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Teh Awesome Adventures o Mike's 60th Year!

Reflecting on 2023 Celebrating Achievements and Embracing 2024 with Optimism

9th December 2023

by Mike Lawrence Confidence Health and Wellbeing Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Reflecting on 2023: Celebrating Achievements and Embracing 2024 with Optimism

As we approach the end of another fast-paced year, it’s time to take a step back, appreciate our accomplishments, and look ahead with hope and determination. Ellen Goodman’s wise words resonate: “We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives… not looking for flaws, but for potential.”

The year started with uncertainty as I faced the challenges of recovering from a brain surgery known as pituitary apoplexy. Uncertainty loomed over whether I would fully regain my sight. I spent considerable time at home and in the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, contemplating my future. Despite the odds, I had already decided that there would be a focus on self-care and wellbeing, which would shape my work moving forward.

Achievements

1: Health and Wellness Transformation

In 2023, a journey to improved health and wellbeing was one of the most significant milestones. Despite initial challenges following medical issues, I successfully shed 9 kilos. This accomplishment was a testament to the power of determination, dietary changes, intermittent fasting, exercise, and a positive mindset. It taught me that our mindset plays a pivotal role in achieving our goals. In 2024, I’m eager to explore holistic health further.

2: Skydiving for a Cause

2023 brought thrilling adventures, including a heart-pounding skydiving experience from 14,000 feet over Nottingham’s stunning skies. Beyond the adrenaline rush, this adventure had a purpose: raising funds for the Mental Health Foundation. It reinforced the idea that stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to extraordinary accomplishments while supporting a vital cause.

3: Exploring Thailand

Amid a bustling year, I realised the importance of rejuvenation. After intense recovery and a fast-paced life, I embarked on a transformative journey to Thailand. I savoured Ayurveda treatments there, relished nourishing vegetarian cuisine, and immersed myself in Thai culture. It underscored the significance of self-care and the need to pause and reflect.

Top 3 Audiobooks of 2023

2023 was also a year of enriching knowledge through audiobooks. Here are three noteworthy picks:

Audiobooks

1: “The Plot”

“The Plot” provides a gripping look behind the scenes of political intrigue, revealing the hidden forces shaping our world and offering a unique perspective on leadership dynamics.

2: “Stolen Focus”

“Stolen Focus” explores the reasons behind our diminishing ability to concentrate, challenging the notion that it’s solely a personal failing. It provides insights into regaining our focus in an age of distractions.

3: “Derren Brown’s Boot Camp for Life”

“Derren Brown’s Boot Camp for Life” is a transformative guide to rebooting our minds. Drawing wisdom from psychology to philosophy, it offers a path to reduce anxiety and lead a more fulfilling life.

As we enter 2024, let’s carry the spirit of celebration and growth. Each achievement, adventure, and audiobook has contributed to our personal development. If you were to look back on your year, what would be your three most significant achievements? Please feel free to share. Drop me an email!

Mike Lawrence: Health & Wellbeing Enthusiast and Mental Health Advocate

Hi, I’m Mike Lawrence, and I’m dedicated to enhancing mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve committed to a journey of self-improvement and helping others. My adventures range from thrilling skydives for charity to transformative travels in Thailand. I share insights from my experiences and key learnings from impactful audiobooks. Join me in exploring holistic health and wellbeing, and let’s embrace life’s adventures together!

Feel free to connect with me through email at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk or Linkedin. For more detailed insights and stories from Mike, click here to read the latest blogs.

Supporting Men’s Mental Health Navigating the Challenges of Today

3rd December 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Corporate Wellness Programme Depression Financial Wellbeing Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA Stress stress help Sheffield stress management Sheffield Suicide workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Supporting Men’s Mental Health: Navigating the Challenges of Today

In recent years, there has been a significant and welcome shift in men seeking support for their mental health, reflecting data trends in the UK. Historically, men were less likely to seek help compared to women, often only reaching out when in crisis. This delay in seeking support is concerning, as it can lead to severe consequences, affecting their lives, families, and communities.

Data Insights: MeMen’seluctance to Seek Help

Data from the UK Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) reveals that men are indeed less likely to visit doctors for routine check-ups or discuss mental health concerns. A study conducted by the Mental Health Foundation highlights that men are more prone to use negative coping strategies, such as alcohol and recreational drugs, to manage stress and emotional challenges. 40% of men polled said it would take thoughts of suicide or self-harm to compel them to seek professional help.

Economic Pressures and Mental Health

One critical factor contributing to men’s mental health struggles is the current economic landscape in the UK. The rising cost of living and job insecurity have created a significant gap between personal income and expenditure. Men, who may have traditionally been seen as primary breadwinners, are feeling the strain as their earning potential erodes.

Let’s delve deeper into the data. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the cost of living in the UK has been steadily rising, with inflation rates reaching multi-year highs. This living cost surge directly impacts individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. This financial strain can be particularly distressing for men who have long been responsible for providing for their households.

Consequences of Not Getting Support

Men are less likely than women to visit a pharmacy when they are sick
On average, men see their GP 4 times a year compared to the 6 six times a year that women go.
Men visit a pharmacy an average of 4 times a year in contrast to the 18 that women go.
9 in 10 men only like to trouble their doctor or pharmacist if they have a severe problem.

The Reasons why Men put of Visiting their GP

Fear
Too busy
Lack of discussion
Sign of weakness

Real-Life Client Struggles

Consider John (I have replaced his real name), a man in his 50s who faced mounting stress at work due to job insecurity. This stress led to a drinking problem as a coping mechanism, affecting his marriage and overall mental health. JoJohn’story is a poignant reflection of the experiences of many men grappling with the pressures of modern life.

Positive Shift: Men Embracing Mental Health First Aid

The positive shift in men seeking support extends to mental health first aid training courses. These courses aim to equip individuals with the skills to help others in distress. For the first time, I have witnessed more men than women in attendance, reflecting changing attitudes towards mental health within society.

The Priory’s findings share my experience that men were more likely than women to seek help. Dr Bijlani says, “Traditionally, men have been less likely to seek support for mental health issues. This is probably for several reasons, including stigma and the traditional ‘strong male’ stereotype still prevalent in our society – the idea that expressing emotion is a sign of weakness.” Because of the toll the pandemic has taken across genders, Dr Bijlani says she is “not actually surprised to learn that more men are now coming forward for the first time”.

Navigating the Challenges: 5 Key Steps

As we approach the intense holiday season, it’s crucial for everyone, especially men, to prioritise their mental health. Here are five essential steps to consider:

Take Time Out for Recovery: Use the holiday period to take breaks, go for walks, and carve out moments of relaxation. It’s essential to dedicate some time solely to self-care.
Talk to Someone You Trust: Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or professional can provide much-needed support and perspective.
Identify Stressors: Recognise the sources of your stress and work on strategies to address them. Don’t let it accumulate to a breaking point.
Seek Immediate Help in Crisis: If you’re feeling suicidal, engaging in self-harm, or struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help immediately. Reach out to helplines or crisis intervention services.
Plan for Positive Change: As we approach the new year, create a plan for positive changes in 2024. Identify the areas in your life that need improvement, seek help, and commit to making those changes. Consider appointing an accountability partner to support your journey.

Embracing Self-Care: Daily Rituals

Self-care is an integral part of maintaining good mental health. Create a list of self-care activities that resonate with you. Start with one and build from there. Activities can range from meditation and gratitude exercises to short walks, gym sessions, breathing exercises, or simply spending time with friends and loved ones.

In Conclusion: The Power of Conversation

In conclusion, the increasing number of men seeking support for their mental health, supported by UK data trends, is a positive shift that should be celebrated. It’s essential to recognise that seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a step towards better mental wellbeing. As we approach the New Year, let’s reaffirm our commitment to mental health and encourage open conversations about our challenges. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. In the words of R. H. Sin, “You are “stronger than you think and more loved than you believe.”

