Education
Join our host, Alice Lyons, as she tackles the frustrating and, at times, dangerous myths that plague the mental health conversation. Alice also offers some key points to consider surrounding the language we use when discussing mental health topics. Also discussed: (00:56) Introduction to the episode. (03:01) Mental health myth number one: ‘the broken brain’. The ignorant idea that all mental health illnesses are due to something going ‘wrong’ in the brain, thus ignoring all possible societal and economic issues that may be contributing to a poor state of mental health. Alice focuses on a more holistic approach from the biopsychosocial model. (08:39) Mental health myth number two: suicide is solely a male issue. Male suicide rates are alarmingly high and are a massive problem in the UK that we all need to tackle. We need to look at our society, the messages that men receive and what their home life is like. However, suicide attempts are higher in women. This generally seems to be due to the different methods chosen, for example women choose slower acting methods and therefore have a better chance of successful emergency medical intervention. (12:46) Alice discusses the importance of shining a light on all suicide, including those from the LGBTQ+ community. In particular trans suicide rates are extremely high, yet largely excluded from the suicide conversation. (14:25) Mental health myth number three: can’t we just be more positive? Although this comes from a good place, this mentality can be dangerous. If we are always positive we are neglecting a large part of the human experience. Negative emotions are normal. We should be able to effectively process and express our emotions. (19:56) Alice briefly talks about the workshops and coaching plans she has on offer and the limited spaces that are left (so get in there quickly)! There will be some new exciting group coaching programmes coming out in the new year. You can gain priority access through signing up to our newsletter, which can be found on our website. (23:26) Mental health myth number four: “I’ve never struggled with my mental health personally”. As a society, we have created a myth that mental health is solely associated with disorders and illnesses. For some reason we ignore the basics. How do we deal with stress, heartache and maintaining our wellbeing? This is all to do with our mental health. (28:08) Mental health myth number five: mental health is a bad thing. Very much tied into the previous point, we seem to think that mental health is all doom and gloom! Mental health can be positive, we can build each other up and give people the knowledge and skills to help them feel their best more often. These are very much the ideas that the field of positive psychology promote, the importance of playing to our strengths rather than focusing on our ‘weaknesses’. (32:51) Closing comments. -------------------------------------------------------------- Dark Coffee starts brave and bullshit-free conversations around mental health, wellbeing and business. Join wellbeing advocate Alice Lyons as she attempts to normalise the conversation around mental health, from suicide to satisfaction and everything in between. Dark Coffee aims to create a safe space to explore dark topics with curiosity and compassion. Join the conversation by sharing this episode, subscribing to the podcast or following Alice across social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicelyons/ Instagram: @dark.coffee.wellbeing Dark Coffee provide mental health training for SME’s and professionals. To find out more, take a look at our website or get in touch: www.darkcoffee.co.uk Your reviews will help Dark Coffee reach more people. If you like what you've heard, please consider leaving a review to help spread the conversation further. Podcast presented by Alice Lyons. Music Credit: ‘Infinite Landscape’ by Corinne. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Suicide and Emotional Support Organisations - UK Samaritans: Confidential suicide discussion and emotional support. Free helpline available round the clock. Text - 116123. Call - 08457 909090 Email - jo@samaritans.org. Website - www.samaritans.org Mind: Support and information for anyone suffering from a mental health issue. 0300 123 3393 Website - Mind.org.uk Saneline: Practical information, crisis care and emotional support to people affected by mental health concerns. Helpline: 0845 767 8000, open daily from 6pm – 11pm.