Heads To Health

05/12/2023

Initiating mindful and fruitful discussions about a student's mental health may present a maze-like challenge for both teachers and parents. However, it is a conversation of critical importance in today's ever-evolving educational climate.

Diving into this piece, you'll gain insights, acquire new strategies, and understand the importance of collaboration in safeguarding the mental health of students. So, sit back and ready yourself for a journey to pave the way for more wholesome and beneficial parent-teacher interactions.

- 70-80% of children with mental health disorders do not receive appropriate treatment

- Only 36% of students with mental health issues receive counselling services

- Students with mental health disorders are more likely to have academic difficulties

Read More:

Effective communication between parents and teachers is crucial for addressing students' mental health.

27/11/2023

Don't compare yourself to those filtered lives. Yours has beauty in the messy and the wise. Your life has meaning in the ups and the downs. Not in the likes, hearts or followers around 💜🤝

https://www.headstohealth.org.uk/amp/behindthefilteredlife

24/11/2023

Creating a safe and supportive learning environment is crucial for the emotional well-being of students. In the United Kingdom, teachers play a vital role in promoting emotional wellness by setting up their classrooms as safe spaces.

Emotional safety refers to an environment where students feel secure, valued, and respected. It is a space where they can freely express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns without fear of judgment or ridicule. By establishing such an environment, teachers can foster a sense of belonging and trust, which are essential for students' emotional well-being.

Creating a supportive, emotionally secure environment is undoubtedly vital for cultivating students' emotional health in the UK and beyond. As educators, we must respond to this all-important responsibility with sustained dedication and innovative strategies. Our classrooms, whether physical or virtual, should be vibrant spaces where trust, acceptance, empathy and respect bloom. This not only enhances our students' academic achievements but also empowers them to become emotionally resilient adults.

Always remember, the commitment to fostering emotional safety does not end as the school bell rings. In close collaboration with parents and guardians, we can extend this support system into the students' homes, promoting emotional wellbeing outside as well as inside the classrooms.

In following the suggestions offered in this article, let us strive to make every student's learning journey a fulfilling and emotionally nourishing one. In doing so, we are ensuring the best possible future for our students and, indeed, our society. After all, the children of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and their emotional health is paramount to their success.

Read More: https://www.headstohealth.org.uk/article/creating-safe-spaces

Creating a safe and supportive learning environment is crucial for the emotional well-being of students.

22/11/2023

Often, the cloak of social stigma further drenches teenage substance abuse and mental health in shadows. Victims may find themselves trapped in a cycle of shame and fear, compelled to maintain their struggles in silence. This not only exacerbates their condition but also facilitates further withdrawal from help and support.

However, it's not just them battling this war; it involves us all. As a society, we need to pivot our view, replacing blame with understanding, judgement with empathy. Notably, public perception can inflict more damage to a teenager grappling with substance abuse than the substances themselves.

Perhaps, the battle against stigma begins with having open conversations - a much-needed step towards change. Acceptance won't happen overnight; it's a collective journey we must undertake. Sadly, condemnation is so deeply ingrained in our society that we consciously or subconsciously tend to isolate individuals suffering from substance abuse. Instead, we ought to exercise kindness, exhibit patience, and genuinely listen to their experiences without the compulsion to provide immediate solutions or judgement.

Remember, you, as the carer, friend, teacher, or advisor, can shape a teenage individual's battle with substance abuse. The mental health of our adolescents should never be a topic left behind closed doors - it's crucial we illuminate it, expose it to the light of understanding.

In this brave new world where we unabashedly discuss physical ailments and injuries, let's strive to bring the same energy to raising awareness around mental health and substance abuse.

We must be allies, not obstacles, in their journey from darkness to light, from stigma to support.



Read More:

Prevention and intervention strategies play a crucial role in mitigating the negative impact of substance abuse on teenage mental health. Educating teenagers about the risks associated with substance abuse, promoting healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering supportive environments are all key compon...

21/11/2023

Services from established organisations like the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) and BEAT offer helplines, online support groups, and referral services to appropriate treatment options.

Eating disorders are much more than a pathological relationship with food; they are complex mental health conditions.

20/11/2023

It's crucial that we hone our ability to recognise eating disorders as signs of deeper psychological distress.