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This Remembrance Day Veterans Are Being Encouraged To Get Support For Their Mental Health

12th November 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Corporate Wellness Programme Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA Stress Management stress management Sheffield Suicide wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Addressing the Invisible Wounds of Combat through Innovative Approaches

The mental health crisis among veterans, particularly those who have experienced combat, is a growing concern that demands urgent attention. A staggering report from a recent JAMA Neurology study reveals a more than 10-fold increase in suicide rates among U.S. veterans from 2006 to 2020, underscoring the inadequacy of current treatment strategies.

In the U.K., the situation is similarly alarming. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains a prevalent issue among veterans. Statistics show a significant number of these brave individuals have PTSD, a condition often exacerbated by their experiences in combat. The National Health Service (NHS) strives to provide support, yet the complexity of mental health challenges in veterans calls for a multi-faceted approach.

As someone who has worked closely with veterans, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact of combat on mental health. Some challenges they face are the memories of lost comrades, the strain on personal and professional relationships, and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life. My approach involves talking therapies, which have proven beneficial in managing these difficult memories and experiences. These therapies are not just about coping with past traumas; they’re about rebuilding a life with new strategies for wellbeing.

The Benefits of Self-Care in Veteran Mental Health:

Meditation: Enhances resilience by developing the ability to cope with stress and recover from adversity. Regular meditation practice leads to mental flexibility and a healthier stress response.
Gratitude Exercises: Strengthens relationships by fostering a positive outlook that enhances empathy and deepens connections with others.
Counselling or Talking Therapies: Improves self-esteem by providing safe spaces for self-exploration, leading to greater self-awareness and confidence.
Talking to Friends and Family: Boosts physical health by providing emotional support and reducing feelings of isolation, which can positively impact physical wellbeing.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices help in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, contributing to overall emotional wellbeing and mental health stability.

Self-care strategies like meditation, mindfulness, and expressing gratitude daily have shown remarkable results.

They are encouraging veterans to maintain open communication with trusted friends and family members, which further aids in their mental health journey. The Armed Forces Covenant in the U.K. reinforces this need, ensuring that the armed forces community receives the same standard of healthcare as any other citizen. Information leaflets published by the MOD offer guidance on how veterans can access these services.

The Mental Health Foundation highlights that depression, anxiety, and alcohol problems are common among personnel and veterans, in addition to PTSD. Recent studies, such as those conducted by the King’s Centre for Military Health Research (KCMHR), suggest an increasing trend in help-seeking behaviour, especially among women.

Innovative perspectives like the brain energy theory of mental illness provide new hope. This theory offers a different understanding of mental health issues, potentially leading to more effective treatments.

Our collective responsibility is to ensure our veterans receive the care and support they deserve. We can significantly improve our veterans’ mental health and wellbeing by integrating traditional medical approaches with holistic self-care practices and new scientific insights.

Contact Information for Support:

NHS Mental Health Services: NHS Website
Armed Forces Covenant Support: Armed Forces Covenant
Mental Health Foundation: Mental Health Foundation

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let’s work together to support our veterans in their journey towards healing and resilience.

Surviving and Thriving A Year After My Pituitary Tumour Surgery

12th November 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Corporate Wellness Programme employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Surviving and Thriving A Year After My Pituitary Tumour Surgery

The Unexpected Turn

Imagine delivering a two-day Mental Health First Aid course, feeling a sense of accomplishment after a successful first

day, only to find yourself in an entirely different world by the next morning. Overnight, I was rushed to a hospital in London, three hours from my home, and was diagnosed with a pituitary tumour.

The Onslaught of Thoughts

The whirlwind of thoughts that followed was overwhelming. There I was, lying in a hospital bed, far from home, pondering over my clients and my self-employment finances during the challenging times of lockdown and COVID-19. The uncertainty was daunting – would I regain my sight? Could I drive again? These negative, debilitating thoughts seemed unending.

Finding Strength in Focus

But amidst this chaos, I found an unexpected strength within me. I decided to focus on one thing at a time. The first and foremost was my recovery. Hospitalisation was the initial phase, where I battled not just the physical ailment but also the mental toll it took. The next stage was transitioning home and starting rehabilitation, where the love and support of friends, family, and clients played a crucial role.

Reintegrating with Renewed Emphasis

And finally, the phase I am currently navigating is reintegrating into my work life, with a renewed emphasis on self-care. As I write this article from the serene setting of Sutton Hall Resort in North Yorkshire, I reflect on the journey I have been through.

Speaking Out: Raising Awareness

In January 2023, I spoke out about my experience in a press release titled “Surviving a Pituitary Tumour: Why Prioritising Our Mental Health is More Vital Than Ever”. My condition, pituitary apoplexy, results from bleeding within the pituitary gland. Fortunately, the tumour was non-cancerous, but the experience was a stark reminder of how easily we overlook the signs of struggling with mental health.

The Wider Crisis

This experience has made me acutely aware of the mental health crisis affecting not just patients but those in high-stress jobs as well. A report highlighting that 45% of UK police officers suffer from mental health issues is a testament to this grim reality. Moreover, the waiting times for mental health treatment in the NHS and the plight of patients in A&E departments underscore the urgency of addressing this crisis.

The Power of Mental Health First Aid

Through my ordeal, I found solace and strength in the knowledge I had gained as a mental health first aid instructor. This training equipped me with skills and strategies that were instrumental in dealing with my traumatic event. It’s crucial to understand that mental health first aid isn’t about diagnosing or treating mental health issues. It’s about recognising signs of a mental health crisis in yourself or others and providing support until professional help is available.

A Call to Action

The journey has been challenging, but it has been enlightening. I urge everyone to pay close attention to their mental health and wellbeing. Practising self-care daily and learning about mental health first aid are vital steps we can all take. We must also advocate for better mental health resources and support in our communities and workplaces.

As we navigate these challenging times, let’s remember to care for ourselves and each other. Our mental health is as important as our physical health, and it’s high time we prioritise it. If my story can inspire even one person to seek help or support a loved one, then sharing it has been worth it.

Join the Conversation

Your mental health matters. Join our Mental Health First Aid course, engage in community discussions, or reach out for support. Together, we can create a world where mental wellbeing is not just a goal but a reality. Let’s make mental health first aid as common as physical first aid. Join me on this journey – for yourself, your loved ones, and our community.

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A Leap of Faith Skydiving for the Mental Health Foundation

6th September 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Depression employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress relief Sheffield Suicide wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Though not necessarily brave, I’ve always considered myself an adventurer at heart. Maybe a bit daft, even. In my work as a mental health first aid instructor and a private practice consultant, I see people who grapple with social anxiety, stress, and depression.

I often preach the gospel of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. But hey, it’s easier said than done, right?

Inspired by our ancestors who braved saber-tooth tigers and trekked miles for food, I took the plunge for the Mental Health Foundation. But this leap was more than just a tick off my bucket list; it was deeply personal. Last year, I had a pituitary tumour removed. That intense experience made me reevaluate my priorities; ever since then, self-care has been at the top of my list.

Now, back to the plane. My instructor, Josh, was a pro. His pre-jump brief was as exciting as listening to a speech by Rishi Sunak, which oddly calmed my nerves. “Place your hands across your chest, wrap your legs around the underside of the plane, and head back,” he advised as if telling me how to tie my shoes.

The plane taxied down a short runway under a cloudless sky. Perfect weather—unlike the cancelled jump a few weeks prior due to bad visibility. We reached an altitude of 14,000ft, and I found myself afloat among skydiving aficionados and charity-driven daredevils like myself.

Josh handed me goggles so tight they made me look like a cartoon character whose eyes might pop out at any moment. Then, the plane’s door opened, and for a fleeting moment, I imagined myself getting sucked out like in a bad action movie.

One by one, people took their leaps. I mimicked a mantra in my head, “Hands across the chest, feet under the plane, head up, wait for the tap, then Superman.” Finally, it was my turn.

As I inched closer to the edge, my brain screamed, “What the bleep are you doing, Mike?!” But before I could complete that thought, gravity took over. I was tumbling through the air, screaming, but also oddly liberated.

Josh gave me the much-anticipated tap. I thrust my arms forward, miming Superman, grinning like a madman. And just like that, the sheer terror transformed into an adrenaline-fueled euphoria.

