Category: Mental Health

Empowering Homebound Parents Through Mental Health Support Strategies by Lizzie Weakley.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: Alexander Dummer)

Being a parent is challenging, but being a parent who is homebound can be incredibly isolating and stressful. With the added pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, homebound parents have been struggling with their mental health more than ever before. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. There are several mental health support strategies that parents can implement to help them cope with this challenging time and help them continue to provide their children with the love and care that they deserve.

Prioritise Self-Care

Self-care practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and exercise can help homebound parents manage their stress and maintain their mental health. They can schedule regular exercise routines at home, and practice deep breathing and meditation during their downtime. It is essential for homebound parents to set boundaries and take care of their well-being to increase their capacity to address the demands of parenthood.

Seek Professional Help

Homebound parents who are struggling with their mental health should consider seeking the support and guidance of a mental health professional. They can benefit from online therapy sessions, group therapy sessions, or taking medication that might help them feel better. There are also many mental health hotlines and online resources available to parents struggling with their mental health.

Connect with a Support Network

Homebound parents can engage with online support groups where they can share their experiences, offer and receive advice, and connect with other people going through the same thing. It is also a good idea to connect with friends and family members for emotional support. Social connection is vital to maintaining good mental health.

Utilize Home Health Care Services

Home health care services can provide support and assistance for parents who are struggling with their health. These services can include anything from medication management to helping with household chores and providing much needed respite care for parents. Home health care services can also help parents navigate local resources to receive additional support.

Practice Stress-Reducing Activities with Children

Homebound parents can engage their children in various stress-reducing activities such as sensory play, guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. These activities can help children learn how to manage their emotions and provide a calming environment for both parents and children.

Being a homebound parent is challenging, but it becomes even more challenging when mental health struggles are involved. Still, it is essential to prioritise self-care and seek professional help when needed. Engage with a support network, consider utilising home health care services, and perform stress-reducing activities with children.

These strategies will significantly empower homebound parents and help them cope with the challenges of parenthood effectively. With the proper support, homebound parents can provide the love and care their children need and deserve.

This article was written by writer Lizzie Weakley.

World Mental Health Day 2023: Bipolar Disorder has the Highest Rate Of Suicide- Bipolar UK.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 4 Comments

(image: Study Starter)

This World Mental Health Day, clinical experts in bipolar have today announced that successive failings in government policy could have led to a significant reduction in quality of care for those living with bipolar in the UK.

Despite vast improvements in key areas of mental health, the average age for people to get a diagnosis of bipolar is 34 if someone was diagnosed within the past five years, compared to 26 if someone was diagnosed 30 or more years ago.

“It is shocking that today people are living with undiagnosed bipolar for longer than they were when the charity was formed 40 years ago. The current average delay to diagnosis is 9.5 years. That’s nearly a lost decade where people are struggling with confusing symptoms without getting the vital bipolar-specific treatment and support they need,” said Simon Kitchen, CEO of leading charity Bipolar UK.

“This delay is having catastrophic consequences, with the Bipolar Commission finding that more than a third of the 2,458 people surveyed had attempted suicide because of this delay. This is backed up by research which shows that ‘time to treatment’ is significantly associated with hospitalisations and lifetime suicide attempts.

Tragically, global research estimates that up to 1 in 5 people will take their own life and 60% of people with bipolar will attempt suicide at least once during their lifetime.

It is well established that bipolar has the highest risk of suicide of any mental health condition, yet it is only mentioned once in the Government’s recently published national suicide prevention strategy.

CEO of Bipolar UK CEO, Simon Kitchen, said, “Since Bipolar UK was founded as a charity 40 years ago, we have never stopped campaigning on behalf of those living with bipolar and their families.

“To help prevent the high rate of suicide in those with bipolar and to reduce this unacceptable waiting time for a diagnosis, we are currently campaigning for the Government to commit to prioritising bipolar in the implementation of their national suicide prevention strategy and to commit to reducing the average delay to diagnosis to five year within five years.”

The Bipolar Commission’s Bipolar Minds Matter report launched in parliament in November 2022 includes several recommendations that experts in bipolar and clinicians believe will reduce diagnosis time, improve the quality of life and reduce the high risk of suicide for those living with bipolar.

Kitchen added; “The current care system for bipolar is broken, resulting in an ineffective and inaccurate pathway to diagnosis.

“It is shocking that diagnosis delays are worse now than when Bipolar UK was founded 40 years ago.

“Although we are providing as much support as we can, we desperately need the government to sit up and take action before we lose even more people to suicide.”

