Life can feel overwhelming at times. Deadlines pile up, relationships demand attention, and your mind races with worries. How do you stay grounded when everything seems to pull you in different directions? The answer might lie in developing mental flexibility. This is where Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) steps in, offering practical tools to help you navigate stress with calm and clarity. ACT is not about avoiding difficult feelings or trying to control every thought. Instead, it teaches you to accept your experiences and commit to actions that align with your values. This approach can transform how you handle stress and uncertainty, making your mind more adaptable and resilient. Understanding Acceptance Therapy Principles Acceptance therapy principles focus on embracing your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Imagine your mind as a busy highway, with cars (thoughts) zooming past. Instead of trying to stop the traffic, ACT encourages you to watch the cars go by without getting stuck in traffic jams of worry or frustration. This mindset shift is powerful. It helps you break free from unhelpful patterns like rumination or avoidance. By accepting what you cannot change and committing to meaningful actions, you create space for growth and peace. Here are some key ideas behind acceptance therapy principles: Mindfulness : Paying attention to the present moment with openness. Acceptance : Allowing thoughts and feelings to be as they are. Values Clarification : Identifying what truly matters to you. Committed Action : Taking steps aligned with your values, even when it’s tough. These principles work together to build mental flexibility. They help you respond to life’s challenges with curiosity rather than resistance. How Mental Flexibility Can Change Your Life Have you ever felt stuck in a negative thought loop? Maybe you worried about a work project or replayed a difficult conversation in your head. Mental flexibility is the ability to step back from these thoughts and choose how to respond. When you develop this skill, stress loses its grip. You become less reactive and more thoughtful. For example, instead of spiralling into anxiety before a meeting, you might notice the nervousness and remind yourself that it’s okay to feel this way. Then, you focus on preparing rather than avoiding. Mental flexibility also improves your relationships. When you accept your own feelings, you’re better equipped to listen and empathise with others. This creates deeper connections and reduces conflict. Practical ways to build mental flexibility include: Practice mindfulness daily - even a few minutes can help. Label your thoughts - notice if they are worries, judgments, or facts. Pause before reacting - take a breath and consider your options. Set small, achievable goals - aligned with your values. Reflect on your progress - celebrate small wins and learn from setbacks. These steps may seem simple, but they create lasting change when practiced consistently. What are the core principles of the Care ACT? The Care ACT is a framework designed to support mental health and wellbeing through six core principles. These principles align closely with the values of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, focusing on compassion, respect, and empowerment. Here’s a brief overview of the Care ACT principles: Person-Centred Care : Tailoring support to individual needs and preferences. Empowerment : Encouraging people to take control of their own health. Holistic Approach : Considering physical, emotional, and social factors. Collaboration : Working together with individuals and communities. Respect and Dignity : Valuing each person’s unique experience. Evidence-Based Practice : Using proven methods to guide care. These principles create a supportive environment where mental flexibility can flourish. They remind us that healing is not just about managing symptoms but about living a meaningful life. Notebook with notes on mental health principles representing Care ACT core values Applying ACT Core Principles in Everyday Life You might wonder how to bring these ideas into your busy, stressful days. The good news is that ACT is practical and adaptable. You don’t need hours of therapy to start benefiting from its core principles. Here are some actionable tips to get started: Notice your thoughts without fighting them . When a stressful thought arises, try saying to yourself, “There’s that worry again.” This simple act of naming can reduce its power. Focus on your breath . Taking slow, deep breaths anchors you in the present moment. Identify your values . What matters most to you? Family, creativity, kindness? Write these down and keep them visible. Take small steps towards your values . If connection is important, send a message to a friend or schedule a coffee date. Practice self-compassion . Treat yourself as kindly as you would a good friend facing challenges. By weaving these practices into your routine, you build resilience and mental flexibility. Over time, you’ll notice a shift in how you handle stress and uncertainty. For those interested in a deeper dive, exploring the act core principles can provide valuable insights and guidance. Person journaling with tea symbolising reflection and self-care Embracing Change with Confidence Change is inevitable. Whether it’s a new job, a move, or unexpected challenges, life keeps evolving. Mental flexibility helps you embrace change with confidence rather than fear. When you accept your feelings and commit to your values, you create a stable foundation. This foundation supports you through ups and downs. You learn to adapt without losing sight of what matters. Remember, mental flexibility is a skill, not a trait. It can be developed with practice and patience. Start small, be kind to yourself, and celebrate progress. If you ever feel overwhelmed, reaching out to a psychologist can provide personalised support. Their expertise can guide you through the process of building mental flexibility and living a fulfilling life. Mental flexibility is a gift you can give yourself. It transforms stress into opportunity and uncertainty into growth. By embracing acceptance therapy principles, you open the door to a calmer, more meaningful life. Why not take the first step today?

