Managing your mental health as a queer person this Christmas

Managing your mental health as a queer person this Christmas… 1) Queering time with family over Christmas For some LGBTQ+ people, spending time with biological family members over Christmas is stressful because of their LGBTQ+ identity not being known, understood, or affirmed. Being ‘closeted’ because you’re forced to (whatever the reason), or choosing to be […]

Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity

Gender, sex, and relationship diversity… The mental health system has a legacy of pathologising and attacking those who are not heterosexual and/or cisgender. Over the years I have shaped my work to actively include LGBTQ+ people, knowing that safe access to mental health care should be offered to all. As psychotherapists we are tasked with […]

Psychological Wellbeing of British Gay Pakistani Muslim Males

Psychological Wellbeing of British Gay Pakistani Muslim Males… The article below provides some important information on the experiences of British, Gay, Pakistani, Muslim Males (BGPMM) in various social contexts, with regard to how their multi-identities interact. The research author, Muhammed Ali discusses his own position to the research, as well as it’s implications. “I wish I […]

Support Services for Survivors

Support Services for Survivors… It’s important to recognise that the impact of sexual violence can be as varied as each survivor who experiences it. I’d like to #ShoutOutForSurvivors who have specific experiences and/or parts of their identity that need to be included in the support received, when they’re ready to receive it. Revenge Porn Helpline […]

If You Need Therapeutic Support In 2021…

Don’t wait to ask for help. Asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of, especially during this pandemic where we have so little resources and normality to keep us going. If you’re nervous about contacting a service, organisation, or individual psychotherapist/counsellor, then make use of the communication method you feel most comfortable with when […]

Understanding & Managing Suicidal Feelings & Thoughts

We can’t talk about mental health without talking about suicidal feelings and thoughts. Considering these as ‘extreme’ reactions or the more ‘extreme’ end of the mental health spectrum is dismissive of one’s intense suffering or struggle. Many people experience suicidal feelings and thoughts, including those who can get daily life done consistently well. There are […]