Loneliness
How to look after your mental health at Christmas
It has been an “annus horribilis” year and with Christmas now upon us, there are more challenges and emotions to deal with. While many people enjoy this time of year, for many it brings more pressure on our time and money, while others experience loneliness and grief. This time of year is proven to increase…
Read MoreMother’s Day – how to cope if social distancing prevents you from seeing your Mum
As we brace ourselves for a Mother’s Day without family reunions, high teas or shopping and movie dates this year, it’s important we assess the extent of the impact on those who can’t be near their parents, especially those with ageing parents who may live in an aged care residence or other respite centre. You…
Read MoreBe your own Valentine this Valentine’s Day
When you think about it, flying through this turbulent life is no different to a plane in distress – when the masks drop, you must apply yours before attending to others. Why am I talking about plane disasters in a Valentine’s Day article? Because it’s a great analogy to recognise that sharing love with…
Read MoreSilent Night, Lonely Night – not all Christmases are merry and bright
Recognising loneliness at Christmas For some, Christmas means having breakfast at home, lunch at the parents’ place, and dinner with the in-laws. It’s a busy time filled with people, presents and pavlova, and there’s not a moment to themselves. But for others, Christmas Day may look very different. Some people don’t have family to visit,…
Read MoreImproving low self-esteem for a better work and home life
How you think and feel about yourself impacts on your actions and behaviours every minute of every day. Negative self-talk can affect our relationships, our job and our day to day life. In today’s busy society where there is a constant pressure to do well, or to keep up with social media trends (fashion, home…
Read MoreYou’re not alone in feeling alone – how adult loneliness is affecting us – Part 2
Last month I introduced the topic of loneliness and how it has become more commonplace in our lives as adults. I felt this subject is too important for just one article, and so Part 2 has developed out of a greater desire to help adults not only understand loneliness, but how we can turn adult…
Read MoreYou don’t have to be alone to feel lonely – Part 1
It was after work one day, and I was on the bus making my way home. The bus was packed. I had people sitting right beside and across from me. And I was sobbing, but no one noticed. No one asked if I was okay. No one gave me a comforting smile. Instead, they were…
Read MoreSurviving Mother’s Day Grief – coping with the loss of your Mum on Mother’s Day
Every day can trigger memories of Mum after she has passed, but there are often two days that can be more painful than any other – her birthday and Mother’s Day. While her birthday is a personal affair that intimate friends and family will commemorate with you, Mother’s Day celebrations are everywhere and seem impossible…
Read MoreHow does your mental health stack up? Your health is more than just weight and blood pressure
Did you know that mental health concerns are steadily growing in communities across Australia? Figures from the ABS show that in 2014-2015, there were about 4 million Australians who reported that they had a mental or behavioural condition, and four years later in 2017-2018, this number went up to 4.8 million – that’s a whopping…
Read MoreSurround yourself with animals for improved mental health
Six reasons cuddling up to a fur baby can lift your mood and outlook on life When it comes to addressing and improving mental health, it’s critical that the environment is non-judgmental and non-threatening to create a space that can help improve confidence and wellbeing. Counsellors and medical practitioners work through a number of strategies…
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