As we descended, Josh handed me the parachute controls. “What happens if you let go?” a devilish voice in my head wondered. Ignoring it, I swivelled left and right, marvelling at the beauty below.
Eventually, Josh guided us toward the landing zone. “Legs to the chest, then out in front,” he instructed. And we landed like pros—or rather, he did; I was just along for the ride.

“What was it like?” the cameraman asked. “Absolutely insane!” I blurted out, my heart still racing.

This was not just a thrill-seeker’s dream but a defining moment that combined personal growth, healing, and advocacy for a cause I deeply believe in mental health. Skydiving was a literal and metaphorical fall into a new understanding of life and resilience, a perfect symbol of my journey from a patient to the pinnacle of self-care.

Thanks to this experience, I’m even more committed to championing mental health. I took a leap for myself and everyone who has been where I was. So, let’s soar to new heights together in our collective fight for better mental health.

Would you like to help, too? Please spread the word, donate, and let’s make a difference. Because sometimes, a leap of faith is what it takes to move mountains.

My Personal Path to Wellbeing at Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort

13th August 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Life coach in Sheffield life coach Sheffield Life Coaching life coaching Sheffield mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress relief Sheffield Suicide workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

The Rejuvenation Journey

Introduction

Life’s challenges had recently consumed me. A pituitary tumour diagnosis, months of recovery, and the mounting pressure of returning to work left me in dire need of a sanctuary. That sanctuary? The Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort in Phuket, Thailand.

A Unique Retreat: Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort Authentic Ayurveda in Thailand

Mangosteen is more than a resort; it’s a haven for those seeking genuine Ayurvedic healing, with professionals trained to an impeccable standard.

Choosing the AyurYoga Panchakarma 7-night Retreat

Why I Chose Panchakarma

After my health challenges, I sought a programme tailored to rejuvenate me, and Panchakarma seemed just right. The retreat’s offerings, from personalised treatments to nourishing Ayurvedic cuisine, promise holistic healing.

My Treatment Programme

Over seven days, I underwent various treatments, from Abhyanga massages to detoxifying procedures.

Personal Reflections: More Than Just Treatments

Each day brought a fresh wave of relaxation, energy, and rejuvenation. I felt my stresses melt away, replaced with newfound vigour. While I expected peace, the profound sense of refreshment was a delightful surprise.

Ayurvedic Doctor

During the final consultation, my Ayurvedic doctor remarked at the end of my programme, “You’ve lost 5kgs, but beyond that, your energy seems more balanced, more harmonious.” It wasn’t just about weight but the transformation inside and out.

Educational Insights into Ayurveda

With roots in ancient India, Ayurveda is more than a medical system; it’s a way of life. Centred on the ‘doshas’ or bodily humour, Ayurveda teaches balance. I was intrigued to learn more about the benefits of the oils and treatments; therefore, My Ayurvedic doctor introduced me to the “Textbook of Ayurveda: Volume 1 – Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda” by Dr Vasant Lad, a foundational text. Additionally, I was given the Ashwagandha supplement, known for its rejuvenating properties.

Beyond Treatment: Life in Phuket

From ethical elephant sanctuaries to rigorous Muay Thai training sessions and a speed boat trip over to PHI PHI Islands, Phuket offered both relaxation and adventure.

Testimonials from the Resort Owners

Hajo, one of the resort owners, told me, “Your journey, from where you started to where you’ve reached, truly resonates with Mangosteen’s ethos of holistic healing. We’re delighted to have been a part of it.”

Call to Action: Your Path to Healing

Consider your wellbeing. It’s time you treat yourself through a wellness retreat or simple moments of self-care in your daily routine.

Conclusion

My journey at Mangosteen was a lesson in the importance of self-care. Not only did I find physical rejuvenation, but I also discovered the strength within to tackle life’s challenges head-on.

Beyond Awareness: Integrating Mental Health into Everyday Life

13th May 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Mental Health At Work Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA

As we wrap up Mental Health Awareness Week 2023, it’s crucial that we reflect on the spotlight that has been shone brightly on anxiety. We’ve aimed to raise awareness, hoping people can better spot early warning signs and understand that everyone’s mental health journey is unique and often challenging. Yet, as we approach the end of this dedicated week, we are left with a vital question: has it been enough?

Awareness days, weeks, and months come and go throughout the year. They serve as important reminders of various health and societal issues. However, when it comes to mental health, it’s time to ponder: are these moments of spotlight creating a lasting change? Or are they just temporary blips in our collective consciousness?

A Brief History of Mental Health Awareness

Mental Health Awareness Month, celebrated in May in the U.S., dates back to 1949. The initiative was introduced by the Mental Health America organisation, founded by Clifford Whittingham Beers, a mental health advocate with firsthand experience of the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions.

Each year, a theme is selected to be highlighted throughout May. The UK and the US have chosen to focus on anxiety for this year’s Mental Health Awareness campaigns. The US campaign carries the theme “More Than Enough“, a strong message of hope, inclusion, and the need for comprehensive mental health support. It underscores the belief that all people, regardless of where they stand in their mental health journey, deserve support, resources, and a compassionate community.

On the other hand, the UK also places a spotlight on anxiety, aiming to educate the public about the signs of anxiety disorders and promote early intervention. Both countries strive to raise awareness about this prevalent mental health issue and advocate for better resources, support, and understanding for those affected.

A Global Perspective on Mental Health

Investment in mental health services has been a point of concern across the globe. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that countries spend, on average, only 2% of their health budgets on mental health. Despite the high mental health conditions worldwide, resources and funding for mental health issues are still scarce. The WHO has called for increased investment, particularly after the pandemic, which has exacerbated mental health conditions globally.

In the U.S., mental health has been recognised as a crucial aspect of overall health. However, funding remains an issue. A report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicated that in 2020, only 43.3% of U.S. adults with mental illness received treatment.

Meanwhile, the UK government has pledged to provide ‘parity of esteem for mental health, meaning it should be given equal priority to physical health. However, recent data suggests that the reality is far from this commitment. In 2020, mental health trusts received only 13% of the total NHS budget, despite mental health issues making up 23% of the disease burden.

My Thoughts on the Future of Mental Health

While raising awareness is crucial, it’s time to make mental health a part of our everyday lives. It should be woven into our education system early, becoming part of the curriculum so children learn how vital wellbeing and self-care are.

Instead of selling the concept of mental health and leaving it to companies’ Employee Assistance Programmes or corporate social responsibility, mental health should be embedded into our societal fabric. It may be a stretch, but as reiterated in this year’s campaign message from the USA.

“All people, no matter where they are on their mental health journey, deserve support, resources, fulfilment and a community that cares.”

In conclusion, let’s not limit our concern and action for mental health to specific days or months. It’s a year-round commitment. American philosopher and psychologist William James said, “The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.” Let’s choose thoughts of empathy, understanding, and continuous support for mental health.

Let’s make mental wellbeing a part of our daily lives, from the classrooms to the boardrooms, and encourage open conversations about mental health. Let’s invest in resources, education, and support systems. Because everyone, no matter where they are on their mental health journey, deserves support, resources, fulfilment, and a caring community.

We all have a part to play in this, and every small step we take can lead to significant changes. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

Embracing Anxiety How It Can Benefit Us and Support Mental Health Awareness

8th May 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Corporate Wellness Programme employee mental health Sheffield Financial Wellbeing mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

As Mental Health Awareness Week (15th – 21st May 2023) approaches, it’s essential to acknowledge that we all have mental health, just as physical health. Anxiety is a normal part of life and can benefit us in certain circumstances. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of anxiety, its impact on our lives, and how we can create a more understanding environment for those who struggle with anxiety. Let’s come together and start a conversation to support each other better and raise awareness about mental health.

