Tag: Mental Health

The Neurological Reasons Behind Common Brain Disorders Associated With Amnesia by Lila Warren

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Keith Tanner: Unsplash)

Amnesia is often portrayed in films as a sudden and dramatic loss of memory, but in reality, it is a complex neurological condition with many underlying causes. Rather than being a single disorder, amnesia is typically a symptom linked to various brain injuries or diseases that affect how memories are stored, processed, and retrieved. Understanding the neurological basis behind these conditions can shed light on why memory loss occurs and how it can be managed. By exploring the structures and functions of the brain involved in memory, we can better appreciate the challenges faced by those living with amnesia and related disorders.

The Role of the Brain in Memory Formation

Memory is not housed in one single area of the brain. Instead, it relies on a network of regions working together to encode, store, and retrieve information. The hippocampus, located in the medial temporal lobe, plays a central role in forming new memories. It acts as a processing hub that converts short-term experiences into long-term memories.

Other structures also contribute to memory function. The amygdala helps attach emotional significance to memories, making certain events more memorable than others. Meanwhile, the prefrontal cortex is involved in organizing and retrieving stored information. When any of these areas are damaged or disrupted, memory formation and recall can be significantly impaired, leading to various forms of amnesia.

Types of Amnesia and Their Neurological Causes

Amnesia can take several forms, each linked to different neurological issues. Anterograde amnesia is one of the most well-known types. It involves the inability to form new memories after a brain injury. This condition is often associated with damage to the hippocampus or surrounding structures.

Retrograde amnesia, on the other hand, involves the loss of memories that were formed before an injury or illness. This type is commonly linked to trauma affecting the cortical areas where long-term memories are stored. In many cases, individuals may lose recent memories while older ones remain intact, reflecting how memories are distributed across the brain.

Transient global amnesia is another condition characterized by temporary but severe memory loss. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, it is believed to involve temporary disruptions in blood flow to memory-related brain regions. Each type of amnesia highlights how specific neurological damage can produce distinct patterns of memory loss.

Brain Disorders Commonly Associated with Amnesia

Amnesia is frequently associated with broader neurological disorders. Traumatic brain injury is one of the leading causes, often resulting from accidents or falls. When the brain experiences a sudden impact, delicate structures like the hippocampus can be damaged, leading to both short-term and long-term memory problems.

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease also play a significant role. In these conditions, progressive damage to brain cells leads to a gradual decline in memory and cognitive function. Alzheimer’s specifically targets areas involved in memory processing, which is why memory loss is often one of the earliest symptoms.

Other conditions, including stroke, infections like encephalitis, and chronic alcohol misuse, can also lead to amnesia. These disorders affect brain function in different ways, but they all disrupt the neural pathways necessary for memory. Access to specialized support systems, such as corroborative memory care in Fresno, CA, can provide individuals and families with structured assistance tailored to these complex neurological challenges.

How Neurological Damage Disrupts Memory Pathways

Memory relies on the communication between neurons through complex networks. When the brain experiences injury or disease, these connections can be weakened or destroyed. For example, damage to the hippocampus can impair the brain’s ability to encode new information, effectively preventing new memories from forming.

Additionally, inflammation and reduced blood flow can interfere with neuronal activity. Conditions like stroke limit the oxygen supply to brain tissue, leading to cell death and loss of function. Similarly, neurodegenerative diseases gradually break down neural connections over time, resulting in progressive memory decline.

The brain does have some capacity for adaptation, known as neuroplasticity. In certain cases, other areas of the brain may partially compensate for damaged regions. However, this process is often limited and varies from person to person, which is why recovery outcomes can differ widely.

Treatment Approaches and Ongoing Research

While there is no universal cure for amnesia, various treatment approaches aim to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Cognitive rehabilitation therapies focus on strengthening existing memory skills and developing strategies to compensate for memory loss. These might include the use of memory aids such as journals, reminders, and digital tools.

