Tag: mental health
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Embracing Neurodiversity: A Journey Towards Inclusive Excellence
In my practice as an art psychotherapist and wellness counsellor, I’ve the privilege of working with individuals from all walks of life. Among them, those who are neurodivergent hold a special place in my practice. As we approach Neurodiversity Celebration Week, I’m reminded of the importance of not only understanding but actively embracing the diversity…
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Neurodivergence Myths
Addressing and debunking common myths about neurodivergent individuals is crucial for fostering a more accurate understanding of this diverse group. Neurodiversity refers to the concept that neurological differences are to be recognized and respected as any other human variation. These differences can include those labelled with Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyscalculia, Autistic…
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Racial Trauma and What You Can Do About It
What is Racial Trauma? Racial trauma refers to the experience of danger from racial discrimination, whether it be real or perceived. This means that racial trauma could come from overt actions (e.g. having a racial slur hurled at you, being a victim of violent acts because of your race) to more covert events (e.g. telling…
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International Day of Happiness
International Day of Happiness is dedicated to promoting happiness as a fundamental human right and goal for all, by emphasising the importance of cultivating joy and contentment in our lives, both personally and collectively. The United Nations (UN) established the International Day of Happiness in 2012, recognising the pursuit of happiness as a fundamental human…
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Neurodivergent Representation in Books
‘Books are a uniquely portable magic’ – Stephen King Portable Magic. I remember the sparkle in Carmen Sandiego’s* eyes as she told me about ‘The Boy with the Butterfly Mind’, a book with a character who like her, is a ADHDer and a child with separated/divorced parents. Books bring the magic of imagination and creation,…
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10 Tips for Parenting a Neurodiverse Child
Supporting a neurodivergent child can be both frustrating and extremely rewarding. Often ‘go to’ parenting strategies that work for neurotypical kids do not work with our wonderful neurodivergent kids. It involves a blend of understanding, patience, and advocacy. Here are 10 tips for families to create a nurturing and supportive environment: 1. Educate Yourself About…
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Tips for better sleep on World Sleep Day
World Sleep Day this year is on March 15, 2024. World Sleep Day is celebrated to raise awareness of the value of sufficient sleep for enhancing health and quality of life. The prevalence of sleep issues in the global and local population point to the need for awareness-raising. Globally, prevalence estimates of insomnia are around…
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Brain Injury Awareness Month
March is a time when we can come together annually to raise awareness around brain injuries. World Brain Injury Month allows us the opportunity to understand the prevalence, impact and challenges faced by individuals affected by brain injuries worldwide. Brain injuries are commonly caused by falls, sport-related incidents, accidents and medical conditions (National Institute of…
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Self-Harm: A Teenager’s Secret
Few things can be as scary and disconcerting for a parent as finding out that your beloved child is deliberately self-harming. And yet, self-harm is a common experience for adolescents around the world and many parents find themselves grappling with it. As a parent of a teenager, I often find myself worrying about self-harm –…
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How to Overcome Emotional Overeating?
Eating disorders (ED) and disordered eating have a long history. Historical descriptions of overeating date back to 700 BC during Caesar’s time, where rich ancient Romans would stuff themselves at lavish banquets, then purge to return to the feast. This was labelled as an eating disorder, “Bulimia Nervosa” (BN), by British psychiatrist Gerald Russell in…