The Upside of Anxiety:

Anxiety is often seen as a negative emotion, but it’s essential to understand its benefits. At its core, anxiety is a natural response to perceived threats or challenges. It can help us stay alert and focused and perform better in certain situations. For example, anxiety before a job interview or an important exam can push us to prepare more thoroughly, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

According to a study by the American Psychological Association, moderate anxiety levels can enhance memory and cognitive performance. It’s also believed that anxiety can help us develop resilience and problem-solving skills. In essence, anxiety can be a driving force to help us adapt, grow, and overcome challenges.

Recognising the Impact of Anxiety:

It’s crucial to recognise that while anxiety can be beneficial, it can spiral out of control and become a mental health issue. According to the Mental Health Foundation, around 1 in 6 people in the UK experience a common mental health problem like anxiety or depression in any given week.

When anxiety becomes chronic, it can significantly impact our daily lives and the lives of those around us. Maintaining relationships, performing at work, or engaging in everyday activities may be challenging. In such cases, seeking professional help and support from friends and family is essential.

Creating a Supportive Environment:

One of the best ways to create a more understanding environment for those struggling with anxiety is to start a conversation. Sharing our thoughts and experiences can help break down mental health stigma and foster a safe space for discussion and understanding.

Here are some ways we can contribute to this conversation:

Share your personal experiences: Open up about your own experiences with anxiety, whether it’s through social media, blog posts, or simply talking to friends and family. Sharing your story can help others feel less alone and encourage them to seek help if needed.

Be empathetic and understanding: Listen to the experiences of others without judgment and offer support when appropriate. Sometimes, just being there to listen can make a significant difference to someone struggling with anxiety.

Educate yourself and others: Learn about the different types of anxiety disorders, their symptoms, and the various treatment options available. Share this information with others to help raise awareness and reduce misconceptions about anxiety.

Encourage open dialogue in the workplace: Talk to your employer about creating a supportive work environment for employees with mental health issues. This could include offering mental health days, providing resources and support, or even organising mental health awareness workshops.

Practice self-care: Supporting your own mental health is essential in supporting others. Develop healthy coping strategies such as exercise, meditation, or time in nature, and encourage others to do the same.

Support mental health organisations: Donate to or volunteer for organisations that provide support and resources for people struggling with anxiety and other mental health issues. Your contribution can make a significant impact on someone.

Be patient and respectful: Remember that everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique, and it can take time for people to manage their symptoms effectively. Be patient with those who are struggling, and always show respect for their feelings and experiences.

Spread the word: Use your social media platforms, your voice, and your actions to help raise awareness about mental health issues. You’re contributing to a more understanding and supportive society by spreading the word.

Create inclusive spaces: Encourage clubs, schools, and other community organisations to create inclusive environments where people with anxiety and other mental health issues can participate without fear of stigma or judgment.

Offer practical help: Sometimes, people struggling with anxiety may need assistance with everyday tasks or activities. Offer to help when you can, as even small gestures can make a big difference in someone’s life.

In conclusion, this Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity for all of us to recognise the impact of anxiety on our lives and those around us. By understanding that anxiety can be beneficial and challenging, we can start a conversation to support each other better and create a more understanding environment. Let’s unite and use our collective strength to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and improve mental health for everyone. Share your thoughts, experiences, and coping strategies in the comments below, and let’s continue this important conversation together. 💚

Are You Willing To Forgo Anything For Your Holiday?

30th May 2022

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Depression employee mental health Sheffield Financial Wellbeing Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Many of us who’ve not been away due to the COVID pandemic are desperate to get away for some summer sun. Surveys and reports in the media suggest a surge in holiday bookings as demand returns to pre-pandemic levels despite household finances facing a squeeze from surging inflation. Tour operator TUI reports that summer bookings are up by 19%.

Holidays can help with anxiety and stress-related problems by giving us time to relax, have downtime and allow us to use the time to find solutions to problems.

Holidays enable us to catch up on much-needed sleep and rest. Whilst we are sleeping, our brains consolidate information and memories from the day, which improves our mental functioning, problem-solving, memory and creativity.

Holidays boost relationships with friends and family. You get to spend quality time with partners and children, strengthening social bonds. Time with your kids also increases their self-esteem and sense of security and enriches family values.

However, for some, the urge to escape and get away, hoping that the life you left behind will improve on their return, can come at a cost.

Brits Spent up to a Quarter of their Annual Disposable Income on Holidays each Year

Nationwide Building Society’s published spending report revealed that Brits spent up to a quarter of their annual disposable income on holidays each year. Many seem to have no desire to restrain this spending. On average we spend £855 per person each time we go away, then there’s 23% who spend £1,000 or more each holiday, and a family of four could end up paying £3,240 per trip and up to £6,840 in total.

Figures are taken from the online website Moneyfacts reports that the UK’s annual median disposable household income is £31,400. The cost of holiday spending can take up to three months’ worth of income, or a quarter of the expenditure. Disturbingly, not everybody has this money to hand.

As a result, 22% reported that they had to borrow the money to go on holiday, including using a credit card, taking out a loan or borrowing money from friends or family members. Contrastingly, 43% managed to pay for their holiday using savings, while 35% used cash from their bank account, and 11% were lucky enough to have family members to finance their holiday break.

88% of those who had to borrow money said that this was the only way that they could afford to go away. With the average Brit then taking three months to pay off this holiday – and 11% even taking more than six months.

Yet over half (51%) of respondents said they weren’t willing to forgo anything for their holiday.

That’s not all 61% overspend by £250 and 11% overspend by £500 or more.

Then there’s an additional 20% who don’t set a budget, who might still regret spending more than their bank accounts can bear. Undoubtedly, money is one of the most significant holiday regrets, with 25% feeling they had spent too much money. 21% said they didn’t have enough money to enjoy themselves, and 20% thought their holiday was too expensive.

Loss Aversion Theory

One of the drivers behind our behaviours and decision making could be linked to the loss aversion theory. Loss aversion is a concept that people hate losses more than they enjoy gains.

A cognitive bias that describes why, for people, the pain of losing is psychologically twice as powerful as the pleasure of gaining. The loss felt from money or any other valuable thing can feel worse than gaining that same thing. Studies demonstrate that it impacts our judgement, preference, and decision-making process.

Wellbeing activities don’t have to cost you the earth. Many of us know the benefit of regular exercise, walking, meditation or participation in numerous leisure pursuits, pastimes and hobbies.

Imagine the delight of planning a holiday not because you need to catch up on much-needed sleep. You’re suffering from anxiety or spending time with the family because you haven’t seen them due to work demands.

The outcome of your time away is much more rewarding when you regularly invest time and money and prioritise your mental health and wellbeing.

If you’re currently suffering from emotional overwhelm due to the rise in the cost of living or are worried about an uncertain future, or you need help to improve your confidence and are not sure where to go.

Send an email to enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk, and I’ll send you a free guide on what to incorporate into your daily routine. Or contact me at 01142 670 081 for a complimentary 40-minute wellbeing review, and I’ll share with you tips that can transform your health and wellbeing when you implement them. Remember, ‘If you do not make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness’.

Rediscover Your Confidence The Antidote To Good Mental Health

1st March 2022

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training Stress Management stress relief Sheffield

JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR

REDISCOVER YOUR CONFIDENCE THE ANTIDOTE FOR GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

If you’re feeling stressed, worried about the future, or the covid experience has affected your confidence business and your family. And looking to start taking back the control COVID took from you. So that you feel more motivated, confident, and back in control of your life again. The rediscover your confidence the antidote to good mental health course is just what you need.

Give yourself credit for what you’ve already achieved and how far you’ve come. You are the type of person who is always looking at improving your mental health and wellbeing, listening to motivational YouTube videos to find solutions to your challenges, subscribing to Headspace or Calm to help you with lack of sleep, stress, depression and anxiety. Or, the alternative – taking a range of prescription drugs for many years to manage your wellbeing, but you don’t seem to be getting any better? And no one seems to get to the root cause of your problems because it keeps recurring? If that sounds like you, then you’re in the right place.

