One of the essential elements of medical treatment is that the patient takes their medication. Why then do so many people choose not to follow medical advice and simply throw in the towel part way into their treatment? We're not just talking about minor ailments, some people with the most chronic conditions are the worst... Read more
Medical procedures vary greatly as to the extent of intrusiveness and complexity. Despite this even the simplest procedures can generate high levels of anxiety in patients. Unfamiliar surroundings and smells, strange people speaking in jargon and lack of understanding as to what is happening and why are just some of the reasons people feel... Read more
The clinical applications for hypnosis are well established and are used by a variety of therapists for different purposes. The technique varies somewhat but typically involves a preliminary phase of assessment, rapport building and dealing with any misconceptions the patient or client may have about hypnosis. The next phase will be along the... Read more
Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is a form of intervention used as soon as possible after exposure to trauma in order to reduce symptoms and prevent post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). At its most basic, it is a form of psychological debriefing that can be traced as far back as the First World War. Techniques were originally devised... Read more
We use the term depression to mean a great many things. People might say they feel depressed because their jeans no longer fit. They may feel depressed because a favorite TV series has just finished. The use of the term in these situations is pretty tongue in cheek, but even within the context of mental health, the experience of... Read more