To find out more about Bipolar UK’s peer support services please visit: www.bipolaruk.org/get-support 

Keeping Yourself In Balance, Mentally And Physically: A Guide by Meghan Belnap.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: Pexels)

In today’s fast-paced, stress-laden world, it can be a real challenge to keep yourself mentally and physically balanced. It’s easy to overlook the impact of your lifestyle choices on your overall well-being and end up feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and burnt out. However, maintaining a healthy mind and body is crucial for long-term happiness and success. This post intends to explore tips and tricks for prioritising your mental and physical health and keeping them in balance. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just seeking a more balanced lifestyle, there are answers to follow. 

Eat Healthily 

The food you eat keeps your body in shape and can significantly impact your mental health. Research shows that eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Try incorporating more whole foods, fruits, greens, and lean proteins into your diet, and steer clear of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. If you want to take it a step further, try meal prepping always to have healthy food when you’re in a rush. 

Exercise Regularly 

Exercise is one of the best ways to balance your body and mind. Whether going to the gym, taking a yoga class, or going for a run or walk, exercise releases endorphins that lift your mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Make sure to find something you enjoy that you can stick to long-term. Even if it is just 30 minutes of physical activity daily, you’ll notice a huge difference in your overall well-being. 

Rest and Relax 

With life’s stressors always looming, finding time to rest and relax can be challenging. However, taking care of yourself by getting enough rest is crucial to balancing your mental health. Ensure you are getting enough sleep, aiming for around seven to nine hours per night, and take other measures to relax, such as massage, a bubble bath, or indulging in your favourite hobbies. 

Prioritise Your Mental Health 

Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health problem, it’s essential to prioritise your mental health. Seek professional mental health care if necessary, talk to trusted friends and family about any concerns, and make sure you take time each day to do things you love. Self-care and meditation can also work wonders to quiet your mind, reduce stress, and ease feelings of anxiety. 

Find Balance in Your Relationships 

Achieving balance in your relationships is also crucial for mental health. Sometimes, unhealthy relationships can lead to unhealthy habits that throw you off balance and make you feel worse. Make sure you only surround yourself with people who support you, respect you, and have your best interests at heart. Ensure you set boundaries, say no when necessary, and openly communicate your needs and feelings. 

Keeping yourself in balance mentally and physically is an ongoing process that requires continual effort and investment. However, the rewards of prioritising your mental and physical health can be nothing short of life-changing. By taking care of yourself and making sure you are eating healthily, exercising regularly, getting enough rest, prioritising your mental health, and finding balance in your relationships, you can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. So, try some of these tips, and watch yourself grow into the best version of yourself yet. 

Meghan Belnap is a freelance blogger, researcher and writer.

Maintaining Mental Wellbeing: Tips for Navigating an Alcohol Assessment Centre by Brooke Chaplan

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(Image: free image)

The decision to seek help for alcohol use disorder is an important one. It takes courage to admit that you need assistance, and taking the first step toward recovery can feel like a daunting task. One of the early steps of recovery is an alcohol assessment centre, which can assess your condition, provide treatment recommendations, and connect you to ongoing support. However, navigating an assessment centre can be overwhelming, especially if you are feeling vulnerable or uncertain. In this post, we will discuss some tips for maintaining your mental well-being while navigating an alcohol assessment centre.

Educate Yourself

Before entering an assessment centre, take some time to educate yourself about the process and what to expect. This can help to ease anxiety and provide a sense of control in an unfamiliar environment. You can research online, check out the centre’s website, or speak with someone who has been through the process before.

Prepare Mentally and Emotionally

Entering an assessment centre can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s essential to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally. You might consider bringing along a trusted friend or family member who can offer support and help you stay grounded. You can also practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises to help you stay centred.

Speak Openly and Honestly

It’s important to be honest about your alcohol use, even if you feel embarrassed or ashamed. The professionals at the assessment centre require accurate information to provide the best treatment options for your specific needs. Honesty also helps to build trust and openness in the therapeutic relationship between you and your counsellor.

Focus on Your Goals

Entering an assessment centre can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to focus on your goals for recovery. Discuss your goals with your counsellor, and work with them to develop a plan for achieving them. Remembering why you’re seeking help and what you want to achieve can help motivate you and make the process easier.

Take Care of Yourself

Finally, remember to take care of yourself while going through an assessment centre. It’s essential to prioritise your mental and physical well-being, which can include eating well, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough rest. Self-care also means taking breaks when necessary, practicing healthy coping mechanisms, and setting boundaries with those around you. Navigating an alcohol assessment centre can be overwhelming, but it’s an essential step towards recovery from alcohol use disorder.

