I was delighted to collaborate with JTeen mental health support helpline and service for Jewish teens and young adults aged 11-24, on a podcast talking about my journey with bipolar disorder and social anxiety. I did this to help others and encourage people to seek help, and show its OK to talk about mental illness.
You can watch the podcast here, please watch with care: Trigger warning: discusses suicidal ideation, psychosis, mania, being sectioned under the mental health act and depression. Suitable for 18+
I decided to do this podcast to fight stigma in the Jewish community in London and worldwide and educate people about bipolar, especially parents as it started for me at the age of 15.
Thank you to Yaakov, Tehilla and Michal for making this such a relaxed but important conversation.
(image: Limited edition Stomp pyjamas by Next, featuring a playful elephant design. 100% of profits support LOROS Hospice’s care for patients and families.)
Now that clocks are going back and its time to get snuggled and cosy, the perfect pyjamas for yourself and little ones have arrived! Teaming up with retail giant NEXT, the LOROS Hospice in Leicester, UK, have come up with some beautiful, stomping elephant pyjamas filled with colourful designs. The designs are inspired by the hand-painted elephant sculptures as part of the famous ‘Stomp Around Leicester’ art trail, which culminated in an art auction.
LOROS Hospice is facing a £2 million shortfall in funding and so NEXT has joined forces with LOROS to encourage the fundraising momentum! 100% profits from the pyjamas go to LOROS., which provides free, high quality compassionate care to terminally ill patients.
Available online now at next.co.uk, with nationwide delivery – every pair sold contributes to LOROS’s vital, compassionate care for over 2,600 patients each year.
There are matching PJ sets for women and children, for family fun! These cosy pyjamas offer more than just warmth and style – they offer a feel-good factor that comes from helping a community lifeline.
Snuggle up for a cause this autumn: by slipping into Stomp PJs, families can stay stylishly warm while making a real difference to LOROS Hospice when it needs it most.
Please note: This post is non-sponsored (no fee taken) so Be Ur Own Light Blog can get entirely behind this wonderful cause!
image: Limited edition Stomp pyjamas by Next, featuring a playful elephant design)
The women’s Stomp PJs are 100% cotton and available in sizes XS – 2XL in regular length, and S – 2XL in tall. The children’s Stomp PJs are also 100% cotton and available in sizes 9-12 months, through to 7-8 years.
With everything going on in the world today, some stories can get missed in the flurry of competing news. However, when I saw a post by the Oli Leigh Trust, a charity in my community dedicated to suicide prevention, that suicide prevention lessons are going to be made compulsory in secondary schools, I was so happy. Department for Education (DfE) announced on Tuesday that lessons discussing suicide prevention would be compulsory in secondary schools from September 2026.
Growing up, when I had my own issues with depression and suicidal ideation as part of my bipolar disorder, mental health was not spoken about openly in schools. We know that sadly, the suicide rate in the UK and worldwide has been rising. A group of Dads, Andy Airey, Mike Palmer and Tim Owen, 3 Dads Walking, who lost their daughters Sophie, Beth and Emily to suicide came together to campaign to Sir Keir Starmer and the UK government. Heres what they told the BBC,
‘Lives will be saved. Our Voices have finally been heard. ‘ He said the trio began campaigning shortly after their first walk to raise awareness in 2021 and admitted it had at times felt “like we were swimming through treacle uphill”, but now their “voices have been heard”.
“We have covered a lot of ground, literally and figuratively, over the last few years, but to come to a point where a significant change is going to happen still feels quite unreal. I’m stunned.”
“We are really proud of what we have achieved.”
Suicide is the biggest killer of under 35’s in the UK. In their first walk, they raised nearly 1 million pounds for Papyrus charity. In their second, they walked to all 4 UK parliaments to ensure every child was taught the skills to cope with suicidal thoughts. They then met with MPs to discuss how suicide prevention could be embedded in the curriculum.
“If this is the biggest killer of our young people, why aren’t we talking about it?”
So today I say thank you and congratulations to Andy Airey, Mike Palmer and Tim Owen- three courageous men spreading light and goodness in memory of their beloved daughters. Suicide prevention is so sadly needed.
