Benefit From The Power Of Person-centred Therapy In The West Midlands
Embarking on a Person-centred Therapy to Self-Discovery and Healing
Person-centred therapy in the West Midlands, England, including the bustling landscapes of solihull, Birmingham, Warwickshire, Coventry and other regions, where city echoes meet the tranquil countryside, a profound therapeutic journey awaits you all – a journey of self-discovery and healing. Picture this: you are standing at the crossroads of your own narrative, ready to unravel the layers that define you. The air is filled with anticipation, and the path ahead is marked by the promise of transformation. Today, Fadi Counselling invites you to embark on a unique odyssey anywhere in the UK – a journey guided by the principles of counselling – person-centred therapy, where the destination is not just healing but a profound understanding of oneself.
Gather your courage, for we are about to traverse the winding roads of introspection, empathy, and acceptance. Person-centred therapy is not just a methodology; it’s a compass that points towards the authentic you, waiting to be discovered amidst life’s complexities. You are never alone in this journey! Join Fadi Counselling as we navigate through the valleys of vulnerability and scale the peaks of self-compassion.
Types of person-centred therapies in the west Midlands
In the vibrant and diverse West Midlands, the array of person-centred therapy reflects the adaptability and inclusivity required to meet the unique needs of individuals and residents across the entire region. Here are 15 types of person-centred therapies that are promising towards ailment a wide a variety of mind, body and health issues, including some that integrate clinically tested and approved approaches such as Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Integrative Counselling, tailored for the diverse landscape of the West Midlands:
- Traditional Person-centred Therapy:Emphasises core principles of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence.
- Solution-Focused Person-centred Therapy: Integrates Solution-Focused Therapy techniques to focus on identifying and building solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
- Mindfulness-Enhanced Person-centred Therapy: Blends traditional person-centred Therapy with mindfulness practices to cultivate present-moment awareness and self-acceptance.
- Cognitive Behaviour Person-centred Therapy: Combines person-centred principles with Cognitive Behaviour Therapy techniques to explore and modify thought patterns and behaviours.
- Integrative Person-centred Counselling: Incorporates multiple therapeutic approaches, including person-centred principles, to create a tailored and holistic healing experience.
- Existential Person-centred Therapy: Explores existential questions and concerns while maintaining a person-centred approach to foster self-awareness and personal growth.
- Narrative Person-centred Therapy: Utilises storytelling techniques to help individuals reshape and reconstruct their personal narratives in alignment with person-centred principles.
- Gestalt Person-centred Therapy: Integrates Gestalt therapy elements to enhance self-awareness and encourage personal responsibility within the person-centred framework.
- Positive Psychology Person-centred Therapy: Applies principles of positive psychology to person-centred therapy, emphasising strengths, virtues, and factors that contribute to a fulfilling life.
- Art-Based Person-centred Therapy: Incorporates creative arts, such as painting or music, within a person-centred context to facilitate expression and exploration.
- Dialectical Person-centred Therapy: Blends person-centred principles with dialectical strategies to address contradictions and foster balance in the therapeutic process.
- Transpersonal Person-centred Therapy: Expands the traditional focus to include spiritual and transcendent aspects of the self, integrating Person-centred principles with transpersonal psychology.
- Humanistic-Existential Person-centred Therapy: Combines Humanistic and Existential approaches with person-centred Therapy, addressing both the individual’s potential for growth and the challenges of existence.
- CBT-Infused Person-centred Therapy: Integrates elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to explore and address specific cognitive patterns while maintaining the empathetic core of person-centred therapy.
- Holistic Person-centred Therapy: Takes a comprehensive approach, considering physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being, integrating various holistic practices within a person-centred framework.
Unpacking the Essence of Person-centred Therapy
Person-centred therapy, pioneered by the eminent Carl Rogers, is more than a therapeutic approach – it’s a philosophy that transforms the very core of healing. At its essence, this method transcends traditional therapeutic models, putting the individual at the helm of their own journey.
Imagine a space where judgment is replaced by understanding, where acceptance is not earned but freely given, and where the focus is not merely on symptoms but on the person behind them. Person-centred therapy is this safe haven, fostering an environment where individuals are empowered to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences without fear or judgment even when you suffer from PTSD.
In the West Midlands, from Solihul, Birmingham, Warwickshire etc where diversity is woven into the fabric of communities, person-centred therapy becomes a bridge that connects people from all walks of life. It’s not just a therapeutic tool; it’s a shared experience that resonates with the unique challenges and issues of those seeking healing in this vibrant region.
