The fertility journey can feel like an emotional marathon with no finish line in sight. One month brings hope, the next brings heartbreak. You’re not “too sensitive” or “overreacting” — the stress of infertility is real, and research shows it often matches the psychological burden of a serious illness like cancer. Around 1 in 6 people worldwide experience infertility, and studies consistently find that 30–60% of women (and a significant number of men) develop clinically signi

Mental health remains a topic many find difficult to discuss openly. On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Time to Talk Day invites everyone to change that by encouraging honest conversations about mental health. This day is about breaking down barriers, reducing stigma, and creating safe spaces where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences. The 2026 theme focuses on getting comfortable talking about mental health, making it easier for friends, families, communities, and w

Becoming a new mum brings a whirlwind of emotions and changes. Alongside the joy and exhaustion, many new mothers face an unexpected challenge: making friends. The recent BBC article published on January 18, 2026, highlighted the rise of toxic mum groups, shedding light on how these social circles can sometimes do more harm than good. This post explores why forming genuine friendships as a new mum can be difficult and offers practical advice to navigate this complex social la

As someone who grew up in the Southern Hemisphere and is used to summer being stretched from November to March, it has taken me time to get used to having winter in January. During my first year of living in the UK, I was warned by other South African ex-pats living in the UK, that it is not the first winter you need to worry about, it is your 2nd winter. I have learnt it is the 2nd winter and then all the other winters after that. I am entering my 9th winter in this countr

Self-care: is it selfish or a necessity? Last week Sunday as I was getting ready for bed, the phrase ‘ I am exhausted’ filled my mind.  It was not the, ‘I am tired after a long weekend’ statement.  It was recognition that I was so tired, the idea of putting on my pyjamas and crawling into bed even felt too much for me.  24 hours later, I was in fact curled up in a ball on my bed coughing, spluttering and downing cold & flu relief meds like 2-1 for shots on a girls night out. 

Christmas Blues: Not Always a Happy Jolly Time for Everyone As the end of the year and the festive period approach, it is important to recognise that not everyone feels cheerful or excited. For some, this time of year brings emotional challenges. The festive season can be a period of reflection, often reminding people of past Christmases, which may evoke feelings of longing or sadness. There are also those who find themselves alone, without friends or family nearby, making th

Welcoming a new baby brings joy and excitement, but it can also bring unexpected emotional challenges. Perinatal mental health refers to the emotional and psychological well-being of people during pregnancy and the first year after birth. Many parents face mental health struggles during this time, yet these issues often go unrecognized or misunderstood. Knowing the signs and symptoms can help you or someone you care about get the right support early. The prospect of bringing

Mental health is a topic that affects everyone, yet it often remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. As a psychotherapist, I have seen first hand how mental health challenges can impact individuals and their loved ones. In this blog post, I will share insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of mental health. Understanding mental health is the first step toward improving it. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social

Anxiety can feel like a heavy weight on your chest, making it hard to breathe or think clearly. Many people experience anxiety at some...