I am delighted to say that our children’s picture book ‘Arabella and the Worry Cloud‘ about a little girl with anxiety and how she manages her worries, is featured on Parents News UK website! Not only is it Children’s Mental Health Week but it is also Time to Talk day, where we share our stories about mental health.
Here’s a snippet of their thoughts:
‘Supporting children with anxiety, London-based author Eleanor Segall has drawn from her own childhood experiences to write Arabella and the Worry Cloud, a heartfelt picture book supporting children aged 5–8 who struggle with anxiety. Eleanor, who has lived with bipolar disorder since her diagnosis at age 16, aims to help young readers understand and manage their worries through relatable storytelling.
Arabella and the Worry Cloud introduces readers to Arabella, a seven-year-old girl who faces daily worries, from small tasks like putting on her socks to bigger fears about her cat or schoolwork. Her constant companion, the Worry Cloud, symbolises her anxious thoughts, teaching children that worries, like clouds, come and go.
Eleanor shares coping tools within the story, inspired by techniques that helped her manage her own anxiety. Through Arabella’s journey, children learn that even when caught in life’s “rainstorms,” the clouds will eventually clear.’
(image: E Segall/Shelley The Artist)
You can read the full article here. Thanks to all at Parents News UK!
There is nothing more heartbreaking than to see your child suffering. What’s more, when their mind is playing tricks on them, and they’re experiencing spells of anxiety, it can leave you feeling helpless as the parent/carer. While you may be doing all the right things such as taking them to therapy and encouraging them to talk about their feelings, sometimes their environment can play a huge role in their emotions. Children spend a lot of their time in their bedrooms, especially when they’re feeling anxious about the outside world. Transforming their bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space could be the key to allowing them an environment to disconnect from ruminating thoughts completely.
Be sure to listen to what your children want for their bedrooms before taking the design into your own hands. If they believe a Minecraft bedroom will make them feel happy and give them a sense of security in their space, listen! Otherwise, consider the following tips for designing your bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space.
Colour schemes
Starting with the room’s backdrop, consider painting your child’s room a colour that inflicts a sense of calmness and serenity. There are a number of colours that are proven to create this mood, for example, cool colours such as blue, green and lavender grey are known to create a relaxing feel. Also, pastel shades of favourites such as pink and green are perfect for creating a sense of tranquillity.
Connections to nature
Nature has shown to have immense benefits for reducing anxiety, from going for walks to playing in the park, if your child is struggling to face the great outdoors, consider bringing it to them. For example, add touches of greenery in the space. There can be faux versions of vines winding round their bed, or perhaps give them real plants to take care of and give them a greater sense of purpose. If your child has been begging for an animal, why not start small and get them a fish? It has been proven that watching fish swim back and forth can relax the mind and ease muscle tension.
Blue LED lighting
Lighting can be a hard element of the bedroom to influence. If your child’s bedroom is currently brightly lit with fluorescent light this may not be helping their state of mind. Blue light therapy has been raved for its ability to influence mood and the body’s biological clock. Dimming their bedroom lighting with blue lighting may support their night of rest. Several sensory light appliances can create this experience, in addition to adding texture to the projection that mimics ocean waves.
Create “safe spots”
Sometimes, your child just wants to be alone, and that’s okay. Creating a safe space away from the world can be simple with the addition of a children’s teepee, or if your child has a bunk bed with underspace, make this area more private with curtains. Fill this space with comfy seating, pillows, and games for your child to play. It can be tempting to buy them an Xbox or PlayStation to enjoy in their bedroom, but this can worsen your child’s anxiety and keep their mind active when it’s time for rest. Keep technology away from their bedroom, and keep it comforting and quiet.
Keep schooling separate
Another mistake parents make with their child’s bedroom is adding a desk for them to complete school work. When your child is suffering from anxiety, school can often inflict feelings of discomfort or remind them of unpleasant experiences. Allow your child to do their school work downstairs where you can support them and be there for them. Allocated places for different activities can help them feel a sense of security. Reserve the bedroom for sleep. Having a small table and chair for your child to do artwork can act as a place to explore their creativity.
