Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being, encompassing the ability to handle stress, relate to others, make decisions, and navigate the challenges of life. It influences how individuals think, feel, and act, contributing to the overall balance and quality of their lives. Mental health is essential at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
Sometimes it feels as though every time one question is answered, another emerges. Just when you think you’ve reached the end, another letter arrives. Another email. Another message. Another person quietly steps forward and says, “There’s something you should know.” Some knew him years ago. Some knew him in another country. Some knew him long… Read More Does It Ever End?
There are many legitimate and illegitimate reasons why someone might wipe a computer’s hard drive or keep an old phone locked. However, in the context of an investigation or legal dispute, these actions can raise questions and may prompt further examination. Some possible reasons include: Innocent reasons Protecting personal privacy before selling or disposing of… Read More Erasing Evidence
Parents are a child’s first teachers. Children learn values not from lectures, but from what they see, hear, and experience every day. When parents encourage honesty, integrity, and respect, children are more likely to develop those qualities themselves. But when parents encourage cheating, lying, manipulation, or disrespect, they teach a very different lesson. A parent… Read More Parents Who Encourage Cheating, Lying, and Disrespect
Sadism in families refers to situations where a family member gains satisfaction, pleasure, a sense of power, or emotional gratification from causing another family member pain, distress, humiliation, fear, or suffering. This does not always involve physical violence. In many families, sadistic behaviour is emotional or psychological. Examples can include: Deliberately humiliating a child, partner,… Read More Sadism
The experiences children have in abusive homes can profoundly shape how they see relationships, trust, and gender as adults. However, it is important to be careful not to assume that all boys who witness abuse will become “women haters.” Many boys who grow up watching their father or another male figure shout, insult, swear at,… Read More Misogynistic attitudes
Over the past decade, I have lost count of the number of times people have told me how resilient I am. They mean it as a compliment. They see someone who has survived difficult circumstances, kept going when life became overwhelming, and somehow found the strength to carry on. They see resilience. But if I’m… Read More I Hate the Word “Resilient”
One of the most important lessons to learn during and after trauma is that you cannot pour from an empty cup. When life has been turned upside down, your wellbeing must become a priority, not an afterthought. Think of the safety instructions on an aeroplane: “Put your own oxygen mask on first before assisting others.” This advice is… Read More Looking After Yourself During and After Trauma
Water has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, healing, and wellbeing. While water therapy is not a substitute for medical treatment, many people find it helpful for reducing stress, easing muscle tension, and supporting physical recovery. 1. Shower Visualization Therapy Using a shower as a mindfulness practice. As the water flows over your body,… Read More Different Types of Water Therapy
In emotional abuse, there is no single “pain threshold” that applies to everyone. People respond differently depending on their personality, resilience, support network, life experiences, age, mental health, and the nature of the abuse itself. What one person can withstand for years may overwhelm another much sooner. That does not mean one person is stronger… Read More Breaking Point
As therapists, much of our work focuses on helping people heal from pain. We support survivors of abuse, betrayal, neglect, and trauma as they learn to rebuild their lives and move forward. While this work is challenging, there is often a willingness on the part of the client to understand their experiences and seek change.… Read More When the Person Inflicting Pain Is Someone You Love
