Tag: Depression

Crave: Harnessing The Hidden Biology of Addiction and Cancer by Dr Raphael E. Cuomo, PHD.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Todd Trapani, Unsplash)

Modern life surrounds us with easy dopamine triggers: sweetened coffee on every corner, endless scrolls of video, nicotine vapes disguised as fashion accessories. My research career has shown me that these cues are not merely temptations; they are biological signals that reshape metabolism, immunity, and even cancer risk. In my book, Crave: The Hidden Biology of Addiction and Cancer, I set out to explain why.

Why cravings feel hard wired

Craving evolved as a survival mechanism. In the brain, the mesolimbic pathway flags calorie dense fruit, social bonding, or safety as worth seeking. That same circuitry now lights up for ultraprocessed snacks and late night streaming. Functional MRI studies reveal identical patterns of dopaminergic surge whether volunteers anticipate nicotine or a sugary drink, and chronic exposure dulls the reward system’s sensitivity. Over time, people need stronger stimuli for the same lift, a neuroadaptation called tolerance. My laboratory group has observed that tolerance often precedes measurable changes in inflammatory biomarkers that predict cancer progression.

From appetite to oncology

The epidemiology is startling. Meta analyses link daily sugary beverage intake with elevated colorectal cancer incidence, independent of body mass. Tobacco remains the most potent modifiable carcinogen worldwide, yet nicotine pouches marketed as “clean alternatives” still activate . Adults who replace smoking with high sugar snacks trade one risk for another; insulin spikes feed oncogenic pathways. Craving is the bridge that explains these patterns.

Listening instead of suppressing

A central message of the book is that craving is not a moral failing. It is feedback. By tuning into the signal, by asking why a craving appears rather than fighting it, we can leverage biology rather than battle it. For example, a brief walk that raises heart rate for ten minutes stimulates endocannabinoids that naturally quell appetite and elevate mood. Clinical trials suggest that this micro intervention yields sharper cognitive performance than an afternoon energy drink.

Sugar Cravings and Mental Health

Craving for sugar sits at the crossroads of addiction science and mental health because sucrose triggers the same dopamine opioid cascade in the brain that reinforces nicotine and alcohol, yet the rapid glucose spikes that follow can crash into irritability and low mood, creating a loop that feels compulsive rather than indulgent.

Evidence based tools break this loop: cognitive behavioural therapy teaches people to notice the stress cue that precedes a sugar hunt, mindfulness based relapse prevention strengthens the ability to ride out urges, nutrition counselling pairs slow digesting carbohydrates with protein to steady blood glucose, and peer groups such as SMART Recovery provide social accountability when willpower fades.

Small pivots, measurable gains

Patients who swap sugary breakfasts for fiber rich protein report fewer mid morning crashes within three weeks. Continuous glucose monitoring confirms smoother glycemic curves, and inflammatory markers such as CRP trend downward after eight weeks. Similar improvements follow digital media fasts that compress social scrolling into defined windows, freeing cognitive bandwidth and reducing late night cortisol spikes that impair immune surveillance.

Practical first steps

There exist a number of science grounded experiments readers can try: hydrate before caffeine to blunt adrenal overstimulation, pair resistance exercise with a protein rich meal to modulate leptin, schedule technology free evenings to restore natural melatonin rhythms. Track how your body responds, adjust, repeat. The data you gather on yourself becomes a personalised research study with real health dividends.

Final thought

Our ancestors survived by responding to biological urges; we thrive today by understanding them. Crave offers a map from reflexive consumption to intentional living, informed by years of bench science, clinical trials, and population studies. My hope is that readers finish the book feeling empowered to decode their own signals, rewrite their relationship with desire, and protect long term health in the process.

If that resonates, I invite you to explore the full story within the pages of Crave and share your experiences. Let curiosity, not discipline alone, guide your next step. To get your copy of Crave, please see the following link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F8YVNB2S

(image: Raphael E Cuomo PHD)

Suicide Prevention Lessons In UK Secondary Schools- Congratulations 3 Dads Walking!

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Robinson/Tim Owen/Mike Palmer/Andy Airey)

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.