By educating yourself about the process, preparing yourself mentally and emotionally, speaking honestly with your counsellor, focusing on your goals, and taking care of yourself, you can maintain your mental well-being while going through the process. It is highly recommended to reach out to facilities where you are, like A Better Choice Counselling/ Alcohol, Drug & Assessment Center, for more information or to answer any questions you may have.

Remember, seeking help for alcohol use disorder is a brave decision, and with the right support and resources, recovery is possible

How to Have A Memorably Fun Wedding (And Look After Mental Health).

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 5 Comments

Wedding days are primarily about the love between the two people getting married. But let’s be honest, there’s also another big component of wedding days, and that’s fun. People go to weddings to show their support for a great couple, but they also expect to have a good time.

So if you’re planning on getting married in the foreseeable future, be sure to work on giving your guests the opportunity to have a great time.

(image: Rene Asmussen : Pexels

Drinks on Arrival

People will have spent a long time getting ready and travelling to your wedding. So it’s important that they’re given a warm welcome. You can make a selection of drinks available to people when they arrive; this could be champagne, a beer, or a soft drink, so everyone has an option. It’s also a good idea to give people some time to mill around and get to know one another before heading into the venue, so try to put a little bit of space between the arrival time and the beginning of the ceremonies.

Well-Organised

You want your guests to be in a mindset that allows them to have a great time, not thinking about the logistics of the organisation. You can help them by making your wedding day as well-organised as possible. This could include putting on a coach that takes your guests from the centre of town to the venue, hiring a babysitter to look after children, and all-around keeping your guests informed of the order of the day. The better the organisation, the more likely it is that your guests can fully commit to the moment, let their hair down, and have a great time.

All the Food

Is it possible to have a good time when you’re hungry? Probably, but it’s much more difficult. You can put your guests in the mood for fun by ensuring that their stomachs are full. Make some snacks available during the day and, of course, be sure to hire caterers that can produce a delicious and filling dinner. You may also consider having a late-night buffet — people will get hungry, especially if they’ve been dancing for hours. 

Bring the Party

The most fun part of the wedding day will, of course, be the party. For this, you’ll need to have a dance floor, some props, and some good music. It’s a good idea to hire a wedding party band to get the party started; once they’re done, it’ll be the DJ’s turn to play those classic wedding party songs that’ll have people on the dance floor all night long. 

Lawn/Party Games 

Not everyone wants to spend the night dancing. If you’re getting married in the summer, then consider buying some lawn/party games that people can enjoy. They can be really fun, and they’re also fantastic ways for your wedding guests to get to know one another a bit better.  

Look After Mental Health

Remember when wedding planning, to always look after your mental health as it can be anxiety and stress provoking. You should try to make sure your guests are looked after too. Simple things like making sure there is not too much alcohol, that your guests have fans or access to air con in hot weather and drinking water, will mean your wedding will go more smoothly and everyone will feel great! Remember to access support from your GP should you need it too.

This article was written by a freelance writer.

Bipolar And Suicide Prevention Webinar with Bipolar UK- 11th September 2023

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Bipolar UK)

On Monday 11th September, I am looking forward to being on a webinar on Bipolar and Suicide prevention for Bipolar UK charity, with their CEO Simon Kitchen and a police officer, Ashley Brice (pictured), who specialises in suicide prevention for people in crisis in Wales. This is a difficult topic to discuss and one that will be tackled with empathy.

If you can join, please register here for free: https://www.bipolaruk.org/suicidal-thinking

Thanks,

Eleanor x

Helping A Loved One Feel More At Ease In A Care Home.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

Making the decision for a loved one to enter a care home is never an easy one. You probably feel guilty for doing it, but the truth is that it will help them get the best possible care as they get older – more than you might be able to give yourself! There’s a lot of negativity about the subject, but many people find their quality of life improves in a care home, and there are things you can do to make that even better. Ultimately, it comes down to making a decision for their best interests, and even if it doesn’t feel that way at first, it soon will.

So what can you do to help them settle in? You can do your bit by finding ways to help them feel more at ease in their new surroundings. Here are some ideas to help your loved one adjust to life in a care home.

Image Credit: Unsplash under Creative Commons

Make their space feel more like their own

One of the biggest changes people face when going from their own home to a care home is the lack of personalisation and familiarity, and feeling like the space isn’t theirs. But there are things you can do to help fix that, including:

  • Decorate their room with things from their own home, including pictures, furniture, rugs, etc.
  • Choose from care home beds that they are happy with (if the home allows you to do this).
  • Add familiar fragrances.
  • Make sure they can indulge in their hobbies and interests with books, TVs, etc.

Talk to your loved one about what would help them settle in and do what you can to make it happen. 


