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.
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.
Skin care is more than just a simple product in 2025., it’s become a non-negotiable for those hoping to achieve youthful, blemish free skin that looks plump and clear at all times. The makeup gurus have come clean. The key to great looking makeup is great skin. Not only that, chemical free, ‘kind’ skin care is the key to great skin. This level of untoxic, less processed and natural skin care can be best found through the means of herbal skin care.
This type of skin care is great for general self-care and improving wellness in body and mind. If you understand the benefits of herbal teas for your gut health and overall bodily functions, just consider how great herbal skin care might be for your face?
Let’s get into the ins and outs of what herbal skin care is, and how it’s been the answer to clear skin for perhaps the last few centuries, yet we’ve been marketed to think otherwise!
Is Herbal Skincare Considered ‘New’?
Not at all. In fact, herbal skincare is one of the oldest beauty secrets in existence. Ancient civilisations, from Egyptian royalty to Chinese dynasties, relied on herbs, flowers, and plant oils to maintain their youthful glow. Cleopatra was known for her rose and honey-infused skincare rituals, while Ayurvedic practices have long used turmeric and neem to treat skin concerns.
The real question is why did we ever stop? The rise of mass-produced, synthetic skincare created a shift away from traditional herbal remedies, replacing them with chemicals and preservatives that promised instant results. But fast-forward to today, and we’re circling back. People are finally recognising that natural, plant-based skincare is not just effective but also safer for both our skin and the environment.
How Does Herbal Skincare Differ from Conventional?
The difference is simple: herbal skin care relies on nature, while conventional skin care relies on labs.
Conventional skincare products often contain synthetic ingredients, parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances, many of which can be harsh, irritating, or even harmful to long-term skin health. Herbal skincare, on the other hand, harnesses the power of botanical extracts, essential oils, and natural minerals to nourish and heal the skin from within.
It’s not just about what’s in the product but also about what’s not in it. Herbal skincare skips the fillers and preservatives, focusing instead on nutrient-rich ingredients that your skin can actually recognise and absorb. The result? A healthier, more balanced complexion without the risk of toxins.
The Most Common Herbal Ingredients & What They Do
Nature has given us an abundance of skin-loving ingredients. Here are some of the best herbal powerhouses and what they bring to your skincare routine:
Aloe Vera – Deeply hydrates, soothes irritation, and speeds up skin healing.
Chamomile – Calms redness and inflammation, perfect for sensitive skin.
Rosehip Oil – Packed with vitamins A and C, promoting collagen production and skin renewal.
Green Tea – A powerful antioxidant that protects against environmental damage and premature aging.
Calendula – Known for its antibacterial properties, great for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Turmeric – Brightens skin tone and fights breakouts with its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
These ingredients have been used for centuries, proving that skincare straight from the earth is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. It’s also brilliant if you want to care for yourself and your skin.
The Sustainable Benefits of Herbal Skincare
Beyond its skin-enhancing benefits, herbal skincare is a game-changer for sustainability. Unlike mass-produced products that contribute to pollution and waste, farm-to-face skincare focuses on ethical sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and minimal processing.
Biodegradable ingredients – No microplastics or synthetic chemicals washing into the ocean.
Support for small farmers – Many herbal skincare brands work directly with local growers, ensuring fair wages and ethical harvesting practices.
Reduced carbon footprint – No heavy industrial processing means fewer emissions and a cleaner planet.
Choosing herbal skincare isn’t just about looking good—it’s about doing good, too.
How to Add Herbal Skincare into Your Routine
Switching to herbal skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to make the transition effortless:
Start with a gentle cleanser – Try a honey-based or aloe-infused cleanser for a refreshing, non-stripping cleanse.
Use herbal toners – Rose water or witch hazel can balance your skin’s pH and tighten pores naturally.
Hydrate with botanical oils – Jojoba, rosehip, and argan oil deeply nourish without clogging pores.
Incorporate herbal masks – Try DIY masks with turmeric, yogurt, and honey for an all-natural glow.
Check your labels – If a product claims to be “natural,” make sure it actually contains plant-based ingredients (and not just clever marketing).
