Thought Pieces & Videos

During an autism assessment, it is routine - and necessary - to ask for accounts of the person’s childhood - and of course it is usual for parents or caregivers to provide this; questions involve discussions on night sleeping, first words, eating preferences in childhood and more. But what if a parent or caregiver isn't available for your assessment?

Self harm is a behaviour that many, if not most, people find deeply unsettling. They might willfully ignore it if the signs are seen in colleagues, or classmates. They might avoid talking about it if the topic is brought up by a loved one at home. Here Dr Herbet Steiner talks through the topic of self harm behaviour and how he supports people to move on from that behaviour in his practice.

No one exists in a vacuum. Anyone who has experienced a notable physical injury or condition, or had a period of mental ill health, will know that invariably it will also have had an impact on those around them. The same is absolutely true with PMDD (pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder), and here Dr Isabel McMullen, Consultant Psychiatrist, talks to us about how partners of those of PMDD can best support their loved ones.

It is a kind and caring thing to consider if you should, or could, adapt workplaces and working styles for colleagues who are neurodivergent. To this, the first thing Dr Caryl Marshall higlights would be that no two people’s brains are the same, whether neurodivergent or neurotypical, so all people should be considered as individuals and asked how they might work best!

For many people, the prospect of interpersonal conflict in the home or workplace is horrifying. Tension in the air, slammed cupboards, sharp words and icy cold shoulders will have many people reaching deep into their fight or flight arsenal to get out of the situation, ASAP. But - can conflict be navigated in a better way? And can conflict ever actually be a positive thing for relationships?

Time moves in only one direction and, if we’re lucky, we’ll each have a long life well into our advanced years. But when it comes to talking about ‘old age’, is it a particular age, or a stage? How do chronological age and biological age intersect? And what can we do to help us live a fuller life, for longer?

Deciding whether to have children is a hugely personal choice and, often, includes so many considerations and factors it can be hard to even keep track of all the aspects. Perhaps surprisingly, this internal debate is something that is often brought to mental health professionals as an independent, impartial facilitator, and a sympathetic ear.

As we and our loved ones age, it is only natural to start considering how people will continue their day to day lives into their later years. For many people, they are able to live long and happy lives in their chosen home, with visiting nursing and / or care staff providing an extra pair of hands when needed. However, for others, living in their home starts to become rife with challenges, either due to restricted mobility, or mental or physical ill-health, and can sometimes reach the point of being no longer feasible. In these situations, it can be difficult to understand what the options are.

Easter is often viewed as a time of renewal, reflection, and connection. While many look forward to the comfort of family gatherings, long walks in the sunshine, and seasonal treats, for those living with eating disorders, the holiday can bring unique challenges. Although some embrace the celebration of food and drink, Easter may also feel complicated, overwhelming, and at times, isolating.  If you find yourself struggling with Easter traditions, know that your experience is valid—and you're not alone. Many people, regardless of their relationship with food, can feel uneasy or anxious around social events and holiday eating.