Be there to make things more enjoyable

With your loved one receiving proper residential care, you can be there to help them have fun and stay active, something that might not have been possible while you were caring for them. Use your energy to take them out for trips, help them exercise, and spend quality time with loved ones. The Body Coach even has his own workout series for older people!

Being in a care home doesn’t mean your usual outings and activities have to stop, so you can help them keep up a routine that they enjoy.

Exercise is very important to help improve mobility and mood. Finding ways to help your loved one’s physical health can also benefit their mental health, improving their mood and helping them feel more at ease.


Get to know the staff 

There are a lot of reasons you should get to know the staff at a care home:

  • It can help you be more involved in your loved one’s life by getting to know the other people who are in it.
  • They’ll know more about you and your loved one, which can help them provide better care.
  • If you experience any issues, it’s good to have someone familiar you can talk to.
  • It creates more of a family atmosphere.

Regular visits and chatting with the staff more will help you make those connections, helping you feel more involved in your loved one’s care. It makes things nicer for them and for you, and is a fantastic way for you all to get to know people better. 

You will have all sorts of feelings about your loved one being in a care home, but it’s important that you focus on them and ensure they feel happy and comfortable where they are. Talk to them about what they want and how you can make it happen, helping them settle in quicker so you can both feel more at ease.

This article was written by a freelance writer.

A Letter to my 16 Year Old Self: by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: E Mandelstam)

(image: Me aged 16/17 in Spain with friends)

She sits nervously clutching her GHD straightened hair. Its meant to look poker straight but her curly waves never seem to look like Avril Lavigne’s hair. Except for that time when her friend tried to tame it for her with straighteners and an iron!

She lives in a bedroom in the family home- half child, half adult, the wallpaper pink with pictures of little bo peep covered with music posters- Destiny’s Child (Beyonce, Kelly and Michelle in their Survivor jungle outfits peer down) and Joss Stone with her nose piercing. She looks up to these women and wishes she could be them, especially Joss, who is only a year or so older than she is. Mariah Carey is another huge influence and she listens to her Daydream and Greatest hits albums on repeat on her CD player, trying to sing like Mariah but failing to hit those notes.

At school, she loves Drama- she loves to perform as different characters and study theatre. She has a wonderful group of friends who she will remain friends with today. She dreams of going to drama school.. and she will achieve her goal!

She is me, aged 16 years old in 2004.

She is ‘baby Ellie’- the teenager who had no idea what was in store for her life or to come. Who should have been free to party, make mistakes, not worry about life. Who should have been discovering life safely but enjoying teen life.

She was given the diagnosis of a severe mental illness, bipolar disorder, when she was still a child.

She struggled with depression, mania and psychosis from the age of 15.

She has been medicated for 19 years (and had changes of medication).

She has been in therapy for longer.

but she survived and thrived.

And she still loves theatre and music and friends (although the GHD’s have been relegated to the back of the cupboard!)

So dear Baby Ellie,

Whatever happens – everything is going to be OK and you will achieve things beyond your imagination- except being able to sing like Mariah Carey.

When I look back at her, I hear the lyrics of the song ‘Looking in’ on Mariah’s day dream album that I used to play….

(image by me, lyrics by Mariah).

But I am proud of her.

Love,

35 Year old Me.

x

Clear Examples of How Eating Affects Your Mental Health by Anita Ginsburg.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Jacopo Maia: Unsplash)

When it comes to mental health, many people tend to focus on the usual suspects: stress, anxiety, depression, and medications. However, did you know that your food choices also play a significant role in your mental well-being? Over the years, studies have revealed the powerful connection between what we eat and how we feel emotionally. It’s not just about getting the right nutrients for physical health, but also for mental health. This blog post will explore some of the clear examples of how eating affects your mental health.

Mood Swings

What we eat affects the chemistry of our brain, which can lead to mood swings. Consuming foods high in sugar and simple carbohydrates, such as cakes and candy bars, may give you a quick energy boost, but it can also cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, leading to irritability, anxiety, and depression. Eating a balanced diet with protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats will help stabilise your mood and keep your energy levels consistent; buying from health food stores with less processed foods and organic produce like Southtown Health Foods can help with this goal.

Stress and Anxiety

Eating nutrient-dense foods can play a big role in reducing stress and anxiety. Foods like salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to lower levels of stress hormones. Other foods, such as leafy greens, are rich in magnesium, which can help decrease anxiety. On the other hand, consuming caffeine and sugar can increase feelings of anxiety.

Brain Fog

The foods we eat can also impact our cognitive function. Processed foods and fast food meals that are high in trans fats and sugar can cause inflammation, which affects the brain’s ability to think clearly and process information. It’s important to fuel your brain with nutrient-dense foods, such as whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats like avocado and nuts.