As we unravel the layers of person-centred therapy prepare to discover a method that goes beyond clinical labels – a method that believes in the inherent capacity of every individual to grow, heal, and find their own path to well-being.
Understanding Person-Centred Therapy
Empathy Is The Heartbeat of Healing In a Person-centred Therapy
At the core of person-centred therapy beats the powerful rhythm of empathy – a force that transcends sympathy and delves into the profound understanding of another’s experience. Imagine a therapeutic space where your emotions are not just acknowledged but deeply felt by your guide on this journey. Empathy in person-centred therapy is not a mere nod of agreement; it’s a resonating echo that assures you that, in this space, your feelings are not only valid but fundamental to the healing process.
As we explore the therapeutic landscapes of the West Midlands, where diversity is a defining feature, empathy becomes the universal language that connects individuals from all walks of life. Whether you’re navigating the urban jungles of Birmingham or finding solace in the serene corners of Worcestershire, the heartbeat of healing is the same – an empathetic connection that bridges the gaps and fosters a sense of belonging.
Unconditional Positive Regard – A Beacon of Acceptance
In the realm of person-centred therapy, acceptance is not a conditional gift bestowed upon meeting certain criteria; it is a beacon that shines unwaveringly, irrespective of one’s struggles or shortcomings. Unconditional positive regard is the North Star that guides individuals through the darkest nights of self-doubt and uncertainty.
Imagine a therapeutic relationship where judgment is replaced by open arms, and acceptance is not a fleeting moment but a constant presence. In the West Midlands, where communities weave a rich tapestry of experiences, this beacon of acceptance becomes a powerful force that unites individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere where everyone’s unique journey is acknowledged and respected.
Congruence – Authenticity in Every Step
Person-centred Therapy walks hand in hand with authenticity, as the therapist embodies a genuine and transparent presence throughout the therapeutic process. Congruence is not a mask that therapists wear; it’s an unwavering commitment to being real, open, and honest.
The therapeutic journey is not a scripted performance but a collaborative dance where authenticity in every step builds a foundation of trust. As we navigate the landscapes of authenticity, be prepared to encounter a therapeutic approach that values the power of truth and embraces the beauty of genuine human connection.
The Therapeutic Relationship
Exploring the Unique Bond – Therapist as a Compassionate Guide
In the realm of person-centred therapy, the therapeutic relationship is not just a connection; it’s a unique bond that forms the very foundation of the healing journey and processes. Picture this relationship as a collaborative expedition, with the counsellor or therapist donning the hat of a compassionate guide, navigating the uncharted territories of your thoughts and emotions.
- Empathetic Exploration: The therapist, armed with the power of empathy, guides you through the maze of your inner world, creating a safe space for exploration.
- Gentle Guidance: Like a seasoned traveler through the landscapes of the mind, the therapist offers gentle guidance, ensuring you’re never alone in your journey.
- Non-Directive Approach: Person-centred therapy prides itself on a non-directive approach, allowing you to take the lead while the therapist provides support and understanding.
It’s not just a guide-client dynamic; it’s a shared experience, a mutual exploration where the therapist is not an authority figure but a compassionate fellow traveler.
The Client’s Role – A Co-Creator of Healing
In Person-centred therapy, the client is not a passive recipient of healing but an active participant, a co-creator of their own journey towards well-being. Your role is pivotal, and your unique experiences shape the path you traverse alongside your therapist.
- Active Participation: Person-centred therapy encourages you to actively engage in the process, sharing your thoughts, emotions, and aspirations.
- Collaborative Decision-Making: From setting therapeutic goals to exploring interventions, the client and therapist collaborate in decision-making, ensuring the approach aligns with your individual needs.
- Self-Exploration: Embrace the role of a co-creator by delving into self-exploration, discovering the nuances of your own narrative with the therapist as your supportive ally.
In the West Midlands, where individuality is celebrated, the client’s role as a co-creator amplifies the potency of healing. Your unique perspective adds colour to the canvas of therapy, turning it into a masterpiece that reflects your journey towards self-discovery and growth. Together, therapist and client weave a narrative that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of healing, fostering a sense of empowerment and ownership in the therapeutic process.
