Category: support

Top 10 Actions To Support Good Mental Health And Find Support- Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Mental Health Foundation)

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week (with the Mental Health Foundation) and this year’s theme is Take Action for good mental health- for yourself or a loved one and for the wider community. They say, “we’re asking people to join us in taking action to support good mental health. Even small actions can help us feel hopeful and less powerless. And while our individual actions matter, when we come together we are even more powerful.”

Real change happens when we take action. Here’s some Top 10 tips from the Mental Health Foundation of simple actions to support good mental health, lift your mood and improve your ability to cope with life:

  1. Plan something to look forward to– Making plans for things we enjoy can increase our sense of hope, which is important for our mental health. It could be a plan to sit down with a cup of tea and take a quiet five minutes, or a long-term plan for an ambitious trip. Whether it’s a big or small goal, the important thing is to plan it.

2. Eat Well- One of the simplest ways to improve mental health is by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Not only can it support your emotional health, but introducing small habits, such as staying hydrated or having fruit snacks, can help make changes stick easier.

3. Get closer to nature- Spending time in nature can boost your mood, lessen stress, and help you concentrate.

4. Get good sleep- Good quality sleep helps your brain work better, lifts your mood, and is good for your overall health.

5. Get Creative– Spending time on creative activities is a great way to help ease stress and anxiety. Carve out some time to listen to music, paint, sing, or do whatever you enjoy most.

6. Move regularly- Being active can boost your mood and raise your self-esteem. It’s also an effective stress management technique. Whether you go for a walk, do some yoga, or vigorously clean the kitchen, it all counts.

7. Try Mindfulness- Being fully aware in the present moment can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges. Aim to notice the colour of the sky, the sound of leaves, or the feeling of your feet on the ground.

8. Friends- Having good relationships with others can help you feel like you belong, allow you to share experiences, and receive emotional support. It’s a great reason to have a catch-up with a friend on the phone.

9. Be Kind to yourself– Bad days happen to everyone. If you’re having a tough time, remember to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. You’re doing the best you can.

10. Talk things over with someone you trust- It can take a lot of courage to tell someone else how we’re feeling or what we’re finding hard. Just talking things through with a person we trust can feel like a relief and make us feel less alone.

(Source for Top 10 tips: Mental Health Foundation)

There are times when some of the above will be or feel too much, for example if facing a deep depression or a serious episode of mental illness. In these cases, the most important thing is to reach for help from your doctor or therapist (or both) and get referred in to mental health services to see a psychiatrist. Practising self care such as eating, sleeping and taking prescribed medication as well as simple things like showering and getting dressed can make a big difference on a day to day basis.

Remember that you are not alone and that you have so much to give and offer to the world. Take small achievable actions and reach for help and support from a trusted place, charity or helpline.

Support lines in the UK:

First port of call if a new referral (not already known) is to call 111 or request an urgent GP appointment

  • call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, or email: jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24 hours
  • if you’re under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline – the number will not appear on your phone bill
  • There are other specialist organisations if needed for specific communities.

(Image: Mental Health Foundation)

Mental Health Experts Shine A Light On The Struggle Of Infertility Over The Festive Season by Experts at JAAQ

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Victoria Volkova Unsplash)

For many people, Christmas time/festive season is a time for happiness, family and bringing people together; however, one in seven UK couples face a hidden grief : infertility..

Research reveals that nearly three in four people battling infertility are burdened with feelings of failure, ​​adding to the hidden grief many already feel during the holidays. In response, mental health platform JAAQ wants to spread awareness around why infertility can be harder during the holidays and what we can do to approach the topic sensitively.

Male fertility coach explains why infertility feels heavier during the festive season 

Male fertility coach, Shaun Greenway, who was diagnosed with azoospermia, explains on JAAQ why the holiday season is so difficult: “We got a pregnancy announcement at Christmas, and it took me right back to that place. That hurt. That weird feeling of happiness mixed in with jealousy and anger and pain.”  Even after he had twins via donor sperm, the emotions didn’t disappear “It will always be part of me. It’s always there.”

Shaun’s experience highlights a truth many people face – that infertility doesn’t end with treatment or conception; it changes shape, often resurfacing during emotionally charged times like Christmas, a time filled with pregnancy announcements and marketing imagery filled with children and togetherness.

Founder and CEO of Fertility Help Hub, Eloise Edington, knows that pain well. Supporting her devastated husband while navigating her own grief, she recalls when speaking on JAAQ: “Supporting my devastated husband while also equally grieving myself and knowing that we would never have a biological child together meant we were both drowning in separate pain.”

She’s open about the reality of those moments: “Lots of crying, lots of eating chocolate, wine, being together. Not pretty. Not Pinterest-worthy. Just real.” For many couples facing infertility, this is the reality of Christmas – raw, difficult and far from the idealised celebrations we often imagine. 

