Defences get a bit of a bad wrap sometimes. In fact, being told that you’re being defensive is usually a pretty offensive experience (even if there is a grain of truth in what’s said). Our defences have their place though. The main reason our defences exist is that if we [...]
# 1 Stick to the topic Have you ever had that feeling during a heated discussion that you can’t quite remember what it was that sparked the argument in the first place? This tends to happen when we rehash old material - when we add old hurts, pet peeves and [...]
Even the most well-adjusted and satisfied couples argue or experience tension in their relationship from time-to-time. As Dr Russ Harris, an expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy says, “there are two types of couples in this world: those who fight, and those who you don’t know very well”. According to [...]
#1 Set yourself an electronic curfew one hour before bedtime. Phones and computers produce blue light which disrupts your circadian rhythm (your body’s biological clock). Actually light of any kind interrupts sleep, but in a Harvard University study blue light in particular was found to be twice as disruptive to the [...]
What’s the difference between stress and burnout? A certain amount of stress is a healthy and adaptive part of being human If we didn’t feel stress at all we wouldn’t be motivated to do things like visit the doctor to have our skin checked, meet deadlines at work, study for [...]
Have a think back to how you spoke to yourself the last time you had “one of those days”? You know those days when from the moment you open your eyes you sense that it’s going to be an uphill battle. You struggle to get out the door on time, [...]
What is mindful eating? Slowing down when you eat and chewing your food thoroughly. That’s mindful eating, right? Not quite! Mindful eating has its roots in the more traditional mindfulness philosophies. Essentially it is the application of mindfulness to our interactions with food and the act of eating. So, if [...]
Over the past few years, mindfulness practice has grown in popularity as everyone from thought leaders to celebrities, therapists and yoga practitioners celebrate the benefits. A plethora of apps, websites and books provide guidance and a range of different techniques to help incorporate mindfulness into your day. We even have a [...]
It can be a big step to consider seeing a psychologist. Why? Of course, there are a whole range of reasons, but part of the picture seems to relate to the secrecy and myths surrounding therapy. Conversations about mental health are increasing and stigma is reducing, but a whole range [...]
Seeing a psychologist might be more affordable than you think. Depending on your individual circumstances there are several ways that you can access psychology services including through: The Medicare "Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative" or Mental Health Treatment Plan If your GP believes you meet particular criteria for [...]