For more on 3 Dads Walking please visit their website here: https://www.3dadswalking.uk/

Please note: This is not a sponsored post, I have been inspired by the heroism of these 3 Dads.

Coping With Health Anxiety In Caring Roles: A Guide For Professionals Who Hold It All Together by Jolian Ardolino at Ardolino Counselling

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

Author: Jolian Ardolino

(image: Unsplash: Angelina Sarycheva)

If you’re reading this, you likely know what it’s like to care deeply for others – whether as a nurse, paramedic, therapist, social worker, or in one of the many roles that keep our communities going. But here’s something we don’t say out loud enough: caring for others can quietly take its toll on our own wellbeing, especially when it comes to health anxiety.


The Hidden Weight of Health Anxiety in Caring Professions

Caring professionals are often assumed to be unshakeable in a crisis – the calm in the storm, the voice of reason when others are spiralling. But what happens when your own mind starts to race? When a fleeting ache becomes a late-night Google search, and that spirals into a restless night? Or when the stories you hear at work bleed into fears about your own health or loved ones?

Health anxiety isn’t “just worrying” or “hypochondria.” It’s a very real, common challenge for those who look after others. NHS surveys found 76% of staff experienced a mental health issue last year, with over half reporting anxiety. We absorb others’ pain and witness uncertainty, sometimes internalising that anxiety until it shapes our own thoughts and behaviours.


Why Caring Professionals Are Prone to Health Anxiety

Caring roles put us face-to-face with illness, unpredictability, and loss. We’re trained to scan for problems – a strength that can turn inward, fuelling cycles of health anxiety. Many of us are also experts at minimising our own needs. My clients (and yes, I’ve been there myself) often struggle to switch off “helper mode” and create space for their own wellbeing. No wonder health anxiety can creep in.


Recognising the Signs

Health anxiety can show up in subtle – and not-so-subtle – ways:

– Excessive checking: Monitoring your body for symptoms, repeatedly seeking reassurance, or going down “Dr Google” rabbit holes.
– Preoccupation: Struggling to focus on anything but health worries, even outside work.
– Avoidance: Steering clear of situations or tasks for fear of illness.
– Physical symptoms: Real sensations (like palpitations, headaches, or stomach issues) that reinforce anxious thoughts.
– Sleep disturbance: Lying awake, unable to switch off your mind.



My Integrative Approach: You’re Not Alone

As a therapist specialising in anxiety, stress, and burnout among caring professionals, I understand the unique pressures you face – not just as a therapist, but as someone who’s walked in your shoes. At Ardolino Counselling, my approach combines:

– CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): We map the cycle of anxious thoughts and behaviours, learning practical ways to break free from unhelpful patterns. CBT helps you question catastrophic thinking and gently test healthier beliefs.
– ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy): We work on making space for uncertainty, learning to “unhook” from distressing thoughts, and focusing on what really matters – without trying to eliminate anxiety altogether.
– Person-centred therapy: All our work is grounded in compassion, empathy, and respect for your unique story and strengths.

It’s not about “fixing” you – it’s about working together so you can keep doing the work you care about, without being overwhelmed.

Image: Unsplash: Tim Mossholder)

Practical Tips: Coping Day-to-Day

1. Challenge Catastrophic Thinking 
When a health worry pops up, pause and ask: “What’s the evidence for this thought? Am I assuming the worst?” Label these as “catastrophic thoughts,” and consider: “What’s a more balanced or likely explanation?” Notice how believable the new thought feels and how you might behave differently if you believed it.

2. Ground Yourself in the Present 
When anxiety spirals, try grounding techniques like box breathing or the “5-4-3-2-1” exercise: name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This anchors you in the here and now.

3. Limit Reassurance and ‘Dr Google’ 
Notice when you’re seeking reassurance – asking colleagues, Googling symptoms, or scanning your body. Set gentle limits on these habits, reminding yourself: “Uncertainty is uncomfortable, but I can handle it.” Reducing reassurance-seeking helps break the anxiety cycle.

