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Second guessing ourselves can lead to over-thinking, over-analysing our decisions and can also stop us in our tracks. In this episode, Carly Taylor talks about some strategies to prevent our second guessing from stopping us moving forward.

Apologies for the sound quality!

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In this compelling conversation Paul and Tom discuss the impact of over-parenting on children's mental health, touching on themes like discomfort tolerance and the necessity of facing challenges for long-term development. We also delve into corporate well-being, noting the limitations and potential of digital technology in engagement and motivation. Our talk concludes with discussions on broader psychological theories, practical tips for parenting, and the emerging field of digital well-being tools.

What You'll Learn:

• The Illusion of Perpetual Happiness and the Reality of Emotional Health: A significant portion of our discussion challenges the cultural obsession with happiness. Paul and Tom debunk the myth that mental health equates to constant happiness. Instead, they emphasize the importance of emotional diversity and resilience. Life’s adversities are natural, and overcoming them is essential for true well-being.
• Building Resilience in Children - A Call to Action for Parents: We delve into current parenting trends and the growing culture of overprotection, which might inadvertently hinder children’s ability to handle life’s challenges. The conversation advocates for fostering resilience through exposure to manageable risks and challenges, thus preparing children for the complexities of adulthood.
• The Corporate Challenge - Digitising Well-being in the Workplace: The discussion extends to the corporate world, where similar challenges of engagement and well-being are observed. The rise of digital technology opens new pathways and opportunities for fostering employee health, yet it requires thoughtful implementation to truly enhance well-being.
• Knowledge is Power in Reversing Mental Health Trends: We wrap up with an optimistic message: while there are significant concerns about the current mental health landscape, particularly among youth, there is hope. Preventive strategies and educational programs are making strides, but broader implementation is needed to make a substantial difference.

Key Takeaways:

• Mental health is about balance and resilience, not perpetual happiness.
• Encourage resilience in children by allowing them to experience challenges.
• Leverage digital technology thoughtfully to enhance well-being in workplaces.

Resources:

To learn more about Dr Tom Nehmy and his work, visit his website or explore his book Apples for the Mind. If you would like to know more about Dr Tom Nehmy click here.

Support and Share:

If you found this episode valuable, consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important conversations like this one.

Share this episode with someone who can benefit from a renewed perspective on health, parenting, or emotional resilience. Join the conversation and help spread awareness about the importance of resilience in facing life's uncertainties.

10:32 The Importance of Mental Health
11:20 Debunking Mental Health Myths
13:28 Parenting and Child Well-being
14:24 Challenges in Modern Parenting
22:49 School Refusal and Anxiety
30:57 Transdiagnostic Theory in Mental Health
33:51 The Importance of High-Pressure Situations for Kids
35:04 A Personal Parenting Story: Handling Tantrums
37:13 Building Confidence Through Progressive Overload
41:44 Graded Exposure: A Systematic Approach
45:34 The Role of Sports in Child Development
47:16 Parenting Tips: Reinforcement and Evaluation
49:07 Corporate Wellbeing: Challenges and Digital Solutions
52:03 Gamification in Wellbeing: The Octalysis Framework
59:02 Final Thoughts: Concerns and Excitements in Psychology

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In this deeply personal episode, Carly reflects on the power of non-resistance in difficult times, sharing how Rumi's poem 'The Guest House' helped her navigate the challenges of the past few weeks.

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In this enlightening podcast episode, I engage in a profound conversation with Professor Norman Rosenthal, a renowned psychiatrist and author, known for his groundbreaking work in diagnosing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and exploring the therapeutic use of light. Join us as we delve into the intersection of psychiatry, personal narrative, and unconventional therapies that have the power to transform lives.

What You'll Learn:

• Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder: Professor Rosenthal reflects on his time at the National Institute of Mental Health, where he led research that culminated in defining and describing SAD. Initially met with scepticism, his work with light therapy to treat SAD was a revolutionary concept that gained widespread acceptance after successful replication across the globe. This therapy isn't just for SAD but has diverse applications, such as adjusting to new time zones during international travel.
• The Concept of Adversity: Another significant topic in this episode is Rosenthal's perspective on adversity, inspired by his book "The Gift of Adversity." He explores how challenges can serve as critical opportunities for personal growth. Paul’s mention of stoic philosophers like Seneca and Epictetus aligns with Rosenthal’s ideas, emphasizing that overcoming adversity is not only about surviving but also about gleaning insight and growth from the experience.
• The Power of Positive Contributions: Rosenthal speaks fondly of his contributions to psychiatry through his studies on light and SAD, recounting the inspiring moments when he realized he was on the cusp of a major discovery. The conversation highlights the profound satisfaction derived from scientific exploration and the impact it continues to have on improving mental health treatment.
• Alternative Therapies and the Poetry Connection: In his diverse therapeutic practices, Rosenthal incorporates unconventional methods, including poetry, as tools for emotional and psychological healing. His book "Poetry Rx" exemplifies how literary arts can resonate with individuals facing emotional difficulties, offering insights and comfort through the beauty of words.
• Emotional Well-being Through Curiosity and Engagement: Curiosity, according to Rosenthal, plays a pivotal role in maintaining good mental health. It's linked to the psychological trait of hardiness and helps in overcoming adversity. By encouraging curiosity, individuals can approach life's challenges with a more investigative and resilient mindset.
• Meditation and Transcendental Exploration: Rosenthal also dedicates time to exploring consciousness through transcendental meditation, believing that mindfulness can profoundly affect one's perception and quality of life. His books on the subject reflect an ongoing exploration of the mind's potential to transcend conventional boundaries.

Key Takeaways:

• Seasonal Affective Disorder and Light Therapy: Understand how bright light became a recognized treatment for SAD and how it can improve various aspects of well-being.
• Adversity as a Teacher: Learn how personal trials can lead to profound personal growth and resilience.
• Integrative Therapies: Discover how poetry, philosophy, and meditation contribute to emotional healing and mental health.
• Curiosity as a Trait: See why maintaining a curious and engaged outlook is vital for mental well-being.

Resources:

To learn more about Professor Norman Rosenthal and his work, visit his website and explore his vast array of publications available on Amazon. Whether you're interested in exploring SAD, the benefits of meditation, or the role of poetry in therapy, Rosenthal's contributions are both illuminating and accessible for all seeking to improve their mental health journey.

Support the Podcast:

If you found this episode valuable, please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more people with important conversations like this one.

Share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing it—loneliness is more common than we think, and this conversation could make a difference.

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We are always making choices, whether through action or avoidance (inaction). Not choosing is still a choice. This week, Carly Taylor highlights key concepts from the French philosopher, Jean-Paul Satre, who reminds us that freedom isn’t just about opportunity; it comes with the weight of responsibility of our choices.

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