CAMHS Talk

Episode 49 - Men in Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Fri, 02 May 2025 12:19:37 +0100

In this episode, co-hosts Marianne and Jay explore what men's mental health looks like for male service users and clinicians. They are joined by Jawad, Zawad, Tyrone and Shibs to discuss the barriers to men's mental health and how they have been individually working to break these down in their lives. They are all open and candid about their own experiences and share insights into their role models, as well as working in the field of mental health as a man.

Resources:

Get it off your chest: report on men's mental health | Mind - Mind

https://bedsrcc.org.uk/2023/01/meet-men-exercise-engage-talk-project-launches-in-bedford/

https://toughenoughtocare.help/

https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/

https://www.thecalmzone.net/

https://www.mensmindsmatter.org/

Get help for your symptoms - NHS 111

Episode 48 - Comedy for Coping

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:26:45 +0100

In this podcast our host Sassie is joined by young person Ash, to talk to the incredible comedians Dave Chawner

and Juliette Burton, about how comedy has changed their mental health journey and the how the topic of mental health fits into comedy.

Episode 47 - Coping without Structure in the Summer

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 16:38:00 +0100

In this episode, young people Suzie & Madie join host Marianne to explore how losing structure and routine during the summer break can impact well-being. Both Suzie and Madie use their personal experience with this to share useful advice that helped them create structure while making sure they were still rested and relaxed during the break.

If you are looking for local offers in your community to get engaged with, please search on your local council's website, we've added a few links for those in the Bedfordshire area below:

Bedford Local Offer

Bedford Borough Summer of SEND 2024 | Bedford Local Offer

School holiday activities (luton.gov.uk)

Links and videos | Central Bedfordshire Council

Children & Young People | BeActive (beactivebeds.co.uk)

Gratitude Journal:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S6iJz8LEEedJ1jJpuSBbO8bbAoX4BMtMwHzVz_IpVx4/copy

Episode 46 - Movement and Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 12:05:49 +0100

Co-hosts Marianne and Molly are joined by young people and a dance movement psychotherapist to discuss this year’s mental health awareness theme: movement. They share the impact it has on their mental health and well-being, what barriers there are to accessing movement and how to overcome these, plus some tips on how to get movement into your everyday life.

Resources:

https://www.rainbowbedfordshire.co.uk/

https://www.parkrun.org.uk/

https://www.lta.org.uk/

https://www.beactivebeds.co.uk/

https://www.totalwellbeingluton.org/exercise-on-referral.html

Episode 45 - Living with ARFID

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 13 May 2024 16:06:29 +0100

Co-hosts Aisling and Leah are joined by Talia and Paola who use their lived experience and clinical knowledge to share what it's like to have ARFID. They discuss the symptoms, diagnosis process and what support is out there for people with ARFID. it is so important to highlight this discussion which is so informative, up to date and relatable as ARFID is a lesser known condition. This is why it was the theme for this year's Eating Disorders Awareness Week.

This podcast contains the words anorexia, gagging and vomiting.

Please visit https://bebodypositive.org.uk/ for information and resources around ARFID

Tahlia's Twitter/ X can be found: https://twitter.com/tahliapaiged

Episode 44 – Living with Dyspraxia

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:57:08 +0000

In this episode, young people Madie, Zoe & Zawad join trainee clinical psychologist Leighton and host Marianne, to deep dive into the topic of Dyspraxia. They share their unique experiences with discovering their diagnosis and take us on a personal journey of understanding how Dyspraxia affects their daily lives. Some of them had their diagnoses quite recently and talk about advocating for their health when they saw the signs, it’s inspirational to hear how their diagnosis finally helped them make sense of their world and understanding themselves.

Episode 43 – Living Pride

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:41:45 +0100

In this podcast, our host Molly talks to young people Az and Ash, who are joined by CAMHS staff Sassie, Mack and Jay to reflect post-Pride month about what pride means to them. Listen in on the conversation as each person explores from their personal experience, their journey to PRIDE.