Do you ever feel like your attention span is shrinking? You’re not imagining it. Many of us report being more distracted, more restless, and less able to focus for long periods than we used to be. Between social media notifications, work demands, and family life, it can feel like our concentration is constantly under siege. But the big question is: can our attention spans be healed—or are we stuck with what we’ve got? Nature vs. Nurture: Where Attention Comes From Psychologists often frame attention as the product of both nature  (our biology) and nurture (our environment). Nature:  Some people are born with brains that are naturally more distractible. For example, research shows that people with ADHD have differences in brain networks linked to attention and impulse control. Their distractibility isn’t simply a bad habit—it’s built into how their brain processes information. Healing attention in this case doesn’t mean “fixing” the brain, but rather learning strategies and using treatments (like medication, therapy, or coaching) that support the way the brain works. Nurture:  Even those without ADHD are influenced by the world around them. If we spend hours each day switching between emails, TikTok, and Netflix, our brains learn to expect novelty and stimulation. The good news? Habits and environments can be changed. When distraction is shaped by nurture rather than nature, it’s easier to reverse. How Attention Works Psychological theory suggests that attention is like a spotlight . The spotlight allows us to scan through our environments and then highlights something that needs more attention and leaves other parts of our environment in the dark. But the spotlight is limited and trying to focus on too many things (multitasking) dilutes the beam. Over time, constant switching weakens our ability to hold the light steady. The felt experience of this is where we find it difficult to focus on a task for any length of time. Theories like cognitive load theory  explain why: the brain can only process so much information at once. When overloaded, it seeks relief through distraction. Similarly, reinforcement learning  reminds us that every time we check our phone and find something rewarding, our brain is trained to do it again—making it harder to resist. Healing Our Attention So what can we do? While biology sets the stage, environment and habits play a huge role in how well we focus. Here are evidence-based ways to rebuild attention: Reduce distractions in your environment. Turn off non-essential notifications and keep your phone in another room while working or playing with your kids or watching TV. Practice single-tasking.  Use techniques like the Pomodoro method (25 minutes of focused work, 5 minutes of rest) to retrain your brain to stay with one thing at a time. However, I have found that for some people focus can only be maintained for minutes and so build up from there. Strengthen attention with mindfulness. Studies show that mindfulness meditation improves the brain’s ability to notice distraction and redirect focus. This doesn’t have to be for any length of time but focusing on what you can see, hear, touch, taste or smell for seconds or a few minutes repeated throughout the day can help to build focus. Prioritise sleep and exercise. Both boost brain function and concentration. Be compassionate with yourself.  Distractibility is human, especially in a world designed to pull our attention. The Bottom Line Attention spans aren’t set in stone. If your challenges are mostly nurture-based —shaped by habits, overstimulation, and modern life—you can absolutely heal and strengthen your ability to focus. If your challenges are more nature-based , such as ADHD, healing may look different: not about “fixing” but about finding supportive strategies and treatments that work with your brain rather than against it. In both cases, the answer isn’t to berate ourselves for being “bad at paying attention.” It’s to understand what drives our distractibility, and then make changes—big or small—that give our minds the chance to thrive.

How do we develop beliefs and how could evolution be working against us? What do you think it would be like if we were not able to predict anything about the world? What if we could not predict whether we would be attacked by the next human we met? Or predict where we might be able to get our next meal? This would be a scary world to live in. So, beliefs are important because they make us feel the world is predictable and this makes us feel safe. If the world was unpredictable it would be highly anxiety provoking and very unpleasant. Example: Two children grow up in neighbouring houses: Tom and Pippa. The have very similar lives except Pippa’s parents believe that the only way their daughter will improve is by criticising her. Tom’s parents believe that positive reinforcements are the best form of parenting so they always praise their son when they think he has done well. Does Pippa grow up feeling good or bad about herself? Does Tom grow up feeling good or bad about himself? Unfortunately the approach of Pippa’s parents has the undesired effect of the her feeling that she is not good enough. However, Tom has a positive sense of himself. They go to the same school and both work hard and do equally well in their exams – achieving grades of above 85% for each paper. The parents of Pippa tell her that she has not done well enough and it just shows that she is a failure. The parents of Tom are complimentary of his efforts tell him that they are proud of him and the results. What do you think Pippa will think of her future – good or bad, success or failure? What about Tom? It is likely, of course, that Pippa will believe that she is not good enough and will not do well. On the other hand, Tom may think the opposite. Now remember, once we have developed a belief about something, we hold on strongly to it because if the world is not predictable then it is a scary place. So, we hold on to beliefs whether they are good or bad for us. What we can see from the above example is that our beliefs develop because of our experiences. So how do we know our beliefs are true? Which child is right about themselves? Pippa or Tom? Let us say that both children meet with their teacher. The teacher tells them both that they have done well and thinks that they will continue to do well in the future because they both work hard and have the aptitude for the subjects. Let us remember how important it is that we hold on to our beliefs, even if they are negative. What do you think Pippa (with the negative self-esteem) is more likely to think – that her teacher is telling the truth, or that her teacher is just saying it to be nice? What do you think Tom is more likely to think? So, what we can understand from this is, depending on our experience, we find information in the environment that fits with our belief and we discard information that does not fit. If an individual thinks they are not good enough and ninety-nine compliments are paid to them they will find a way of dismissing them: “they didn’t mean it”; “they were mistaken”; “they were just being nice”; “they don’t really think that” and so on. However, if that person is criticised then they will believe that as the truth. Now, if a scientist looked at that data they would say that it was overwhelming evidence that the person was positive. This process is what us psychologists called ‘confirmation bias’. Although this process helps us to feel that the world is predictable and this makes us feel safe, at times this evolutionary mechanism has the unfortunate by-product of confirming negative self-beliefs when there is overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

