How fast did this year go? Someone once told me that the reason why it feels as though the years go by quicker each year is because the ratio of 1 year in comparison to the amount of years you’ve been alive gets smaller and smaller so it feels like time is moving faster. I’m sure responsibilities increasing and life becoming busier at different stages in life also has something to do with it. The silly season is almost upon us. Every year we tell ourselves that we aren’t going to overcommit or over extend ourselves or go out of our way to please others. How successful are we at this? When it comes to preserving your energy for the holiday season, it could be helpful to consider the following:

Let’s face it we all do it. Google search. How many times a day do you search for the answer for something on Google? How many of those Google searches are related to OCD? I bet it’s a lot! Seeking information about OCD is extremely important. Knowledge is power. The more info we have on OCD, the better equipped you’ll be in terms of treating it. But when does information go from helpful to being unhelpful? When does it turn into reassurance seeking?

In a society that values achievement, success, and flawless appearances, the concept of perfectionism has become deeply ingrained in our minds. Perfectionism refers to the relentless pursuit of flawlessness and the fear of making mistakes. While striving for excellence can be beneficial, an excessive desire to be perfect can hinder our ability to be vulnerable, authentic, and emotionally connected with others.

As summer approaches, many of us find ourselves feeling pressured to attain the elusive "bikini body" portrayed by media and society. It is essential to recognise that this idealised image is often unrealistic and can lead to unhealthy expectations and negative body image issues. The concept of a "bikini body" is a socially constructed ideal that should not be allowed to dictate our self-worth or happiness. Let’s explore some strategies to manage the expectation to achieve a “bikini bod”, while promoting self-acceptance and a healthy relationship with your body.

Relationships are hard work. We’re all in some kind of relationship. Relationships are not just intimate ones. We’re in relationships with family, friends, colleagues, the list goes on. What is it that can make us feel hurt and triggered at times during the course of relationships? When we feel hurt it can have such a huge impact on our lives. There are many reasons why relationships are hard but the following three examples are difficult pills to swallow. 

Expectations.  We all have them. Of ourselves. Of others. Others have them of us. There’s a whole bunch of societal expectations (think morality and socially acceptable behaviours vs unacceptable ones).  How helpful are expectations when it comes to our mental health?