Encourage rest & relaxation
Encouraging relaxation is essential when transforming your child’s bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space. This involves creating an atmosphere that promotes comfort and signals to your child that their room is a sanctuary for winding down and recharging. Start by investing in high-quality, soft bedding and cosy blankets that make your bed an inviting haven. Add plush pillows or weighted blankets, which are known to provide a sense of security and calmness.
(image: Pexels: Vika Glitter)
An anxiety-reducing space
Transforming your child’s bedroom into an anxiety-reducing space can have a profound impact on their emotional wellbeing. By focusing on calming colours, natural elements, thoughtful lighting, and creating safe and comforting zones, you’re helping to create a sanctuary where they can decompress and feel at ease. Remember, every child is unique, so it’s important to involve them in the process and tailor the space to their individual needs and preferences.
Small changes in their environment can make a big difference in their ability to manage anxiety and feel secure. While this is just one piece of the puzzle, pairing it with emotional support, therapy, and open communication can empower your child to navigate their emotions with greater resilience. A cosy, peaceful bedroom can become their haven—a place to relax, recharge, and truly feel at home.
Author Bio
Amy Jones is a freelance writer and enjoys writing a range of topics, from mental wellness to home renovation and loves researching the latest news and updates. Having worked with a number of different businesses, including Petite Lumeire, Amy is now a freelance writer looking to specialise in children’s mental and physical wellness.
Parenting is a journey filled with countless moments of joy, laughter, and pride. However, it also comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when you encounter behavioural issues in your child. Seeing a child struggle can be a source of stress and worry for any parent. It’s essential to remember that you are not alone; many parents face similar obstacles and there are resources available to help both you and your child navigate these challenging times. In today’s blog post, we’ll explore practical steps you can take to support your child through behavioural issues effectively.
Understanding the Situation
The first step in addressing behavioural issues is understanding that they are often a part of normal development. Children go through various stages as they grow, each accompanied by different behaviours. It’s crucial to recognise the difference between typical developmental behaviour and behaviour that might signal an underlying issue. Observing patterns over time—such as frequency, intensity, or duration—can provide valuable insights into whether a child’s behaviour is part of their growth or indicative of something more complex.
Patience
Once you’ve identified that your child may need additional support beyond typical parenting strategies, it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and patience. Open lines of communication can make all the difference in understanding what might be causing certain behaviours. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment or punishment. This open dialogue not only helps build trust but also provides you with clues about any underlying issues such as anxiety, bullying at school, or difficulties with academics.
Professional Help
After establishing communication, it’s beneficial to seek professional guidance, like that offered by Infinite Healing & Wellness, if needed. Consulting with paediatricians or mental health professionals who specialise in children can offer clarity on whether there are specific needs requiring attention. These professionals can conduct assessments to determine if there are psychological or neurological factors contributing to the behaviour changes in question. They may suggest therapy sessions tailored specifically for children which could include play therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), or family therapy sessions.
Effective Techniques
In addition to seeking professional help for your child, consider equipping yourself with effective parenting techniques specifically designed for managing challenging behaviours. Parenting classes or workshops often provide valuable strategies for positive reinforcement and setting consistent boundaries while maintaining a nurturing environment at home. Learning how best to respond during difficult situations helps minimise stress for both parent and child alike while fostering an atmosphere where constructive change is encouraged.
Self-Care
Lastly but vitally important is self-care for parents during this process; supporting a child through behavioural challenges requires emotional resilience from caregivers themselves! It’s easy sometimes amid caring duties to neglect one’s own needs. However, taking time out regularly ensures you’re not just physically present but mentally equipped to handle whatever comes along the next day together stronger than before!
Supporting a child through behavioural issues is no small feat but rest assured knowing every step taken towards understanding them better brings hope closer within reach! Remember being proactive makes all the difference; stay informed, communicate openly, lean upon experts, adopt new strategies whenever necessary, and don’t forget to look after yourselves along the way too.
A happy, healthy, balanced family dynamic benefits everyone involved in a long-term success story worth striving toward together!
This article was written by Brooke Chaplan, freelance writer.
As mom/mums, we want nothing more than to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our children. But when it comes to adopted children who have experienced trauma, the task can feel overwhelming. It’s important to understand that healing from trauma is a process that takes time and patience. In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies for creating a safe space for your adopted child to heal and thrive.