Medications may also play a role, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, where certain drugs can help slow cognitive decline. In cases where amnesia is caused by underlying issues such as infections or nutritional deficiencies, treating the root cause can lead to partial or full recovery.

Ongoing research continues to explore new possibilities, including advancements in brain imaging, neurostimulation, and regenerative medicine. Scientists are working to better understand how memory functions at a cellular level, which could lead to more targeted and effective treatments in the future.

Conclusion

Amnesia and related brain disorders reveal just how intricate and delicate the human memory system truly is. From the hippocampus to broader neural networks, even small disruptions can have profound effects on a person’s ability to remember and function. By understanding the neurological reasons behind these conditions, we can foster greater awareness and support for those affected. Continued research and improved care approaches offer hope, not only for managing memory loss but also for enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals living with these challenging disorders.

This sponsored article was written by Lila Warren.

We are a Top 10 UK Mental Health Blog by Vuelio (for 9 Years In A Row) This Mental Health Awareness Week!

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Vuelio)

Today a wonderful email from Christina at Vuelio here in the UK dropped in my inbox, to say that Be Ur Own Light is a Top 10 UK Mental Health Blog for 2026 (and has been every year since 2018!). I am really not good at blowing my own trumpet but am so proud of this achievement and know that it is a true blessing. Click here to see the full list: https://www.vuelio.com/uk/social-media-index/mental-health-blogs-uk-top-10/

As well as working with some incredible people, brands and collaborators, I am proud of myself for showing up consistently for 10 years to talk about mental health online here and on our social media. The blog has published over 800 posts and has reached so many and I am forever grateful to our readers.

Thank you Vuelio for listing us at No 7 among really fantastic bloggers and blogs (shout out to you all!)

I often get imposter syndrome so will just say thank you to Vuelio and I hope this blog will continue to share about mental health, wellness, bipolar, life and everything in between- and reach even wider audiences online.

With gratitude,

Eleanor

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)

‘Halyn Has Schizophrenia And That’s OK’: New Book by Matthew Johnstone And Lauren Kennedy West

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(Image: Matthew Johnstone/ Robinson)

The latest book from authors Matthew Johnstone and Lauren Kennedy West has hit the shelves today and it has such an important message to share. Described as an ‘illustrated journey through understanding, acceptance and living well.’ the book tells Halyn’s story of understanding and accepting her schizophrenia diagnosis.

The publisher says, ‘ Schizophrenia is complex disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves, with symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. It affects 1 in 300 people, and more than 24 million globally. It is a serious condition but can be managed effectively with early intervention, ongoing treatment and compassionate support.

This book is for anyone seeking to understand their diagnosis, or for friends and family hoping to support their loved one with schizophrenia. Through humorous and moving illustrations, it shows that it is possible to live a happy and fulfilling life with this condition, and promotes clarity, honesty and caring for those living with mental illness.‘

The book is beautifully illustrated with special added extras like the change in colour on Halyn’s T shirt when she is having symptoms (red) and when she feels well, her shirt is blue and there is little bird of hope present. This encourages the reader to see Halyn as a full person with hope and remission and not just a person with a mental illness. Halyn is 26 and she lives with her partner Johann and Chalky Boy, the world’s laziest cat.

The book describes how schizophrenia impacts Halyn on a day to day basis but also says, ‘I have to be a little more vigilant and work a little bit harder at my state of wellbeing than most…but I manage quite well.’. Halyn says, ‘I accept that I may have to live my life a little differently but thats OK’.

(Image: Matthew Johnstone/ Robinson)

This book will go a long way to helping people living with schizophrenia and their loved ones be seen and heard. As someone living with bipolar disorder, I also found the book very inspiring and uplifting, with a hopeful take on what can often be so difficult. It doesn’t shy away from the realities of schizophrenia but explains them through the illustrations and language, in an accessible, clear and powerful way.

‘Halyn Has Schizophrenia And That’s OK‘ is out now, published by Robinson (Hachette) in good bookshops. With thanks to Little Brown and Robinson for the gifted book.

