Coping with anxiety is unfortunately part of daily life for many people. Whether you're facing constant worry, challenging thoughts, or physical symptoms like tension and restlessness, finding simple, effective ways to manage things can make a big difference. In this video, Dr Andrea Pickering shares practical strategies to help with anxiety and su...
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a form of talking therapy. This therapy aims to help manage problems by changing thought and behavioural patterns. CBT is generally used to treat anxiety and depression. It can also be used to help with a range of mental health conditions, behavioural issues, and difficult emotional periods you may be experien...
There has been an ongoing discussion on the overlap in neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities with studies aiming to give us better insight into the link. Is this link important and what can it do for the support made available to people within each group? As we observe Pride month, we explore the topic and as offer our insight into how it should in...
Autism is defined by differences in communication, social interaction, and behaviour. Identifying these characteristics early is key to ensuring timely diagnosis and effective support. This guide highlights common signs of autism in both children and adults, helping you recognise traits and access the right support if needed. Table of contents Soci...
Treatment for depression may vary from person to person depending on their unique needs, but usually includes several aspects such as lifestyle changes, psychological support, and medication. Deciding whether or not to take medication is a personal choice and should be a collaboration between the individual and professional treating them. In this v...
Bipolar disorder is a complex condition with several types, including Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2. Despite its complexities, it is important to remember that each person's experience with bipolar disorder is unique. Symptoms can range from feeling highly energised and motivated to feeling irritable and angry. Learn more about our psychiatric assessment...
When many people think of the risks of eating disorders going unaddressed, they likely think of physical risks such as heart failure, muscle atrophy, damage to organs such as the liver, pancreas, and kidneys, hormone imbalances, and more. One risk that you may not consider is the second leading cause of death among individuals with anorexia nervosa...
The precise causes of ADHD in individual cases currently remain unknown. Research has indicated that ADHD is hereditary, however, the responsible genes are not yet identified. Prenatal and early-life exposures, including brain injury, toxins like lead, and maternal substance use (especially alcohol and tobacco), have also been linked to causes of A...
Personality disorder affects how a person experiences emotions, how they relate to others, and how they see themselves and the world around them. These patterns can make it challenging to manage feelings and sustain healthy relationships—whether with family, friends, or colleagues. There are several types of personality disorder, each with th...
Depression, or depressive disorder, is a persistent period of low mood and loss of interest in things. It is a serious mental health condition that can be accompanied by both psychological and physical experiences. Depression can affect your mood, social life, and work life. It can be caused by a range of factors, including life-changing events. Th...
Menopause is a natural part of ageing for those who experience menstruation, yet surveys have shown that over 60% of those impacted by it felt they were uninformed, with over 30% stating that they were dreading it. Physical symptoms are often better known, yet the mental health impact cannot be ignored. In the above survey, most symptoms reported w...
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex condition that can affect people in many different ways with each person’s experience being unique. Many people with ADHD, and those around them, can find it challenging to control or manage their presentations of the condition daily without the use of medication. Whether you’...
Trauma causes people to become stuck in a challenging experience. Their thoughts often remain focussed back to a difficult life event, which causes anxiety symptoms in the present. Talking therapy can play an important role in supporting patients to recover from trauma, helping them identify and understand their triggers and manage symptoms when th...
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is recognised as an effective treatment option for anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions. It can help people process and recover from traumatic memories through guided eye movement and talking therapy. EMDR was developed in the 1980s by Dr Francine Shapiro. This approach investigated how th...
Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week runs from Monday 5 to Sunday 11 of May in 2025 and is a dedicated campaign by the Perinatal Mental Health Partnership, that focuses on mental health before, during, and after pregnancy. While many people have heard of postnatal depression (PND) or baby blues, perinatal mental illnesses extend beyond this and in...
Autism is usually expected to be diagnosed in childhood. However, many people are not diagnosed with autism until later in life, especially as we learn more about characteristics and how they present themselves. Autism can be characterised by a range of signs and experiences. While not all characteristics may point to an autism diagnosis, there are...
When it comes to treating depression, there are three approaches that are often used in combination. Thes include lifestyle adjustments, psychological support like talking therapy, and medication such as antidepressants. Adjusting your daily routine to build in healthy habits that incorporate getting sunlight where possible, getting enough sleep, e...
Anxiety is managed through a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Many people also find techniques such as mindfulness and meditation helpful. We all feel anxious at times in response to everyday events. However, when these feelings persist, or if they prevent you from completing daily tasks and enjoying life, it may indicate ...
Social media has revolutionised the way we connect with others, providing a virtual space for communication, entertainment, and self-expression. However, its impact on mental health is a topic of great research and debate. While social media can help alleviate loneliness and ease social anxiety, it can also contribute to isolation and exacerbate me...
Learning the early signs of autism can be helpful for parents and caregivers to ensure children get the earliest intervention possible if a professional evaluation is needed. Each child is unique, and not all may show every sign of autism. However, many autistic children may show some of the traits discussed and spotting the signs early can ensure ...