Eating disorders are much more than a pathological relationship with food; they are complex mental health conditions that often embed themselves in feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and depression. Stated simply, recognising an eating disorder is often the first step in unmasking a larger mental health issue.

Actions and behaviours that may appear slightly peculiar or perhaps even 'quirky' at first - such as an obsessive focus on healthy eating, or an extreme aversion to eating in public - might actually be tell-tale signs of an underlying eating disorder. It's about looking beneath the surface and peeling back the layers to reveal the hidden struggles that your loved ones may be dealing with.

However, recognition is just the beginning. After recognising the warning signs, it's important to offer unflinching support and understanding. Encourage them to seek professional help; a multidimensional approach to treatment that includes mental health counselling and clinical interventions can often help to mitigate the impact of these disorders.

Read More:

Eating disorders are much more than a pathological relationship with food; they are complex mental health conditions.

15/11/2023

Whilst there is a key focus on children and young people during anti-bullying week, we must not forget that bullying can happen and can effect anyone. It does not discriminate any age, gender or sexual orientation.

Bullying at work is a huge problem.

Workplace bullying, you might wonder, what exactly it is and what it isn't.

By definition, workplace bullying is a repeated behaviour that offends, insults, humiliates, or intimidates an individual or a group of individuals in their work environment. This behaviour can be explicit, such as demoralising comments, public shaming, or overt hostility. Alternatively, it can be subtle, like creating an unpleasant or hostile work environment, constant criticism without constructive feedback, or setting someone up to fail by providing them with unmanageable tasks.

However, it's crucial to note what workplace bullying isn't. While bullying can be misbehaviour at work, not all misbehaviour should be considered bullying. Isolated incidents of harsh words, occasional differences in opinion, a single incident of bad-temper, or disagreements are not considered workplace bullying unless they become persistent and create a hostile work environment. It doesn't include lawful management actions done in a reasonable way such as performance management or disciplinary action.

Overall, understanding these distinctions plays a vital role in fostering a respectful, inclusive, and professional work environment.

When we turn our lens to the UK, the extent and pervasiveness of workplace bullying become startlingly clear. Sadly, this issue is neither minimal nor isolated in our society.

According to a recent YouGov survey, 'one in three workers in the UK report having been a victim of workplace bullying'. That's a staggering 33% of our diligent and resilient workforce.
What's more concerning is that many cases of bullying go unreported.

Many workers, gripped by fear or not wanting to 'make a fuss', suffer in silence. Therefore, the real scale of workplace bullying may be much larger than the statistic indicates. Moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges with the shift to remote working, further complicating the issue.

This data is not only alarming, but it highlights a pressing need for increased awareness and effective action against this pervasive issue plaguing UK workplaces. We can no longer turn a blind eye to workplace bullying, and must recognise it as an urgent concern that requires robust interventions and policies.

Read More: https://www.headstohealth.org.uk/article/understanding-workplace-bullying

workplace bullying is a repeated behaviour that offends, insults, humiliates, or intimidates an individual or individuals at work.

14/11/2023

Picture this, you're walking through your life in complete silence. Every day, you see or experience bullying behaviours, but for one reason or another, you feel powerless to say anything.

Now imagine, what if you could summon the strength within you to break this silence, to stand tall and make a noise against abuse? Welcome to Anti-Bullying Week 2023, where our theme is exactly that: "Make a noise about bullying".

Every one of us has a strength inside, an untapped potential that can skyrocket us from the quiet bystander to a vocal advocate against bullying. This transformation is no small feat; overcoming fear of retaliation or stigma takes time and grit. But we're here to help. When we say “from silence to strength”, it is not just a catchy tagline. It's a journey we want to take you on, offering tools and direction to empower you to find and raise your voice against bullying.

This year, we aim to be a beacon of hope and empowerment.
Uniting voices from across the country, our collective roar will serve as a strong deterrent for bullies. With events that provide education, share personal stories, and celebrate progress, we strive to transform you from being a silent observer to a fearless crusader. Remember, your voice has tremendous power. Use it, amplify it and let it be heard. It's time to make a noise about bullying.

Kidscape Anti-Bullying Alliance

Read More:

The importance of taking a stand against bullying during Anti-Bullying Week 2023.

07/11/2023

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, the ability to understand and manage emotions is becoming increasingly important.

