Mental
Health Blog
Every year, Mental Health Awareness Week rolls around. We post. We share. We nod along and then… we go back to normal. But mental health doesn’t work like a calendar event. It’s not something that shows up once a year, gets acknowledged, and politely waits until next May to matter again. The reality in the UK tells a different story. One in five workers have taken time off due to stress-related mental health issues, and 91% of adults report experiencing high or extreme levels of pressure at some point in the past year. That’s not a “one week” problem . That’s everyday life and despite all the awareness, there’s still a gap between talking about mental health… and actually supporting it. Nearly a third of employees say their workplace raises awareness—but managers often lack the time or resources to help in a meaningful way. In other words, we’re getting better at conversations, but not always at action. Looking after mental health isn’t just important for wellbeing—it shapes how we think, work, and show up. It affects focus, relationships, decision-making, and resilience. Ignore it, and performance quietly declines. Support it, and people actually thrive. So maybe the goal isn’t more awareness. It’s consistency, checking in regularly, designing healthier ways of working. Making support part of the culture—not a campaign, having First Aiders available but also supported. Listening to their suggestions and feedback. Maybe then mental health won't be a week of nodding along but something that helps our workplaces thrive all year round.
Most of us manage our time like professionals. Calendars blocked. Reminders set. Colour-coded schedules that would impress even the most organised person alive. And yet… by 3pm, our brain feels like it’s running on 2% battery. That’s because time is only part of the problem . Energy needs some thought too. We tend to treat energy like it’s unlimited—like if there’s space in the calendar, we must be capable of doing great work in it but that’s not how humans work. Just because you have an hour free doesn’t mean you have the mental capacity to write, think, solve problems, and be a delightful human in meetings. Some tasks drain you: • Back-to-back meetings • Constant notifications • That one “quick chat” that never is Others restore you (or at least don’t exhaust you): • Focused, uninterrupted work • A walk outside • Actually finishing something The trick is noticing the difference because once you do, something clicks. You stop asking: “What do I have time for?” And start asking: “What do I have energy for?” That’s when things get interesting. Instead of scheduling deep work at 4pm when your brain has checked out for the day, you protect your peak hours for the work that actually matters. Instead of forcing productivity when you’re drained, you switch to lighter tasks that don’t require your full brainpower. It’s less about doing more and more about doing things at the right time. Think of your energy like money. You wouldn’t spend £100 on random things first thing in the morning and then expect to invest wisely later with what’s left but we do that with energy all the time. We burn it on low-value tasks… then wonder why we’ve got nothing left for the important ones. So here’s a small shift to try: For a few days, pay attention to what gives you energy —and what quietly takes it away. No big life overhaul. Just awareness. Because once you understand your energy patterns, you can start working with them instead of against them. And work suddenly feels a lot less like running on empty.
Kids Are Not Snowflakes – They’re Navigators of a Complex World You hear it a lot: “Kids today are snowflakes.” Too sensitive. Too easily upset. Too unable to cope. It’s usually said with a sigh, a shake of the head, and a comparison to how things were “back in my day”. But here’s the thing: calling children and young people “snowflakes” isn’t just inaccurate — it’s deeply undermining. And it ignores the reality of the world they are growing up in. Today’s children are navigating a level of complexity that previous generations simply didn’t have to face at such a young age. They are growing up in a world of constant online connection, global news in their pockets, social media pressures, climate anxiety, economic uncertainty and, for many, stretched families and schools. That’s not fragility — that’s a lot to carry. Children aren’t struggling because they are weak. They’re struggling because the world has changed. Being more open about emotions doesn’t mean children are less resilient. In fact, it often shows the opposite. Today’s kids are better at naming their feelings, asking for help, and talking about mental health than generations before them. That’s not “snowflakery” — that’s emotional literacy. It’s a skill adults have spent decades trying to learn. And let’s give credit where it’s due: many children are doing remarkably well despite the challenges they face. They adapted to lockdowns, disrupted schooling, and social isolation. They are learning to manage friendships online and offline, deal with constant comparison, and grow up under intense academic and social pressure — often with humour, creativity and compassion. Language matters. When we dismiss young people as “snowflakes”, we teach them that their feelings are a problem, that asking for support is weakness, and that struggling in a tough world is a personal failure. That doesn’t build resilience — it erodes it. Resilience doesn’t come from being told to “toughen up”. It comes from being understood, supported and believed in. It grows when adults acknowledge reality, set boundaries with kindness, and show young people that it’s okay to find things hard — and still keep going. Kids aren’t snowflakes. They’re learners, adapters and problem-solvers, growing up in a world that’s faster, louder and more demanding than ever before. And honestly? Given everything they’re facing, they’re doing pretty brilliantly.