In these regions, where the prevalence of mental health challenges is acknowledged, person-centred therapy becomes a personalised toolkit, allowing individuals to navigate the nuances of their emotional landscapes with the guidance of a compassionate ally
Tailoring Person-centred Therapy to Health Challenges
Mental Health Disorders, Depression and Anxiety, Nurturing Emotional Well-being
In the vast landscapes of mental health, where shadows of depression and anxiety can cast a daunting pallor, person-centred therapy emerges as a beacon of hope, tailor-made to nurture emotional well-being.
- Emotional Exploration: Person-centred therapy invites individuals to navigate the depths of their emotions, providing a safe space for the exploration and expression of feelings.
- Empathetic Support: Therapists, armed with the core principle of empathy, offer unwavering support, helping clients traverse the emotional labyrinth with understanding and compassion.
- Collaborative Goal-Setting: Together, therapist and client collaboratively set goals that focus on emotional resilience and well-being, ensuring a personalised roadmap to recovery.
PTSD – Rewriting Traumatic Narratives
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can cast a long shadow on one’s narrative, but person-centred therapy steps into this challenging terrain with the aim of rewriting traumatic narratives.
- Safe Narrative Exploration: Person-centred therapy creates a secure environment for individuals to explore and share their traumatic experiences, empowering them to regain control over their own stories.
- Building Trust: The therapeutic relationship, characterised by unconditional positive regard, becomes a foundation of trust, enabling clients to gradually process and make meaning of their traumatic memories.
- Holistic Healing: Therapists, in collaboration with clients, focus on holistic healing, addressing not only the symptoms of PTSD but also nurturing a sense of self-empowerment and resilience.
In the diverse and resilient communities of the West Midlands, person-centred therapy becomes a transformative tool, allowing individuals to rewrite their narratives from one of trauma to stories of strength and resilience. The therapeutic process becomes a collaborative journey towards reclaiming agency and finding healing in the midst of adversity.
Chronic Illnesses – Empowering Individuals in the Face of Physical Struggles
Chronic illnesses often cast a formidable shadow over one’s life, intertwining physical struggles with emotional challenges. Person-centred therapy steps into this arena as a powerful ally, aiming to empower individuals facing chronic health conditions.
- Acknowledging Physical Struggles: Person-centred therapy doesn’t shy away from the reality of physical challenges. Instead, it creates a space for individuals to express their experiences, validating the impact of chronic illnesses on their lives.
- Promoting Self-Empowerment: Therapists work collaboratively with clients to foster a sense of self-empowerment. This involves exploring coping mechanisms, adapting to lifestyle changes, and finding strength within the midst of physical limitations.
- Encouraging Open Communication: Creating an open dialogue about the intersection of physical and emotional well-being is key. Person-centred therapy encourages individuals to openly discuss their experiences, fears, and aspirations, fostering a sense of understanding and support.
Creating a Holistic Approach to Well-being
Person-centred therapy extends its embrace to create a holistic approach to well-being, recognising that health challenges are multidimensional and interconnected.
- Mind-Body Connection: Therapists collaborate with individuals to explore the intricate connections between their mental and physical health, promoting an understanding that addresses the holistic nature of well-being.
- Exploring Lifestyle Factors: Beyond the therapy room, person-centred therapy encourages clients to explore lifestyle factors that contribute to their overall well-being. This might involve discussing nutrition, exercise, and other self-care practices tailored to individual needs.
- Cultivating Resilience: Person-centred therapy fosters resilience as a core component of well-being. Therapists work alongside clients to develop coping strategies, resilience-building techniques, and a mindset that embraces the journey towards holistic health.
Choosing Your Path to Healing – The Decision-Making Process
Embarking on the journey to healing through person-centred therapy involves a thoughtful and intentional decision-making process. Here’s a guide to decoding this pivotal phase:
- Self-Reflection: Begin by reflecting on your own needs, preferences, and expectations from therapy. Consider the specific challenges you are facing and the goals you hope to achieve through person-centred therapy.
- Researching Therapists: Explore the diverse pool of person-centred Therapists in the West Midlands. Consider factors such as their expertise, background, and approach to therapy. Look for professionals whose values align with your own and who create a sense of comfort and trust.
- Seeking Recommendations: Reach out to friends, family, or community members who may have experience with person-centred therapy. Personal recommendations can offer valuable insights and help you make informed decisions.
- Initial Consultations: Many therapists offer initial consultations. Take advantage of this opportunity to connect with potential therapists, discuss your needs, and gauge the compatibility of your personalities and therapeutic goals.
