Eating disorders and Coping with Christmas

Whilst for many Christmas is a time of celebration, for people living with an eating disorder it can be a particularly stressful time. Christmas festivities typically include catching up with family and friends, accompanied by an abundance of delicious food. For those with an eating disorder, this can lead to increased anxiety and distress as…

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Anxiety and Depression at Christmas

Many of us associate the Christmas season as a time of joy and happiness but for many people it can be a time of stress, anxiety, disappointment or loneliness, especially for those with mental health conditions, those who have recently lost a loved one or those with feelings of isolation, financial pressures or increased family conflict.…

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Introduction to Mindfulness

Anyone who has visited a book shop or department store in the last 12 months will be familiar with mindfulness colouring books. They have taken the world by storm, with adults and children alike enjoying them. But did you know that colouring in has been used in mental health wards for years to calm patients…

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Competence of Clinicians in the treatment of Eating Disorders

The latest Bulletin published by the National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC) makes reference to a review in 2013 that 97% of general health clinicians interviewed had little or no training in the field of eating disorders. The NEDC Bulleting goes on to raise the alarm that “clinicians who practice beyond their level of competence (in…

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Sleep and Mental Health

One of the first things to be pushed aside during our busy lives is sleep. It is important to remind yourself that sleep is essential for both your physical and mental health. Frequent loss of sleep can contribute to higher levels of anxiety, inability to cope with stress, and decreased physical and cognitive performance. A…

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What is a Mental Health Social Worker?

A Mental Health Social Worker can help “individuals to resolve presenting psychological problems, the associated social and other environmental problems, and improve their quality of life. This may involve family as well as individual counselling, and group therapy. Social workers recognise the broader implications of an individual having a mental illness and the impact on…

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How can a Psychologist help?

Psychologists are trained health professionals who can provide assessment, diagnosis and treatment for a range of psychological issues. This may involve development of strategies to assist you on a day to day basis, talk therapy, guidance and support. Here are Myrtle Oak Clinic we have two trained and experienced Clinical Psychologists, Dr Katherine Bartlett and…

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