Disorder vs Stress Reaction Firstly, before I talk about how the pandemic may have had a significant effect on individuals, I would like to clarify a few things about the difference between a normal ‘stress’ reaction to an abnormal event and a ‘disorder’. A ‘disorder’ is a cluster of symptoms, severe enough to have a significant effect on our ability to be able to function. This ‘cluster’ of symptoms is seen time and time again and then extensive research carried out before the decision to warrant a ‘disorder’ status. To explain further: you will all have heard of the term ‘Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder’. An individual is diagnosed with this disorder when they display a cluster of different recognisable symptoms following a traumatic event, including things such as nightmares, flashbacks, a significant change in beliefs, a change in mood, such as a constant state of severe anxiety or low mood. For many individuals, their whole life is shattered and they feel that they need to pick up the pieces and start again. Generally, following a trauma, most individuals will naturally get better from a mental health perspective, within about one year. There are a multitude of reasons why some get over a trauma quicker than others but I shall not elaborate on that here. There has not been enough time or research carried out to date for us to know whether Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder exists. Never-the-less, for many individuals the pandemic has been a time of significant stress, trauma and flux. For many, it will take months or even years to return to normality. For those who have lost individuals to Covid-19, their lives may never be the same. For some, however, the pandemic has been a positive experience and I will turn to that first. Positive Impacts of the Pandemic Positive impacts of the pandemic have been discussed extensively. Those who always felt they had no time to spend at home or with family. Those who felt life was too busy with no time to reflect or slow down. Those who prefer time alone than time spent with others. Those who have been able to use this time to build a skill. Those who have, in the end, found that a change of career has been positive for them. Those who have benefited from working from home, rather than commuting. The list goes on. From a psychological point of view, those who have the support of family and friends around have fared better. Alternatively, individuals who are more introverted, in other words, they get their energy from being alone, have found the pandemic easier to cope with. For many, however, the pandemic has been difficult and for others it has caused a stress reaction that may take some time to overcome and for the brain to return to normal levels. Negative Impact of the Pandemic Research suggests that 18 to 24-year-olds, full-time students, unemployed people, single parents, those with enduring mental health conditions and those with long-term disabling health conditions, have found this to be particularly difficult. 18 to 24-year-old have generally just left school and are either off to university or looking for employment. For those who started university in 2020, the normal process of fresher’s week, parties, meeting new friends and socialising, turned in to lectures on-line and strict social distancing rules. For many, being away from home for the first time and stuck in a room with little opportunity for building a social network, has been very difficult. From an evolutionary perspective, our ability to be able to work and look after ourselves, is fundamental to our survival and when this is threatened in anyway, our fear network is triggered. So, not only was this a difficult time for those starting out on the road of employment but many lost their jobs because of the pandemic. Whole areas of industry were wiped out. Many small businesses, or businesses that could not function within social distancing rules have suffered. Individuals have faced financial hardship beyond anything they have ever experienced and this worry and anxiety about how to survive or provide for families has caused a severe stress reaction. Another group that have struggled during the pandemic have been families but especially single parent families. Looking after young children can be relentless and the break that nursery or school gives, helps parents survive. With schools closed and young children to teach or entertain and work to carry out both at home and through employment, many have felt overwhelmed. Obviously, those with enduring mental-health conditions already have enough to cope with and adding a pandemic to their issues has sent many spiralling into dark and difficult places. Issues surrounding the fear of contracting covid-19 have fuelled the fear that many with health anxiety or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, have. Where all around us we are reminded of how easy it is to catch the disease and how difficult it is for us to know how it will impact on us physically, a constant state of fear has been difficult to bear. Finally, for those with underlying health conditions, this time has been particularly difficult. The level of stress and anxiety related to catching the disorder, or a loved-one catching it, has created a constant and daily struggle with anxiety. Isolation from friends and family has made this time particularly difficult for many. As already mentioned, social support is fundamental to mental health. Post-Pandemic Stress Reaction and ways to get back to normal As mentioned in the introduction, many individuals who have found the pandemic difficult and have noticed an increase in stress or anxiety, will, as things return to normal, find that their anxiety returns to normal levels. It is best to remember this: accept that things may be difficult at the moment but keep in mind that it is likely things will naturally return to normal. This helps us to worry less, which can be a maintaining factor in anxiety. For others, however, the impact of the pandemic will be more enduring and if they are struggling, I would recommend they speak to their GP about help that is on offer, both through the NHS or privately. From an evolutionary point of view, our anxiety system or fear network has developed and endured because it has helped us survive. Ideally, it helps us to face a threat and then when that threat is past our system has the time to return to normal. One thing that has happened during the pandemic is lots of small traumas or on-going stressful events. One way of looking at this is if we think of living in a warzone. Daily stressors or threats cause our brain to shift on to ‘high alert’ and it can take years of calm for our brains to realise that the danger has past. If you find that your anxiety system seems to be triggering or you feel you are on ‘high alert’ every day and this is not improving, then there are many ways to help. I have written lots of articles on managing anxiety and there are many apps and websites available with information. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Rebuilding our lives : When coming out of a traumatic situation, it can seem that rebuilding our lives is like climbing a mountain. If we look up at the mountain (or look at what we have to achieve) then we feel overwhelmed. What we can do instead is put a plan in place about some ideas of how to return our lives to how they were and just take one step at a time. Do not think about how far you need to go – just focus on that next step. 2. Thinking element of anxiety and stress : The pandemic may have caused a state of feeling we are on ‘high alert’ all of the time. Intense levels of stress and anxiety does not help anyone. It is important for us to help our brains understand whether danger is real – in other words are we about to be attacked? Or is the danger just something that our minds are making up? Your brain may be telling you to focus on all of the things that could potentially go wrong. Although this helped us in hunter-gather times, it is less useful now. If the danger is not there in front of you at that very moment then try to change your focus of attention. You can do this by playing a game, doing a crossword, watching something, talking to someone – anything that takes your mind off from thinking about what could possibly go wrong. Many people think that being aware of everything that could potentially go wrong helps them to be prepared. This is actually not the case because we can never know what difficulties we may face in the future or how we will deal with them at the time. 3. Physical element of anxiety and stress: The physical elements of stress and anxiety are generally experienced as tension, shallow breathing, raised heartbeat, etc. There are many ways to reduce physical elements of stress and anxiety. You could set a reminder on your phone to come on every hour. Check your body for signs of stress and try to do some breathing exercises or relaxation . Meditation is another way to reduce physical tension. Exercise is an important de-stressor - you need to physically stress your body for happy hormones to be released and these happy hormones have a direct impact on reducing the stress hormones. Having a freezing cold shower – just for 30 seconds – has been shown to reset our body. Also, and far more pleasurable in my opinion, is a hot bath . 4. Finding a balance: Life is about finding a balance between work, rest, exercise and play. When we are getting over a difficult time, it is really important to prioritise things that make us feel better. There are things that we have to do – we need to work to provide for ourselves and our family; we need to look after our children and pets (if we have them), we need to eat and drink water; we need to sleep; and we need to clean ourselves. Apart from that, everything else is something that we feel we need to do but actually we do not. When trying to reduce stress and anxiety, we must prioritise the things that make us feel better, even if that sounds crazy when we look at our ‘to do’ lists.

Finding the right therapist can be a transformative journey, especially in a bustling city like London. With a diverse population and numerous options available, it is essential to narrow down your choices based on your specific needs. This guide aims to help you navigate this process, ensuring you find a therapist who not only understands your concerns but also provides support tailored to you. How to Find a London Therapist When searching for a therapist in London, begin by identifying your specific needs. This can include areas such as anxiety, depression, relationships, or trauma. Having a clear idea of what you're seeking will make it easier to find a therapist with the appropriate specialty. Next, consider your preferences for the type of therapy you desire. Options range from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to psychodynamic therapy, and even art therapy. Research each method to find one that resonates with you. Once you have outlined your needs and preferences, start your search. Utilize platforms like Psychology Today or TherapyRoute.com to find qualified professionals. These sites often list therapists by location, specialty, and even client reviews. High angle view of an urban therapy practice in London Making the Most of Online Resources In today’s digital world, many therapists have online profiles or websites that provide valuable information. These can be great resources for potential clients. Here are some tips for effectively using online resources: Check Credentials : Look for therapists who are licensed and have appropriate qualifications. Most professional bodies in the UK, such as the British Psychological Society and the UK Council for Psychotherapy, provide search tools for registered members. Read Reviews : Online reviews can shed light on other clients’ experiences. These insights can guide you toward therapists with positive feedback and strong reputations. Virtual vs. In-Person : Consider whether you prefer in-person sessions or the convenience of online therapy. Many therapists in London offer both options, making care more accessible than ever before. Close-up view of a laptop with a therapist's profile open Initial Consultations An essential step in finding the right therapist is scheduling an initial consultation. This meeting allows you to assess if the therapist is a good fit for you. Many therapists offer this session for free or at a reduced rate. During the consultation, consider asking the following questions: What is your approach to therapy? What is your experience with issues similar to mine? How do you measure progress in therapy? This is also an opportunity for you to share your concerns and gauge how comfortable you feel with the therapist. Remember, a good therapeutic relationship relies heavily on trust and comfort. Understanding Costs and Logistics Before committing to therapy, it's essential to understand the financial implications. Therapy costs in London can vary widely. On average, sessions range from £50 to £150. Some therapists may offer sliding scale fees based on income levels, so don't hesitate to ask. Additionally, consider logistical factors: Location : Is the therapist's office easily accessible from your home or workplace? Think about travel time and convenience. Availability : Look at the therapist’s schedule. Are they available during the times that suit you? Flexibility might be necessary, especially if you have a busy lifestyle. Insurance : If you have health insurance, check if the therapist is covered under your plan. This can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Eye-level view of a serene counseling room with comfortable seating The Importance of Cultural and Personal Fit Finding a therapist also involves a cultural and personal fit. Your therapist should understand your background, values, and cultural nuances. This understanding can enhance communication and help establish a stronger therapeutic connection. When speaking with potential therapists, consider asking about their experience with clients from backgrounds similar to yours. A therapist’s familiarity with your cultural context can significantly improve the effectiveness of the therapy. Moreover, don't hesitate to trust your instincts. If you don't feel a connection during the initial consultation, it's perfectly acceptable to seek another therapist. In London, the options are plenty, and the right therapist for you is out there. Taking the First Step Ready to take the first step on your therapeutic journey? Start by researching and reaching out to several therapists. Remember that it’s okay to meet with multiple therapists before making a choice. Therapy is a deeply personal experience, and finding someone who aligns with your goals and resonates with you is crucial for success. Embrace the process, and trust that the right support will lead you towards healing and growth. As you navigate this journey, consider using resources to support your mental health outside of therapy, such as mindfulness apps, local support groups, or educational workshops. Take charge of your mental well-being, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A therapist in London can make a remarkable difference in your life. Finding the right therapist may take time, but every step you take brings you closer to understanding yourself and achieving emotional health. Navigate through options, seek connections, and most importantly, prioritize your well-being.