Bottom Line
Herbal skincare isn’t a fad, it’s a return to what our skin was always meant to thrive on. Boost your self care and mental health today with wonderful, natural ingredients. With cleaner, safer ingredients, sustainability benefits, and centuries of proof behind it, farm-to-face beauty is here to stay, and we’re excited to embrace it!
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:
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.
Increased lithium prescribing, in line with NICE guidelines, ensuring every person with bipolar who could benefit from it is given the opportunity.
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.”
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
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!
Did you know 1 in 5 children face mental health challenges? Let’s make a difference together this #ChildrensMentalHealthWeek by taking part and donating to Place2be if you can.
The theme of this year’s week is ‘Know Yourself, Grow Yourself’, which is about encouraging children and young people across the UK to embrace self-awareness and explore what it means for them.
This year Place2be is partnering with Here4You, supported by the Walt Disney company and the Inside Out 2 characters to explore the theme.
I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression as a 15 year old, and had anxiety from a young age. I was also diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 16 and in a CAMHS unit in hospital in 2004. We know these days that more children are struggling, which is why awareness weeks like this are so important.
Through my kids book, Arabella and the Worry Cloud, I try to help children with their own anxiety to help them process their feelings with a trusted adult.
With Dry January almost coming to an end, the charity initiative which encourages people to abstain from alcohol for the whole month, should be approached with caution, says an expert.
Dry January was started by Alcohol Change UK in 2014 and challenges Britons to give up alcohol for the month of January. The concept has proven popular and has expanded across the globe, including huge adoption in the US.
But according to addiction specialist, Nicholas Conn of Help4Addiction, the giving up of alcohol for an entire month can lead to further problems down the line.
“Some of the heavier drinkers may be on the cusp of needing professional help,” he says. “Similarly you may find that some people start to overdrink in February to make up for lost time.”
“It is almost similar to the adverts that discourage smoking on cigarette packets – they can have an opposite effect.”
The average Briton consumes 14 units of alcohol per week (for women, it is around half of this) and for heavier drinks, it can be multiples of this amount.
“In fact,” he continues, “Dry January is more harmful to some individuals who consume alcohol every day or are more reliant on it. The process of alcohol detox or cold turkey can give people withdrawal and they may not have the resources to cope with it. Such side effects include headaches, irritability and changes in their sleep patterns.”
“In a professional setting or under the supervision of trained staff, someone who consumes too much alcohol might be given exercises or medication to help with withdrawal. But trying Dry January without a real plan in place can lead to complications of relapsing and being in a worse position than when they started.”
Advice For People Doing Dry January
“Dry January is a very positive initiative. Alcohol has some very negative impacts to the brain, liver and general health, let alone a huge cost to the NHS and society in general due to misbehaviour fuelled by alcohol.”
“Start by setting realistic goals. Perhaps this means limiting the number of days that you drink or the amount that you drink too.”
“Understand why you drink. Do you drink for social purposes or is it habitual? If you consume alcohol to function in the day, to help you get out of bed in the morning or you need it to socialise, you might need to seek professional help from the likes of the NHS or AA.”
“Try alternatives. There are several alcoholic alternatives today such as beers, mocktails and gins. You can also consider moving away from the activities that make you drink such as going to a pub or watching football and taking up a new hobby in January.”
“Dry January starts with you acknowledging that you want something to change and taking lifestyle actions to make these changes.” Conn adds.
“Abstaining from alcohol for one month could be a quick fix, but making a longer term plan is more likely to help you and maintain a healthy balance and lifestyle.”
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.
Explore 7 essential facts about depression medication, including types, benefits, side effects, and tips for safe use to support mental health.
Mental health issues like depression are on the rise globally. Medication can be very powerful for many to cope with symptoms, complicated feelings and chemical imbalances. The medication for depression helps even out chemicals in the brain so the symptoms of sadness, low energy, trouble concentrating, etc., lessen, but knowing how these medications work, what they can do for you, and what side effects they may have can make the trip a little easier. This guide covers seven key facts about depression medication to help you or a loved one make informed decisions for a healthier, happier life.