Depression and Mental Health Disorders

Studies have shown that people who consume a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein have a lower risk of depression and other mental health disorders. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals that are crucial for proper brain function and emotional well-being. On the other hand, a diet high in processed and fast food can increase the risk of depression and other mental health issues.

Gut Health

The gut-brain connection is a well-known phenomenon, and the gut microbiome plays a vital role in our mental health. Consuming a diet high in fibre, fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi, and prebiotics like garlic and onions can help foster a healthy gut microbiome and improve mental health. On the other hand, consuming a diet high in sugar and processed foods can lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria and inflammation that can negatively impact mental health.

In conclusion, what you put into your body matters for both your physical and mental health. Meal planning and making mindful food choices can go a long way in nourishing your brain and keeping your mood stabilised.

It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all diet that will work for everyone, but incorporating more whole foods into your diet is a good start. Take control of your mental health by paying attention to your diet and making changes as necessary. Your body and mind will thank you for it!

Please note that a healthy diet without any other support is not a ‘cure’- make sure to reach out to professionals if you are in crisis.

This article was written by Anita Ginsburg.

Yoga And Fitness: A Holistic Approach to Total Body Wellness by Sean Lynam.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Pexels)

Approximately 300 million people worldwide practice yoga every day, and the numbers are only increasing. This is because awareness of the benefits of yoga is growing. The most popular topic on Instagram in the UK during the lockdown was yoga, followed by health (as the second topic of interest). Yoga is gaining traction as a holistic approach to total body wellness and fitness. 

About Yoga

Yoga has its origins in India, with its first mention being in an ancient sacred text Rig Veda. The world embraced this graceful fitness approach with open arms. Of course, it underwent some adaptations as this practice crossed countries. However, its essence remains the same, regardless of where and how it is practiced. Yoga focuses on breathing, balance, and flexibility. It comprises mental, physical, and spiritual practices. The most important components of yoga are the postures and the breathing work. There are approximately 19 different types of yoga and around 66 basic postures.

Yoga for Total Body Wellness

Many scientific studies support the claims about the benefits of yoga, so you can rest assured that it is not just hype. Some of the ways in which yoga can help in conditioning the mind and body are highlighted below:

Physical Benefits of Yoga

Yoga improves blood flow, which leads to increased oxygen supply to the brain and organs. This promotes cell growth and muscle recovery. If you are recovering from any disease or injury, yoga can accelerate the process for you. Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise, so you don’t have to worry about it aggravating any existing issues. Just select the poses that are most suitable for your fitness level and health condition. 

There may be no other approaches as well-rounded and effective as yoga for bodybuilding. Yoga can supplement all other bodybuilding efforts as it substantially improves mobility, increases muscle strength, and enhances balance. Low-intensity or restorative yoga is great as an active recovery workout; it reduces muscle soreness and speeds up recovery. 

Yoga is also effective as an adjunct treatment for chronic conditions like lower back pain, arthritis, and diabetes. Yoga also helps lower cholesterol and and blood pressure, and can therefore work wonders for your heart. Regular yoga practice can improve immune function and help combat diseases. 

Beneficial Effects of Yoga on Psychology

Typically, there are no mirrors in yoga studios. This is to prevent people from getting distracted by the way their body looks during a pose. Yoga encourages a person to look inwards and connect with oneself better. Surveys have found that people who practice yoga have a better body image and are less likely to be overly critical of themselves. Yoga also encourages one to be mindful of their eating habits. Mindful eating and a positive body image can help people with eating disorders. Health professionals are now supportive of yoga as a tool for long-term recovery from eating disorders. Yoga therapy also serves as a treatment for depression. Regular yoga can increase mental clarity, improve focus, relieve stress, relax the mind, and boost general mental health. 

It is only possible to recover and achieve total body wellness when physical fitness is supported and supplemented by mental health. Yoga has beneficial effects on the mind as well as the body and is therefore highly suitable as a holistic approach to total body wellness. Pre-workout supplements could help boost the effects of yoga, such as an increase in blood flow and a rise in endurance levels. 

Time to Get the Yoga Mat 

Yoga is better understood when experienced. Don’t take anyone’s word for it; rather, try it yourself. After your first yoga session, there is a high possibility that you will return for more. You will find yourself making healthier lifestyle choices. With yoga, you can engineer your inner self and your body, to bring out your best version. 

Author Bio:

Sean Lynam

Sean is a fitness enthusiast and personal trainer by profession, and a freelance writer by passion. Sean writes and shares his knowledge for a range of fitness publications and nutrition brands.