders.

Insurance Coverage (For USA/ private insurance)

If you have private health insurance, check with your provider to see which psychiatrists are in-network to help out with the cost of treatment. You may also ask your psychiatrist if they offer a payment plan to make their services more affordable. If in the USA, If you don’t have insurance, consider seeking treatment at community health clinics that offer sliding-fee scales. If in UK, this is free via the NHS but can be a long waiting list, if you are not at crisis point.

Trust Your Instincts

Lastly, trust your instincts. You want to feel comfortable with the psychiatrist you choose, so it is important to ensure that their communication style and methods align with what works best for you. During your first appointment with a potential psychiatrist, pay attention to how the psychiatrist speaks, if they listen to you, and how they react to your concerns. It’s important to choose someone you can feel comfortable opening up to.

It’s important to take the time to find a qualified psychiatrist you feel comfortable with, to help manage your mental health. Referrals from trusted sources, verifying credentials, experience, insurance coverage, and your comfort are all important factors in selecting the right psychiatrist to suit your needs. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be more confident in your search for the right psychiatrist.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and a qualified psychiatric professional can help you feel better mentally, emotionally, and physically.

If you’re in the UK: check out`: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer from the USA.

How Mental Illness Can Affect Our Coping Mechanisms.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Unsplash)

Coping mechanisms are strategies that people use or develop in order to deal with, or avoid dealing with, difficult and stressful emotions or situations. Whilst some people may use exercise, a healthy diet or meditation as a way to process difficult feelings, it can be very easy to fall into unhealthy habits instead, especially if we have pre-existing mental health conditions.  

For example, those who have suffered with eating disorders may automatically fall back into restrictive eating habits or fall into a pattern of binge eating when life gets difficult. Whilst we can easily beat ourselves up for not ‘handling things’ in a healthy and productive manner, it’s important to remember that coping mechanisms serve an instinctive purpose. In times of stress, we seek comfort and safety. On a biochemical level, unhealthy coping mechanisms are serving that purpose.  

That doesn’t mean we should allow them to continue, however. Part of overcoming mental illness is learning how to cope in healthy ways that serve a higher purpose for you long term. Here, we will take a closer look at how mental illness can affect our coping mechanisms, and how you can learn to shift your unhealthy coping habits into more helpful ones. 

Why mental illness makes us vulnerable 

Mental illnesses come in a wide variety, and each person will experience them slightly differently to the next. But essentially, mental illness means that our brains aren’t working exactly how they should. This can warp our perception, and make us feel more anxious, stressed, insecure and prone to depression than we would be otherwise. 

When we are stressed, we seek instant comfort. Our brains instinctively drive us to seek the quickest fix and push us to run away from our cause of stress. This is why when you are really, really hungry, all you want to do is eat sugary foods such as chocolate – your body knows that’s the quickest fix for its hunger, even though you know consciously that it’s not the healthiest option. 

For people with mental illness, this stress response can trigger a repetition of a familiar pattern of negative behaviour that instantly soothes or avoids the initial problem, but also creates bigger issues long term. 

Recognise your behaviour 

It’s important to recognise when we are relying on unhelpful coping mechanisms to avoid facing stress, as they can lead to more serious mental and physical problems. If you are fixating on something that is not going to help you long term, such as obsessive cleaning, isolating yourself from family and friends, or abusing alcohol, you need to consciously recognise the signs that your habits are not serving you. 

You may find it helpful to write down the root causes of your negative habits, and commit to facing the problems head on instead of allowing them to cause you further problems. Talking to someone you trust can be a massive help and relief, and can help you springboard yourself into a better place mentally. 

Make small changes 

Often when our mental health is low, we can feel overwhelmed by the thought of fixing everything. Remember, your perception is magnified when you are struggling mentally, so everything will seem worse and harder than it truly is. Being kind to yourself and committing to changing just one small habit at a time can be really helpful in focusing on what you can achieve – one step at a time.  

Speaking to a health professional can be an intimidating thought, but sometimes it is necessary in order for us to make profound changes to our health and wellbeing. There is no shame in asking for help, and you are not alone. By recognising when our coping mechanisms are beginning to be less than healthy, we can make the choice to improve them. 

This article is written by a freelance writer.

Taking Care of Your Mental Health When Living Alone: by Anita Ginsburg.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Unsplash)

Living alone can be an amazing experience. You get to enjoy your own company, have complete control over your home, and create your own unique environment. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Living alone can also be lonely, isolating, and downright scary at times. It’s even more challenging when we’re going through something that affects our mental health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some practical tips for taking care of your mental health when living alone.