4. Set Boundaries to Protect Your Energy 
Give yourself permission to say no, or to step back from work worries outside your shift. Small routines – like a walk after work or a tech-free hour – help reinforce this boundary and support your wellbeing.

5. Reach Out for Support 
If anxiety persists, talking things through with a trusted friend, colleague, or therapist can give you perspective and relief. You don’t have to manage it alone.

When to Reach Out

Everyone experiences worry sometimes. But it’s worth seeking help if:

– Health anxiety is interfering with your work, relationships, or daily life.
– You’re finding it hard to “switch off,” even away from work.
– You’re avoiding situations or tasks because of health fears.
– Your anxiety is getting worse, not better, over time.

Mental health struggles are common and nothing to be ashamed of. Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a step towards regaining balance and resilience. Many caring professionals find that talking to someone outside their immediate work circle helps them process fears and develop healthier ways of coping.

Ready for Real Change?

If health anxiety is making it harder to do the job you love, you deserve support tailored to you as a caring professional. At Ardolino Counselling, I offer a free, no-pressure 15-minute consultation to see if therapy feels right for you. Sessions are available UK-wide (online or in Barry, South Wales) with flexible scheduling, including Fridays, evenings, and weekends.

Special Blue Light Card Offer: 
Blue Light Card holders receive 50% off their first 8 sessions. Block bookings are also available for added savings.

You give so much care and skill to others. Let’s make sure you get the same support in return.

Book your free consultation here and take the first step towards a calmer, more confident you.

This post contains a sponsored link and was written by Jolian Ardolino, therapist.

Heston Blumenthal OBE: My Life With Bipolar BBC Documentary Review by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Melanie Blumenthal)

Last week, acclaimed chef, restauranteur and mental health advocate, Heston Blumenthal OBE starred in the BBC documentary ‘Heston: My Life with Bipolar’ which explored his fairly recent bipolar disorder diagnosis. Heston subsequently became an ambassador for national charity Bipolar UK, and has been actively supporting the charity’s mission to help reduce the average 9.5 year delay to diagnosis and end the stigma surrounding the condition.

In 2023, Heston began experiencing both depressive and manic episodes, hearing voices and seeing hallucinations, as well as depression with suicidal thoughts. Mania can also cause you to have intense creativity, speak faster and not listen to others as well as causing delusions and psychosis. Heston’s wife Melanie could see that his health was deteriorating rapidly and that he was a danger to himself. Despite the trauma of sectioning and hospitalisation, this set Heston on the path of not only a bipolar diagnosis, but medicine, therapy and ongoing treatment to help him live a healthy and happy life again.

Heston said to Bipolar UK, “I was living with undiagnosed bipolar for many years, so it’s been an extraordinary journey to get where I am today, and I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to talk to others living with the condition and find out more about their experiences.

“There is still a lot of stigma regarding bipolar, and mental health support is still lacking, but it is vital to be able to talk openly about the condition. I know this isn’t always easy, but I hope by sharing my experience, people will gain a greater understanding of bipolar and an insight into how I’m managing it.”

The documentary was extremely powerful to watch and sad in places, but inspiring. As someone who faced a similar situation to Heston in terms of a manic episode with psychosis/delusions that led to being sedated, sectioned by psychiatrists and hospitalised, my heart went out to him as I know how traumatising this can be. I found the needle being shown as a reenactment for sedation quite challenging to watch! However, the documentary was more than just showing what happened to Heston, who didn’t know he had bipolar til 2023, when he was in his 50s.

I found the discussion that Heston had with his son Jack, about how he was during a manic episode to be really enlightening. A lot of children of parents with bipolar find it challenging when their parents personality is almost hijacked by the episodes. Mania can lead to quickened speech, manic and grandiose ideas, lack of sleep and risky behaviour. You could see how much love Heston and Jack had for each other and how special is family is to support him through this and appear on camera. This includes his wife Melanie, who has been Heston’s rock!

The documentary ended with Heston visiting the mother of Rebecca McLellan, a young woman with bipolar who died by suicide due to neglect from mental health services. Rebecca had raised the alarm with the crisis team at her local hospital various times but was not treated with respect and dignity. The pressure of her illness and lack of support led her to take her own life.

