Making People Better

In this latest fascinating podcast, Dr Saadia Meyer from the Meyer Menopause clinic -  discusses Menopause with a look at the science, the impact on general wellbeing and how best to deal with the life change that many women experience.   

The Meyer Menopause clinic is led by Dr Saadia Meyer who is a practicing GP, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist and a BMS Menopause Specialist. She is a Fellow of Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, a Member of Royal College of General Practitioners and earned a Diploma of Faculty of Family Planning and Sexual Health at The Royal College, London.

When I first held my child in my arms, the surge of joy was shadowed by an unexpected fear: Am I ready for this? It's a question that haunts many new fathers, and in our latest podcast, Joseph Conway from Vita Health Group and I, Glenn Thompson, get candid about the emotional whirlwind that is fatherhood. We delve into our personal stories, laying bare the challenges and societal pressures that can weigh heavily on a dad's mind. Our conversation isn't just cathartic—it's a lifeline for dads out there feeling the squeeze of being the unflappable provider while still wanting to be present and engaged in their children's lives.

This intimate episode peels back the layers of paternal mental health, emphasizing why self-care isn't selfish but necessary for new dads. We tackle the isolation that can come with traditional gender roles and the powerful, often generational, impact a father's mental well-being has on his family. Joseph and I also discuss how the workplace can be a cornerstone of support, advocating for flexible paternity leave and mental health training to foster a healthier balance. Whether you're a seasoned dad, a grandparent, or just starting on this journey, join us as we break the silence on fatherhood's least talked about aspect—men's mental health.

When Joseph Conway, from Vita Health Group, joined us, we peeled back the layers of men's mental health to uncover the challenges and triumphs within. This episode takes you through the thick fog of societal expectations and cultural norms that have long silenced men's cries for help, spotlighting why these issues are no longer lurking in the shadows but seizing our urgent attention. Reflecting on my own path, we discuss how the silent rules of manhood have shaped us and the stigmas we face when mental health knocks on our doors. Joseph's insights reveal the hidden costs of misdiagnosed or ignored mental health concerns and the indispensable role of awareness and accessible support in changing the narrative.

When Anthony Kielty of Vita Health Group joined me for a profound conversation, we embarked on an exploration of the landscapes of men's mental health within the LGBTQIA+ community, colored by the hues of personal journeys and societal strides. Anthony's narrative, shaped by the restrictive tendrils of Section 28 legislation, unfolded as we traversed the pathways of educational inclusivity and the ongoing march toward acceptance and authenticity. 

Our dialogue blossomed into a discussion on the transformative nature of Pride Month and the ripple effect of allyship. We reflected on the vibrant expressions of Pride events, the cultural richness of LGBTQIA+ contributions, and the personal significance of living one's truth. As the episode wove to a close, Anthony highlighted the undeniable connection between authenticity and mental well-being, leaving us with a portrait of the LGBTQIA+ community's journey—a journey where visibility is not just celebrated but is fundamental to the quest for true equality.

This podcast peels back the curtain on the pervasive issue of exam stress as my expert guest, Leanne Upton, a dedicated pediatric nurse from Vita Health Group, brings her seasoned perspective into the conversation. We tackle the roots of this anxiety, from the relentless clutches of social media to the weight of societal expectations. But it's not all about the challenges; we're offering up a treasure trove of strategies for supporting your student's emotional well-being, emphasizing the power of open communication and the necessity of a calming presence in the whirlwind of exams.

This episode isn't all talk; we're arming you with actionable wisdom—think of it as your academic stress-busting toolkit. Discover why hitting the hay at the right time, munching on brain-fueling foods, and stretching those limbs can revolutionize your study sessions. I also guide you through creating a 'calm kit' for those peak moments of panic, and Leanne shares real-life stories from her practice in Leicestershire, showing just how transformative staying organized and ahead of the game can be. So, whether you're a student in the eye of the exam storm or a parent navigating these turbulent waters, tune in for a life raft of advice from the heart of pediatric care.

 Anxiety is a puzzle we all piece together differently, and in our latest episode, we're joined by Ryan Luney a Vita Health Group, to help us fit those pieces in place. Ryan provides an enlightening tour of anxiety's evolutionary journey from life-saving alert system to the modern-day beast that can turn a job interview into a mental minefield. With his expertise, we peek behind the curtain of stress hormones and dissect how our body's ancient reactions are playing out in today's high-pressure environments.

We then layer on the intricate map of anxiety disorders, decoding the signs that signal when professional help might be the next step. Join us for a candid and compassionate exploration into the world of anxiety and arm yourself with the insights to better manage this universal aspect of the human experience.

This episode unravels the complex tapestry of tension we're all too familiar with, guided by the expertise of Rebecca Kirsting, an EAP psychological wellbeing team manager. Grasp the inner workings of your autonomic nervous system and understand how it dictates your responses to stress, much like the accelerator and brake in a car. Discover the powerful techniques to soothe the rapid pulse of anxiety and learn why relaxation practices are not just luxuries but necessities. Rebecca joins us to demystify the symptoms of stress and shares her wisdom on incorporating relaxation into our daily grind to keep the encroaching tides of anxiety at bay.

As the cost of living soars, resilience becomes our anchor, keeping us afloat amid the storm of financial and work-related stressors. We uncover the invaluable steps to bolster your mental fortitude and the transformative impact of gratitude practices on our habitual thought patterns. Delve into positive psychology's resilience theory, designed to galvanize your spirit and equip you with the strength to rebound from adversity. By dissecting and challenging our negative thoughts, we learn to detach, reshape our narratives, and emerge more robust. Join us on this journey, and remember, the calmest surfaces may hide the deepest struggles—don't navigate these waters alone.

An informative discussion exploring the stigmas and challenges facing men when talking about mental health with Dr Omar Kowlessar, clinical lead with Vita Health Group and James Aukett, a representative of Andy's Man club, a suicide prevention charity offering peer to peer support groups.  

Lastly, we explore the empowering role of support networks like Andy's Man Club in fostering personal growth and recovery. Sharing my own experiences as a facilitator, I reveal the life-changing potential of reaching out. With immediate support networks like the Samaritans and self-referral services including Vita Health Group, we underscore the importance of treating mental health with the same urgency as physical health. For anyone on the precipice of seeking help, this episode is a testament to the strength found in community and professional guidance. Join us as we affirm the vital importance of communication and connection in the journey toward mental wellbeing.

Ever find yourself clutching at your lower back, wondering if your spine secretly despises you? Let's unravel that mystery with the help of Karen Beattie shed light on back pain's complex relationship with sleep, diet, and mental health. Our revealing conversation peels back the layers of why physical strain is just one piece of the puzzle, and why your spine health is more akin to an entire lifestyle choice.

Unlock the secrets to a balanced life where mental health, career satisfaction, and financial stability converge. Join me as I sit down with the esteemed Ajay Maisuria from Vita Health Group, whose expertise in employment advising sheds light on the critical interplay between your psychological wellbeing and your job. As we explore the nuances of this relationship, you'll gain an understanding of how to navigate the workforce while safeguarding your mental health,. 

This enlightening conversation traverses the landscape of financial wellbeing, revealing why it's more than just numbers in a bank account—it's the peace of mind that comes with it. Listen as Ajay offers a blueprint for maintaining employment in the face of mental health challenges, returning to the workplace post-sickness, and securing a job that sustains both your wallet and your soul.