At times in our intimate relationships we can find ourselves repeating the same pattern of conflict with each other over and over. There can be a sense of escalation where both partners end up feeling unresolved and more distant from each other, and it can be hard to see how we can do anything different. Even though we may be aware of this, again and again we get drawn into the same pattern – so much so that the interactions roll out in an almost predictable way. Read the rest of this entry »

Are you in crisis? Can’t cope with your life situation? Is your relationship on the brink of collapse? Do you find it difficult to manage your day-to-day life? If the answer is yes, counselling could certainly be a way to help you move through your current situation. If the answer is no, you may believe that counselling has little to offer you. People often think of counselling as being only useful for the times in our lives when we are in deepest distress. There can also be perceptions that people who “need counselling” are unwell, inferior, or at least a little lost. Whilst it is true that counselling is a very useful tool when we are at rock bottom or feel we can’t cope with our situation, its benefits are certainly not limited to these circumstances. Counselling is a powerful tool which can benefit you wherever you are in your life’s path. Read the rest of this entry »

 PART I – WHAT’S IN A NAME?

“The World Health Organization and national surveys report that there is no single consensus on the definition of mental disorder/illness, and that the phrasing used depends on the social, cultural, economic and legal context in different contexts and in different societies”[1]

Introduction

This article is intended to help people with experiences of mental illness take back some power over defining and creating the stories of their lives.  It is written for people who have had an experience or diagnosis of a mental illness and those who care for or support these people; such as family, friends and professionals working in the social services.  It comes as a personal response to working in the mental health system and speaking to many people who have been treated within it. Read the rest of this entry »