Heston wants to highlight the suicide risk that bipolar brings and how much more mental health support is needed from the government. He is now working as an ambassador with Bipolar UK to raise awareness. Bipolar UK is on a mission to ensure people with bipolar get a quicker diagnosis so they can access effective treatment, support, and self-management, enabling them to live well and fulfil their potential.

Simon Kitchen, Bipolar UK CEO, added: “Heston is such an incredible ambassador for everyone in the UK living with, or affected by, bipolar. We could not be prouder to be working with him. His willingness to be so vulnerable on camera and to share such personal details about his experiences has resonated with many people in our community – and will help people who don’t know much about bipolar to begin to understand this complex and much-misunderstood condition. Heston is living proof that despite the sometimes severe and fluctuating nature of the condition, living with bipolar should not be a barrier to following your ambitions”

As one of the million people in the UK living with bipolar, I know how much more funding is needed in the NHS and a new bipolar pathway with more mental health support needs to be set up. Early prevention and support is key to stop bipolar escalating into suicide or mania.

Although it was a very personal watch for me, due to having been diagnosed with bipolar since aged 16 and my Dad having bipolar too, I thought that Heston’s documentary was so inspiring. He has only been living with the condition for two years and is using his platform for the good. Heston is now on Lithium medication to stabilise his moods as well as an anti psychotic medication.

Bipolar UK say that according to the stats, someone with bipolar takes their own life every day. Hopefully Heston’s documentary will act as a reminder and catalyst to our government to begin change. Thank you Heston and Melanie for being vulnerable and sharing your important story.

(image: Bipolar UK)

Heston: Life with Bipolar is out now on BBC Iplayer.

Doctor’s Insights: Navigating Life With Bipolar Disorder By Dr Antti Rintanen MD Of The Internet Doctor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Emily Underworld: Unsplash)

Living with bipolar disorder can often feel like your emotions are swinging between two extremes. The highs (mania) can be energising but risky, and the lows (depression) can be draining and isolating. As a doctor, I’ve worked with many patients who face this condition—and I’ve seen firsthand how the right tools, treatments, and habits can lead to a more stable and fulfilling life.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by episodes of depression and mania or hypomania. These mood shifts can affect how a person thinks, feels, and acts. It’s more than just having a bad day or being in a good mood—it can seriously impact relationships, work, and daily functioning.

According to the World Health Organisation, bipolar disorder is one of the top causes of disability for people between 15 and 44 years old.

Medications: The Backbone of Treatment

Most people with bipolar disorder need medication to help manage their symptoms. Lithium, for example, has been used for decades and is one of the most reliable treatments to prevent manic episodes and reduce the risk of suicide. Other options include other mood stabilisers and certain antipsychotic medications.

It’s really important to stick with your medication plan. Stopping suddenly—even if you feel better—can cause serious setbacks. Never adjust or stop medications without medical supervision—even if you’re feeling better, as this significantly increases the risk of relapse, especially into mania. If you have side effects, don’t stop on your own—talk to your doctor about switching or adjusting your dose.

How Therapy Helps

Therapy can help you understand your thoughts, manage emotions, and build better habits. One helpful option is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It teaches people to recognise unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with healthier ones. CBT is especially useful for managing depression and maintaining stability between episodes, though it is less effective during manic phases.

Another type of therapy, called Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), focuses on keeping your daily schedule steady—especially your sleep and social routines. Why does this matter? Because disruptions to your daily rhythm can trigger mood episodes.

Family-focused therapy also makes a big difference. When your loved ones understand your condition and know how to respond, you’re more likely to stay on track. If you face trauma around your condition, then EMDR therapy can also help with any PTSD or anxiety symptoms.

These therapies don’t replace medication, but they add valuable tools for coping, improving communication, and building resilience.

Everyday Habits That Make a Difference

Beyond medication and therapy, lifestyle habits have a huge effect on mood. Here are a few evidence-based strategies:

  • Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time helps stabilize your mood.

  • Get moving. Exercise—even walking—has been shown to lift mood and reduce stress.