By the end of this program,
you will have…

Good Mental Health
You will feel more motivated, confident, and back in control of your life again so that you’re able to achieve and do the activities that you’ve always wanted to do.
Visible Behavioral Transformation
Clients like you typically see results within 3 to 6 months of taking the course when they follow and implement all the steps.
A Step by Step Framework to Support You
Provide you with a step by step framework and roadmap so that you can navigate back to where you belong. The reason why most people quit is that they don’t have any accountability. What gets measured gets done, following the framework and tools that I provide, will help you to stay on track and achieve your goals.
Discover the Hidden and Deep-Rooted Problems that play Havoc with your Mental Wellbeing
Understanding the root cause of your problem, the issues that have been holding you back for many years and now you have a plan at last to overcome them.
Healthy Coping Strategies for Managing Your Mental Health
Develop healthy coping strategies which will enable you to manage current and future bumps in the road and recognise the signs and symptoms before they surface.

Course Overview

In this five-week course, you will go from feeling stressed, anxious or depressed to feeling more confident and back in control. The covid experience has affected your confidence, business, and your family. You may feel like you’ve forgotten who you are, or you are simply trying to find a new direction in life. Well – if you want to start taking back the control COVID took from you, you’re in luck! In the rediscover your confidence the antidote to good mental health course, you’ll learn essential tools and tips to help you fulfil your true potential.

What People Are Saying

“At the age of fifty-two, you imagine you’ve got most things about life and relationships sorted out. But sometimes.. stuff happens that knocks your heart, soul and spirit about. When this happened to me, I am eternally grateful that it felt right to trust Mike to be able to share what was going on. His extensive experience, balanced blend of coaching and counselling, sensitive listening and varied techniques truly helped me process my feelings and in turn, regain my natural happiness. Thanks Mike.”

Be First to Know When The Doors to Rediscover Your Confidence The Antidote To Good Mental Health Opens!

Get ready for a treat! You’ll receive email alerts for special bonus offers and be notified as soon as the doors open so you get in ahead of the crowd.

Join The Wait List

3 Ways To Look After Your Mental Health When Working From Home

29th January 2022

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Corporate Wellness Programme Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Uncategorised workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

If you’re stuck working from home, unable to see your work colleagues from day to day, you may find yourself struggling with your mental health.

This is understandable, as often, just seeing others can brighten your day. Very few want to be stuck at home all day, let alone have to work from home every day. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule.

Consider these ways to look after your mental health when working from home.

1. Try to Get into a Routine

It can be a challenge and isolating to work from home. Often, you may find your attention wandering, or you may be missing your work colleagues.

A routine can help you focus on your tasks.

Use these strategies:

Have a space for work that is free of any distractions.
Set a routine to get started, take regular breaks, including lunch, and finish work at a reasonable time.
Avoid working in your pyjamas.
Set specific tasks for the day and prioritise them. Do the most important tasks first.
When you finish work, clean up your workspace as you would in an office.
If you’re homeschooling your children, it may be a good idea to let your managers know. You’ll want to set up a routine of when you can work and give your children the attention they need.

2. Keep In Touch With Colleagues

To avoid becoming isolated while working from home, keep in touch with colleagues formally and in a more social one.

Try these techniques:

Discuss with your colleagues when it is best to contact you and try to remain available during these times.
Use MS Teams, Zoom, Google Meet or other video conferencing platforms for formal discussions.
Follow up any video calls with a quick note to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the actions that need to be taken.
You can also use video calling for more informal chats or use other messenger services if it is more appropriate.
Check-in with the rest of the team at the end of the workday to get updates. These updates might be work-related, or you might use this time for personal updates.

Try to keep your work and social life separate. When working from home, it is easy for your work and social life to merge.

Not all of your colleagues will appreciate you sharing everything with them, so respect their boundaries, just as you expect them to respect yours.

3. Use Any Support Available

Working from home can be challenging, so if there is support available, make the most of it:

Many employers will have support available for their employees, with dedicated apps and websites offering support.
Suppose you are currently struggling with a physical or mental health condition. In that case, your employer may be able to make reasonable adjustments to your work schedule, offer additional support from managers or other colleagues, and provide equipment if needed.
Look at the self-care techniques you’ve used that have worked for you in the past. Sometimes, you will have to be flexible, especially if you are stuck at home. For example, if you would usually go to the gym to relieve your issues, you could try working out from home using an online class.

Some people will thrive in that environment while others will struggle. Keep these tips in mind, especially if you’re struggling. They can help you remain productive while you’re stuck at home.

I’ve created an easy, effective, robust system that anyone suffering from a lack of confidence, motivation or resilience could immediately apply and benefit from when they work with me. I help people rediscover their identity to feel physically robust and better equipped mentally; ultimately, they feel better control of their lives.

Please get in touch with me directly for more information about how this can work for you. Email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk or call 0114 2 670 081.

workplace health wellbeing company Sheffield

If You’re Not Growing, You’re Dying

27th February 2021

by Mike Lawrence Confidence

I hope this will inspire and Kickstart your personal growth to improve your mental health, wellbeing and confidence.

Our bodies are refreshing, replacing and regenerating themselves in many ways, all the time. Did you know that the external layer of skin, the epidermis (apart from the thicker dermis beneath), renews itself every 35 days? You receive a new liver every six weeks. Your stomach lining replaces itself every four days, and the stomach cells replaced every 5 minutes. Our whole skeletal structures are regenerated every three months. Your whole brain replaces itself every two months. And the whole of the human body is replaced every 5-7 years.

You only have two possibilities: growth or death. You don’t get to stay the same – because everything changes. Relationships, businesses, the human body never stays the same. They’re either going forward: growing, or they’re dying.

Ralph Waldo Emerson — ‘The mind, once stretched by a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions.’

Our mind, body and spirit are continually adjusting to everything we’re experiencing. Every time we reach a new level of skill in something, that automatically becomes the new norm. Conversely, when we stop studying, exercising or caring, given enough time, we drop behind.

Consider businesses that have failed to evolve due to plummeting profits during the pandemic.

Relationships don’t always stay the same. Both individuals continually need to on the relationship, or it fades and maybe even stops.

Tony Robbins says that if you’re not growing, you’re dying. No wonder he’s addicted to growth, obsessively focused on learning, understanding, and mastering new things, from finance strategies to playing polo. But growth doesn’t require massive changes 24/7 — for many of us, and it’s woven into our daily routine.

Staying the same isn’t staying the same. It’s regressing. If you’re not growing, you’re dying. Below are five tips to consider when it comes to growing that will also boost your confidence:

Lifelong Learning – Studies have discovered that learning throughout our lives can improve self-confidence and increase optimism, life-satisfaction, and belief in our abilities. It can even help those with mental health difficulties, such as anxiety and depression.
You’re The Average Of The Five People You Spend The Most Time With
Motivational speaker Jim Rohn famously said that we are the average of the five people we spend of the time. When it comes to relationships, we are considerably influenced — whether we like it or not — by people close to us. It affects our way of thinking, decisions and self-confidence.
Forgive Past Failings and Learn from Them – Failure is an integral part of life. Not only is the road to success paved with failure, but it’s how you learn best. Learn how to tame your inner critic and start trusting and believing in yourself.
Increase Your Self-Love – I remember ten years ago and sat in a room with a dozen or more therapists when the instructor asked everyone how much they loved themselves out of ten. I think from memory, I said at the time, maybe four. I’ve not been asked that question before, nor have I asked myself that question. Many of us look to our partners, family and friends for love. Will Smith believes he’s not responsible for his wife’s happiness. So, if you were to ask me today, how much do I love myself now? I’d say eight or nine. It’s a work in progress from decades of conditioning, dispelling old beliefs, norms and values. Life is a journey.
Find A Reason to Smile Every Day – Whenever you feel unmotivated, low in confidence or low in morale, find something to smile or laugh about (ex: watch a comedy, listen to music that moves you, connect with a friend who you know will lift your spirits). Suppose you find yourself giving into negative thoughts, painful memories, or overwhelmed with emotions. Empower yourself and commit to 10 minutes of humour, which breaks your state and puts you in a positive frame of mind. Honestly, it works!

Next Steps

I’ve created an easy, effective, powerful system that anyone suffering from a lack of confidence, motivation or resilience could immediately apply and benefit from when they work with me. I help people rediscover their identity so that they feel physically robust and better equipped mentally; ultimately, they feel in better control of their lives.