Build Trust
Building trust is vital when helping your adopted child heal from past trauma. Trust serves as the foundation for a relationship where your child feels safe and understood. To build trust, start by being a consistent presence in their life, maintain routines and be predictably positive in your interactions. Listen to them with empathy and without judgment, making sure they feel heard and valued. Honoring your promises, no matter how small, also reinforces their sense of security. Offer choices to empower them, showing that their feelings and opinions matter. Through these actions, you create a supportive environment where your child can begin to heal and flourish.
Create Routine
Maintaining a routine can be incredibly beneficial for adopted children who have been through trauma, as it provides a sense of stability and predictability in their lives. A structured daily routine might include waking up at the same time each morning, having breakfast together, and engaging in activities like schoolwork, outdoor play, or reading time. Following a set bedtime ritual, such as taking a warm bath, reading a story, or listening to calming music, can help signal the end of the day and promote restful sleep. These consistent activities provide security and help the child know what to expect, reducing anxiety and allowing them to focus on their growth and healing.
Offer Support
Offering support to your adopted child as they work through past trauma requires patience and understanding. Recognize that healing is a journey, and each child progresses at their own pace. Show your support by being consistently available and approachable, allowing your child to share their feelings when they feel ready. Validate their emotions by acknowledging their pain and expressing empathy, reinforcing that their feelings are normal and understandable. Engage in calming activities together, such as drawing, walking, or simply sitting in silence, which can provide comfort and a sense of connection. Additionally, educate yourself on trauma and its impacts so you can better understand and respond to your child’s needs. Through unwavering patience and a compassionate approach, you create a secure space for your child to navigate their healing journey.
Educate Yourself
When supporting your adopted child through past trauma, it’s crucial to educate yourself on various aspects of trauma, including its emotional, psychological, and physical effects. Learn about attachment theory to understand how early experiences shape a child’s ability to form secure relationships. Explore trauma-informed care practices to provide the best possible support. Resources such as books on child psychology, trauma, and adoption can be invaluable. Online courses, webinars, and support groups for adoptive parents can offer practical skills and community support. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from therapists who specialize in trauma and adoption, like those at Relevant Connections PLLC. By expanding your knowledge, you can create a nurturing environment that fosters your child’s healing and growth.
Foster Connection
Helping your adopted child foster positive connections while working through past traumas involves creating opportunities for safe and meaningful social interactions. Encourage participation in group activities that align with their interests, such as sports teams, art classes, or music lessons, where they can build friendships in a structured and supportive environment. Facilitate playdates with compassionate and understanding peers to help your child practice social skills and develop trust in others. Encourage involvement in community events or volunteering, which can provide a sense of purpose and belonging. Additionally, reinforcing family bonds through regular family activities and open communication can help your child feel secure and connected. By nurturing these connections, you create a network of support that can bolster your child’s emotional resilience and aid in their healing process.
Creating a safe space for your adopted child to heal from trauma requires patience, understanding, and love. By building trust, establishing routine, offering support, educating yourself, and fostering connections, you can help your child feel secure and supported as they navigate their healing journey. Remember that healing takes time, so be gentle with yourself and your child as you both navigate this process together.
Some of you will know that I have been really quiet on this blog for a long time about certain aspects of my life.
Being mid thirties and married, I often get asked, ‘Do you have any children?’ or ‘How many kids do you have?’.
I often explain that I don’t have kids yet but I have 2 fur babies, my guineapigs Midnight and Nutmeg.
The truth is I have wanted to be a Mum since I was a young girl. Ive had lists of baby names since I was age 12. If it was up to me, I would be a mother already. Mothering is a huge part of my heart and soul. I am blessed to be an auntie, which is incredibly special.
This summer, after various symptoms including weight gain, irregular periods and a scan revealing ovarian cysts, I was diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic ovarian syndrome). This syndrome can cause irregular periods, irregular ovulation and sometimes infertility as a result. It is a hormonal condition where your body produces too many androgens (male hormone) and its very common.