(Image: Matthew Johnstone/ Robinson)

About the authors


Matthew Johnstone has written and illustrated several bestselling mental health and wellbeing titles such as I Had a Black Dog. Matthew’s company Drawn from Experience develops creative/educational programmes, illustrations and videos on understanding mental health and resilience for schools, communities, eHealth and the workplace.


Lauren Kennedy West lives with a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, and brings a unique perspective to mental health advocacy. With experience both as a social worker within the mental health care system and as a patient navigating its challenges, Lauren reaches millions through her YouTube channel, Living Well After Schizophrenia.

How Regular Sauna Use Can Improve Your Mental Health by John.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Unsplash: HUUM)

Stress, anxiety, poor sleep, and low energy have become unwelcome constants for millions of people navigating modern life. While therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes play important roles in mental wellness, an ancient practice is gaining renewed attention for its profound psychological benefits: regular sauna bathing.

Across generations and civilisations, people have turned to heat-based bathing practices as a natural method to unwind, refresh the body, and regain a sense of equilibrium. Today, modern research is validating what traditional wisdom has long known: consistent sauna use offers measurable improvements in mental health, from better sleep and reduced stress to enhanced mood and emotional resilience.

The Science Behind Sauna and Mental Wellness

As internal temperature rises, the pulse quickens, circulation expands through relaxed blood vessels, and the brain releases helpful chemical messengers that support mood regulation and mental focus.

Research highlighted in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health suggests that regular sauna use is linked to enhanced overall wellness. Regular sauna enthusiasts often discover a surprising boost in overall wellbeing: they drift into deeper sleep, carry more energy throughout the day, and experience sharper mental clarity and a stronger sense of physical health. These are some advantages that are rarely seen in those who skip the sauna experience.

The mechanism involves multiple pathways. Heat exposure stimulates endorphin release — natural mood-elevating chemicals that create feelings of well-being. Simultaneously, cortisol levels decrease, reducing the stress hormone that contributes to anxiety. Blood flow to the brain increases, promoting mental clarity and calm.

Better Sleep Through Heat Therapy

One of the most immediate mental health benefits people notice from regular sauna use is improved sleep quality. The connection involves the body’s natural temperature regulation.

How sauna improves sleep:

  • Core temperature rises during the session, then gradually drops afterward, mimicking natural sleep preparation signals
  • The relaxation response triggered by heat reduces nighttime anxiety
  • Regular use helps establish consistent circadian rhythms over time
  • Deep sleep duration increases measurably the same night after sessions

The relaxation extends beyond physical comfort into psychological calm, making it easier to quiet racing thoughts that interfere with falling asleep.

Mood Enhancement and Stress Reduction

The mood-boosting effects of sauna bathing are among its most valued mental health benefits.

The neurochemical changes explain much of this effect. Spending time in a sauna sparks the brain to generate more serotonin and dopamine, boosting feelings of happiness and helping keep emotions steady. These same chemicals are targeted by many antidepressant medications, suggesting regular heat exposure may offer complementary benefits for mood disorders.

Stress reduction occurs through multiple mechanisms. The quiet, meditative environment provides a natural break from daily pressures. The physical sensations of warmth and sweating create a mindfulness experience that anchors awareness in the present moment. Cortisol levels drop during and after sessions, providing relief from chronic stress.

Interestingly, research indicates that using a sauna one to four times monthly appears optimal for happiness, with more frequent use not necessarily providing additional mood benefits. This suggests moderate, consistent use may be more valuable than intensive bathing schedules.

Social Connection and Ritual

Sauna culture delivers mental health benefits beyond physiology through connection and ritual. In many cultures, sauna bathing is inherently communal. People gather, talk, and strengthen bonds in a naturally relaxed setting.

Shared rituals and synchronized activities can strengthen a sense of community, which in turn supports overall mental well-being. Loneliness fuels depression and anxiety, while social bonds protect against them. Regular sauna sessions create wellness rituals that signal relaxation time, establishing clear boundaries between daily stress and intentional recovery.