Please contact me directly for more information about how this can work for you. Email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk or call 07967 052585.

Mike Lawrence - Sheffield Live Radio Interview

Business Live: Jamie Veitch’s Sheffield Live radio show Building workplace wellbeing, confidence and inclusivity with Mike Lawrence

21st December 2020

by Mike Lawrence best life coach Sheffield Confidence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Corporate Wellness Programme employee mental health Sheffield Financial Wellbeing Health and Wellbeing Life coach in Sheffield life coach Sheffield Life Coaching life coaching Sheffield mental health at work Sheffield Stress stress help Sheffield wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Working from home means many business leaders and employees feel isolated; others experience overwhelm and burnout, or never stop working. He has strategies to protect and support you and your colleagues’ health and wellbeing.

Born and raised in a working-class part of Sheffield, Mike now lives in Chesterfield. But as a young man, he had to move to London to access employment opportunities: covert racism in Sheffield proved an enormous barrier. Has that changed? Is the city a better place now for a young Person of Colour?

Mike “could talk for a week about some of the challenges I’ve had to overcome.” Alongside his one-to-one practice in Sheffield, he now works with many corporate firms and large organisations, enabling them to address discrimination, bias and barriers to inclusivity. He describes initiatives and action, underway and needed, to create a level playing field for all.

“It’s important we can still look forward to a great future,” says Mike Lawrence, workplace health and wellbeing consultant.

It’s been a year of immense stress: the pandemic, losses of family and friends, concerns for people’s health, living under restrictions, businesses going under or at risk of it, and horrifying injustices. Mike supports people with depression and experiencing anxiety, so how does he protect himself and what did he do differently this year?

Mike is also frank about a period in his life when his own confidence took a battering and how he addressed this, and describes practical actions you can take to protect and build your own.

Click on the link below to listen to the interview.

Business Live: Jamie Veitch’s Sheffield Live radio show Building workplace wellbeing, confidence and inclusivity with Mike Lawrence

Will Christmas Be Your Tipping Point?

15th December 2020

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Corporate Wellness Programme Financial Wellbeing Health and Wellbeing Stress stress help Sheffield stress relief Sheffield

It’s Christmas! Time off work. Presents to buy. Drinking and eating more than you would normally. Visiting friends, family and loved ones (social distancing regulations allowing). It’s the season of goodwill, cheer, and demanding work priorities.

Cheer is exactly what we need—especially after the year we’ve had, because of the dreadful Covid-19 virus.

Recent feedback from clients, concerning the most significant source of pressure in their lives, showed that the number one challenge is financial security. This is not surprising, given that unemployment has doubled during 2020, and a staggering number of businesses have struggled to survive following various national lockdowns and changes in consumers’ buying habits.

Pre-pandemic, Barclays carried out a survey on the things that keep us awake at night. Bear in mind that these statistics will undoubtedly have worsened due to the fallout of coronavirus.

The study found that 46% of workers were worried about their financial situation. One in five actually lost sleep through their concerns over money. 42% of people who ask for help with their debt take medication to help them cope with the emotional consequences of their money worries.

Barclays also found that inadequate monetary wellbeing among workers decreased their productivity by 4%. The overall cost to businesses in the UK is therefore estimated to be £120 billion per annum—and I reiterate that this will likely equal much more as we stand today.

Many employees feel embarrassed speaking about their monetary concerns in their work environment, particularly so if they’re suffering from financial hardship. Unfortunately, this means employers view such worries as a private matter.

There are indications, however, that change is afoot.

Recent studies reveal that employees want to see companies do more around financial education. One survey indicated that 87% of workers want their company to help with financial literacy.

Both Anglian Water and Barclays have financial health and wellbeing programmes. These enhance levels of financial literacy and provide support when employees’ finances are out of alignment. Financial literacy is a critical component in these organisations’ overall health and wellbeing strategy, and an integral part of their employees’ benefits package.

Today in the UK, the reality is that a considerable percentage of the population is living on the brink—just one payday away from financial catastrophe. Some families may be in an even worse predicament.

Four in ten adults have no more than £500 in savings, while the Office of National Statistics (ONS) highlights that one in eight people have no savings.

They found that many don’t have a safety net or reserves. An unanticipated turn of events, like a severe illness or redundancy, could tip a considerable number of households into financial Armageddon—and that’s exactly what’s happened to a significant number of people during 2020.

So precarious are people’s finances that the Bank of England calculated that even a 2% increase in interest rates could be enough to push some people over the edge.

A typical household in the UK spends more than £2,500 each month. In the run-up to Christmas, our spending habits change dramatically; we spend, on average, an extra £800 in December.

Your tipping point, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is ‘the point at which a series of small changes or incidents becomes significant enough to cause a larger, more important change’.

So, at what point do you take personal responsibility and do something about it—particularly if it’s affecting your performance and wellbeing at work?

The tipping point for a business must be to engage their workforce and implement a health and wellbeing programme that includes financial literacy. To also design a work culture that encourages health through all phases of people’s lives. Considering that we spend most of our life at work, it’s no wonder that we want to believe the business cares about our happiness.

An emphasis on employee health and wellbeing contributes significantly to an employee’s entire interaction within the company. Promoting health and wellbeing is no longer seen as a ‘tick box’ exercise or an initiative that produces quick wins.

Instead, wellbeing promotion assures that your team enjoy, and want to, work. Long-term, this has a hugely positive effect on a business’s performance and improves many different areas—areas that not only improve employee productivity, but which also make money.

If you’re considering implementing or adopting a health and wellbeing programme in 2021, please feel free to get in touch and book your free 40-minute consultation.

Telephone Sheffield 0114 670 081 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

Preserving your Mental Health over the festive period

15th December 2020

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Divorce Coaching Health and Wellbeing Life coach in Sheffield life coach Sheffield life coaching Sheffield stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress relief Sheffield

Preserving your Mental Health over the festive period

The festive break is almost upon us and the countdown to Christmas has well and truly begun. If you’re like me, you may be thinking, “How will I get everything done?” Christmas brings its challenges—particularly this year, with the ever-changing rules around social distancing and who you can have in your bubble. It’s certainly a period of time that many people can find quite stressful.

During a month where energy, money and ‘happy appearances’ are overstretched, unhealthy food and alcohol tend to be readily available. It’s understandable that your mental health may fluctuate.

The pandemic has been one of the biggest challenges many of us have faced in our lifetimes. People have lost loved ones to the virus and other conditions during 2020. The ongoing threat to our lives has seen some people make huge changes, such as beginning divorce proceedings or moving house. Hundreds of thousands of people have been made redundant this year, and the pressure felt by those who run non-essential businesses—as well as employees within the hospitality, travel and tourism sectors—has been significant.

No doubt we’re all looking forward to Christmas this year, given what 2020 has thrown at us. Even though the pandemic has made us truly appreciate our families, disputes can often occur when we spend more time with them.

The following tips will help you manage the Christmas period so that it doesn’t weigh down on your Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Seek Help and Ask for Support

Arguably one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year can be the run-up to the festive break, as you race to clear the workload on your desk and meet your boss’s deadlines. Don’t be afraid to seek help and be realistic with what you’re capable of producing.

Plan Ahead

Evaluate your workload, review everything you’ve got to do. Set a list of priorities and identify what really has to be done before the festive break, and what can be deferred until you return. If you don’t have time to get everything done before you go on leave, speak to your manager to discuss solutions.

Time Management

If new job requests hit your in-tray, don’t feel obliged to take on the work. Manage other people’s expectations when it comes to realistically completing the tasks. They may not have sight of your workload nor be aware of your current schedule, deadlines or priorities.

Take Time Out

Ensure that you take breaks away from your desk or workstation. Exercise and take regular breaks throughout the day are essential for your mental health as well as your physical health. The Pomodoro Technique is a popular time management method to assist you in getting through tasks in short bursts while taking regular breaks that would ordinarily distract you, therefore enabling you to complete them.