(image: Priscilla Prisceez, Unsplash)

4 dos and don’ts for talking about infertility this holiday season

To make the festive season a little easier, mental health platform JAAQ has revealed four essential dos and don’ts for talking about infertility this Christmas – whether you’re facing it yourself, or want to approach the topic sensitively with others. 

Dos:

  • 1. Think before you ask sensitive questions about pregnancy or starting a family and wait for them to bring it up themselves naturally in conversation.
  • 2. Share with someone you trust – If you are struggling, consider speaking openly with someone, whether in person or by message, which can help you to process your emotions. For Shaun, he shared: “Once I did start opening up, that’s when everything got a bit lighter.” Elouise suggests, “Find community, find support, speak to other people who are going through similar struggles. How are they dealing with it? What are they doing to keep the romance alive or to get through this tricky time and enjoy life?”
  • 3. Encourage without imposing your opinion. If someone shares something personal, listen fully before responding. Let them know you are there for them and ask how you can support them, rather than assuming what they need. 
  • 4. Create a Christmas/ festive routine that works for you. If traditional celebrations feel overwhelming, permit yourself to do things differently. You might skip the big dinner, start a new ritual like a quiet morning walk with coffee, or find other ways to mark the day that feel manageable.  

Dont’s:

  • Don’t ask personal questions about pregnancy or family plans, especially in social settings
  • Don’t offer unsolicited advice like ‘just relax’ or ‘it’ll happen when it’s meant to’
  • Don’t probe with follow-up questions if someone opens up; listen supportively rather than asking questions that might cause unintentional distress
  • Don’t pressure someone to participate in every activity or ‘get into the spirit.’ Sometimes the kindest thing is simply allowing them to step away 

(image: Pereanu Sebastian: Unsplash)

About JAAQ

JAAQ – which stands for Just Ask A Question is a pioneering mental health platform designed to make credible, compassionate support accessible to everyone – especially in the workplace. The platform provides engaging, clinically backed content by connecting users with experts and individuals with lived experience, who answer mental health questions anonymously. This unique, interactive approach empowers people to explore their mental wellbeing in a safe, stigma-free environment.

5 Potent Paths for Prolonged Pain: Where to Turn When Life Feels Overbearing by Meghan Belnap

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: free image)

Few trials in life are as demanding or relentless as those rooted in chronic physical pain or emotional trauma. For the young adult grappling with long-term afflictions, navigating through daily life can feel like traversing a battlefield with no map and an unreliable compass. 

Seeking Solace in Shared Stories 

When the weight of your struggle seems too heavy to bear, one of the most powerful avenues toward comfort and understanding is through storytelling and shared experiences. Whether you’re dealing with the debilitating effects of chronic illness, the fallout from trauma, or a blend of both, realizing you’re not alone can be profoundly liberating. 

Joining Support Groups 

Surrounding yourself with peers who understand firsthand the turmoil you face can provide a unique and invaluable support system. Consider reaching out to local or online support groups focused on your specific condition or trauma type. Here, you can share your story, glean insights from others’ journeys, and forge connections that transcend your individual pain. When you open up to a circle of understanding listeners, you’ll find that there is collective strength in solidarity. 

Creating Community 

Online forums and social media groups can serve as modern-day campfires, where you can find solidarity and support among those with similar struggles. From these virtual communities, real friendships and mentorships can blossom, creating a network that uplifts and sustains, even on the darkest of days. 

The Healing Art of Expression 

When words fail us, sometimes the canvas, the page, or the stage can amplify our voices. The creative process—whether through visual arts, music, writing, or performance—can be an outlet for the unspoken struggle within us. Engaging in art as a form of therapy not only provides an escape; it can also catalyse healing on a deeper, psychological level. Be careful though!

Exploring Therapy Through Art 

Art therapy, a form of psychotherapy that utilises creative means to express and process emotions, can be particularly powerful for young adults navigating complex internal landscapes. In a safe and guided environment, you can use artistic mediums to explore memories, release pent-up feelings, and discover new perspectives on your pain. 

Finding a Creative Community 

Being part of a creative community can cultivate a shared language around your pain that transcends traditional dialogue. Whether you join a local writers’ group, painting class, or theater troupe, immersing yourself in art alongside others can provide catharsis, camaraderie, and a fresh lens through which to comprehend and cope with your experiences. 

Professional Partners in Your Personal Battle 

With a struggle as intricate and unyielding as chronic pain or emotional trauma, it’s often necessary to call upon specialized professionals who can provide the knowledge and guidance you need to manage and, ideally, overcome your challenges. 

Therapy and Counselling 

The benefits of therapy and counselling for chronic pain and emotional trauma are well-documented. Contacting a skilled therapy center or counselling office can equip you with tools to address the cognitive and emotional aspects of your condition. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, in particular, has shown efficacy in helping individuals reframe their experiences and manage their pain more effectively. 

