Professor Jim Lucey and others contribute to an Irish Times article exploring the topic of modern talk therapies (and mental health) in an Irish context.
Misconceptions, confusion, difficulties with access and stigma seem to be still big issues in Ireland when examining the topic of modern Irish Psychotherapy.
Over the past seven years my community based work as a therapist and in advocacy roles has put me face to face with the harsh effects of economic recession.
I have worked with many individuals & families experiencing first hand the effects of sudden homelessness, unexpected unemployment and serious accommodation issues to name but a few.
These experiences have repeatedly brought home to me how economic recession and the “boom bust” nature of the business cycle has serious implications for the nations mental health.
As we experience a new part of this cycle, it is worth pausing to think about whether our current approach to areas like health, housing and employment has evolved at all in light of recent experiences.
This becomes more urgent when considering impending changes to global corporate tax policy, Brexit and our growing/ageing population are all likely to figure in the next phase of this cycle.
This article highlights results of research led by Trinity College Dublin (based on the Growing Up in Ireland study) and puts some data and context behind the discussion.
Rapid developments in neuroscience are increasing knowledge of how the brain responds to different mental health interventions.
The below article explains recent research using a functional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) brain scan to explore how some clients may respond better to talk therapy and others to medication when tacking depression.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/03/170324083023.htm
Psychotherapist Karl Melvin explores practical tips for managing anger in this article from the journal.ie
Anger management is a complex issue & can be linked to many other underlying concerns, as varied as stress, insomnia, substance abuse and relationship problems.
For more information & support with anger management please feel free to make contact to explore options to help tackle this often destructive mental health concern.
In a week where the medicinal cannabis bill was passed by the Dail in Ireland, here is an article on how an active ingredient of another illegal drug (ecstasy) is being revisited for possible medicinal application – this time in order to treat PTSD (post traumatic stress syndrome).
It is worth noting that the application of MDMA in this trial is in conjunction with talk therapy. This is not unusual approach when tackling mental health presentations, talk therapy alongside anti anxiety/depressant medication is a well established treatment for anxiety & depression.
Talk Therapy Dublin 