There was a time when saying “yes” at work felt like the safest career move. “Yes, I can take that on.” “Yes, I’ll jump on a quick call.” “Yes, I’ll have a look tonight.” It feels productive. Helpful, even. Like you’re building a reputation as someone reliable. But give it a few weeks, and something strange happens. Your to-do list becomes a game of Jenga. Your focus disappears and the work you actually care about starts getting squeezed into whatever time is left. This is where boundaries get misunderstood because saying “no” sounds like a lack of commitment. In reality, it’s often a sign of clarity. High performers don’t just manage their time—they protect it. When you say “no” (or even “not right now”), you’re not rejecting work. You’re prioritising the work that matters most. Think about it: Would you rather be known as the person who says yes to everything… or the person who consistently delivers great results on the right things? We talk about boundaries on the First Aid course, not quite in this context but a conversation last week got me thinking that this needs clarifying.Boundaries help you: • Focus deeply instead of constantly context-switching • Deliver higher-quality work • Reduce last-minute stress (and those “late night panic” moments) And here’s the part we don’t talk about enough—boundaries also make you easier to work with. Clear expectations beat vague over-promising every time. Of course, this doesn’t mean shutting everything down with a hard “no.” It can sound like: “I can take this on, but it means pushing X back—does that work?” “Happy to help, just not today—can we look at next week?” Same intent. Better outcome because the goal isn’t to do less work, it’s to do the right work, well. That’s what actually builds trust, credibility, and long-term performance. So next time you hesitate before saying “no,” remember: It’s not a career risk, it’s a performance strategy and one that will help your mental well being too!
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition — but it’s also a difference in how the brain processes the world. That difference isn’t just about difficulties; it also brings distinctive strengths that can be valuable in many areas of life — particularly in the workplace. Too often discussions focus on what autistic people struggle with, but recognising and celebrating positive traits is essential to building inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive. ✨ Attention to Detail and Deep Focus One of the most consistently highlighted strengths is exceptional attention to detail and sustained focus on tasks. In research where autistic adults reported their workplace experiences, many described cognitive advantages such as concentration, memory and efficiency — sometimes outperforming their non-autistic colleagues in tasks requiring deep focus and precision. These traits can be especially useful in roles involving data analysis, quality control, engineering and research. ✨ Creativity and Unique Perspectives Autistic thinking styles can also bring creative problem-solving and innovative perspectives to a team. Research shows autistic employees often offer a unique autism-specific perspective that helps teams question assumptions and think differently about challenges — a valuable asset in sectors ranging from technology to design and beyond. ✨ Honesty, Dedication and Reliability Autistic people are often described by research and community evidence as honest, dedicated and reliable — traits that many employers value highly. These personal strengths translate into consistent performance, loyalty and a strong work ethic when the right environment and supports are in place. ✨ Evidence from UK Health and Autism Bodies Autistica, the UK’s leading autism research charity, highlights that autistic people can possess strengths such as attention to detail, creative problem-solving and honest communication — all of which can be hugely valuable in workplace settings. Similarly, government work on autism employment emphasises that when workplaces become more autism-inclusive and support structures are improved, autistic employees can outperform expectations and help organisations thrive with high productivity and specialised skills. For certain roles, productivity improvements among autistic workers relative to neurotypical peers have been noted in research supporting policy recommendations. Why Celebrating Strengths Matters Recognising these positive traits isn’t just about being uplifting — it has real, practical benefits. When employers focus on strengths rather than deficits, they can: • Build more inclusive and innovative teams • Reduce employment barriers for autistic adults • Unlock a pool of talented individuals eager to contribute • Improve workplace satisfaction and outcomes for all employees This shift helps move away from outdated stereotypes and towards a future where neurodiversity is genuinely valued. If you’ve ever felt that autism is discussed only in terms of challenges, you’re not alone — and the research is increasingly turning that narrative around. Autistic people don’t just cope at work — in the right roles and environments, many thrive and contribute in remarkable ways.