Gender dysphoria: a sense of unease that a person may have because of a mismatch between their biological sex and their gender identity. (NHS)

Gender euphoria: comfort/joy that happens when gender expression is aligned with identity.

Rainbow capitalism: when companies commercialise and claim to support the rights of the LGBTQ+ community (especially during Pride) mainly for profit and improved brand image.

Resources:

Rainbow Bedfordshire: #RainbowBedfordshire | East London NHS Foundation Trust (elft.nhs.uk)
Contact Rainbow Bedfordshire: elft.rainbowbedfordshire@nhs.net
Better Days for BLMK: @betterdaysblmk across all social media
Pride in Luton: https://prideinluton.org/

Episode 42 – Talking about Self Harm and Scars

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 17:55:45 +0100

In this Podcast Marianne and Molly are joined by Young People Alex and Maiya, to discuss self harm, the misconceptions and how to take care of yourself. They are also joined by Bongi, a CAMHS nurse who offers their unique perspective. The podcast looks at defining self-harm in a subjective way and dispelling harmful rhetoric surrounding misconceptions. The young people offer their advice and resources they’ve found helpful. Below are some of the resources mentioned in the podcast: *TW*: This podcast may contain sensitive content, while we intend for our podcasts to be educational and insightful, our priority is your well being. If you feel overwhelmed by the content, please do take a break from listening in order to care for your well being. Resources: Text “Reflect” to 85258 – if you’re feeling anxious, lonely, overwhelmed or not quite yourself – FREE and anonymous The Butterfly Project – https://www.elysiumhealthcare.co.uk/butterflyproject/

Episode 41 – Exam Stress during Exam Season

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Thu, 25 May 2023 15:56:46 +0100

In this Podcast Molly and Marianne are joined by Young People Leah and Sharmin, to discuss exam stress and surrounding issues. Looking at their own experiences with exam seasons and their coping strategies, the CAMHS team and Young People explore available support, the importance of boundaries and mental health, as well as give advice to teachers and parents on how best to support Young People during these stressful times.

Episode 40 – LGBTQ+ Safety & Resources

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 11:25:59 +0000

In this episode, we introduce Molly as a new host, joined by Ash, Mack, Jay and Sassie to discuss LGBTQ+ community safety. We highlight the importance of safe spaces and how to create an accessible and comfortable environment for LGBTQ+ people. We also share experiences of feeling supported, genuine allyship and gestures of validation.

Gender dysphoria: a sense of unease that a person may have because of a mismatch between their biological sex and their gender identity. (NHS)

Gender euphoria: comfort/ joy that happens when gender expression is aligned with identity.

Rainbow capitalism: when companies commercialise and claim to support the rights of the LGBTQ+ community (especially during Pride) mainly for profit and improved brand image.

Contact Rainbow Bedfordshire: elft.rainbowbedfordshire@nhs.net

Better Days for BLMK: @betterdaysblmk across all social media

Pride in Luton

https://prideinluton.org/

Luton Sexual Health

https://www.lutonsexualhealth.org.uk/info-advice/lgbtq/

Q Youth

https://www.qalliance.org.uk/youth-services/

[00:00] Introductions [01:40] What are Safe Spaces? [05:15] Allyship and Activism, actual vs toxic [12:47] Validation and Acceptance [27:00] Fear of going out/ Non-Safe Spaces [37:45] Local Safe Spaces [42:40] Outro

Episode 39 – Autism in Females

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 21:12:28 +0100

Co-hosts Marianne and Kim are joined by three young people, Maddie, Sam and Zoe, with lived experience of autism to discuss the misconceptions of autism in females, experiences at school and tips on how to better support people with autism. They are also joined by Tyrone and Freya from the Mental Health Schools Team who work with young people in schools.