  • Eat well. Omega-3 fats (like those found in fish or flaxseed) may support brain health. While the evidence is mixed, some studies suggest they could help support mood as part of a healthy diet.

  • Manage stress. Mindfulness, breathing exercises, or journaling can help you stay grounded.

  • Avoid alcohol and drugs. These can interfere with treatment and trigger episodes.

It’s worth remembering that lifestyle changes work best alongside—not in place of—medication and therapy. These small, daily actions help support long-term stability and overall well-being.

Pay Attention to Early Warning Signs

Everyone’s symptoms are different, but common early signs of mania include less need for sleep, racing thoughts, and impulsive decisions. Signs of depression may include feeling hopeless, withdrawing from others, or sleeping too much.

Keeping a mood diary or using an app can help track how you’re doing. You might also ask a trusted friend or family member to gently point out changes you might not notice.

Build a Strong Support System

Having a support system—whether friends, family, or a support group—makes a real difference. Research shows that people with strong social support tend to manage bipolar disorder better and have fewer hospitalisations.

It also helps when your loved ones are informed and involved. When people understand what you’re going through, it’s easier for them to support you in ways that actually help.

Final Thoughts

Living with bipolar disorder isn’t easy, but it’s manageable. With the right treatment, daily routines, emotional awareness, and a good support network, it’s absolutely possible to live a meaningful and empowered life.

You are more than your diagnosis. And there are tools—backed by science—that can help you thrive.

About the Author

Dr. Antti Rintanen is a licensed physician from Finland and founder of The Internet Doctor, where he shares reliable, accessible health advice. He writes about both physical and mental well-being with a focus on evidence-based care.

Working From Home In The UK And The Impact On Mental Health: With Choose Leisure

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Helena Lopes, Unsplash).

New data has revealed that there has been a rise in interest in mental health advice for those working from home, with searches in England jumping up by 63% in the past year.

With over two-fifths (42%) of remote workers feeling that working from home has had negative impacts on their mental wellbeing, the experts at Choose Leisure wanted to share that there has been a stark interest in mental health support across the UK.

Dr. Hana Patel, NHS GP and GP Medico-Legal Expert Witness commented:

“Working remotely, or from home, can have lots of benefits but it can also be isolating and have a big impact on our mental health. Often, it might be difficult to manage boundaries when being out of the office environment, so here are some tips that can help maintain well-being” :

  1. Highlight of the day – “Each day, try to find one small thing you can take pride in or appreciate. You might find it helpful to create a list at the start of each day, and tick off everything you’ve done at the end.”
  1. Lunch self-care – “Make sure you take at least a 30-minute lunch break and eat in a different room from where you work. If you can, try to get some fresh air and go for a short walk.”
  1. Prep your tech – “Set up a ‘work’ and ‘personal’ login for your laptop, so that you can differentiate between the two – you could even use different screensavers and backgrounds to make the difference clear.”
  1. Meeting environment – “Distinguish between proper meetings and informal chats with your colleagues – if possible, designate different spaces for formal and informal conversations to help set boundaries.
  1. Fresh air, fresh mind – “Go for a walk as soon as you finish – this can act as a fake ‘commute’, and make it feel like you’re coming home after the working day has finished.”
  1. Prioritise breaks – “It’s easy to work longer hours and take fewer breaks when working remotely. Put a reminder in your diary for when you plan to finish working.”

(image: Mikey Harris: Unsplash)

Beyond mental health tips for remote workers, national search trends also reflect the growing concern for work wellbeing.

Choose Leisure utilised search engine analysis to reveal a spike in searches for ‘work from home health’, ‘WFH mental health’, ‘WFH wellbeing’, ‘WFH wellbeing tips’ and 1,446 related keywords.

Nationally, England has been recognised as the country with the largest rise in working from home mental health concerns in the UK, based on online searches.

In 2022, the terms were searched an average of 79,720 times a month, but this rocketed to 129,950 in 2024 – that’s a 63% surge! Scotland came second with a 36% uplift, followed by Wales and Northern Ireland with 35% and 12%.