- Considering Accessibility: Factor in practical considerations, such as the location of the therapist’s practice, session availability, and the overall accessibility of the therapeutic process. Ensure that the logistics align with your schedule and preferences.
Questions to Ask When Seeking a Person-Centred Therapist
Navigating the process of choosing the right person-centred Therapist involves asking insightful questions to ensure a harmonious therapeutic relationship:
Philosophical Approach
- What is your approach to person-centred therapy?
- How do you incorporate empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence in your sessions?
Experience and Expertise
- Can you share your experience in working with individuals facing challenges similar to mine?
- What specific expertise or training do you bring to the practice of person-centred therapy?
Collaborative Process
- How do you involve clients in the decision-making process during therapy?
- Can you provide examples of how you’ve collaborated with clients to achieve their therapeutic goals?
Community Engagement
- Are you involved in community support networks or workshops that complement your therapeutic practice?
- How do you see the community playing a role in the therapeutic process?
Expectations and Boundaries
- What are your expectations from clients in terms of participation and commitment to the therapeutic process?
- How do you establish and maintain professional boundaries within the therapeutic relationship?
By delving into these questions and considerations, you pave the way for a more informed and personalised journey towards healing through person-centred therapy in the dynamic landscape of the West Midlands.
Spotlight on Accessibility
Therapist Availability in the Solihul, Birmingham, Warwickshire, Coventry Regions
In the heart of the West Midlands, where the need for accessible mental health support is paramount, person-centred therapy shines brightly in its commitment to availability.
- Diverse Therapeutic Network: person-centred therapy in the West Midlands is not confined to a singular approach. Therapists practicing this model form a diverse network, allowing individuals to choose professionals who resonate with their unique needs and cultural backgrounds.
- Geographical Accessibility: Therapists are strategically located across the region, from the urban landscapes of Birmingham to the tranquil corners of Shropshire. This ensures that accessibility is not hindered by geographical constraints, making therapy available to individuals across the spectrum.
- Flexible Scheduling: Recognising the varied lifestyles of the West Midlands’ residents, person-centred therapy offers flexibility in scheduling. Whether you prefer evening sessions after work or a weekend appointment, therapists strive to accommodate diverse schedules.
Community Support and Resources
In the West Midlands, the strength of community support is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Person-centred therapy aligns seamlessly with this ethos, leveraging community resources for enhanced well-being.
- Collaboration with Support Organisations: Therapists actively collaborate with local support organisations, creating a network that extends beyond the therapy room. This collaboration ensures that individuals have access to additional resources that complement their therapeutic journey.
- Workshops and Support Groups: person-centred therapy isn’t confined to one-on-one sessions. Therapists often organise workshops and support groups within the community, fostering a sense of shared understanding and support among individuals facing similar challenges.
- Integration with Existing Services: Recognising the existing mental health services in the West Midlands, person-centred therapy integrates seamlessly, complementing and enhancing the support available to individuals. This ensures a holistic approach that addresses the diverse needs of the community.
In a region known for its resilience and strong sense of community, person-centred therapy becomes not just a therapeutic approach but a collaborative effort between therapists, individuals seeking support, and the rich network of community resources available in the West Midlands.
Conclusion
In the West Midlands, seek person-centred therapy at Fadi’s Counselling Clinic. Virtual sessions via Zoom bring support to your doorstep. Home visits are available upon request for added convenience. Whether you’re stressed or seeking a compassionate listener in the community, we’re here for you. Reach out to us today for comfort, relief, and professional assistance.
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Why Seeking Counselling is a Sign of Strength, Not Weakness
Seeking Counselling Services is a Sign of Strength, Not Weakness
Many people avoid seeking counselling or therapy because they worry that it might make them appear weak. However, this is a common misconception that can prevent individuals from getting the help they need to overcome their mental and emotional struggles. In this blog post, we will discuss why seeking counselling is a sign of strength, not weakness, and how it can help improve your overall well-being.
Acknowledging Your Struggles is Courageous
One of the most significant signs of strength is the ability to acknowledge that you are struggling and need help. Seeking counselling takes a lot of courage, and it’s an essential step in taking care of your mental health. Here are some reasons why:
- Admitting that you need help requires vulnerability and self-awareness, which are essential traits of strength and resilience.
- Acknowledging your struggles and asking for help is a healthy and productive way to address your mental health concerns.