Emotional literacy, the skill of recognising, understanding, and effectively expressing emotions, is a crucial skill for 21st-century learners.

With emotional literacy, you're equipped to deal with life's challenges in a healthier way. It helps in avoiding the mental pitfalls of depression and anxiety by equipping you with the ability to identify what you're feeling, why you're feeling it, and what can be done about it. This leads to increased resilience and an improved ability to bounce back from setbacks.

Read More:

Emotional literacy - the ability to identify, understand, express, and manage emotions - is a crucial skill in the 21st century.

06/11/2023

Eating disorders in teenagers can sometimes go unnoticed. As a parent, carer, or friend, you may not always recognise the warning signs until the disorder has really taken a hold. Eating disorders manifest in various ways, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorders. It's crucial to seek both advice and support as early as possible.

Teen eating disorders are unfortunately quite prevalent. According to the Eating Disorders Association, up to '25% of those suffering from an eating disorder are male, demonstrating that this disorder is not gender exclusive'. Furthermore, the Mind Charity found that '1.25 million people in the UK are living with an eating disorder and around 11% of them are under 16 years of age'. This highlights the serious extent of this issue among teenagers.

Read More:

Discover the warning signs of eating disorders in teenagers and find support for your teen.

06/11/2023

The link between type 1 diabetes and eating disorders is significant because people with type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing an eating disorder. In fact, studies have shown that people with type 1 diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop an eating disorder than the general population.

Read More:

Studies show that people with type 1 diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop an eating disorder than the general population.

04/11/2023

In today's fast-paced and sedentary work environment, promoting physical health in the office has become more important than ever.

Many employees spend the majority of their day sitting at a desk, which can have detrimental effects on their overall well-being.

Recognising this issue, employers are now seeking innovative ideas to encourage their employees to lead healthier lifestyles while at work.

Read More:

Promoting physical at work, crafting a culture of wellness that fosters healthier, happier, and more productive employees.

02/11/2023

is a pervasive issue that has far-reaching consequences on both mental health and overall well-being. This article aims to shed light on the impact of misogyny, educate readers about its various forms, and provide strategies for combating it. By understanding the detrimental effects of misogyny, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Education is a potent tool against misogyny. However, this fight shouldn't remain confined within the boundaries of schools. Parents, too, have a significant role to play in instilling these values at home. Society as a whole needs to take responsibility for challenging harmful gender norms and stereotypes that perpetuate misogyny.

Ultimately, the goal is clear: By integrating lessons on consent, respect, and equality into education, we can counteract the impact of misogyny and foster a healthier, more inclusive society.

Read More:

Misogyny is a pervasive issue that has far-reaching consequences on both mental health and overall well-being. This article aims to shed light on the impact of misogyny, educate readers about its various forms, and provide strategies for combating it. By understanding the detrimental effects of miso...

01/11/2023

Understanding the significance of your child's mental health is crucial. It shapes them as they journey from their early years into adolescence and beyond. The impacts of your child's mental health, both positive and negative, can be profound and enduring, not just on the child's life, but also on the quality of your entire family's life.

Engaging in video games, surprisingly, can have numerous positive effects on children's mental health. For example, it can foster problem-solving and strategic thinking skills. Children may learn to strategise effectively, think critically, and make fast decisions. Furthermore, video games can have a social aspect, enhancing children's collaboration and teamwork abilities.

Simulation games, especially, can wear many hats: they can serve as an educational tool and improve hand-eye coordination. More often than not, they pose complex problems that can assist children in developing cognitive abilities and enhancing their 'thinking out of the box' skills.

Read More:

The effects of gaming & tech on children's mental health, covering benefits & risks - essential for parents & educators in our digital world

31/10/2023

Stay on the cutting edge with our latest article - a fascinating look into the marriage of Artificial Intelligence and Mental Health. Understand how AI is being harnessed to improve diagnoses and treatments, and what this means for the future of mental health care. But it's not all rosy - we also delve into the practical challenges and ethical dilemmas that this new frontier presents. Intrigued? Link Below!

Check it out: https://www.headstohealth.org.uk/article/artificial-intelligence-mental-health-impacts

Exploring the juncture of AI and mental health, this article illuminates AI's promising applications, potential dangers, and implications.