Long-Term Mental Health Protection

(Image: Unsplash, Real Therapy)

In addition to its instant effects, making sauna sessions a regular habit can help strengthen mental wellness over time. Frequent sessions may help protect the mind, promoting clearer thinking, emotional balance, and overall cognitive health.

The warming experience of a sauna encourages healthy circulation and can have lasting positive effects on brain function, making it a proactive way to nurture mental resilience rather than just a way to unwind in the moment.

Over time, this consistent practice can enhance overall mood and reduce feelings of stress. It also provides a dedicated space for relaxation, helping the mind reset and recharge regularly.

Practical Guidelines for Mental Health Benefits

To maximize mental health benefits, consistency matters more than intensity. Spending 15–20 minutes in a sauna, 3-7 times a week, tends to offer the greatest benefits, but even occasional use can still have a positive impact. 

Start gradually with 5-10 minute sessions at lower temperatures if new to sauna bathing. Listen to body signals. Dizziness, nausea, or excessive discomfort indicate it’s time to exit. Keep your body refreshed by sipping water throughout your sauna experience — before you enter, while inside, and afterward — to help ward off tiredness and headaches.

Create a mindful experience by leaving devices outside, focusing on breathing, and allowing thoughts to settle naturally. Consider timing your sauna sessions strategically. Evening sessions may enhance sleep, while earlier sessions might provide energy and mood boosts. Experiment to discover what works best for individual schedules.

Safety and Integration

While sauna bathing is generally safe, pregnant women, individuals with cardiovascular conditions, and those taking medications that affect temperature regulation should consult a healthcare provider beforehand. Exit immediately if you experience severe dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Sauna sessions are unsafe if you’re impaired by alcohol or any substances. Always enjoy the heat with a clear and sober mind.

Regular sauna bathing complements other mental health strategies rather than replacing them. It works synergistically with exercise, therapy, meditation, and adequate sleep to create comprehensive wellness support. 

For individuals managing anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, regular sauna sessions provide an easy and approachable way to practice self-care, delivering soothing effects in the moment and fostering lasting benefits with continued use.

The age-old practice of heat bathing remains valuable for supporting mental well-being today. By influencing mood and emotional balance, regular sauna use provides a natural and accessible way to enhance overall mental health.

Author Bio

John is the YouTube lead and resident sauna enthusiast at SaunaHeaters.com. He creates educational videos and written guides covering sauna health benefits, proper installation, ventilation, and best practices. His goal is to make sauna ownership simple, safe, and approachable through clear, practical guidance.

Our Love Is Stronger Than Your Hate: Antisemitism And Mental Health

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Unsplash: Levi Meir Clancy)

Today I want to blog about something a lot of my family, friends and Jewish community worldwide are feeling. This is only my opinion but I am writing to make sense of the senseless hatred that is hitting the UK towards my community.

For the past few years, since October 7th 2023, life for our Jewish community changed overnight. We had the trauma of the hostages being take into captivity, of people murdered and sexually abused, of the war in both Israel and Gaza. But no one could have predicted (unless you work in intelligence) that after the hostages were returned, and with the current war in Iran, British Jewish buildings- synagogues, charity buildings, ambulances saving lives of anyone regardless of faith, would be being firebombed with intent to endanger life across North West London. And in Manchester just 6 months ago at Heaton Park synagogue, people were killed in a terror attack just for being Jewish on the holiest day of our calendar. Indeed, I know people in Manchester who were meant to be in synagogue that day but miraculously were ill so didn’t go- which potentially saved their lives.

Of course, many of us knew about the reach of Iran and it’s proxies- we had the attack too at Bondi Beach and in USA. But to target British Jewish institutions and communities because Israel is at war with Iran, is antisemitic and its not just happening in this country, its global.

So how do I feel?