I got the diagnosis one month before I turned 35, in June this year. Why is this significant? Some will know that 35 is seen for some as a cut off point, when your eggs either start to decline or reduce in amount. There is also a greater risk as you get older for certain things like miscarriage and disabilities in the foetus. Being overweight as well with the PCOS (and other bipolar medication) means that the PCOS is worsened and my period cycle is not normal. I need to lose the weight, to help my fertility too.
I called my book ‘Bring me to Light’ because I had come to a place of light after darkness. I didn’t know a new challenge would be coming my way.
So- I have started to take supplements to help me ovulate more regularly and get my body ready (myo-inositol and folic acid, vitamin d, fish oils with omega 3). I am also trying to lose some weight and gain better health and regular ovulation, through regular exercise. Recently, I have signed up with a nutritionist and I am in process of changing my diet so less carbs, less sugar. Soon, I may need to speak to my GP to get further intervention re making sure I am regularly ovulating, but until then, I am trying to overhaul things.
This isn’t easy. I crave sugar. I crave chocolate. I love pasta. I love fruit juice. I can’t completely cut them out yet to help my health conditions but I will get there in time (reduction is key).
My nutritionist has highlighted to me that when you have raised cortisol (stress hormone) levels, your body finds it holds on to weight. I am doing a lot better with my PTSD panic attacks but when they do happen I get raised cortisol. I also take heavy medications and my metabolism is affected too.
I have been coming to terms with so much. I know one day soon, I will be a Mum and Rob and I will be parents. Its just going to take a little longer.
Just wanted to say a big shout out to all friends who have supported me with this, especially those on instagram going through their own struggles too. You have held my hand, comforted me and helped to wipe my tears. My therapist has been helpful too- and our faith and prayers keeps us going.
Being an adult really is hard and this will be an ongoing journey. People have worse things than me too, but as someone once told me, we are not given more than we can handle….
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.
Being a mother, let alone a new mother, is no easy task. New moms might find themselves flustered with the idea of being a parent for the first time ever. No longer do they only have to care for themselves but also a little one, too, who depends on them. Frustration, stress, and lack of sleep are all common for new mothers. So, how can they fix this? Here are some tips.
Sleep in the Same Room as Baby
Waking up every few hours in the night is no easy task. Having your sleep disrupted when in a groggy state is several times easier when your baby is close by to you.
Keep a crib or bassinet right next to your bed or at least a few feet away to reduce long walks throughout the house to tend to your baby in the night. This way, you can resume sleep as soon as possible.
Prepare a Feeding & Changing Station Before Bed
Another way to ensure proper rest and sanity as a new mom is to keep a feeding and changing station stocked before going to bed for the night. Keep diapers, wipes, rash cream, baby powder, and a change of clothes nearby. Also keep clean bottles and formula (if applicable) within close reach.
Don’t Skip the Bubble Baths
Good hygiene provides relaxation, which in turn, helps us feel more put together and well-rested. There’s nothing quite like soaking in a calming bubble bath to ease those tense muscles.
Keep Your Mental Health in Check
After having a baby, your mental health is of utmost importance. When you’re in a bad mental health state, it’s difficult to get quality sleep at night. You may have problems falling asleep, staying asleep, or may be oversleeping. Either way, you find yourself feeling unrested.
Right now, your wellbeing and your baby’s well being matter most. A pile of dirty dishes? Leave it for tomorrow. Now is the time to prioritize your physical and mental state in the form of good rest. Unless there’s broken glass on the ground or a horrible stench in the house, the chores can be put off.
Get Physical
Even simply going on a walk around the block can be a great way to get exercise in. This in itself can be a relaxing activity. And as everyone knows, getting exercise can also allow you to get a better night’s rest.
Drinking Calming Teas
Turning to herbal teas like chamomile or lavender can be great ways to unwind after a hectic day as a new mom. Never underestimate the power of a hot beverage filled with calming herbs, especially before bedtime.
Conclusion
Being a new mother is going to be a challenge no matter how you look at it. However, what a mom can do differently to make things easier is to ensure she gets proper rest. With the latter tips, any overwhelmed, exhausted mom can get the rest and relaxation she needs to feel rejuvenated after a long day of parenting.
beurownlight.com 