Tag: mental health
-
World Autism Awareness Day
What is World Autism Awareness Day? April 2nd….sounds just like any other day, but did you know that it is internationally recognised as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD)? This special day is dedicated to spreading awareness about ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and helping everyone to understand what ASD is to create an inclusive and understanding…
-
April Fool’s Day: Understanding Humour and Mental Health
April Fool’s Day, celebrated on April 1st, is a fun tradition across many cultures where people play playful pranks and jokes on friends, family, and coworkers. While it’s usually a day of laughter and jokes, it’s important to think about how these pranks can affect people’s feelings and mental health. Understanding this connection can remind…
-
Successfully Bipolar: Thriving with Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that manifests as contrasting episodes of mania (or its less intense form, hypomania) and depression (link: https://theotherclinic.sg/bipolar/). These alternating phases can often create an emotional roller coaster for those affected, leading to profound fluctuations in energy, motivation, perspective, and even relationships. While living with this condition presents…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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,…
-
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…
-
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…