We can not let them scare us, intimidate us, tell us we can’t live our Jewish lives. Yes, we must be safe and take precautions but we can’t stop our lives, because then the terrorists will win.

It’s an incredibly upsetting and anxiety provoking time and with the constant news of attacks (here and abroad), mental health can dip. So I would say if you’re reading this, please reach out to your Jewish friends and communities. No one should have to be afraid to go and pray or be part of their community in the UK and elsewhere in 2026.

Standing in solidarity with my community and all those being attacked right now.

Love will win- our love is stronger than hate. I am praying we don’t have more attacks here and abroad.

Eleanor

x

We’re in FeedSpot’s 20 Best Social Anxiety Blogs To Follow For 2026!

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(Image: Markus Winkler: Unsplash)

Thank you to Anuj and team at FeedSpot for selecting as us a Top 20 Social Anxiety Blog on the web for 2026! We are thrilled to be on the list at number 10.

You can see the full list here: https://bloggers.feedspot.com/social_anxiety_blogs/?feed_id=4606511&_src=f1_newcampaign#h4606511

Eleanor x

Unemployment Has Doubled In The Last Ten Years For People With Bipolar by Bipolar UK

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Bipolar UK)

Data from NHS England Digital’s latest Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (APMS) has been analysed by national mental health charity Bipolar UK, revealing that the current system is failing to meet the needs of people living with bipolar.

The findings show that people who tested positive for probable bipolar have experienced a disproportionate rise in unemployment over the past decade, increasing from 3.9% in 2014 to 9% in 2024.

The APMS is a national survey that measures the prevalence of mental health conditions, tracks trends over time and assesses access to treatment. As part of the survey, the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) was used to screen for probable cases of bipolar.

It is estimated that over a million people in the UK live with bipolar, and many manage the condition well. However, employment rates among people with bipolar remain significantly lower than the average employment rate of 75%* in the general population.

(Image: Annie Spratt: Unsplash)

Bipolar UK believes that widespread underdiagnosis and inadequate access to specialist treatment may be contributing to rising unemployment and widening inequalities for those who tested positive for probable bipolar.

The data shows that only 17.8% of people who tested positive have received a professional diagnosis. This points to significant underdiagnosis. Among those who do have a diagnosis, the use of bipolar specific medication has also fallen, decreasing from 14.5% to 5.1%.

Speaking about the APMS findings, CEO of Bipolar UK, Simon Kitchen, said: “This is the first time this survey has been conducted since 2014, and while the rise in unemployment among people living with bipolar is deeply concerning, it points to a much bigger failure in the system.

“Fewer than one in five people who tested positive for probable bipolar have received a professional diagnosis. Without this, people are far less likely to access the specialist treatment and support that helps them stay well. This can have serious consequences for every part of their lives, including their ability to work.

“We regularly hear from people who are struggling at work or falling out of employment altogether, not because they can’t or don’t want to work, but because the right care isn’t in place. Delays to diagnosis leave people managing severe symptoms alone, often for years.

“For those who do have a diagnosis, a lack of understanding about bipolar in the workplace can add further barriers. Despite protections under the Equality Act, many people tell us they fear stigma or negative consequences if they talk about their condition, and that reasonable adjustments are not always offered or understood.

“This data challenges the misconception that people with bipolar are unable to work. The real issue is a system that diagnoses too late and fails to provide consistent, specialist support. That failure is potentially pushing people out of work who could otherwise live well and fulfil their potential.”

There are several reasonable adjustments that can help people with bipolar better able to manage in the workplace. Many of these are neither expensive nor difficult to implement, such as flexible working arrangements, time off for medical appointments, and support plans following episodes of illness.

Simon Kitchen added: “The benefits of empowering people with bipolar are enormous, for individuals, their families, employers, the NHS and the wider economy. The charity has worked with, and continues to support, thousands of people with bipolar who are working successfully across a wide range of sectors.

“Improving diagnosis rates and building bipolar friendly workplaces benefits everyone.”