Flexible Working

You may want to consider asking for flexible working. Many employers that were previously not keen on allowing such practices have now cottoned on to the benefits that come from their employees working from home, once they were forced to adopt this way of working during lockdown periods.

Manage your working day better by coming in early or staying later, if this is viable, and get your work done during quieter periods.

Christmas and New Year

If you’re working between Christmas and the New Year, have a list of Duty Managers or people that you can contact should you require any assistance. The office tends to be less busy and staffing levels lower over the festive period; some people enjoy working at this time of year, due to fewer distractions that allow them to get more work done. You can also use this time to catch up on projects and that dreaded admin.

Christmas Cheer

Relax, unwind and enjoy. Make sure you treat yourself. Enjoy seeing the people in your bubble and try not to think about work.

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE DO NOT…

…check your work emails unless it’s absolutely essential. If you have to do this, restrict the number of times you do so and consider turning off the respective notifications.

Health and Wellbeing

If you don’t have an exercise routine in place, try not to overindulge on unhealthy food or drink. It’s vital to use your holiday to relax and unwind, but trying to stay active should make returning to work less of a worry.

Plan your Return

Create a list and prioritise important tasks, so you know what you will need to do on your return
It’s advisable to leave a couple of days free from meetings and deadlines so you can hit the ground running on your first day back
If you created a checklist of tasks to complete in the New Year, make an immediate start to gain momentum
Whether you’re returning to work the day after Boxing Day, or you’re taking a longer break, don’t allow your usual routine to slip too much

Hopefully, these tips will help you return to work feeling fully refreshed and energised.

I hope you have a lovely festive break!

If you’re considering raising awareness within your organisation of Mental Health or Health and Wellbeing, please get in touch and book your free 40-minute consultation.

Telephone 0114 670 081 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

2020 Year In Review: Three Celebrated Achievements

13th December 2020

by Mike Lawrence best life coach Sheffield Confidence employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Life coach in Sheffield mental health at work Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Emotions can run high at this time of the year, as Christmas approaches and with the end of the year not too far away.

Are you counting down the days to 2021? A new year with new possibilities, new hope and renewed optimism—where the challenges of 2020 can be put behind us.

Do you wonder what the New Year will have in store for you? Will this be the year that you finally follow your dreams and aspirations and achieve your goals in life? I sure hope so!

Will 2021 bring back some normality and all the things we’ve missed in our daily lives?

Whether making New Year resolutions is your thing or not, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what’s worked for you during 2020, to celebrate your achievements and make plans for the year ahead.

“We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives…not looking for flaws, but for potential.” ~ Ellen Goodman

Three of my Celebrated Achievements of 2020

Losing Six Kilos in Weight

Pandemic weight gain refers to a social acceptance of weight gain during the pandemic.

Life in lockdown has disrupted all our lives, and a substantial number of people gained a lot of weight during this period. Working from home increases the need to panic buy and leads to feelings of guilt about what we’ve eaten—or the exercise we haven’t done.

In a study earlier this year, by King’s College London and Ipsos MORI, 48% of respondents said they’d gained weight during lockdown. The same percentage reported feeling more anxious or depressed than usual, and 29% admitted to drinking more alcohol.

I used lockdown to manage my time more effectively. I created a daily routine and structure, which enabled me to spend more time exercising and preparing healthy meals. This resulted in me losing six kilos, which is the most svelte I’ve been in over ten years. This fantastic feeling gave me the impetus to make changes in all areas of my life, which I’ve maintained throughout the year.

Amazon Best Selling Author; Confidence: How To Have It And Keep It

Hunkering down on January 1st, 2020, New Year’s Day, setting out my vision for the coming year, I have to admit that being the co-author of a book wasn’t on the list.

However, I was encouraged by my mentors, Chris and Karene Lambert-Gorwyn, to get involved with this project, which brought together experts who imparted advice usually reserved for high-paying clients.

In the book, I reflect on times in my life where I felt low in confidence and how I managed to overcome those mental, emotional and physical challenges. I draw on this experience to guide individuals towards building their own confidence, to make successful and life-changing decisions in both their personal and professional lives.

Did You Know Reading Books Can Increase Your Lifespan?

A report published in the journal ‘Social Science & Medicine’ proves just that, when comparing adults who don’t read books with those who read up to 3½ hours each week.

Those who read were 17 % less likely to die over the 12-year follow-up. In further contrast, those who read for more than 3½ hours every week were 23% less likely to die; overall, they lived almost two years longer.

Walking and exercising helped me to lose weight during the pandemic. I live in Chesterfield, famous for the Crooked Spire; before lockdown, I wasn’t aware of the glorious scenery in my area. I largely viewed the environment from the comfort of my car.

On foot, I can take in the views and lush green spaces. I discovered walking paths, routes along the Chesterfield Canal, not forgetting access to the Peak District, which is a given.

I was already a big fan of Audible, with its large selection of audio books. I went into Audible ecstasy and combined my walks with listening to audio books. Let me share with you three of my top audio books that I discovered during lockdown.

The Saint, the Surfer and the CEO, by Robin Sharma

An extraordinary story about ‘Living Your Heart’s Desires’! A practical and powerful process to recreate your life and reconnect with your best self. I highly recommend this book.

Three Feet from Gold Turn Your Obstacles Into Opportunities, by Sharon L. Lechter

This remarkable book shares key success principles of Napoleon Hill’s bestselling book ‘Think and Grow Rich’.

We so often give up on our dreams and goals when we’re close to achieving them. Again, a great book, and I had the pleasure of participating in a live Q&A Sharon hosted as part of the BNI University Business Booster training.

Man’s Search For Meaning, by Viktor Frankl

Viktor Frankl describes how he and others in Auschwitz coped (or didn’t) with the experience.

He observed that it was the men who cared about others, and that those who gave away their last piece of bread survived longer. He offered evidence that everything can be taken from us apart from the ability to choose our beliefs in any circumstance.

Only those who allowed their inner hold on their moral and spiritual selves to subside eventually fell victim to the camp’s degenerating influence—compared to those who turned the experience into an inner triumph.

If you’re feeling disappointed about your year, if you’re uncertain about your future and you’re curious to know how you will benefit from working with me, get in touch to book your free 40-minute consultation.

Telephone 07967 052585 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

What Will You Miss This Christmas?

13th December 2020

by Mike Lawrence best life coach Sheffield Confidence employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Life Coaching Uncategorised wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

This Christmas will be slightly strange for many, as we try to navigate the restrictions that have been imposed because of the pandemic.

Spare a thought for those whose families reside further afield, in different parts of the country—or, in some cases, in other countries.

I hear stories on a daily basis from clients who haven’t seen their loved ones this year, due to travel restrictions and different tier arrangements imposed in different parts of the country.

“I once bought my kids a set of batteries for Christmas, with a note on them saying ‘Toys not included”. Bernard Manning.

I have many friends, relatives and family that live in London and the South East. Ordinarily, at this time of year, I would be booking train tickets, securing favourable rates in hotels, and I’d be packing my suitcase—excited to enjoy some yuletide cheer in the ‘big smoke’.

My diary would be filled with an abundance of ventures, which mainly involve fun, laughter and excitement.

A traditional trip to Winter Wonderland with my daughters, for example, in the heart of London—Hyde Park—where you can immerse yourself in all things festive, and where an array of attractions, activities and entertainment for all ages and visitors can be found.

This would be supplemented by a visit to the theatre; I usually book tickets up to a year in advance. We’ve seen various plays and musicals, such as Memphis, Mamma Mia, Chicago, Ghost, Wicked and the Lion King.

Then there’s ‘Dreamgirls’…

The film, based on the 1981 Broadway play, tells the story of a small, black record label and its star singers. Their success crosses over to the pop charts, and it’s rumoured to be loosely based on The Supremes. The movie received eight Academy Award nominations and won three Golden Globe awards.

This is a family favourite and, potentially, number one in our list of top 10 movies. We made a pact that, if the movie was ever adapted for the West End, we’d get tickets.

