Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are common mental health conditions and often occur together. They can be debilitating experiences leaving you feel hopeless and helpless. Many aspects of your life may be affected, from relationships to work and family life. Anxiety reflects a mental state of apprehension about what might, or might not, lie ahead, whether regarding life circumstances, relationships, one's health, or an economic downturn. Anxiety can be triggered by events in the real world-an upcoming event, a job interview, relationship conflict, redundancy-or generated internally through thoughts of real or imagined threats.
Although occasional bouts of anxiety are entirely normal and part of being alive, it can get in the way of living a fulfilled and happy life.
Depression interferes with many aspects of daily functioning such as motivation, concentration and intimacy. I am here to help you navigate the challenges of anxiety and depression and develop the skills to improve your mood and outlook on life.
Infertility
Infertility can have a significant psychological impact on couples and individuals. The experience of infertility varies from person to person and not everyone will have the same emotional response.
However, some common psychological effects are:
Anxiety: the process of trying to conceive, undergoing fertility treatments and dealing with uncertainty can be very stressful.
Depression: infertility can lead to feelings of sadness and helplessness. Unsuccessful attempts to conceive or recurrent pregnancy losses can sometimes lead to clinical depression.
Grief and loss: infertility often involves a sense of loss. Grieving the idea of having biological children and each unsuccessful attempt can be like a loss of hope.The grief experienced can be akin to mourning and it can be ongoing.
Social isolation: infertility can lead to social isolation as you may feel you can't relate to friends and family who do not face the same challenges.
Low self-esteem: you may internalize infertility as a personal failure which harms your self-worth. You may feel inadequate or that you are not fulfilling societal or cultural expectations.
Relationship strain: infertility can put a strain on relationships as you may struggle with communication, different coping styles and blame.
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Trauma
Psychological trauma is a deeply felt emotional response to an intensely distressing or threatening experience. It is an event or continued occurrence that is outside the normal human experience which overwhelms the central nervous system and alters how people process and recall memories.
It often leads to lasting cognitive, emotional and physical effects. Traumatic events can vary widely, from abuse, accidents, and natural disasters to personal loss or witnessing violence. A traumatise individual may find it difficult to cope, their sense of safety and control is compromised. Symptoms can be wide ranging and include emotional, cognitive, physical and bahavioural manifestations. They may suffers from insomnia, flashbacks, depression, substance abuse, social withdrawal, to name but a few.
Life Transitions
Life transitions can disrupt our sense of predictability and stability, which can trigger feelings of stress and anxiety. You may experience a sense of loss or grief as you let go of a relationship, a job, or old habits.
Together we can explore how you can navigate these transitions with greater ease and resilience in a safe and confidential space. Whether you are facing a career change or problems in your current role, a move, or other life-changing events, I can support you in developing the skills and resources to thrive.
Relationships
Healthy relationships are essential for a fulfilling life. How we relate to each other and how we manage emotions in every aspect of our lives - ourselves, love, friendship and work - began with our family. Emotional bonds and relationships formed early in life influence how we approach and perceive relationships throughout life.
I provide relationship counselling to help you navigate the complexities of interpersonal dynamics. Whether you are struggling with communication issues, conflicts that are rooted in the past, or other challenges, we can explore together how to develop the tools and insights to build stronger and more satisfying relationships.
Bereavement
The loss of a loved one, and grieving for an unfulfilled relationship, can be a deeply traumatic and life-changing experience. Unresolved issues of the past can resurface during bereavement.
I provide compassionate and non-judgemental support to help you navigate the grieving process. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you can process your feelings and experiences.