Bipolar UK’s current campaign, Maybe it’s bipolar?, aims to raise awareness of some of the common symptoms of bipolar and encourage people who recognise them to explore this further. The campaign directs individuals to take the MDQ and, where they receive a positive result, provides clear, trusted information to help them seek appropriate support.

Ultimately, the campaign aims to reduce the average 9.5 year delay to diagnosis and ensure people affected by bipolar are identified earlier and can access the specialist care and support they need to live and work well.

Bipolar UK also runs workplace training courses for organisations looking to improve their understanding of bipolar and how to support colleagues living with the condition.

Key stats about bipolar:

  • Over 1 million people in the UK live with bipolar, making it the most common severe mental illness
  • People wait 9.5 years on average for a diagnosis
  • Life expectancy is up to 20 years shorter
  • 50% of people with bipolar will attempt suicide at least once, 1 in 5 die by suicide
  • Despite global suicide rates falling, those related to bipolar have not declined

About Bipolar UK – 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 online Community, workplace training and telephone and email peer support. Bipolar UK also works in partnership with research organisations, and campaigns for change to build a better world for everyone affected by bipolar. For more information, visit bipolaruk.org.

Living With Severe Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), My Mental Health And Determination To Thrive by Liam Virgo

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 4 Comments
(image: Liam Virgo)

Trigger warning: discussions of FND, illness and mental health.

Hi! My name is Liam Virgo and I’m pleased to share my story with Be Your Own Light blog.

In 2016, at age 13 and after months in hospital, I was diagnosed with severe Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). I was suddenly paralysed and unable to speak. I had all my abilities taken away from me and was left severely disabled. For six months my mind switched off and I didn’t know who or what anything was. I don’t remember the early days of my illness and life before it is a blur. My FND resulted in me being bedridden, unable to walk or talk. I felt trapped inside my own body.

Being a prisoner in my own body felt like my body had completely betrayed me. The psychological impact of being locked inside my own body is still felt to this day. It’s been a long hard battle with FND- painful and very isolating. The doctors aren’t sure what caused my FND. All we know is that it happened and I was severely affected by the condition but without any real explanation as to why this was the case. 

However, while I was bed bound I found comfort in a few things and one of them was London. It was my dream to visit the city but because of my FND I wasn’t well enough to go. I was supported by CAMHS (UK NHS child mental health services) for four years and they created London themed progress charts to help motivate me to achieve my wish. 

FND hasn’t only affected my physical health but my mental health too. The impact of severe FND left me with difficult feelings and emotional difficulties. The emotional scars of FND are still felt to this day. Over the years I’ve been supported by Psychiatrists and Psychologists. Some of the overwhelming feelings I experienced and still do are anxiety, I felt misunderstood and isolated. I sometimes became tearful and emotional. I was put on different medications over the years but nothing really helped. I also had many other assessments and strategies used to help understand my mental health including a cognitive test and I also had a mood diary. 

Because of FND I’ve missed years of schooling as I wasn’t well enough to return to education.

Eventually after three years my physical health started to improve and when I was well enough I made it to London and have been back many times since to my favourite place. I went to London with my parents and I loved visiting Central London. I went to all main sights such as London Eye, Big Ben, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and lots more. 

10 years on, I’m now slowly recovering and learning to walk again. I’m using my voice, the voice that FND stole from me to raise awareness about the condition. I still have very difficult days with FND but I’m learning to live with my new normal and adjusting to life post severe FND. I’ve had a very long journey with FND but I know if I can get through all of that I can get through anything.

At 13, I lost all my abilities to FND but one thing FND could never take from me is my determination.

(image: Liam Virgo)

The medical professionals are unsure if I’ll ever make a full recovery because of the impact of severe FND but I’m now at a stage in my life where I’m able to live with the condition. I’m able to talk and I can move my arms again. I’m no longer bedridden and can walk with support. I still battle with FND daily but I’m determined to never give up hope. I still use a wheelchair but just sitting in a wheelchair is a big achievement for me as I couldn’t tolerate sitting in anything before. 