- It takes courage to face your fears and insecurities head-on, and seeking counselling is a crucial step towards overcoming them.
Everyone Needs Help Sometimes
Another crucial point to remember is that everyone needs help sometimes. Mental and emotional struggles can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Here are some reasons why seeking counselling does not make you weak or flawed:
- Seeking counselling means that you are taking responsibility for your mental health and well-being, which is a sign of strength and maturity.
- Asking for help is a sign of intelligence and self-awareness, as it shows that you are willing to learn and grow.
- Seeking counselling is a healthy and productive way to address your struggles and find solutions to your problems.
Seeking counselling Shows You Are Committed to Growth
One of the most significant benefits of seeking counselling is that it shows that you are committed to personal growth and self-improvement. Here are some reasons why:
- Seeking counselling requires a willingness to confront your issues and work towards overcoming them, which is a sign of strength and resilience.
- It takes courage to seek help and trust someone else with your deepest fears and insecurities.
- Seeking counselling shows that you are taking responsibility for your life and are committed to making positive changes.
Counselling Provides a Safe Space to Share Your Thoughts
Counselling provides a safe and non-judgmental space for you to express your thoughts and feelings without fear of being criticised or judged. Here are some reasons why this is important:
- A counsellor is trained to listen actively and provide support, which can help you feel heard and validated.
- By sharing your thoughts and feelings, you can gain new insights and perspectives that can help you better understand your struggles.
- Counselling can help you feel less alone in your struggles and provide you with a sense of connection and support.
Counselling Helps You Develop Coping Skills
counselling can also help you develop coping skills that can benefit you throughout your life. Here are some ways counselling can help you develop coping skills:
- A counsellor can teach you how to identify and manage your emotions effectively, which can help you cope with stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Counselling can help you learn how to communicate effectively and assertively, which can help you build healthy relationships and manage conflicts.
- By developing coping skills, you can improve your overall well-being and reduce your risk of developing mental health issues in the future.
Why counselling can be effective in treating specific mental health issues
- counsellors are trained to use evidence-based therapies and interventions to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
- Counselling can provide you with the tools and resources you need to overcome specific mental health issues, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy for anxiety or trauma-focused therapy for PTSD.
- By addressing your specific mental health concerns, you can develop a better understanding of your struggles and learn how to manage them effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seeking counselling is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes courage to acknowledge your struggles and ask for help, and seeking counselling shows that you are committed to personal growth and self-improvement. Counselling provides a safe space to share your thoughts, develop coping skills, and address specific mental health issues. Remember, everyone needs help sometimes, and seeking counselling is a healthy and productive way to address your mental health concerns. Don’t let the fear of appearing weak or flawed prevent you from getting the help you need to live a fulfilling and healthy life.
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Have you ever felt like a fraud?
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Ever felt like you’re struggling at work because you feel like a fraud, and any minute now you’re about to be found out because you really don’t know what you’re doing?
You have?
Don’t worry, there are thousands of people out there like you who feel exactly the same, but help is at hand! Impostor syndrome is a common problem lots of people encounter which can be exhausting and frustrating to deal with, but there are solutions, here at Fadi Counselling we can provide you with coping strategies to overcome these feelings.
What are the symptoms of Imposter Syndrome?
Do you struggle to recognise your own accomplishments and feel like you’re deceiving those around you, or that your success is an illusion and you really don’t deserve it? If so, you may well be suffering from “imposter syndrome”.
What to look out for that may indicate you’re suffering from Imposter syndrome; –
- You may think your success has arisen purely by chance and not as a result of your own abilities
- You discredit your own achievements
- You think you’ve only succeeded because you had help
- When you receive praise, you think people are being insincere
- You believe anyone could do your job just as well
- You think that a failure is never acceptable
- You’re a perfectionist, and you constantly struggle with it
If you recognise any of these traits in yourself, then it’s likely you will be suffering from Imposter syndrome.
Who is vulnerable to it?
The reality is anyone can experience it, men and women are equally susceptible. Leading researcher Dr Valerie Young, (co-founder of the Impostor Syndrome Institute and widely recognised as the foremost expert on the subject), has identified 5 main categories which people fall into, see if you can identify with any of the following;-
The perfectionist
- Your focus is mainly on how you perform, to the extent of demanding perfection from yourself in everything you do.
- As perfection isn’t always realistic, instead of acknowledging to yourself the hard work you’ve put in you will self-criticize and see your small mistakes as some kind of failure.
