News & Tips
Bring Some Positive Energy Into Your Life
Happy New Year everyone!
I'm sure that everyone has a story or two to say about 2020. However, I'm not going to talk about that awful year (although it wasn't such a bad year for me). But no, I'm going to talk about 2021 and how to approach this year.
Now, I am a great believer of crystals and although they may not be for everyone, it might be worth a read. So grab a cuppa and here are my most favourite crystals to power my 2021:
​
Clear Quartz ~ This is an absolute master of healers. It will amplify energy and aid concentration and energy. Clear crystals are great for the immune system and a great overall balancer for the body.
Rose Quartz ~ This beautiful pink quartz will help to restore harmony in your life, and will help communication whilst helping to calm nerves and comfort you in times of grief.
Amethist ~ This is a purple stone that has protective, healing, and purifying energy. It's great for the mind and helps rid of negative thoughts. It is also said to boost hormone production, cleans blood, and relieve pain and stress.
Moonstone ~ This stone will encourage inner growth and strength. This stone will also help you to move forward successfully, bringing forth success and good fortune.
Well, those are my favourite stones and crystals so why not bring in some positive energy.
Types Of Coping Machanisms
Problem-focused coping strategies are very much in line with methods which deal with a problem in order to reduce anxiety and stress, which could further lead to depression.
Coping strategies can come in two categories which are 'active' or 'avoidant'. Active coping mechanisms typically involve consciously being aware of the problem and making a conscious effort into bettering one's life. On the other hand, avoidance is ignoring the problem, in the hope that the problem may just disappear.
However, there is such a thing as, 'adaptive' coping mechanisms and you will see below, some healthy and effective methods of adaptive coping mechanisms:
Support ~ This means talking to people about any stress, and this is an effective way to cope with stress levels, rather than hiding away and keeping things in.
Exercise ~ This is a fantastic way to release stress, and it could be anything from swimming, yoga, or running, to thrashing it out on a squash court, or simply enjoying a lovely stroll. Above all, exercise is natural!
Humour ~ Yes, laugh, laugh, and laugh again! What I'm saying is, making light of a stressful situation will prevent it from becomming worse. When my children come to me with problems before they are even there, I simply point out, 'Why run to your problems before anything has even happened?'
Relaxation ~ I like this one because I love yoga and meditation and it works for me. It's so important to look after your mind, and if you're not ready for yoga and meditation, try sitting outdoors and taking in all of natures sounds, or listen to soothing music. It all helps!​
Well I'll leave those coping mechanisms with you for now, and remember, 'It all helps!'
​​
Mental Health Awareness
What are mental health disorders? Or, what is mental illness? Both terms are used and both terms affect a person's feeling, thinking, mood, and behaviour. There could be long lasting effects of mental illness (chronic), but short or long term, it will affect a person's ability to communicate with others and focus on the day ahead.
There are different types of mental health disorders, including: Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Obsesive - Compulsive Disorder, Phobias, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and other mood disorders, Eating Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Psychotic Disorders, including Schizophrenia.
So, let's have a look at what causes mental health disorder:
* Genes and family history.
* Life experiences such as stress, or a history of abuse, especially if it happened in childhood.
* Biological factors such as chemical imbalances in the brain.
* Brain Injury
* Use of alcohol or substance misuse.
* Having a serious medical condition, such as cancer.
* Feeling lonely, or isolated.
​
What are the treatments for mental health illness?
Treatment depends on how serious a person's mental health issue is. However, a care plan will be carefully put together by a provider. This will involve some type of therapy, and an individual may be offered medication.
Overall, it is important to realise that mental illness is a lot more common than people realise, where a person may choose not to take medication for Schizophrenia, but may opt for local support from drop in centres, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to manage symptoms.
Spring Is Here!
Wow, it's spring time already! Has everyone had a good Easter? The mood of the weather has been up and down, warm and sunny one minute and snow showers the next. I think that it's lovely to get out and about whatever the weather, so where do you go for a walk? Do you have a city park? Or do you live near the beach? Or in the countryside? I have really noticed more and more wildlife over the last year, from foxes and owls to small birds twittering away each morning and evening, especially one little fella who has marked his territory on my garage roof.
Before I go, you may have noticed that I have changed my website slightly. I have added a video so that I could introduce myself to new clients. I have also added my certificate which shows that I am an accredited member of the ACCPH, and this means that I have been vetted. I am proud to do this because it shows that I am qualified in my field. It also sends an important message to make sure that if you are looking for a counsellor, that they are qualified and to the highest standard, and not looking to make a fast buck. Take care all!