1. Types of Depression Medication and How They Work
Different types of depression medications work differently within the brain. The most common types of antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, and atypical antidepressants. SSRIs are drugs that help increase serotonin, a chemical that affects your mood. Because they have fewer side effects than older medications, these are typically the first choice for treating depression.
SNRIs work similarly but affect two chemicals in the brain rather than one, and this may help some people respond better. Some other choices may have atypical antidepressants or tricyclics that work with different parts of the brain and are considered when other medications haven’t been effective. Everyone’s body and brain chemistry is different, so finding the best medication for you can take time.
2. Depression Medication is Often Part of a Larger Treatment Plan
Medication alone can assist, but it’s often most effective when combined with other forms of treatment. Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), helps people understand and manage their thoughts and behaviors. Many doctors suggest combining therapy with medication for better results.
Depression also needs to be managed with lifestyle changes. Many people have seen their moods and energy increase by eating healthy, exercising, and getting the right amount of sleep. A mental health professional can help create a holistic treatment plan so you can address symptoms and acquire skills to overcome day-to-day hurdles.
3. Medication Takes Time to Show Results
The most important thing to know about depression medication is that it doesn’t work overnight. Most medications take about 4 to 6 weeks to have an effect. When someone is ready to be relieved, patience can be hard.
Your doctor may ask you to report any positive or negative changes during this time. Your doctor can use tracking how you feel to make any needed adjustments to the medication. It is also important to take the medication on a consistent basis because missing doses can slow or prevent effectiveness. If the changes feel slow, stick with the treatment, and you can get better, lasting results.
(image: Christina Craft: Unsplash)
4. Possible Side Effects of Depression Medication
Depression medication can be very effective, but it has some side effects. Nausea, fatigue, headaches, and sometimes weight changes are common. The effects of these medications vary from person to person and from medication type to medication type and often diminish over time as the body adjusts.
You must talk to your doctor if side effects are overwhelming or don’t improve. Your doctor may change your dose or have you switch to a different medication. Although most people say that the benefits of medication outweigh the initial discomfort of side effects, monitoring your experience and communicating with your doctor will help ensure a positive one.
5. Stopping Medication Requires a Doctor’s Guidance
It’s not recommended to stop depression medication abruptly, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as dizziness, headaches, and bad mood. Your doctor can instead help you taper off slowly, giving your body time to adjust. The method for doing this is called “tapering,” where the amount of the drug slowly decreases over time to try and avoid withdrawal.
Some people may feel better and think they don’t need their medication anymore. If you are thinking about stopping, talk with your doctor first. They can help you decide when is the right time and lead you through a safe process. Never stop the medication without a doctor’s advice; otherwise, you risk your progress.
6. Medication Can Be Safe for Long-Term Use with Monitoring
For others, depression medication is a short-term tool to use during difficult times. For others, ongoing symptoms require long-term medication. These medications have been used safely by many people for years under a doctor’s guidance. Regular check ins with your healthcare provider will ensure the medication is still working and that any side effects are being watched.
The doctors may also check for blood pressure or weight to ensure no other side effects in the long run. Depression medication can be a safe and influential part of long-term care if it is properly monitored and can help people live healthier and more fulfilling lives.
7. Depression Medication Isn’t a Cure but Can Support Recovery
Medication helps manage symptoms of depression, but it doesn’t ‘cure’ depression. Depression is often a condition that needs to be watched. Medication may help, but they work best combined with other strategies.
Working with a therapist, staying active, and connecting to supportive people are all very important for recovery. A complete, balanced approach will lead to better mental health, which in turn will decrease the chances of a relapse. This is just one part of the puzzle, alongside other medications that can help someone feel stable and work towards a healthier future.
Conclusion
Depression medication can be a helpful tool for managing symptoms and improving one’s daily life, but it’s important to know how the drugs work their magic, as well as their limitations. Knowing these seven key facts will help people make informed decisions and feel more comfortable using medication for their recovery. If medication is needed for a few months or some years, working closely with a medical provider will ensure medication is used safely and appropriately.
