Blog updates from Chris Warren-Dickins LPC

Monday's weekly roundup

21/3/2016

If you missed the last seven days of posts from me, here is another chance to read about the following topics:

Talking through suicidal thoughts - The Samaritans They urge people who are struggling to speak out about their problems, claiming that isolation only makes things worse. But if someone is feeling suicidal, how easy is it to speak out? And if someone is brave enough to tell someone about these feelings, how can it help?
Assertiveness in a relationship - How assertive are you in a relationship? Part of assertiveness includes the skill of saying no, making requests, and communicating your feelings and needs
Break out of the depression cycle - Depression often results from negative thoughts which cause a low mood, and which in turn causes a reduced activity, which in turn causes more negative thoughts. This is known as the depression cycle. If you find that you are caught in this cycle, try and break free by increasing your activity
Anxiety? Don't suffer alone - Anxiety thrives on isolation. During those darkened moments alone, the mind is free to wander. You will start to second guess everything you have done so far, and you will end up fearing the future uncertain
Mindfulness - In this video I explain what mindfulness involves. If you are interested in counselling or coaching, do get in touch to book a free initial appointment
Mindfulness - Anchor yourself in the present - You cannot change much without acceptance. The more you try to push things away, the more power you give to the very thing you wish to change. Mindfulness can help you to work through your difficulties by becoming aware of the present and accepting it. This includes becoming aware of, and accepting, your thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations
The 'sluggish wave' of depression - ‘I don't want to see anyone. I lie in the bedroom with the curtains drawn and nothingness washing over me like a sluggish wave.’ In her novel ‘Cat’s Eye’, this is how Margaret Atwood describes depression. As a psychotherapist, I have worked with a number of clients who have worked through their depression, and Atwood’s description is spot on.