top of page

Blog
NEWS, INSIGHTS & MENTAL HEALTH GUIDANCE
Mental health news, expert insights and practical guidance from the qualified therapists, supporting wellbeing, education, and understanding.


Why Rising Absence Costs Should Spark a New Conversation About Wellbeing at Work
Insights from the 2026 WTW Absence Management Survey and what it means for your people strategy Employee absence has shifted from a transactional HR metric to a strategic business concern that affects productivity, morale and organisational resilience. According to the 2026 Absence Management Survey from WTW, more than half (55%) of UK organisations now report difficulty managing the financial and operational impact of rising absence and disability-related costs. Mental he
Alan Stokes
Feb 205 min read


Parental Alienation Help UK: Support and Resources in the UK
Parental alienation is a painful experience that affects many families. It happens when one parent manipulates a child to reject the other parent, often during or after a separation or divorce. This can leave the targeted parent feeling isolated, confused, and desperate for help. If you’re facing this challenge, you’re not alone. There are ways to find support and resources in the UK that can guide you through this difficult time. Understanding Parental Alienation and Finding
Alan Stokes
Feb 184 min read


Understanding the True Value of Counselling: Overcoming Barriers and Finding the Right Support
When it comes to seeking help for our mental health and wellbeing, many of us face invisible barriers. These barriers often come from within—our own brains, past experiences, and perceptions about counselling. It’s easy to feel unsure or hesitant about reaching out. But what if I told you that changing how you see counselling could make all the difference? By understanding what you truly need and recognising the long-term benefits, you can find the right support more easily a
Alan Stokes
Feb 184 min read


Maximising the Impact of Workplace Mental Health Training: Unlocking Mental Health Training Benefits
Mental health is a topic that’s finally getting the attention it deserves. More workplaces are recognising the importance of supporting their teams’ well-being. But it’s not just about ticking a box or running a one-off session. To truly make a difference, we need to maximise the impact of workplace mental health training. I want to share some insights and practical tips on how to do just that, so you can help create a healthier, more supportive environment for everyone. Unde
Alan Stokes
Feb 173 min read


Mental Wellness Through Therapy: Transformative Benefits of Personal Therapy
When life feels overwhelming, and the weight of stress, anxiety, or emotional struggles starts to build up, seeking personal therapy can be a powerful step toward healing. I want to share with you how therapy can transform your mental wellness and overall quality of life. It’s not just about talking; it’s about discovering new ways to cope, grow, and find peace within yourself. Embracing Mental Wellness Through Therapy Therapy offers a safe space where you can explore your fe
Alan Stokes
Feb 164 min read


Therapy for Building Self-Worth: A Path to Lasting Confidence
Feeling good about yourself is something many of us strive for. But sometimes, life’s challenges can chip away at our confidence and sense of value. That’s where therapy can make a real difference. It’s a gentle, supportive way to rebuild your self-worth and find a stronger, kinder relationship with yourself. In this post, I’ll share how therapy helps boost self-worth, practical steps you can take, and why it’s a journey worth starting. Understanding Therapy for Building Self
Alan Stokes
Feb 114 min read


Relationship Communication Strategies: Communicating Needs Effectively in Relationships
When it comes to building strong, healthy relationships, communication is the foundation. Yet, many of us struggle with expressing what we truly need. Whether it’s with a partner, a close friend, or a colleague, knowing how to share your needs clearly and kindly can transform your connections. I want to share some practical insights and gentle advice on communicating needs effectively in relationships. This is especially important for anyone navigating mental health challenge
Alan Stokes
Feb 114 min read


How Your Mental and Physical Health Are Connected — and Why Caring for Both Matters
It is common to think of mental health and physical health as separate parts of life. One relates to the body, the other to the mind. In reality, they are deeply connected — and each one constantly influences the other.
Alan Stokes
Feb 105 min read


Horizon Counselling: Mental Health Counselling Plymouth
Mental health is something we all need to pay attention to. Life can throw challenges our way, and sometimes, it’s hard to manage those feelings alone. That’s where professional support comes in. If you’re in Plymouth and looking for a place to turn to, Horizon Counselling offers a warm, welcoming space to help you navigate your mental health journey. Whether you’re an individual, part of a couple, a young person, or a workplace seeking to support your team, there’s something
Alan Stokes
Feb 94 min read