The link between exercise and improved mood, concentration, health and wellbeing is strong, clear and consistent.   Exercise increases bodies production of endorphins Exercise clears the mind of repetitive thoughts and worries Exercise raises your mood Exercises improves the quality of your sleep   Exercise provides a productive, effective activity which is often lacking in other environments. It facilitates social engagement and structures free time.   There is evidence that exercise boosts the brains ability to deal with stress and heightened emotions.   Since exercise is so effective why is it that it is so difficult to stick with? One reason may be that there are so many pulls on our time and attention. We are motivated to exercise but our concentration and attention is often pulled in other directions.   How to motivate yourself to exercise: Think of yourself as having lots of motivations rather than having one pot of motivation which runs to empty by the end of the day.   You might be motivated to go to the gym, to watch the television, to eat dinner and to look online for a new car.   One way to use this conception of motivation is to ensure the behaviour you would like to increase becomes the behaviour you are most reminded about. So, if you see your trainers in the hallway as you get home you would more likely be motivated to go to the gym than if you were to enter the sitting room and see the tv.   Another strategy is to link a big motivator (catching up on an audiobook) with something less motivating (going for a run). The important thing is to limit listening to an audiobook to the gym so that you have to go to find out what happened next….   Routine.  If Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday all become associated with some form of exercise then you are reminded of your intention and other activities are less likely to sideline exercise.   If you’re motivated by socialising, aim for a sport such as tennis, squash or badminton. Arrange to exercise with a friend.   And finally….. Don’t be overambitious. Aim for small regular doses rather than overdoing it less often.   If you are new to exercise go for low impact exercise initially. High impact exercise, which causes discomfort, is linked to exercise drop out when you begin exercising.   There are some great online exercises classes available. Combine these with going to the gym to help you stay interested.   Don’t forget walking. Walking to work once a week can be recuperative and strengthening.   Finally for a doubly effective boost to your mood and mental strength, exercise outside. Mountain biking, open air football, jogging on the Heath all provide dual benefits.

Living with a health condition can affect far more than your body — it can shape how you think, feel, and cope each day. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, heart disease, an autoimmune disease, diabetes, or a diagnosis like cancer, psychological therapy can offer powerful support. At Dr Stuart Psychologists , we specialise in helping people manage the emotional and psychological impact of physical health conditions. Therapy isn’t just about talking — it’s about developing tools, insights, and ways of coping that support both mind and body . Why Health Conditions Affect Mental Health When you're unwell, life often changes in ways you didn’t expect. You might feel: Anxious about your health or future Low in mood, especially if symptoms persist or interfere with daily life Frustrated, helpless, or even angry about what you've lost Disconnected from others or misunderstood by those who don’t “get it” These reactions are completely normal. But when they start to interfere with your ability to cope or enjoy life, therapy can help. What Does Psychological Therapy Involve? We use evidence-based approaches like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) , ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) , and Compassion-Focused Therapy , which are proven to help with: Health-related anxiety Low mood and depression Sleep difficulties Pain management Fatigue and energy regulation Adjustment to diagnosis or disability Medical trauma and fear of procedures Therapy can help you : Understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and symptoms Develop healthy coping strategies Build self-compassion and reduce self-blame Regain a sense of control and agency How Does Therapy Help the Body, Too? The mind and body are deeply connected. Research shows that psychological therapies can actually improve physical outcomes by: Reducing stress and inflammation Improving immune functioning Supporting medication adherence Enhancing sleep, which is vital for healing Improving pain tolerance and fatigue levels You may not be able to change the condition itself — but therapy can help you change the way it affects your life. Therapy at Dr Stuart Psychologists We understand that no two people experience illness the same way. That’s why our approach is always: Tailored  to your condition, lifestyle, and values Goal-oriented , whether you want to return to work, feel calmer, or find your confidence again Compassionate , especially when you’re dealing with loss, frustration, or fear We offer face-to-face therapy in clinics across London and online sessions across the UK . Ready to Take the First Step? You don’t have to struggle alone. Psychological therapy can support you to live more fully — even with the challenges of a health condition. 📞  Contact us  today to book a consultation or learn more about how we can help.