30/10/2023

and are complex realities of the human experience. As an adult, comprehending the reasons and impacts of such events can be challenging. Therefore, it is no surprise that these topics may be even more perplexing and troubling for children. Yet, as they grow and develop, start going to school, watch television, or hear adults converse, they too become aware of such realities.

For many parents and teachers, this reality leads to a pertinent question:
1. How do we talk to our children about war and conflict?
2. What is the best way to answer their questions?

Read More:

Helping parents and teachers navigate conversations around global war and conflict with children, fostering empathy and understanding.

27/10/2023

The UK 'Online Safety Bill' has today (27/10/23) received the royal seal of approval from The King, as has now become law.

The UK government are trying to take definitive steps to enhance digital safety with 'Online Safety Bill'. This prospective legislation would dictate the conduct of online platforms managed within the country, to better protect their users, particularly children and vulnerable individuals, against digital harm.

The bill, despite it's aims, has sparked backlash over concerns around privacy, for not going far enough to protect children and young people, and from many social media companies.


Read More:

The bill, which targets platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok, has been signed by Parliament and is now officially a law

26/10/2023

Postpartum Depression in New Fathers: A Silent Health Concern

A recent study has shed light on a surprising and often overlooked facet of men's mental health: as many as 30% of new fathers may experience postpartum depression (PPD) (1).

This health condition, more typically associated with new mothers, is increasingly believed to affect men on a similar scale, particularly in the first year after becoming a parent.

Traditionally, postpartum depression has been considered a "women's issue." However, recent studies have provided troubling insights about its prevalence among men. A meta-analysis published in "JAMA Psychiatry" revealed that 'approximately one in four men experiences symptoms of depression following the birth of a child, most commonly between the first to sixth month'.

Chris got in touch with us, to share his story and said, "I couldn't recognise the man staring back. Who was this sleep-deprived, cranky guy with a constant frown?"

"The worst part? I thought I had to keep it together - for my wife, for Lucy. I believed I was supposed to be the strong one, the rock of the family. It's not so easy to admit you're struggling when all eyes are on you, expecting guidance and support. The feelings of guilt and failing Lucy and my wife were overwhelming. I didn't realise then that it was the depression blurring my judgement, making me feel unworthy and useless."

The recognition and awareness of paternal postpartum depression are still growing. Health professionals, friends, and family members should encourage new fathers to talk about their feelings and emotions, by fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

By focusing our attention on the mental well-being of both parents after childbirth, we can contribute to healthier families. With the right support, new fathers experiencing postpartum depression can overcome this invisible crisis.



Read More:

Unveiling the hidden struggle of postpartum depression in new dads - we look into the prevalence, impact and ways to seek help.

25/10/2023

Anxiety and addiction are relentlessly intertwined. Although they are distinctly different health concerns, research shows these entities mirror each other in an uncanny way. The potent influence of anxiety on addictive behavior and how addiction can foster an anxious mental state forms a dangerous reciprocal relationship.

This article illuminates the link between these two burdens of health, punctuated by recent studies that highlight their interconnected nature.

Read More:

The intricate link between anxiety and addiction. Find out how early intervention can disrupt this vicious cycle, based on recent research.

24/10/2023

Can you help spread a bit of light and positivity? ❤️‍🩹👇

🫂 Question❓️- What's is your favourite quote(s) that have lifted you up on a rainy day, and/or inspired you and helped you?

We are looking to share these in an article on our news Heads To Health publisher platform (still in progress but getting there).

You can reply via message or in the comment's. If you can include why the(ese) quotes are your favourite and how they have helped and/or inspired you, that would be great.

If you would prefer to email, you can do so by emailing [email protected] or by filling in the form on our website (headstohealth.co.uk/contact).

Please also let me know if you're gappy for your name to be shared. If not, we will keep it anonymous.

It would be nice to try and out together some positive articles out there, as the world seems very gloomy and negative at the moment.

https://www.headstohealth.org.uk/article/top-10-feel-good-quotes-to-start-the-weekend

Perfect read for anyone needing a positive spin on their week's end.

22/10/2023

The world is currently experiencing a trying period of supply chain disruptions affecting a wide variety of sectors - and the pharmaceutical industry, specifically the supply of medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ( ), is no exception. This has resulted in a worrying shortage of key ADHD medications, raising concerns among patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals alike.