Create a Routine

One of the biggest challenges of living alone is that we don’t have anyone else to be accountable for. We can sleep all day, watch Netflix all night, and neglect our responsibilities without any immediate consequences. This can lead to a lack of structure and routine, which can have a negative impact on our mental health. Creating a simple routine can help provide some structure to your day and give you a sense of purpose. Start by defining what your day should look like from the moment you wake up until the moment you go to bed. This doesn’t have to be complicated – it can be as simple as waking up at the same time every day, doing some exercise in the morning, working for a few hours, and then taking some leisure time in the afternoon.

Stay Connected

Living alone can be incredibly lonely, especially if you’ve recently moved to a new city or lost touch with friends and family. Social connections are essential for our mental health, so it’s important to stay connected with others in any way possible. Calling or texting friends and family, joining a virtual book club, or connecting with others on social media can all help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Create a Comfortable and Safe Home Environment

Living alone can also be scary sometimes, especially if you’ve had negative experiences in the past. It’s important to create a comfortable and safe home environment that you enjoy spending time in. This can include things like decorating your apartment with things that make you happy, investing in a security system, and ensuring that your doors and windows are locked at all times. Feeling comfortable and secure in your home can help alleviate anxiety and stress.

Take Care of Your Physical Health

Taking care of your physical health is crucial for your mental health, especially when living alone. When we don’t have anyone else to motivate us or remind us, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly can all help improve your mental health.

Seek Professional Help if Necessary

Lastly, if you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Living alone can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are many resources available to help you cope with mental health challenges, including therapy, a psychiatrist, support groups, and hotlines. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.

Living alone can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to take care of your mental health when living solo. Creating a routine, staying connected with others, creating a comfortable and safe home environment, taking care of your physical health, and seeking professional help if necessary can all help alleviate mental health challenges. Remember, you’re not alone – there are many resources available to help support you on your mental health journey. So, take care of yourself and enjoy the independence and freedom that comes with living alone.

Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer form the USA.

Exciting News- We Are A Vuelio Top 10 UK Mental Health Blog Again!

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

Thanks to our friends at Vuelio, who not only ranked as again as a Top 10 UK Mental Health blog which is amazing- but included this little blog in the top 5!!

This is our highest ranking and I am so honoured. Thanks to all the writers and business/brands we work with too for their hard work in creating content.

This blog is in its 7th year now and can’t wait to see what the next year will bring. This is particularly special as this week is Mental Health Awareness Week too. The aim of this blog is to provide information to help people feel less alone and to dispell any myths of stigmas around mental illness.

Well done to all on this list and all the fab mental health bloggers out there.

You can see the list here: https://www.vuelio.com/uk/social-media-index/mental-health-blogs-uk-top-10/

Thank you Vuelio team!

Eleanor x

How To Safely Treat An Eating Disorder by Lizzie Weakley.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: Annie Spratt: Unsplash)

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that require a multi-dimensional approach to treatment. They can affect people of all ages, genders, races, and backgrounds, causing severe emotional and physical distress if left untreated. The good news is that there are many safe and effective treatment options available to those struggling with eating disorders. This article will explore some of the most effective ways to safely treat an eating disorder, including therapy, medication, nutrition counselling, and support groups.

Eating Disorder Treatment Therapy

One of the most important aspects of care is eating disorder treatment therapy. There are different types of therapy available to those struggling with an eating disorder, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and family-based therapy (FBT). These therapies can help individuals identify and change distorted thoughts and behaviours around food, body image, and weight. CBT is particularly effective in treating individuals with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, while DBT can help those struggling with binge eating disorder and emotional dysregulation. FBT is a family-based approach to treating eating disorders in adolescents and children, which focuses on empowering the family to help the individual recover.

Medication

Medication may also be prescribed to individuals with eating disorders, particularly those with comorbid conditions such as anxiety or depression that are affecting their recovery. Antidepressants can help reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety, while antipsychotics may be prescribed for those with severe symptoms of body dysmorphia, or the distorted belief that their body is flawed. However, medication should be used alongside therapy and other forms of treatment, and under the close supervision of a medical professional.

Nutrition Counselling

Nutrition counseling can be an important part of eating disorder treatment, particularly for those with severe malnutrition or gastrointestinal problems. A registered dietitian can help individuals create a balanced and customized meal plan, learn about appropriate portions, and manage food fears and weight concerns. Nutrition counseling may also include education around mindful eating, intuitive eating, and healthy coping mechanisms. However, it is important to note that nutrition counseling alone is not sufficient for treating eating disorders.