Trauma is not a one-size-fits-all experience. It affects everyone differently and can manifest in various forms. Broadly, trauma can be categorized into three types: acute , chronic , and complex . Types of Trauma Acute trauma involves a single, sudden event — for example, a car accident or a violent incident. Chronic trauma stems from repeated or prolonged exposure to distressing experiences, such as ongoing bullying, childhood neglect, or being in an abusive relationship. Complex trauma occurs when someone is exposed to multiple traumatic events over a long period, often beginning in early life. In this post, I will focus on acute (or "simple") trauma . How Trauma Affects Us Human beings are complex, and so is our response to trauma. How we process a traumatic experience is shaped by various factors. These factors include our beliefs, past experiences, and the support we receive from others. Even the way people treat us during or after the event can make a significant difference. For instance, if you were involved in a road traffic accident, the emotional aftermath can vary greatly based on how others responded. Were they kind and supportive, or dismissive and unhelpful? That context can significantly influence your healing. What Happens in the Brain After Trauma? When we experience something deeply threatening — like a serious accident or assault — our brain goes into survival mode. It quickly stores vivid details about the event. Why does it do this? Because it wants us to learn from the experience and avoid similar dangers in the future. To illustrate: try to recall what you had for breakfast last Thursday. Unless something unusual occurred, you likely don’t remember much. However, if I asked about a traumatic experience, you might vividly remember the sights, sounds, and feelings. Trauma memories tend to be intense and sensory-rich. Trauma can also interfere with memory. Some individuals find they cannot remember key aspects of what happened, especially the parts that feel most important. This can be frustrating and distressing, but it is a common aspect of how trauma impacts the brain. Symptoms of Trauma and PTSD Many people experience intrusive symptoms after trauma. These symptoms include sudden, unwanted memories that surface in your mind and are often triggered by reminders of the event. They can show up as nightmares or vivid flashbacks. You might also start to avoid people, places, or situations that remind you of the trauma. For instance, you might avoid driving after a car crash or stay indoors after dark following an attack. This avoidance is your brain’s way of trying to protect you from further harm. Other common symptoms include: Low mood or emotional numbness Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed Increased irritability or anger Changes in belief systems , such as feeling the world is unsafe or that danger is always lurking Hypervigilance , or being constantly on edge Sleep problems and difficulty concentrating Healing from Trauma What Helps? The good news is that for many people, these symptoms begin to ease over time. Within six months, noticeable improvements often occur. By about one year, things can look and feel significantly better. Here are some strategies that can aid in the healing process: Stick to your routines as much as possible. Structure and familiarity can provide stability. Challenge “what if” thinking. Remind yourself that the danger has passed — you are safe now. Tell the story of the trauma, especially when intrusive memories arise. Repeating the narrative, including how you survived , helps the brain process and integrate what happened. Revisit the place where the trauma happened. This may seem counterintuitive, but returning to the scene can often be healing. It allows you to see it as it is now, rather than through the lens of trauma. Keep engaging in activities you used to enjoy. Although they might not feel pleasurable at first, participating in them can slowly bring back a sense of normalcy and joy. Recovery from trauma is absolutely possible. Everyone’s path looks different, but with the right support and understanding, your brain and body can begin to let go of the constant state of alarm. Finding the right resources can also play a crucial role in your recovery journey. You can learn more about effective strategies for dealing with trauma here .