Anxiety Management Approaches for Everyday Life
Living with anxiety can feel overwhelming at times. It’s like having a constant background noise that distracts you from enjoying the moment. But the good news is, there are simple, effective ways to manage anxiety day-to-day. I want to share some practical tips and gentle strategies that have helped many people find calm and balance. Whether you’re dealing with occasional worries or more persistent anxiety, these approaches can support you in feeling more in control and at e
Alan Stokes
Feb 64 min read


How Therapists Can Struggle — and How They Manage Their Own Mental Health
Therapists are often seen as calm, grounded, and emotionally steady. They are the ones people turn to in times of distress, confusion, and crisis. Yet therapists are human too — and they can struggle with their own mental health in much the same way as anyone else. At Horizon Counselling Services , we believe it’s important to talk openly about this. Not to blur boundaries or overshare, but to offer reassurance, reduce stigma, and help clients understand that needing support
Alan Stokes
Feb 34 min read


Workplace Wellbeing Training: Unlocking the Benefits for Everyone
When we think about a healthy workplace, mental health often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Yet, it’s just as important as physical safety or skills training. I’ve seen how investing in workplace wellbeing training can transform not only individuals but entire teams. It creates a space where people feel supported, understood, and ready to face challenges with resilience. Let’s explore why this kind of training matters so much and how it can benefit everyone involved.
Alan Stokes
Feb 23 min read


Why Counselling Can Sometimes Hold You Back — and How a Solution-Focused Approach Can Help
Counselling is often described as a place to talk, explore the past, and understand yourself better. For many people, this can be deeply helpful. But for others, something unexpected happens: despite months (or even years) of therapy, they begin to feel stuck. At Horizon Counselling Services , we regularly meet adults who say things like: “I understand myself better, but nothing’s actually changed.” “I keep going over the same things.” “I feel more aware — but not more confid
Alan Stokes
Feb 14 min read


The Benefits of Online Counselling for Depression
Living with depression can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, reaching out for help feels like the hardest step. But what if you could access support from the comfort of your own home? That’s where online counselling for depression comes in. It’s a flexible, accessible way to get the help you need without added stress. Why Choose Online Counselling for Depression? Online counselling offers a unique blend of convenience and comfort. You don’t have to worry about travel time or fitt
Alan Stokes
Jan 274 min read


How CBT for Depression Strategies Can Help Alleviate Depression
Depression can feel like a heavy cloud that follows you everywhere. It saps your energy, dims your joy, and makes even simple tasks seem overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt stuck in this way, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves searching for effective ways to manage their mood and regain control of their lives. One approach that has helped countless individuals is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT. In this post, I want to share how CBT for depression strategies ca
Alan Stokes
Jan 264 min read


Managing Anxiety in Plymouth: Your Guide to Better Well-being
Learn practical anxiety management strategies to calm your mind, reduce overthinking, and regain control of your thoughts and feelings.
Alan Stokes
Jan 254 min read


Chiropractic, the Nervous System, and Mental Wellbeing
Could the path to mental clarity and emotional calm begin with your spine’s ability to move and communicate?
Alan Stokes
Jan 213 min read


Building a Mentally Healthy Workplace: Workplace Mental Health Tips
Creating a workplace where everyone feels supported and valued is more important than ever. When mental health is prioritised, people can thrive, productivity improves, and the whole environment becomes more positive. But how do we build a mentally healthy workplace? It’s about small, consistent actions that show care and understanding. Let’s explore some practical ways to make this happen. Why Mental Health Matters at Work We spend a big part of our lives at work. It’s where
Alan Stokes
Jan 203 min read


Making Friends as an Adult: Why It’s Hard and What Can Make It Easier
Making friends as an adult can feel surprisingly difficult. Many people reach their 30s, 40s, or beyond and quietly wonder why something that once felt natural now feels awkward, effortful, or even impossible. At Horizon Counselling Services, we regularly hear adults say: “Everyone else seems to have their circle already.” “I wouldn’t even know where to start.” “I feel lonely, but reaching out feels uncomfortable.” “I don’t want to come across as needy or odd.” If this resona
Alan Stokes
Jan 205 min read


RSD and ADHD: What You Can Do to Manage These Feelings.
Struggling with RSD and ADHD? Learn practical, expert-led strategies to manage rejection sensitivity and emotional overwhelm.
Alan Stokes
Jan 154 min read
bottom of page