Support Groups

Support groups can be a valuable resource for individuals struggling with eating disorders, as they provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for sharing experiences and gaining support. They can be particularly beneficial for those who cannot afford or access individual therapy, or who prefer a group format. Local and online support groups are available, and many are free or low-cost. Support groups can also provide a sense of community and belonging, which can be helpful in reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Eating disorders can be devastating, but there is hope for recovery. Treatment may involve a combination of therapy, medication, nutrition counselling, and support groups, depending on the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Recovery is a journey, and it may take time and patience, but with the right support and resources, it is possible. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, reach out to a healthcare professional for help. Remember, you are not alone.

Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from the USA.

On World Bipolar Day I Hope For: The Road to Remission by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: World Bipolar Day)

Today is World Bipolar Day and for those of us living with bipolar disorder we know that living with it every day, year round is more accurate. However today is our day to talk about life with mental illness and to try and eradicate the stigma around the illness… ‘crazy lady’ ‘nuts’ ‘drama queen’.

World Bipolar Day is designed to raise awareness worldwide of bipolar conditions and to work to eliminate social stigma whilst providing information to educate and help people understand the condition.

Even though I live in remission/recovery with the illness, I am medicated daily to be this way, and I have undergone years of therapy and learnt coping methods too, with support from family.

Well, before I found medication that stabilises my bipolar highs and lows, life looked very different.

There were times I couldn’t work. I was so depressed I lay in bed in all day, only getting up to eat. I was scared to have a shower and wash my hair.

Life looked bleak. All I wanted was my duvet and oblivion. I had intrusive thoughts about ending my life, I was in a lot of emotional pain and this would last for weeks, sometimes months on end.

Bipolar isn’t just a bit high or a bit low…. its depression and mania, suicidal ideation and psychosis, self harm thoughts, hypersexuality, hyper activity, believing delusions that aren’t real…..SO much. Its episodic but it can ruin your life. Some turn to drugs, alcohol, sex to cope. Some hear voices too.

I have been in hospital twice for fairly long stays. I have been sectioned under the mental health act and held in a hospital unit against my will. I have been injected with sedatives to calm my mind and body when I couldn’t consent. I have met people in hospital who were suicidal, anxious, depressed, high on drugs, in psychosis. I lived on a ward where I heard people being restrained.

So, not much fun really. Luckily this month I am celebrating 9 years of remission out of hospital! I also came out of hospital as a nervous wreck and thankfully, therapy has helped.

(Image: speakingbipolar.com)

This blog is inspired by one of my followers who asked me what was my ‘Aha’ moment in recovery.

As well as finding the medicine Lithium, a salt that controls the mood fluctuations, the biggest thing I did for my own healing was go through therapy for my panic attacks and PTSD like symptoms. This was done with the support of my husband and family and because I has been on an NHS waiting list for 2 years, I needed help. My therapist and I have done EMDR trauma therapy which has helped me to process things.

In fact, I still do get anxiety attacks – just less. I have been in a very good place generally in the past year. Finding support at home, at work and from friends and family has been the most stabilising part.

I have had bipolar since I was 15, I am 34 and can tell you that this has not always been the case and my mental health has and will fluctuate.

I learnt recently that bipolar brains are neurodiverse, meaning our brain chemicals act differently to a neurotypical brain. Always good to understand the biology behind it too as this illness can be inherited and run in families- my Dad and I and other relatives have it.

On World Bipolar Day I hope:

-Employers adhere to the disability act and make reasonable adjustments to help those of us with bipolar to work in a better way for them, including hybrid working.

-People with mental illness aren’t fired because they can’t get to a physical workplace.

-Mental health services need better funding, so that people with bipolar can get a correct diagnosis sooner and get the help they need.

-People not in the Western world will get access to mental health medication and therapies that they desperately need.

Thank you for your ongoing support,

Eleanor

x

Read more about my journey with bipolar in my book Bring me to Light

How To Reduce Your Stress Levels After Work by Rose Morley

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(pexels: Andrea Piacquaido)

Work-related stress catches up to us all eventually. Whether you are experiencing anxiety due to large workloads, or you are finding it hard to adjust to a new role, it is very normal to experience bursts of stress now and then. Knowing how to deal with stress is not common knowledge for many of us, and it is unheard of for workplaces to encourage mindful practices to reduce the symptoms of stress.

Chances are if you are reading this you have hit rock bottom, or at least the levels of stress are starting to have impacting effects on your life. Reducing stress in all areas of life might seem impossible, but we can at least take steps toward minimizing its impact on us by starting healthier habits when we get home from work. Home is for comfort and stepping away from the workload of the day.

If you are looking for the telltale signs of work-related stress and habits you can start when you return home from work, take a look at our following suggestions.