You can follow Liam on his adventures here on Instagram. Thank you Liam for your bravery in using your voice and sharing your story.

Celebrating A Decade Of Be Ur Own Light Blog- 10 Years!

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

On 1st March 2016, I wrote my very first blog about my mental health struggles with bipolar disorder and anxiety. For me, it was an outlet to share with friends and family what I was experiencing after one of the worst bipolar episodes I had faced and after hospitalisation in 2014. I didn’t realise that this traumatic time in my life, would also cause my mental health to dip and struggle further as I developed PTSD symptoms (panic attacks) and sat on a 2 year waiting list for NHS therapy. Professional support was not coming easily during this time, and so this blog became not only a therapeutic outlet but a place to connect with others going through similar things. And to explain to those who had never experienced mental illness, exactly what it can do but just how you can support those experiencing it.

Part of me can’t fully believe that I have been blogging consistently for 10 years. There have been times where I have wanted to give up but this little blog has been my saviour and in truth, helped me to launch a writing career that I did not expect and am so grateful for. It has also helped others to share their mental health stories and products, been a platform for mental health campaigns and charities and I am super proud of the impact we have had. One of our biggest accolades is being a Top 10 UK mental health blog by Vuelio every year since 2018- which means we are having a positive impact and reach!

The blog has published over 800 posts, with hundreds of thousands of views! It is read on every continent with a particularly large readership in the USA (as well as UK and other countries). We have covered so many topics- bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, pre and post natal depression, OCD, BPD, eating disorders, psychosis, mania, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, trichotillomania, addictions (drug, alcohol, gambling), body dysmorphia and mental health topics like child mental health, work stress, emotional burnout, relationships, domestic and sexual abuse, homelessness. We have shared about wellness products and worked with inspiring health and lifestyle brands.

The blog inspired me to share my own story far and wide – writing for mental health charities Mind, Rethink, Time to Change, Bipolar UK, No Panic, SANE and Metro.co.uk, The Telegraph, Happiful, Glamour, Jewish News, Huff Post. Featured in Cosmopolitan, Elle, Yahoo News and other publications. Thank you particularly to the editors at the publications for sharing my story and believing in my mission! This also led to me writing my book ‘Bring me to Light’ which was published in 2019 by Trigger and remains one of my proudest achievements. I then released my children’s book ‘Arabella and the Worry Cloud’ and had some writing featured in ‘The Book of Hope’ by my friends Jonny Benjamin MBE and Britt Pfluger (an amazing experience!). In 2017-18, I was also involved with setting up the Jami mental health shabbat in my community and spoke in several synagogues and at a community festival Limmud with my Dad, about our journey with bipolar. The same year that I started this blog (2016), I also met my now husband, who supports me through all of my writing and mental health work.

As I look back over the past 10 years, to where we were in 2016 with mental health stigma, I am proud to have played a small part in changing the landscape and narrative online around mental illness, particularly bipolar disorder and psychosis. We have many followers on social media platforms and continue to share about mental health and well being and be a resource for all those who need it, so they never feel alone.

(image: Ineffable Living)

Thank you to every single contributor (and every reader) to Be Ur Own Light Blog 2016-2026. Your words and belief in our mission to end the stigma around mental illness have meant the world to me. I hope going forward I can continue to share more real stories, more important information on care and treatment and campaign for better care.

There is still a way to go. NHS waiting lists are too long and care is under funded, leading to not enough beds. Mental health stigma online (and sometimes offline) sadly still remains high. As a society, although we have improved, we still need to fully understand mental health conditions and separate them from the person themselves. I am optimistic that things can and will change.

To everyone reading this going through a period of mental ill health or living with a chronic mental illness, I see you and you are never alone. As a blog community, we can come together to empower each other, so no one ever feels invisible and I hope that I can continue to write too.

Thank you, from my heart, for the past 10 years! Here’s to many more years,

Love and gratitude always,

Eleanor

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