So, you can imagine my reaction when I discovered that the play was coming to London. I secretly booked tickets for the Savoy Theatre.

Proud Father moment: walking towards the theatre, in the distance, the girls caught their first glimpse of what was to come that evening. They also had a surprise for me, and they demanded that I open a large, carefully-gift-wrapped box in the theatre stalls.

The smiles on our faces were priceless. Moments like that stay with you for the rest of your life.

Drinks reserved for the interval, souvenir programme purchased, we made our way to the front of the auditorium to be seated. The band started playing, the curtain was raised. It was showtime.

The performers came on stage, singing and dancing, against a backdrop of music and smoke.

‘Bring it on!’ I thought…

However, it didn’t really get going. It seemed rather flat, and certainly not as inspiring as the movie.

The stage adaptation didn’t quite live up to my expectations. In fact, it wasn’t worthy of being in ‘our top 10’. That said, Amber Riley, who played Effie in the lead role, saved the day, due to her incredible voice that ripped through the auditorium. The first act closed with the barnstorming ‘And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going’. Enter, stage right, Jennifer Hudson; click here to listen to her version.

I wondered how my girls felt. We nervously chatted about the film and gave our personal critiques of the performances, as we do. Then the gloves came off. The outcome was unanimous: we thought that the movie was so much better than the stage production.

I’m already seeking out deeds and activities for Christmas 2021 to add to my dream board and bucket list.

I do hope that you all have a wonderful Christmas and that you make the most of what you have and the people around you.

Are you looking to make some changes in your personal or professional life in 2021? Maybe you lack confidence and you’re not sure how you can achieve this. Get in touch with me and book your free 40-minute discovery call.

Telephone 07967 052585 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

Could the Current COVID-19 Pandemic Make Your Seasonal Affected Disorder Worse?

25th November 2020

by Mike Lawrence best life coach Sheffield Confidence Corporate Wellness Programme Life coach in Sheffield life coach Sheffield Seasonal Affective Disorder Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield

Helpful tips for managing Seasonal Affected Disorder—SAD for short, or winter blues—during these uncertain and challenging times.

I hate to say it, but we’re already weeks away from the end of summer.

This year is significantly different for some people; as well as having to manage their Seasonal Affective Disorder, they’re also having to cope with the relentless demands placed on their daily lives due to lockdown—plus, the stress and anxiety of perpetual uncertainty.

I’ve already noticed mood shifts in some of my clients, friends and colleagues.

It’s going to be challenging for people who experience SAD as winter approaches—incredibly difficult, because restrictions imposed by the government will most likely highlight some of the conditions that promote SAD, such as spending less time outdoors.

SAD is a recognised medical condition. You may therefore wish to consult your GP if you believe you might be suffering from the symptoms of SAD and you’re unable to, or trying but struggling to, cope.

SAD is thought to impact two million people in the UK and 10-20% of sufferers do not have any associated symptoms. It’s a concern that afflicts more women than men, and those aged between 40 and 55.

There’s a direct link between SAD and the reduction in daylight hours, due to the lack of sunlight affecting sufferers’ hormone levels and internal body clocks. Symptoms include a lack of energy, increased tiredness, poor motivation, low moods, despair, sleep problems, depression, anxiety and feelings of gloom for no apparent reason—and a craving for carbohydrates and sweet foods, which can lead to weight gain.

With our frenetic lifestyles, we often miss vital signals from the sun, and our body clocks suffer as a result. Without decent light in the morning, our bodies don’t produce the hormones we require to wake and feel alive.

When there is less light in the morning, we can also feel less productive.

Staying up for hours after dark can cause mood and sleep problems. Sleep, our overall activity, and how we feel, are all regulated by our body clocks.

When your body doesn’t get the appropriate light signals, you might feel moody, sluggish, and tired. To counteract this, your body needs to produce active, energetic hormones, so that the negative, withdrawal ones are subdued. Positive hormones help to reset your mood, sleep, and energy cycles, so that you sleep better at night and feel fabulous during the day.

The great news is that a Health and Wellbeing Consultant can help you combat symptoms and implement changes in your lifestyle, with quick results.

A Health and Wellbeing Consultant can help you in the following areas: they can keep you motivated, and support you if you’re suffering from stress, depression or anxiety. They can help you understand why you’re feeling tired all the time (TATT), show you how to manage your mood swings, and offer encouragement if you’re feeling despondent due to the impact of the pandemic.

People have experienced AMAZING transformations during the winter blues when engaging the services of a competent practitioner.

I’ve created an easy, effective, powerful system that anyone suffering from a lack of confidence, motivation or resilience could immediately apply and benefit from when they work with me. I help people rediscover their identity, so that they feel physically robust and better equipped mentally; ultimately, they feel in better control of their lives.

What one thing will you do this winter to take charge of your winter blues?

If you’re feeling SAD and curious about how you will benefit from working with a Health and Wellbeing Consultant, get in touch with me and book your free 40-minute consultation.

Telephone 07967 052585 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

Reflecting on 2023: Celebrating Achievements and Embracing 2024 with Optimism

Achievements

1: Health and Wellness Transformation

2: Skydiving for a Cause

3: Exploring Thailand

Top 3 Audiobooks of 2023

Audiobooks

1: “The Plot”

2: “Stolen Focus”

3: “Derren Brown’s Boot Camp for Life”

Mike Lawrence: Health & Wellbeing Enthusiast and Mental Health Advocate

Supporting Men’s Mental Health: Navigating the Challenges of Today

Data Insights: MeMen’seluctance to Seek Help

Economic Pressures and Mental Health

Consequences of Not Getting Support

The Reasons why Men put of Visiting their GP

Real-Life Client Struggles

Positive Shift: Men Embracing Mental Health First Aid

Navigating the Challenges: 5 Key Steps

Embracing Self-Care: Daily Rituals

In Conclusion: The Power of Conversation

Addressing the Invisible Wounds of Combat through Innovative Approaches

The Benefits of Self-Care in Veteran Mental Health:

Contact Information for Support:

Surviving and Thriving A Year After My Pituitary Tumour Surgery

The Unexpected Turn

The Onslaught of Thoughts

Finding Strength in Focus

Reintegrating with Renewed Emphasis

Speaking Out: Raising Awareness

The Wider Crisis

The Power of Mental Health First Aid

A Call to Action

Join the Conversation

The Rejuvenation Journey

Introduction

A Unique Retreat: Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort Authentic Ayurveda in Thailand

Choosing the AyurYoga Panchakarma 7-night Retreat

Why I Chose Panchakarma

My Treatment Programme

Personal Reflections: More Than Just Treatments

Ayurvedic Doctor

Educational Insights into Ayurveda

Beyond Treatment: Life in Phuket

Testimonials from the Resort Owners

Call to Action: Your Path to Healing

Conclusion

A Brief History of Mental Health Awareness

A Global Perspective on Mental Health

My Thoughts on the Future of Mental Health

The Upside of Anxiety:

Recognising the Impact of Anxiety:

Creating a Supportive Environment:

Here are some ways we can contribute to this conversation:

Brits Spent up to a Quarter of their Annual Disposable Income on Holidays each Year

Loss Aversion Theory

REDISCOVER YOUR CONFIDENCE THE ANTIDOTE FOR GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

By the end of this program, you will have…

Course Overview

What People Are Saying

Be First to Know When The Doors to Rediscover Your Confidence The Antidote To Good Mental Health Opens!

1. Try to Get into a Routine

2. Keep In Touch With Colleagues

3. Use Any Support Available

Preserving your Mental Health over the festive period

Seek Help and Ask for Support

Plan Ahead

Time Management

Take Time Out

Flexible Working

Christmas and New Year

Christmas Cheer

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE DO NOT…

Health and Wellbeing

Plan your Return

Three of my Celebrated Achievements of 2020

Losing Six Kilos in Weight

Amazon Best Selling Author; Confidence: How To Have It And Keep It

The Saint, the Surfer and the CEO, by Robin Sharma

Three Feet from Gold Turn Your Obstacles Into Opportunities, by Sharon L. Lechter

By the end of this program,
you will have…