If you've experienced a traumatic event, it's essential to recognize that your feelings are normal responses to an abnormal situation. The symptoms of PTSD can feel overwhelming, but they are your brain’s way of coping and trying to make sense of what happened. Here are some evidence-based strategies that may help in the early stages of recovery. Recognize Your Reactions as a Normal Response The fear, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or intrusive memories you’re experiencing are all common reactions after trauma. These feelings may be alarming, but they are your brain’s natural response to protect and process. You are not "going mad." Your brain is doing what it’s wired to do in times of extreme stress. Manage Intrusive Memories Through Distraction In the days and weeks following a traumatic event, you might encounter intrusive thoughts or mental images. While it's tempting to dwell on these memories, research suggests that distraction can help reduce their intensity. Engaging in focused, absorbing activities can redirect your brain and help it calm down. For instance, consider playing a visually demanding video game or doing vigorous exercise while watching something engaging. Stick to Your Routines Routine provides structure and stability — crucial elements that can feel lost after trauma. Try to maintain your usual schedule as much as possible. Even if you don’t feel like attending social events or going to work, pushing yourself to do so may ground you. These moments of normalcy can help counterbalance PTSD symptoms. Tell Your Story: Integrating the Experience Re-narrating the story of your trauma can aid the brain in processing and integrating the experience. When intrusive memories arise, consciously recount the full story. Don’t only focus on the moment of impact. Include what happened next. For example: "I was injured, but then help arrived. I went to the hospital. I was treated and kept safe." Emphasizing survival and safety can help your brain move the memory from crisis mode to something it can file away. Challenge “What If” Thinking After trauma, your mind may flood you with hypothetical scenarios: “What if it had been worse?” or “What if someone else had been hurt?” These thoughts attempt to predict and prevent future harm, but they often feed anxiety and keep you stuck in survival mode. Acknowledge these thoughts, but avoid engaging with them. Remind yourself: “That didn’t happen. I am safe now.” Gradually Revisit the Scene of the Trauma Avoiding the place where the trauma occurred can reinforce fear. When you feel ready, consider revisiting it gradually. Use a “fear ladder” approach. For example, if your trauma happened on a train, start by visiting a station. Then sit on a platform, and eventually take a short train ride. Once you’re comfortable, work up to returning to the location itself. Facing the fear in manageable steps can help your brain relearn that the place is no longer dangerous. Reconnect With Enjoyable Activities Even if these activities don’t bring immediate pleasure, engaging in hobbies, socializing, or spending time in nature can help restore a sense of normalcy and joy. These activities activate parts of the brain that trauma tends to shut down, playing an important role in recovery. Seek Support: You Are Not Alone You don’t need to navigate PTSD alone. These strategies may help, but support from a qualified therapist can make a significant difference. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Consider finding a professional who can guide you through the healing process. Conclusion In conclusion, healing from PTSD takes time and effort. Remember to be patient with yourself as you work through your feelings. By implementing these strategies and seeking support, you can navigate your way through this challenging journey. Always remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Lastly, the recovery process can sometimes be more effective with guidance. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed, consider professional support. It might just change your life.

The benefits of exercise on stress and how to get yourself exercising. The evidence on the link between exercise and improved mood, concentration, health and wellbeing is strong, clear and consistent. Amongst the most common findings cited are that: · Exercise increases bodies production of endorphins · Exercise clears the mind of repetitive thoughts and worries · Exercise raises your mood · Exercises improves the quality of your sleep The mechanism for these effects are thought to be multiple. For example exercise is thought to act by increasing the neurotransmitter serotonin (acted on by antidepressants). It increases the growth of neurons thereby influences adaptive brain functioning. It regulates sleep which acts to support and facilitate many health giving processes. In psychological terms exercises provides a productive, effective activity which is often lacking in other environments. It facilitates social engagement and structures free time. Finally there is evidence that exercises boosts the brains ability to deal with stress and heightened emotions. Since exercise is so effective why is it that it is so difficult to stick with? One reason may be that there are so many pulls on our time and attention. We are motivated to exercise but our concentration and attention is often pulled in other directions. How to motivate yourself to exercise: An effective way to think about motivation is as something which is multiple. Think of yourself as having lots of motivations rather than having one pot of motivation which runs to empty by the end (or even the middle) of the day. You might be motivated to go to the gym but also motivated to watch the television. Motivated to eat dinner but also motivated to look online for a new car. Now one way to use this conception of motivation is to ensure the behaviour you would like to increase becomes the behaviour you are most reminded about. So if you were to see your trainers in the hallway as you get home you would be more likely to be motivated to go to the gym then if you were to enter the sitting room and see the tv. Another effective strategy arising from this way of seeing motivation is to link a big motivator (catching up on an audiobook) with something less motivating (going for a run). The important thing is to limit listening to an audiobook to the gym so that you have to go to find out what happened next…. Routine is your friend. If Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday all become associated with some form of exercise then you are reminded of your intention and other activities are less likely to pop into your schedule and sideline exercise. If you’re motivated by socialising aim for a sport which will allow this such as tennis, squash or badminton. Arrange to exercise with a friend. And finally….. Don’t be overambitious. Aim for small regular doses rather than overdoing it less often. If you are new to exercise go for low impact exercise initially. High impact exercise, which causes discomfort, is linked to exercise drop out when you begin exercising. There are some great online exercises classes available. Combine these online exercises classes with going to the gym to help you stay interested. Don’t forget walking. Walking to work once a week can be recuperative and strengthening and allows you to step off the treadmill of the commute. Finally for a doubly effective boost to your mood and mental strength exercise outside. Mountain biking, open air football, jogging on the Heath all provide dual benefits. See for example Weir (2011) The Exercise Effect. The American Psychological Association, 42 (11), p48.

