Psychology

How Can You Train Your Brain to Embrace Challenges? By Susan George

The brain naturally prefers what feels familiar. That is why trying something new can feel uncomfortable, even when it is good for wellbeing. The good news is that this isn't where the story ends.  In the previous blog, Why Does Your Brain Resist Change?, we looked at why the brain often resists change. This follow-up explores what can help. Training your...

Why Does Your Brain Resist Change? By Susan George

Wanting to change is rarely the hard part. Sticking with it is. New habits, new routines, even good ones, tend to meet resistance from somewhere deep and automatic — and that resistance has more to do with wiring than willpower. Why Does Your Brain Resist Change? The brain is designed to keep people safe because it is biologically wired to prioritise survival...

What Is Misophonia and Why Do Certain Sounds Trigger Such Extreme Emotional Reactions? By Susan George

Someone at the next table is chewing their lunch. For some this is just something that happens in the background, but for someone with misophonia, it can trigger an immediate surge of emotion. They might need to leave the room. This is not because they are being too sensitive. It is a condition that affects the brain. Misophonia is a condition...

How Can Neurodivergent Individuals Find Motivation in Their Own Way? By Susan George

Have you ever stared at your to-do list, feeling completely stuck, unable to begin even though you know exactly what needs doing? Do you find yourself sitting at your desk, thinking about starting a task, yet somehow hours pass by with nothing accomplished? Perhaps you've experienced the frustration of watching deadlines approach while feeling powerless to overcome the invisible barrier...

CBT For Negative Thoughts: Step-By-Step Strategies You Can Use Today By Susan George

It's natural to feel worried from time to time; however, our anxious thoughts can sometimes be unhelpful. Our emotions, thoughts, and actions are all linked, constantly affecting one another. Unfortunately, we may develop thoughts or behaviour patterns that affects our well-being. These negative thought patterns can affect how we feel, which can, in turn, affect how we think and behave,...

When Parents Should Be Concerned About Their Child’s Development? By Susan George

Introduction As you're watching your child play in the park, and something doesn't quite feel right. You might notice that they're not as verbal as their other kids who are at this age, or maybe they seem unusually withdrawn during playgroup sessions. As parents, we often find ourselves wondering whether our children's behaviours are just part of normal development or if...

What Do Most People Misunderstand About OCD? By Susan George

Picture this: Just as you're getting ready to head out for a crucial appointment, you can't seem to rid yourself of the nagging worry that you forgot to turn off the iron. You check once, twice, three times - each time knowing it's off, but unable to trust your own eyes. Your hands are clammy, your pulse is rapid, and you're...

Maladaptive Schemas: What They Are and How They Affect Our Lives By Susan George

Have you ever found yourself repeating the same patterns in relationships, work, or personal life, despite your best efforts to change? The answer might lie in understanding maladaptive schemas, which are deeply rooted patterns and beliefs that influence how we perceive the world and ourselves. We'll look at what maladaptive schemas are, how they develop, and how they affect our...

Quieting the Mind: Overcoming Cognitive Fusion and Intrusive Racing Thoughts at Night By Susan George

Introduction:  We've all experienced those restless nights when our minds seem to be racing a million miles per hour, making it impossible to drift off into peaceful slumber. Thoughts swirl around incessantly, ranging from mundane to-do lists to deep existential worries, leaving us tossing and turning until the wee hours of the morning. This common phenomenon can leave you feeling frustrated...

Breaking Barriers: Destigmatising Mental Health Conversations By Susan George

Despite its undeniable importance, discussing mental health often invokes discomfort and apprehension in our society. Why is it that something so fundamental to our existence remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding? Conversations surrounding emotional well-being are frequently dismissed or avoided, perpetuating a culture of silence, shame and misunderstanding. These barriers not only impede open dialogue but also deter individuals from...