Symptoms Of Work Stress

First of all, you need to come to terms with how stress is showing up in your life. You may have been experiencing work-related stress symptoms for some time now, but you might just have ignored the signs. If you have experienced the following symptoms you might have beginners signs of work-related burnout and stress:

● Work-related thoughts when falling asleep

● Insomnia

● Regular headaches

● Fast heart rate when thinking about work-related tasks

● Susceptible to regular illness

● Lack of sleep

● Frequent sweating

Whilst many of these symptoms may be the results of many other things, you should consider which of your symptoms were not present before you become stressed with your work.

Steps You Can Take

If you are looking for habits you can start to implement to reduce your stress levels after work, consider taking action with the following:

Write Down Your Worries

First of all, the best way to remove ruminating thoughts from your head is to take the time to write everything down. This may feel uncomfortable at first, however, this is a great way to be present and list all of your worries, instead of letting them overpower your thoughts back to back. Seeing exactly what is stressing you out on paper has a way of taking the power away from each worry, and helps with the process of minimizing these stressors.

Prioritise You Time

Also, after work, you should make sure that at least an hour of your evening is spent doing exactly what you want to do. This hour should not be impacted by any other responsibilities, it may feel easier to do this after you have done your other priority tasks such as cooking and preparing for the next day. This self care time might be spent having a relaxing bath, or maybe watching a feel-good film. Spend time with yourself and make sure you enjoy it.

Speak With Your Support Network

Speaking with our loved ones is a great activity to complete when we feel like things are getting too much. Keeping ruminating thoughts to ourselves is what causes dangerous levels of stress and burnout, so spend some time speaking with your support network about what you are struggling with most. They may not be able to offer a solution, but at least feeling like you have someone to vent to is a healthy way of releasing stress.

Remember Why You Are Working Hard

Getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of work can often lead to a lost cause and forgetting the purpose of why you are doing what you are doing. For example, you might be feeling stressed at work due to working hard for a pay bonus, and this bonus might be to pay for a diamond ruby ring to propose to your loved one. It is so easy to lose sight of what you are working hard for, but always keep the purpose at the forefront of your mind.

Treat Yourself

Finally, work-related stress can often bring up the feeling of being in a lack of mindset and can make you feel at your lowest. Every so often you should concede treating yourself after work with something to show your appreciation for yourself. It could be as simple as treating yourself to your favourite takeaway food or booking a treatment at the spa after work. Remind yourself that you deserve to feel peace and appreciation for yourself.

Final Thoughts

Work-related stress can feel inescapable at times, but taking the steps to implement mindful practices after work can beat the anxiety that appears when we least want it to. Self-care can go a long way so make sure you follow this guide to help you reduce stress levels after work.

This article was written by freelance writer Rose Morley.

5 Ways Good Physical Health Can Improve Mental Health by Lizzie Weakley

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: free image)

It’s no secret that physical and mental health are closely linked. When you’re physically healthy, you tend to feel better mentally and emotionally. The reverse is also true; when your mental health is suffering, your physical health often declines as well. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your physical health, especially if you’re struggling with mental health issues. Here are five ways that good physical health can improve mental health.

Improved Mood

When you’re physically healthy, you tend to have more energy and feel better overall. This can lead to an improved mood and a more positive outlook on life. If you’re feeling down, try getting some exercise or eating a nutritious meal. You may be surprised at how much better you feel afterwards!

Increased Relaxation

When you take care of your physical body, it helps reduce stress and tension. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects, and can also help you sleep better at night. A healthy diet provides your body with the nutrients you need to function properly, which can also help reduce stress levels. If you’re struggling with food intake, consider consulting with a dietician who is trained in mental health. They’ll be able to assist you with services tailored to help you both mentally and physically!

Improved Concentration and Memory

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve brain function. Eating a healthy diet has also been linked with improved cognitive function. If you’re having trouble concentrating or remembering things, try adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet and increasing your activity level. You don’t have to do this all at once, but can gradually adjust your diet to include more whole foods.

Greater Sense of Accomplishment

When you set goals for yourself and then achieve them, it gives you a sense of accomplishment and boosts your self-esteem. Getting regular exercise and eating right are both great ways to set and achieve goals that improve your physical health while also improving your mental well-being. Consider rewarding yourself when you hit certain goals, such as finishing three days of exercising in a row. Before you know it, you’ll be forming healthy habits!