Research shows that if we have the same routine for between thirty minutes and an hour each evening before going to sleep, then our brains develop the understanding that that particular set of behaviours results in us going to sleep. After a short time of having the same routine each night, when we carry out the first behaviour in the set of behaviours, our brain starts to shut down in preparation for sleep. As such, a sleep routine is really important. A sleep routine is very much dependent on the type of evening that we generally have but a typical sleep routine might look like the following: 1. Watch something on the computer or TV downstairs sitting on a chair. 2. At 10pm turn off the computer and the TV. 3. Place items in the kitchen and turn off the lights. 4. Go in to the bathroom and have a shower/wash/brush teeth. 5. Go back in to bedroom and dim the room lights. 6. Change in to night clothes. 7. Get in to bed and do whatever it is that you generally do before sleep. Ideally, this would be to read but it is important to remember that the hue from some gadgets will tell the brain that it is day time, so the light of the gadget needs to be turned down or turned to a red hue. 8. As soon as you feel sleepy then go to sleep. 9. Do not finish the page or decide to watch the end of the program, as you can pass through a sleepy stage and in to a wakeful stage and it is far more difficult to get to sleep in a wakeful stage. 10. If, after 20 minutes of trying to sleep, you feel awake, or if you were not tired when you came in to your bedroom, then sit somewhere that is not your bed (bed must be only associated with sleep) and do some relaxation exercises. Please see 'breath work' and 'progressive muscle relaxation' for two examples. 11. Watch and wait until you feel tired and as soon as you do get in to bed and relax. For more tips on getting to sleep - please see the other sleep articles in this series.

For most people there is nothing better than getting in to bed and relaxing before dropping off to sleep. For others, this process can be a painful one of fretting, worrying and hours of trying to sleep. Here we will briefly outline the important areas of consideration when wanting to drop off easily. Let’s begin with the important things to remember during the day. Day-time events: · It is important to try to exercise each day – if we use our muscles during the day this can help us to sleep better at night. · It is important to watch our caffeine intake. We are all different here, but if you are someone that is affected by caffeine then try not to consume it after lunch-time; instead stick to decaffeinated drinks. Do remember, though, that some decaffeinated coffees still have caffeine in them. Environmental factors: · The temperature of the bedroom: not too hot or too cold. · The light of the bedroom: make sure there is no outside light coming in. · The amount of light that we have in the hour before we sleep is also important: turn any bright lights down and make sure we block out light from outside. If you can, turn any gadgets to a red hue. Waking and sleeping times: · It is important, if we have problems with insomnia, for us to go to sleep at around the same time each night. Our brain takes in light during the day to help the brain decide when it is time for sleep. If we sleep at around the same time, the brain will make the connection between that time and sleep and will start to prepare for sleep, which will help us if we struggle with getting to sleep. · Waking up at the same time is also important. If we wake up at the same time each morning then we will naturally be sleepy at around the same time every night. As already mentioned, our brain gets used to this and expects this and then will also begin to switch off when we are coming close to that time. · Sleep Routine: it is also important to remember to carry out a sleep routine (please see the ‘sleep routine’ information in this series). So, we are finally at the point of getting in to bed! Circadian Rhythms: · You may have heard of circadian rhythms. These are the rhythms of the brain that make us feel awake and sleepy. They are influencing our brain during the day but they become more prominent when we are getting ready to sleep. · Our circadian rhythms take us through ‘sleepy’ stages and ‘wakeful’ stages. Have you ever had the experience of sitting in front of the TV and feeling like you are just about to fall to sleep? You get up and turn off the TV, take the cup or glass in to the kitchen, turn off whatever needs to be turned off and get your home ready for the night. You then go to the bathroom and prepare for bed – wash and brush your teeth. You then get changed ready for bed and then when you finally get in to bed you feel wide awake. How annoying! This is your circadian rhythms at play: you have passed through a sleepy stage and you have arrived at a wakeful stage. · There is about 45 minutes between the height of a ‘wakeful’ stage and the middle of a ‘sleepy’ stage. There is no point in trying to sleep during a wakeful stage. o The best course of action is to relax in bed – read or do something that relaxes you. Nowadays, there are lots of relaxation apps or videos to listen to on YouTube. Please find one that works for you and have it ready to listen to when you go to bed. We have examples of ‘breath work’ and ‘progressive muscle relaxation’ in the anxiety series – it is important to familiarise yourself with them, so you don’t have to read them when trying to sleep. o Wait until you feel your sleepy stage coming on and then tuck in to bed and allow yourself to fall to sleep. Troubleshooting: · What happens if you don’t fall gently off to sleep? Firstly, it may be because your brain has associated getting in to bed with fretting and worrying about things. It is important for this association to be broken but it can take months for this to happen. · Firstly, if worrying about something is keeping you awake. Write it down and put aside a time in your diary to deal with it (this is, of course, easier said than done sometimes). · Secondly, make sure that all you do in bed is sleep. Your bed has to be associated with sleep. Not with working, or watching films or reading for hours and hours on end. · It is important to try to get to sleep for about twenty minutes by doing relaxation exercises. If this fails and you still feel wide awake then get out of bed and sit in a chair, on cushions or a beanbag – anything that is comfortable but is out of bed. Sit wrapped in a blanket to keep warm and repeat all of the relaxation tasks. · We are all aware of the feeling that we have just before we fall to sleep – we are suddenly thinking less and the body feels relaxed. At that point, get back in to bed and fall to sleep. · If that does not work, then repeat the above time and time again until it does work.