The impact of these supply issues is global, seeing numerous countries face challenges. The United States and the United Kingdom have been particularly hard hit, with both countries reporting significant shortages of certain ADHD medications. Australia, Canada, and various

European countries also report difficulties in obtaining these medications.

have looked into this, and this article should hopefully give others some answers to these questions:

● What's going on?
● Which countries are affected & worst affected?
● Why is there a shortage?
● What medications in particular are affected?
● What impact will this have on people taking these medications. If they can't get them, and what could/should they do?
● How long is this expected to go on for?

Read more:

A global ADHD medication supply shortage is affecting numerous countries, and is impacting patients. What's going on?

22/10/2023

The stigma surrounding addiction and mental health is a vehement and prevailing issue, creating barriers for individuals seeking help and perpetuating discrimination and isolation. Millions of people around the world struggle with mental health disorders and addiction, yet a significant number remain untreated due to negative perceptions and misconceptions.

Despite a growing understanding of addiction and mental health, pervasive stigmas persist, fostering negative attitudes and stereotypes that hinder compassionate support and effective treatment.

Read More:

Analysis of the deep-rooted stigmas surrounding addiction and mental health, and the impacts these negative perceptions have on individuals.

20/10/2023

Sometimes Fridays can be tough. After all, we're all tired from a week of non-stop work, responsibilities, and commitments. Whether you're in school, have a mom or dad job, or have a 9-to-5 job, everyone can relate to the stress of a busy week.

So, as the weekend approaches, we could all use a lump of positivity to kick-start a weekend of relaxation and leisure. To help you get into the right Friday mood, here are ten quotes we've selected to lift your spirits and get you excited about the weekend.



Read More:

Perfect read for anyone needing a positive spin on their week's end.

20/10/2023

Recent studies have shed new light on the controversial realm of mental health treatment. Typically, in psychotherapeutic practices, it's often encouraged for patients to face their negative thoughts head-on.

However, a recent study unveils a contradictory perspective: burying negative thoughts could actually be beneficial to our .

The study explores how suppression may play a crucial role in managing our mental health, perpetuating the shift in how we approach mental health therapies. It potentially broadens our arsenal of tools for facing mental health challenges.

Read More:

A new study by 'The World Health Organisation' has shed new light on the controversial realm of mental health treatment. It has found that burying negative thoughts could actually be beneficial to our mental health.

19/10/2023

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

This condition is marked by intense shifts in mood, going from periods of high energy and happiness to periods of sadness and despair.

Understanding the nature of bipolar disorder is crucial for both those who suffer from it and their loved ones. It is a condition that can significantly impact an individual's life, affecting their ability to function in daily activities and maintain healthy relationships. However, with proper treatment and support, individuals with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling lives.

Read more:

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition is marked by intense shifts in mood, going from periods of high energy and happiness to periods of sadness and despair. This article will explore the sympt...

19/10/2023

A report suggests that the growing mental health related incidents are hampering Police Scotland's capacity to prevent, probe and solve crimes. The statement, by the police oversight body, points out a significant surge in mental health demands in recent years.

Read More:

A report suggests that mental health related incidents are hampering Police Scotland's capacity to prevent, probe and solve crimes.

17/10/2023

Our thoughts are with everyone in and ❤️‍🩹 We send our sincerest condolences to all of the family and friends who have lost loved ones.

Once again, we would like to remind those who are being affected by events across the globe about the importance of moderating your news intake.

Read More & Get Advice Here: https://www.headstohealth.org.uk/article/worldnewsintake

It is crucial to regulate our news intake amidst global conflicts and natural disasters to protect mental health.

16/10/2023

With the ever-increasing demands and pressures of daily life, mental health issues are becoming significantly more prevalent. Fortunately, a powerful weapon to combat stress, anxiety, and other related mental health problems is within everyone's reach—a simple smile or a warm 'hello.'

Read More:

A smile and a simple 'hello' is a powerful way to combat stress, anxiety, and mental health problems.

13/10/2023

As we transition from the warmth of the summer sun to the chill of winter winds, it's not uncommon to feel a shift in mood. However, for some people, this change goes beyond the typical winter blues and heralds the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Read More 👇

An in-depth understanding of the Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The article discusses symptoms, causes and treatments for SAD.