Seeking Medical Specialists 

Chronic pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Connecting with pain management specialists, physical therapists, or holistic health practitioners can lead to innovative treatments and strategies for maintaining your well-being. For those contending with trauma, seeking out psychiatrists, psychologists, or trauma-focused therapists can pave the way toward understanding and healing deep psychological wounds. 

Navigating Life With a Compassionate Guide 

The path to healing and resilience from long-term afflictions is rarely a straight line. Sometimes, having a life coach or mentor—a compassionate and knowledgeable guide—can help you chart a course that aligns with your personal goals and values. 

Life Coaches 

Life coaches work with clients to identify areas of dissatisfaction, set goals, and make strategic plans to achieve those objectives. While a therapist may look into your past to heal emotional wounds, a life coach can help you focus on the present and future, encouraging you to move forward with intention and purpose, despite your struggles. 

The Power of Mentorship 

Mentors, too, can be instrumental in guiding young adults through the labyrinth of chronic pain and trauma. Whether personal or professional, a mentor can offer support, share wisdom, and act as a role model for resilience. A mentor’s insight and perspective can prove invaluable as you learn to not just survive, but thrive, despite the weight you carry. 

Fortifying Your Internal and External Network 

In your darkest moments, it’s crucial to know that there are sources of strength—both internal and external—to which you can turn. These can be practices that you cultivate within, or connections you foster without, that fortify you against the relentlessness of your pain. 

The Power of Daily Practices 

Mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and relaxation techniques can serve as anchors in the storm of chronic pain or trauma. These practices help you tune into your body-mind connection, fostering a sense of control and calm that is often elusive. Establishing a consistent routine of these activities can help reduce stress, manage pain, and improve your overall quality of life. 

Building Resilient Relationships 

Cultivating healthy and supportive relationships can significantly bolster your resilience in the face of chronic pain or trauma. Whether it’s family, close friends, romantic partners, or even pets, the unconditional support and love found in strong relationships can act as a wellspring of hope and comfort. Nurturing these connections—through open communication, empathy, and mutual aid—can create a network of resources that sustain you through even the most challenging times. 

Finding your way through the intricate labyrinth of chronic pain and emotional trauma as a young adult can be daunting, but it’s not a lonely path. By reaching out to these potent sources of support and understanding, you can begin to unravel the complexities of your experiences and piece together a map that leads to a life defined not by your pain, but by your resilience and triumph. 

This article is by Meghan Belnap, freelance writer.

Eating Disorder Treatments to Consider if You Think a Friend May Be Struggling by Anita Ginsburg

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Hannah Busing: Unsplash)

Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that affect millions of people worldwide. These disorders can have a devastating impact on a person’s physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life. If you think a friend may be struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. There are many different types of treatments available for eating disorders, and the right approach will depend on the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. This blog post will discuss some of the most effective eating disorder treatments to consider if you think a friend may be struggling.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is a highly specialised form of care that involves staying in a hospital or residential facility. This type of treatment is typically recommended for individuals who are experiencing severe eating disorders and need intensive support and supervision.This inpatient eating disorder treatment may include medical monitoring, individual and group therapy, and nutritional counselling. This approach can be highly effective in helping individuals regain weight, learn new coping skills, and develop healthier eating habits.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is another option for individuals who are struggling with an eating disorder. This type of care involves visiting a mental health clinic or hospital on a regular basis for counselling and other therapies. Outpatient treatment may be appropriate for individuals who are in the early stages of recovery, or who have a less severe eating disorder. It can also be a good option for those who need to balance treatment with work or other responsibilities.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

(CBT) Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in treating eating disorders. This approach focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to disordered eating behaviours. CBT can be used in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and may be combined with other types of therapies to create a comprehensive treatment plan.

Family-Based Treatment

(FBT) Family-based treatment (FBT) is a specialised approach to treating eating disorders in children and adolescents. This approach involves the entire family in the treatment process and is designed to help parents and caregivers support their child’s recovery. FBT has been shown to be highly effective in treating anorexia nervosa, and may also be used to treat other types of eating disorders.

Nutritional Counselling

Nutritional counselling can be an important component of eating disorder treatment. This type of therapy involves working with a registered dietitian to develop a healthy eating plan that meets the individual’s specific needs and goals. Nutritional counselling may be used in conjunction with other types of therapies, such as CBT, to create a comprehensive treatment plan.

Eating disorders are complex and challenging to treat, but with the right help, recovery is possible. If you think a friend may be struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Inpatient and outpatient treatment, cognitive behavioural therapy, family-based treatment, and nutritional counselling are all effective options to consider.

Remember, recovery is a journey, and it may take time and patience to achieve lasting results. With the right support and treatment, your friend can learn to overcome their eating disorder and live a happy, healthy life.

If you’re in the UK please see the following charity to help too: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/ as we approach Eating Disorders Awareness Week.

This article as written by Anita Ginsburg and contains a non sponsored link.