- You avoid trying new things if you can’t achieve perfection the first time.
The natural genius
- You pick up new skills easily, and therefore believe you should understand new processes right away.
- You believe that competent people can handle anything with little difficulty, and feel like a fraud when you don’t.
- If something doesn’t come easily to you, or you fail to succeed on your first try, you might feel ashamed and embarrassed.
The rugged soloist
- You believe you should be able to handle everything on your own. If you can’t achieve success independently, you consider yourself unworthy.
- Asking someone for help, or accepting support when it’s offered, doesn’t just mean failing your own high standards. It also means admitting your inadequacies and showing yourself as a failure.
The expert
- Before you can view yourself as a success, you want to know everything there is to know about the subject, which can divert you from the main task at hand.
- You believe you should have all the answers, so might consider yourself a fraud or a failure if you find that you don’t.
The superhero
- You link competence to your ability to succeed in every part of your life role you may hold; – friend, employee, boss, husband/wife etc. If you fall down in any of these, it only proves to you your inadequacy.
- To succeed, then, you push yourself to the limit, expending as much energy as possible in every role.
- Still, even this maximum effort may not resolve your imposter feelings. You might think, “I should be able to do more,” or “This should be easier.”
So what treatments are available?
Imposter Syndrome can have a significantly negative impact on your mental health and wellness. Many people will experience anxiety from the constant self-imposed pressure associated with it.
If you are struggling with Imposter Syndrome and other related issues, online therapy or a face-to-face meeting with one of our counsellors is a proven effective method to counteract the symptoms.
At Fadi counselling, we can get to the root cause of your imposter patterns and work through the mental and emotional hurdles that may be holding you back. We can provide you with the necessary tools to break your cycle of thinking and help you manage distressing emotions brought on by imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome doesn’t have to be a part of your life….it’s up to you, we’re only a phone call away!
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Effects of weather on Mental Health
Effects of weather on Mental Health
The weather can influence your mental health in a surprising number of ways.
Energy
Your body’s normal response to cold weather is to go into “hibernate mode”, which typically means you’ll have less energy during the winter months.
Conversely, summer temperatures will give most people an energy boost and an improved mood, up to a certain point. If the weather becomes too hot, you may grow tired and irritable in an effort to escape the heat.
Sunlight also affects your energy levels. Light is telling your brain to stay awake, whilst darkness will tell you it’s time to rest. Consequently, long sunny days can energise you, but short or cloudy days can have a negative impact as there is less light to encourage you to stay awake.
Stress
The body is surprisingly sensitive to a drop in atmospheric pressure. It can activate what is known as the superior vestibular nucleus (SVN), a part of your brain that controls balance and perception.
Studies suggest the SVN will trigger your bodies stress system, making you feel on edge when there is a significant change in pressure, eg just before a storm.
High temperatures can also increase stress levels. Commonly, people tend to be more irritable, or even aggressive, during hotter months of summer. This can also lead to increased agitation and anxiety.
Ability to think clearly and make informed decisions
Warm, sunny weather may affect brainpower by:
- boosting your memory
- helping you feel more open to new information
- improving inattentiveness, if for instance you suffer from ADHD
It’s worth mentioning these effects only occur if you actually go outside. Just looking out of the window on a sunny day probably won’t have that much impact.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder, (SAD), is a condition with depression symptoms that only appear at during certain times of the year.
Most people with this type of depression experience symptoms like sadness, sleepiness, and increased appetite during the autumn and winter months, but relatively few symptoms in the spring and summer, although there is no hard and fast rule.
Symptoms can include agitation, insomnia, and poor appetite, along with a low mood.
SAD should be treated in the same way as other types of depression.
Treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can provide excellent relief, and can be used in conjunction with antidepressants if required
Light therapy is also a popular treatment for SAD, although it’s not clear as yet whether it’s an effective treatment in all instances.
Self help to relieve your symptoms
There are a number of things you can do to help improve your symptoms:
- try to get as much natural sunlight as possible – even a brief lunchtime walk can be beneficial
- make your work and home environments are as light and airy as possible
- sit near windows when you’re indoors
- take plenty of regular exercise, particularly outdoors and in daylight if possible
- eat a healthy, balanced diet
- although it’s not always possible, try to avoid stressful situations
- Seek person-centred therapy
- why not look into mindfulness meditation? Even a 10-minute session a day can give you a new sense of calm and balance, try it!