Searches for WFH Mental Health keywords
Location20222024% Change
England79,720129,95063%
Scotland9,69013,22036%
Wales6,8809,31035%
Northern Ireland6,0906,80012%

Donna Bicker from Choose Leisure, who conducted the research said:

“It’s important for remote workers to understand they are not confined to four walls, their home office or any space you use for daily work.

“Working from home is designed to foster flexibility and improve work-life balance. With mental health concerns on the rise in the UK, finding an ideal workspace—whether at home, in a café, or even travelling in a motorhome—can be essential for improved mental well-being and productivity.”

This non sponsored blog was written by Choose Leisure.

What Makes A Great Hypnotherapist? by Kevin Whitelaw of Perma Hypnotherapy.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Chelsea Gates, Unsplash)

On a regular basis, I speak to people who are set to benefit from hypnotherapy: they have a compelling need to make those changes in their lives, they take responsibility for the outcome and, they’re looking forward to enjoying the benefits. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is an effective, modern, evidence-based talking therapy. It is designed to support you in making positive changes leading to your sustained wellbeing.

Often, people get a bit stuck when looking for a therapist as they try to find the right therapist for them at that time.

So, what makes a hypnotherapist the right hypnotherapist for you at the moment?

The over-riding factor is your gut instinct: rapport between therapist and client is so important in achieving the best outcomes for wellbeing. What are your feelings as you look through their website and speak to them?

Beyond that, consider the following – any credible hypnotherapist would be happy to confirm the below.

Make sure you consider these when speaking to a hypnotherapist for your mental health:

  • They are open about what certifications they have, from where and what continuous professional development they do. Remember that the term ‘diploma’ is, in itself, meaningless. The key things to look for when assessing a certification are how much work did it take to obtain, who accredited it and what competence does the accreditor have?
  • That they are required to undertake a level of continuous professional development.
  • They are members of recognised professional governing bodies. There are many of these – The key thing to look for is the organisation’s affiliation with the National Council for Hypnotherapy and / or the Complimentary and Natural Health Care Council. Nb – this holds true for the UK. Other countries – especially the USA – have their own arrangements.
  • That they have Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII). This is not to expect anything to go wrong but it does give a degree of assurance as to the quality of their qualifications. Each broker offering PII to hypnotherapists has a list of certifications they accept as being suitable – and they are very shrewd about who they insure.
  • They have lived-experience of the issues you have chosen to resolve. Nb – there is no right or wrong with this one. You will find therapists who both agree and disagree with this point.
  • They are clear about their overall balance between therapy and hypnosis.
  • They allow you to set your own goals and they work to your (rather than their) agenda.
  • They encourage and support you to become proficient in self-hypnosis and managing your wellbeing for the long term.
  • They are happy to share content, resources, and references with you to give a deeper understanding of what they, and you, are doing.
  • They focus on you achieving your goals efficiently – there are no signs of them spinning things out for extra sessions.

(image: Marcel Straub, Unsplash)

 Ready to break free? 

The author Kevin Whitelaw helps adults across the globe overcome anxiety, stress, and self-doubt using Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. Book your free consultation today.

Social Anxiety: Find What Makes You Feel Alive. by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: yourhappyplaceblog)

For those of you who have read my blogs or book, you will know that I have lived with mental health issues since I was young (diagnosed with bipolar at 16, depression and anxiety at 15 and lots of anxiety as a younger child).

My bipolar is medicated so that my brain functions fairly ‘typically’ ie i don’t get mania or severe depression, but I do get bad anxiety and milder depression.

What started as a teen to protect me from harm, became a full fledged panic disorder and social anxiety. Hiding away became my way to protect myself from the world, from people’s negative judgements, from life.

Even now at 36, I navigate a lot of the same anxious thoughts, behaviours and feelings. I don’t often share this part of my life anymore but I feel it is essential.

Yesterday, after having a particularly bad patch with anxiety where I cancelled many arrangements, stayed inside a lot etc, I spoke to my wonderful therapist because I needed to unpack what was going on for me.

In the course of the discussion about the different issues going on for me that could be causing the social anxiety/agoraphobia element I realised this key truth.