Most of us have felt tense about finances at some point — opening a bank statement with a sinking feeling, wondering how we’ll cover bills, or losing sleep over unexpected expenses. But for many in the UK, money worries are more than occasional stress: they’re a persistent burden affecting wellbeing, relationships and mental health. How Common Are Money Worries in the UK? Financial anxiety isn’t rare. Research shows that a huge majority of British adults experience distress connected to money. For example, around 89 % of people in the UK report worrying about their finances, and many have carried these worries for years. Younger adults and women are particularly likely to feel the pressure. ( virginmoney ) Sleep is another casualty. Recent findings suggest that about 72 % of UK adults lose sleep because of money worries, with concerns about using up savings or running out of cash at the front of many people’s minds. For students, the picture is especially stark: nearly 78 % say money worries cause significant stress, leading many to avoid socialising or even checking their bank balance. And it’s not just emotions — the practical reality of savings also matters. According to the UK’s top financial regulator , one in ten adults in Britain has no savings at all, and many of those who do have very little set aside for emergencies. Money and Mental Health: Breaking the Cycle Money worries don’t exist in isolation. They often intertwine with emotional wellbeing — making it harder to concentrate, sleep, or feel secure about the future. That’s where Money and Mental Health, the UK charity founded by Martin Lewis, steps in. The organisation is dedicated to breaking the vicious cycle between financial stress and poor mental health. You can explore their insights and support through their website . I’ve been lucky enough to work with a few of their staff, and they’re fabulous — thoughtful, driven and deeply committed to making this a resource people can really turn to. It’s a brilliant source of both research and practical help for those struggling under the weight of financial stress. Why This Matters Money worries are more than numbers on a screen — they affect emotions, choices and everyday life. Knowing that others are experiencing the same challenges, and that organisations are working to support change, can make a real difference. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by financial stress, remember: you’re not alone, and there are resources and people ready to help you navigate this with compassion and understanding.
Most people don’t burn out because they’re weak . Here's the uncomfortable truth, they burn out because the system they’re working in is. We’ve been taught to see burnout as a personal failure—something to fix with better time management, more resilience, or a morning routine. A me problem that often feeds into our mental and physical health. But that framing misses the point. Burnout is often a predictable outcome of environments where: • “Urgent” is the default setting • Workloads quietly exceed capacity • Rest is seen as a reward, not a requirement • Saying “no” carries hidden penalties I see it in so many industries often because the hope it that by having a mental health first aider, the problem will go away. Nope! That’s like putting a plaster on a structural crack. The uncomfortable truth is this: If multiple people in a team are burning out, the issue isn’t individual—it’s systemic. And systems are shaped by leadership. Strong leaders don’t just ask: “How can my team cope better?” They ask: “What in our environment is making coping necessary in the first place?” Because sustainable performance doesn’t come from pushing people harder. It comes from designing work in a way that people can actually sustain. I absolutely encourage you to have Mental Health First Aiders but they need to be part of a wider well-being strategy. That might mean: - Redefining what “high performance” really looks like – Rewarding focus, not just responsiveness – Creating space for recovery before it’s forced - Fostering teams and conversations that matter - Sensible expectations Burnout isn’t a resilience problem. It’s a design problem and better design is a leadership responsibility, and the interesting thing is that when the design is better, the business becomes more profitable too.
Let’s be honest—most of us don’t skip into a dental appointment with joy, and a trip to the vet usually means something has already gone wrong (often involving a pet eating something truly baffling). It’s easy to feel stressed… and sometimes that stress comes out as frustration about the cost. But behind the scenes, dentists and veterinarians are under far more pressure than we might realise. In the UK, the numbers are pretty eye-opening. Around 61% of dental professionals report high levels of emotional exhaustion , a key sign of burnout. Meanwhile, a UK survey found that 91% of vets say their job negatively affects their mental health . Both jobs increasingly levels or suicide and often staff leave these demanding jobs despite their services being desperately needed. So why is it so hard? Part of it is emotional. Dentists work with anxious (sometimes terrified) patients all day, while vets support worried owners and make difficult decisions about animal care. But a huge piece of the puzzle is financial—and it’s often misunderstood. Yes, appointments can be expensive. And it’s completely valid to feel concerned about costs. But dentists and vets themselves are often under serious financial strain. Many have significant student loan debt, and instead of owning their practice, they may work under profit-driven organisations. On top of that, the cost of running a practice is enormous—buildings, specialist equipment, trained staff, insurance, and medical supplies all add up quickly. So while it might feel like you’re paying them, they’re often juggling intense financial pressure too. A little kindness goes a long way. A smile, a bit of patience, or simply recognising they’re trying to help can make a real difference. Because at the end of the day, they’re not just fixing teeth or caring for pets—they’re doing a demanding job under pressure, and they’re human too.
