Having trouble sleeping? Join for some useful tips as Clinical Psychologist Michaela Thomas chats with the brilliant Dr. Ranj Singh - NHS Doctor, Furniture Village Sleep and Wellness Ambassador and TV presenter - about sleep, anxiety and wellbeing. 

Dr. Ranj shares his top tips for better sleep hygiene, managing stress, and sprinkling some self-compassion into your daily routine. Plus, hear how Dr Ranj handles criticism from social media trolls with grace, and why dancing like nobody's watching might just be the lift we all need. 

Ready to give yourself permission to have better sleep? Tune in now!

Connect with Dr Ranj Singh on Instagram: @drranj

We cover:

01:06 The Importance of Sleep

04:22 Short-term and Long-term Effects of Poor Sleep

07:44 Improving Sleep Quality

13:40 Self-Compassion and Sleep

18:05 Purpose and Meaning in Life

24:41 Navigating Social Media and Comparison

28:00 Balancing Inspiration and Pressure

29:33 The Reality of Imperfection

33:19 Finding Joy in Social Connections

38:34 The Power of Authenticity

44:46 Handling Criticism and Social Media

48:19 Final Takeaways and Self-Compassion

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas interviews Jade Cook, founder and lead facilitator of Spectrum Community Arts.

https://thethomasconnection.co.uk/adhd/

In this New Year 2025 episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela discusses the challenges neurodivergent individuals face with New Year's resolutions.

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Mikayla Thomas, a clinical psychologist specializing in compassion, ADHD, and perfectionism, delves deep into the concept of shame, particularly among individuals with ADHD. Thomas explains how shame, often external and stemming from societal judgment, exacerbates the struggles of those with ADHD. She discusses the importance of self-compassion in breaking the 'shame spiral' and offers practical advice on how to manage shame and adopt a more understanding and supportive approach towards oneself. Thomas also emphasises the need for compassionate assessments and provides various strategies to counteract shame and create sustainable change.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:37 Understanding the Shame Spiral

01:49 External Sources of Shame

03:59 Compassion as a Solution

05:35 Practical Tips for Self-Compassion

10:03 Impact of Negative Comments

12:30 Breaking the Cycle of Shame

13:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas, a clinical psychologist, discusses the intersection of ADHD and mental health. Michaela explains the importance of authentic self-representation and her approach to ADHD assessments. She addresses the link between ADHD and challenges such as anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and burnout. Michaela explains why obtaining an ADHD diagnosis can be beneficial, how it can provide clarity, and how it helps in understanding one’s strengths, challenges, and necessary accommodations. The episode emphasizes the importance of compassionate ADHD assessments and offers an insight into Michaela's unique approach, including both in-person and virtual options.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

01:06 Understanding ADHD Assessments

03:26 Exploring Neurodivergence and Mental Health

05:36 The Importance of ADHD Diagnosis

06:58 ADHD and Emotional Well-being

10:51 Perfectionism and Coping Mechanisms

13:26 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

In this episode, we’re exploring the connection between ADHD, perfectionism, and stress - three challenges that often collide. I’ll uncover common misconceptions about ADHD in women, the hidden toll of masking and shame, and how self-criticism can hold us back.

But most importantly, I’ll share why compassion is the key to breaking free from burnout and brain fog. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this might be your sign to consider an ADHD assessment—because understanding ADHD can bring clarity and hope.

Join me for an honest, supportive conversation packed with insights to help you feel seen and empowered

04:30 Debbie's Personal Burnout Story

08:18 Identifying Burnout Symptoms and Risk Factors

18:52 Cultural and Systemic Factors in Burnout

37:01 Different Types of Burnout

39:46 Understanding Burnout Patterns

41:43 Setting Boundaries for Sustainability

42:34 The Importance of Self-Care

43:05 Navigating Emotional Engagement

45:20 Psychological Flexibility and Self-Awareness

48:54 The Role of Compassionate Motivation

52:17 Avoiding Prescriptive Wellness Routines

Dr. Debbie Sorensen  is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Denver, Colorado, who has PhD from Harvard University and works with adults with chronic stress and burnout. She is a co-host of the Psychologists Off the Clock podcast, author of ACT for Burnout: Recharge, Reconnect, and Transform Burnout with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and co-author of the book ACT Daily Journal: Get Unstuck and Live Fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.