I have built metaphorical walls around myself in many parts of my life (my body, my friendships, my relationships in general), to keep myself safe from trauma I have faced. Part of that comes out as social anxiety as a protection mechanism and there’s time when that worsens. And times when its better.

But what I did realise is this.

I would like to feel properly alive and start taking down some of the walls, so I can live. Sometimes, the walls keep me safe and cosy. Sometimes they are not serving me anymore. I also want to boost my self esteem so that I stop retreating and hiding, or if it happens as it will, to find a way to work with it. I have had EMDR before so it may be returning to that for a while to unpick the knots!

I am very much a work in progress and so, I know I will always live with some level of anxiety. It is about how I learn to live well despite life’s challenges.

Do you find you put up walls or have social anxiety too?

I am sharing because it is therapeutic but I was even anxious sharing this as its so personal.

Love,

Eleanor x

9th Blog Anniversary of Be Ur Own Light!

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Ginger Ray)

Whenever 1st March rolls around, I feel a tremendous sense of pride but also – how has it been so many years since I started blogging on WordPress about my mental health?

Be Ur Own Light Blog started on 1st March 2016 after I had had to leave a face to face job because I was having panic attacks and couldn’t get in to work. I saw blogging as a form of therapy.. and in truth, I was only originally sharing with friends and family because I felt really alone with it. That eventually snowballed into me writing for Rethink Mental Illness and then in the national media, speaking at a few in-person events and recording podcasts. It was also an honour to be included in several books including ‘The Book of Hope’ by Jonny Benjamin MBE and Britt Pfluger, talking about life with bipolar.

There’s times I still feel alone with my health but I also have so much support and understanding from family and friends and readers here too, which helps a great deal.

I just want to thank everyone we have collaborated with in the past year (sponsored or not)- brands, charities, businesses, individuals making a difference in the mental health world. Thank you for writing blogs for Be Ur Own Light and our personal mission of taking a sledgehammer to the stigma of mental illness (or trying to!).

Thank you also to everyone who has promoted or bought my books, especially my recent kids book ‘Arabella and the Worry Cloud’. I am so proud of ‘Bring me to Light’ too and hope sharing my story continues to help people.

If you’ve been following this journey for 9 years (or longer)- thank YOU for being here for the ride and continuing to read, support and show up.

It has been harder for me in the past 2 years to authentically share everything about my mental health and other health things on here but one day I hope that our journey can inspire others. I live in remission from Bipolar due to my medications holding me and I never forget daily how lucky I am to have access to mental health medications (due to living in the UK) and an excellent therapist, plus support from family.

Going forward, I will still be blogging but I am hoping that the sequel to Arabella and the Worry Cloud will manifest soon. I have written it, I just need the funds to secure everything! Shout out to my friend and illustrator Shelley. I hope also that Arabella will continue to reach more children and find it’s way to all who need its message.

Thank you all of you for enabling me to blog and write and hopefully help people with bipolar, depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic attacks etc. Thank you to every person who has read a blog, bought a book, shared an article, commissioned me in the press to write an article on mental health or current affairs and to all who have or continue to believe in me- including my amazing husband and family. and of course G-d who is behind everything.

Love and gratitude,

Ellie x

National UK Inquiry Reveals 19% Increase In Suicide for People Living With Bipolar- With Bipolar UK

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Michelle Henderson: Unsplash)

Trigger warning: discusses suicide

The National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Safety in Mental Health (NCISH) released its Annual Report for 2025 last week, revealing that over the past decade, nearly 20% more individuals with bipolar disorder are dying by suicide due to shortcomings in the UK’s mental health system.

According to national charity Bipolar UK, the report provides stark evidence that specialist care is lacking, Lithium (an important mood stabiliser medication) is under-prescribed and suicide prevention measures are falling short.

The report highlights that from 2012 to 2022, there were 1,491 suicides by patients with bipolar, with an alarming 19% increase from 2019 to 2022. Despite Lithium being a clinically proven suicide prevention treatment for people with bipolar, only 39% of those who died were prescribed it and just 12% were receiving psychological therapy​.