Enhanced Coping Skills

Having good physical health can give you the strength and endurance you need to get through difficult times. When you’re physically healthy, you have more energy to put towards coping with difficult situations. You can also use exercise and healthy eating as positive coping mechanisms when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed out. There’s a reason why many people like to go on a walk to clear their mind. Consider adding in these healthy coping mechanisms the next time you’re stressed.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, taking care of your physical health is a great place to start. There are many benefits to be gained from eating right and exercising regularly, not the least of which is improved mental well-being. So if you’re feeling down, try using some of these tips to boost your mood and improve your mental health.

This article was written by freelance writer Lizzie Weakley.

You’re Not Alone: 5 Services That Help With Disability by Dixie Somers

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Unsplash: Zachary Kyra- Derksen)

Living with a disability can be difficult, but with the right services and resources, it doesn’t have to be. There are a variety of services available that can help people with disabilities live more comfortable and independent lives. Here are five services you should consider if you have a disability.

Medical Equipment Loan Closets

Many organisations throughout the world offer loan closets for medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches. These organisations often partner with hospitals or healthcare providers in order to provide loaner equipment at no cost to those who need it. This is especially helpful for those who do not have insurance coverage for medical equipment or cannot afford to purchase their own.

Respite Care Services

Respite care services provide temporary relief for those caring for someone with a disability. Respite care can range from in-home care and overnight stays to extended vacation stays. This type of service allows caregivers to take a break while still knowing their loved one is being taken care of by qualified professionals.

Finding respite care services near you is easier than ever. There are a variety of online resources, such as websites and telephone help lines, that provide information about local respite care programs. Additionally, many local organizations, churches, and faith-based groups offer respite care services for free or at a reduced cost. Contacting the nearest healthcare provider may also provide helpful information about respite care options in the area. Taking advantage of these services can be a great way to relieve stress, get some much-needed rest and relaxation, and ensure that your loved one is receiving quality care.

Transportation Services

Many cities have transportation services specifically designed for those with disabilities. These services provide door-to-door pick up and drop off so that individuals can get where they need to go safely and on time. They also typically accommodate any special needs the individual may have, such as wheelchair access or assistance transferring between vehicles.

Rideshare and taxi services are increasingly becoming popular among those with disabilities as they allow users to book transportation at any time, from anywhere. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other flexible options that make it easier for people with disabilities to get around. Additionally, many rideshare companies provide special discounts or programs specifically designed for those with disabilities or limited incomes. Utilizing rideshare services can help you stay independent, get around efficiently, and save money in the process.

Social Security & Disability Attorneys

If you happen to be in the United States of America, social security and disability attorneys are available to you for help with navigating the complex laws surrounding disability benefits. They can assist with filing for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), as well as any appeals that may be needed. An experienced social security disability law attorney can help ensure you get the benefits you’re entitled to, saving time and money.

Finding a great social security and disability attorney can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. The first step is researching your local area for attorneys who specialise in this area of law. Word of mouth can also be helpful; ask friends or family members if they have any recommendations or experience working with an attorney who specialises in disability law. Additionally, many organisations provide free or low-cost legal assistance to those with disabilities. Contacting these organisations can help you find a lawyer who is experienced and knowledgeable in this field. Lastly, it’s important to do your due diligence when researching lawyers; read reviews online and make sure the attorney is highly qualified before committing to any legal representation.

Home Modification Funds

Many states, provinces, cities, and townships have some type of funding program in place that helps people pay for home modifications that make their homes more accessible for someone with a disability. These funds may cover costs associated with adding ramps, widening doorways, or installing grab bars in bathrooms. It’s important to research your area’s specific program so you know what types of modifications are eligible for funding.

Financial Assistance Programs

For those living on a fixed income, financial assistance programs can be invaluable when it comes to covering costs associated with living with a disability. These programs provide money toward rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, food costs, and other necessities that may not be covered by other forms of assistance.

Mental Health Services

Living with a disability can be emotionally taxing, so it’s important to have access to mental health services for support. Mental health services are available in both in-person and online formats, and offer individual counselling, group therapy, or other specialised treatments such as music therapy or art therapy. These services provide an outlet for individuals to talk about their feelings and find ways to manage their emotions in a healthy way. Counselling can also help people set goals and plan for the future, giving them a sense of purpose and hope.

No matter what type of disability you have, there are services available to help make your life easier and safer. From medical equipment loan closets to financial assistance programs, there are numerous resources available specifically tailored towards individuals living with disabilities—all of which can help make living independently easier and more manageable than ever before!

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer from the USA

4 Ways To Improve Employee Wellbeing.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(Image: Brooke Cagle: Unsplash)

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. 

In fact, many employers are beginning to understand how the two are intimately connected.Indeed, it is reported that healthy employees are 74% more likely to be satisfied with their current job than unhealthy employees.

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.