If you or a loved one is seeking help for depression and addiction treatment and you are in the USA, contact Virtue Recovery Las Vegas at 725-777-5685 for guidance on treatment options. Our team is here to support you on your journey to wellness.
This blog was written by a freelance writer and contains paid links.
For many of us, our hair is a part of our identity, a form of self-expression, and a source of confidence. So, when hair loss strikes, it can feel like a punch to the gut, leaving us feeling vulnerable, insecure, and even depressed.
But while hair loss presents real challenges, there are ways to face this struggle while protecting your mental well-being. Reframing your mindset, finding new ways to express yourself, and seeking support can help you regain control.
The Emotional Toll of Hair Loss
Hair loss can hit hard because it’s tied to how we see ourselves. Here are some reasons it can be emotionally challenging:
Loss of Confidence
Losing your hair can make you feel like you’re losing part of your identity or attractiveness. You might find yourself avoiding mirrors, skipping social events, or feeling uneasy at work.
The good news? You can take steps to rebuild your confidence. Start by seeing a doctor or dermatologist to figure out what’s causing your hair loss — whether it’s genetics, hormones, or another health condition. They can guide you toward hair loss treatments like minoxidil or hair restoration options.
Loss of Control
Hair loss can feel like an unpredictable journey, especially when it stems from factors like genetics, health conditions, or medications. This lack of control over the situation can leave you feeling frustrated and powerless. However, arming yourself with knowledge and seeking professional guidance can help restore a sense of agency.
Fear of Social Stigma
Society often equates a full head of hair with youth and attractiveness, making hair loss feel like a big deal. You might worry about judgment or feel isolated. Remember: hair loss is incredibly common, and embracing it on your own terms can help you regain confidence.
How Hair Loss Affects Mental Health
(image: towfiqu, Unsplash)
Hair loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can have a significant emotional impact. Here’s how it might affect you:
Anxiety and stress: Constantly worrying about your hair can create a cycle of stress. Unfortunately, stress can worsen hair loss (a condition called telogen effluvium). Breaking this cycle means addressing both the physical and emotional sides of the issue.
Depression: For some people, hair loss can lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or even depression. It’s not just about appearance — it’s about feeling disconnected from yourself and others. If these feelings persist, talking to a therapist can help.
Social withdrawal: When you feel self-conscious about your hair, it’s easy to retreat from social interactions. You might avoid events, gatherings, or even everyday conversations because you feel like everyone is noticing your hair. Over time, this isolation can make you feel lonelier and less confident.
Supporting Mental Health During Hair Loss
Dealing with hair loss can be an emotional rollercoaster, but there are practical steps you can take to protect your mental health and rebuild your confidence.
Seek Professional Guidance
Therapists can help you work through the emotions tied to hair loss. Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help shift negative thought patterns and build resilience. Joining a support group — online or in-person—can also be a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
Explore Your Treatment Options
Today’s hair loss treatments offer more choices than ever. Depending on the cause, options might include medications, topical treatments like minoxidil, or even surgical procedures like hair transplants. Consulting a dermatologist can help you create a personalized plan.
Experiment with Alternatives
While waiting for long-term treatments to work, consider wigs, toppers or hairpieces. These options have come a long way in terms of comfort, quality, and appearance. They can provide a confidence boost and allow you to experiment with different looks without committing to permanent changes.
Prioritize Your Overall Health
Your overall health plays a big role in how you feel — and even in the health of your hair. A balanced diet with nutrients like iron, zinc, and biotin can support hair growth. Regular exercise helps manage stress and boosts your mood, which can also help with certain types of hair loss.
Lean on Your Support System
Talking to friends or family members you trust can make a huge difference. Sharing your feelings with someone who listens and offers encouragement can help you feel less alone and more supported.
Hair loss is a personal journey, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions as you go through it. The most important thing is to focus on what makes you feel empowered. Whether it’s exploring treatment options, connecting with supportive communities, or finding new ways to express yourself, you have the tools to take charge of your well-being.
No matter where you are in your journey, help is available. With the right support and resources, you can move forward with confidence.
This blog was written by a freelance writer and contains paid links.
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