This data echoes the findings and lived experience of Professor Tania Gergel, Head of Research at Bipolar UK, in her recent article in The Lancet Psychiatry where she said: “Globally, 15-20% of people with bipolar disorder die by suicide, with 30-60% making at least one attempt. These rates are not decreasing despite an overall decline in global suicide rates.”

According to the Nuffield Trust, there is set to be a £4.8 billion unfunded shortfall in the NHS England revenue budget for 2024/25, raising the prospect that without further funding, service cuts may be inevitable.

With bipolar increasing an individual’s risk of suicide by 20 times that of the general population, Bipolar UK is urging the government to commit to addressing health waiting lists and to invest money in creating a dedicated care pathway for bipolar to reduce suicide rates.

Simon Kitchen, CEO of Bipolar UK, said: “This report is devastating but not surprising. We’ve been shouting from the rooftops that people with bipolar aren’t getting the care they need and now the data lays it bare.

“Bipolar carries one of the highest suicide risks of any mental illness, yet specialist services are practically non-existent, and Lithium – the gold-standard treatment for suicide prevention – is underused. The time for excuses is over. We need real action, and we need it now.”

The charity has heard from its community of people living with the condition, who are concerned that they are unable to access psychiatrists, have little to no continuity of care and are not being monitored adequately when at high risk. There is also a lack of bipolar specialists in the UK, leading to people not receiving a correct diagnosis or waiting too long to receive one – all of which add to the risk of suicide.

Professor Gergel said: “Neither bipolar disorder nor suicide in people with bipolar disorder are research priorities, resulting in major knowledge gaps in both. This can and must change. The shocking statistics might well underestimate the prevalence of suicide in people with bipolar disorder, given the probability of death by suicide before treatment or accurate diagnosis.”

Adding to that, Simon Kitchen said: “Suicide prevention in bipolar requires a shift in both research priorities and clinical practice. We know lithium saves lives, but it is still under-prescribed. We know specialist care works, but most services are generic and fail to meet the specific needs of people with bipolar. Bipolar suicide is not inevitable, but without urgent action, people will continue to die.”

(image of Prof Gergel, Bipolar UK)

The NCISH report also revealed broader systemic failures contributing to preventable deaths. Alarmingly, patients with bipolar were more likely to:

  • Die within three months of being discharged from inpatient care, highlighting dangerous gaps in post-discharge support​.
  • Miss vital clinical appointments, often due to social isolation or side effects from medication, with 15% identified as non-adherent before their deaths​.
  • Experience extreme distress without access to psychological therapies, with only 12% receiving talking therapies​.

With more than a million people living with bipolar in the UK, the figures from this latest inquiry represent lives lost and has led Bipolar UK to call for urgent action, including implementing:

  1. Specialist bipolar services in every NHS region to ensure timely diagnosis, access to evidence-based treatments and care tailored to the complexities of the condition.
  2. Increased lithium prescribing, in line with NICE guidelines, ensuring every person with bipolar who could benefit from it is given the opportunity.
  3. Enhanced suicide prevention measures, including better follow-up after hospital discharge and targeted support for those who miss appointments or struggle with medication adherence.

Simon Kitchen concluded: “We need all UK health authorities and departments of health across the nation to act now because lives depend on it. The evidence is undeniable, the solutions are clear, and the cost of inaction is catastrophic. Specialist care, Lithium, and targeted suicide prevention measures can and will save lives.

“Bipolar suicide is a national emergency, and the upcoming 10-Year Plan is the critical opportunity to turn the tide. Bipolar-specific services are not optional; they are a lifeline.

“The government and NHS must act now, before more lives are lost to preventable tragedy. It is time to get it right.”

(image: Simon Kitchen, CEO, Bipolar UK)

For more information about suicidal thinking and bipolar, visit: Bipolar and suicide prevention

About Bipolar UK   

Bipolar UK is the only national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by bipolar. Bipolar UK provides a range of services, including information and advice, a network of support groups, an eCommunity, workplace training and telephone and email peer support. Bipolar UK also works in partnership with research organisations and campaigns for change to tackle critical issues. For more information, visit www.bipolaruk.org