Let’s be honest: life is stressful. Emails pile up, your phone battery is always at 12%, and somehow you still don’t know what you’re having for dinner. Enter animals — the unlicensed therapists who don’t charge by the hour and are perfectly happy to sit on your lap while you question your life choices. The Science-y Bit (Don’t Worry, It’s Short) First, let’s sprinkle in some actual evidence so this doesn’t sound like I’m just emotionally dependent on my dog (I am, but still): Studies have shown that interacting with animals can lower cortisol levels — that’s the stress hormone responsible for making you feel like a shaken soda can. Petting a dog or cat literally helps your body chill out. Being around animals can also increase oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone.” This is the same chemical involved in bonding with humans, which explains why you feel personally betrayed when your cat ignores you. So yes, science agrees: animals make you happier, calmer, and slightly more willing to forgive being woken up at 5am for no reason. Why Animals Just Make Everything Better Animals have a few key advantages over humans: They don’t give unsolicited advice They don’t care about your five-year plan They think you’re amazing for doing very basic things (like existing) A dog will celebrate you coming home like you’ve just completed an epic quest. A cat will sit on your laptop the exact moment you’re busiest, which is honestly just a reminder to take a break (thanks… I guess?). They bring you into the present moment. You can’t overthink your entire life when a rabbit is chewing something it absolutely shouldn’t. “But I Don’t Have a Pet…” No problem — you can still get your animal fix without committing to 15 years of feeding something that judges you. Here are some easy ways to hang out with animals: Visit a local animal shelter Many shelters welcome visitors or volunteers. You get cuddles, they get socialisation — everyone wins. Offer to pet-sit or dog-walk Friends, neighbours, or local community groups are often looking for help. It’s like borrowing happiness. Go to a farm or petting zoo There’s something deeply grounding about feeding goats or watching sheep do absolutely nothing. Try animal cafés Cat cafés (and even dog cafés in some places) let you sip coffee while being emotionally supported by a creature who may or may not sit on your lap. Watch animals online (yes, it counts) It’s not the same as real-life interaction, but studies suggest even watching animals can lift your mood. Also, it’s very hard to stay sad while watching a panda fall over. A Quick Reality Check Will animals solve all your problems? No. Will they dramatically improve your day by doing something completely ridiculous? Absolutely. They remind us to slow down, to be present, and to find joy in small things — like a walk, a nap, or aggressively chasing a leaf for no reason. Final Thoughts Whether you own a pet, borrow one, or just wave enthusiastically at dogs in the park (no judgement), animals have a special way of making life feel lighter. And honestly, if lowering stress comes in the form of petting a very good dog… that’s a treatment plan I can get behind.
With "I Swear" recently a BAFTA winner for it's lead actor's portray of John Davidson's lived experience of coprolalia, one of the possible tics of tourette syndrome, it feels adapt to discuss this neurodifference in more detail. Let's leave aside that particular night. I think it highlights that despite all John's work and the film's success there's still a lot to do. Tourette syndrome is often misunderstood. Many people’s only reference point is a stereotype from TV or film — usually focused on swearing or disruptive behaviour. In reality, Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition that is far more nuanced, and the people who live with it often show remarkable strengths alongside their challenges. Tourette syndrome is a condition of the nervous system that usually begins in childhood. It involves tics, which are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that a person doesn’t fully control. These might include blinking, throat-clearing, facial movements or vocal sounds. Tics can change over time, increase during stress or excitement, and often reduce when someone is relaxed or deeply focused. It affects about 1% of the school age population and of these only one in ten have coprolalia , in most cases whilst this involves involuntary noices, it does not involve swearing. What’s important to understand is that Tourette syndrome is not a behavioural issue and not something someone chooses to do. It’s simply the brain working a little differently. While tics can be challenging, people with Tourette syndrome often develop impressive strengths as a result of navigating the world in their own way. One commonly reported strength is creativity. Many people with Tourette syndrome think quickly, make unusual connections and bring fresh ideas to problem-solving. This can be a real asset in creative industries, performance, writing, design and innovation-focused roles. Another strength is resilience. Growing up with a visible condition can require courage, adaptability and a strong sense of self . Many people with Tourette syndrome develop empathy, persistence and emotional awareness far beyond their years . Handling misunderstandings, curiosity and sometimes stigma takes strength — and that strength often carries into adulthood. People with Tourette syndrome can also show high levels of energy, enthusiasm and focus, particularly when they’re engaged in something they enjoy. Many describe entering a state of “flow” where tics reduce and concentration increases. This can make them highly effective in areas they’re passionate about, whether that’s sport, music, gaming, technology or study. Importantly, Tourette syndrome often co-exists with conditions such as ADHD, OCD or autism — each of which can also bring valuable traits like attention to detail, hyperfocus or innovative thinking. With the right understanding and support, these differences can become advantages rather than barriers. Tourette syndrome is not something to be pitied or feared though I recognise it's an incredibly tough condition to live with. It’s one part of a person’s identity — not the whole story. When we move beyond stereotypes and focus on strengths as well as challenges, we create a world where people with Tourette syndrome can be understood, valued and celebrated. Because behind every tic is a person with talents, humour, insight and a lot to offer. Enjoy this gorgeous film featured in Children in Need about Shay and his lived experience.