Abbreviations used throughout
ASC: Autism Spectrum Condition
ASD: Autism Spectrum Disorder (Old Term)
MHST: Mental Health Schools Team
EHCP: Education, Health and Care Plan.
TA: Teaching Assistants

Immie Swain: How to spot signs of Autism in pupils https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8hrFwfhwNw

The Times Educational Supplement: ‘Lack of teacher training ‘hitting autistic pupils’ education’
https://www.tes.com/magazine/news/general/lack-teacher-training-hitting-autistic-pupils-education

[00:00:22] Introductions
[00:06:06] Misconceptions of Autism in Females
[00:11:19] Masking
[00:14:43] The Effects of Age of Diagnosis
[00:18:07] Autism Diagnosis and School Support
[00:23:30] Strategies for coping with Autism
[00:30:40] Sensory Overloads
[00:35:00] Bullying
[00:40:18] Special Interests
[00:43:04] Outro

Episode 38 – Mental Health in the Media

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 12:14:40 +0100

Episode 37- Learning to Cope with Exams

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 09 May 2022 09:49:01 +0100

In this episode we meet Marianne, who will be sharing CAMHSTalk hosting duties alongside Niki and Aisling moving forward, and discuss everyone’s favourite thing… exams! Marianne and Aisling are joined by Molly and Shana to share their experiences of exams (before and after COVID), the importance of looking after your mental health and share helpful advice as we head into exam season.

Aisling Callaghan- Participation Lead
Marianne Bahadur- Participation Worker
Shana- ex CAMHS service user
Molly- ex CAMHS service user

Episode 36- Living with Depression

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:38:00 +0100

Trigger warning: This episode explores depression and references suicide, please look after yourself and exercise self care when listening.

In this episode, Niki and Aisling are joined by Keeley, Ashleigh, Jay and Shana to discuss depression. We talk about our experiences of depression and how it has impacted our lives, including masking our feelings and symptoms our friends and family noticed. We also share helpful ways we have found to cope, what people can do to help and support, and our experiences accessing therapy and medication.

Niki Scott- CAMHS Participation Lead
Aisling Callaghan- CAMHS Participation Lead
Keeley- CAMHS service user
Ashleigh- CAMHS service user
Shana- ex CAMHS service user
Jay- ex CAMHS service user

Episode 35- Living with Dyslexia

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 09:33:02 +0100

In the latest edition of CAMHSTalk, Aisling is joined by Saskia, Shana and Kat to talk about dyslexia. We discuss what our dyslexia looks like, experiences of getting diagnosed and how it has impacted education. We also talk about all the things we are able to achieve as a result of our brain working slightly differently.

Aisling Callaghan- CAMHS Participation Lead
Kat Fusco- Professional Lead for Arts Therapies for CAMHS
Shana- CAMHS service user
Saskia- CAMHS service user

Episode 34- Living With Anxiety

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 12:35:02 +0100

After a short break, we’re back! Join Niki, Chloe, Madie and Alex this episode for a conversation about living with anxiety. We discuss what anxiety is, what panic is, how it affects our lives and helpful ways to manage our anxiety.

Episode 33 – User Participation and co-production

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 16:57:34 +0000

In the latest edition of our CAMHSTalk podcast Niki Scott, CAMHS Participation Lead is joined by Shana, Lucy, Safa and Molly for a discussion about participation and coproduction. In a bid to encourage other young people to get involved and have their say, our service users talk about the projects they have been involved in and how they have benefitted from having a platform to share their views and opinions.

Episode 32 – Music and Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 14:27:16 +0000

Aisling, Sam and Shalhavit have worked together to develop a song and music video about mental health: Mental Obstacles Can Enlighten You. In this podcast, we explore the importance of sharing mental health support and information in a meaningful and relevant way and reflect on the process of song writing, editing and the importance of creativity and mental health. Aisling- CAMHS Participation Lead Shalhavit- Simcha Cohen- PhD researcher musician Sam- CAMHS service user

Episode 31 – Let’s talk about Dialectical Behavioural Therapy…

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 11:15:50 +0100

In this episode we explore Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, commonly known as DBT. We are joined by Sue Hollingsworth who discusses the therapy from a professional perspective, and Chloe who shares her insights as a young person who has experienced the therapy. We talk about what the therapy involves, who might access DBT and the different, our experiences and how it compares to other interventions. This episode explores treatment options within our CAMHS service and our personal experiences. Sue Hollingsworth- CAMHS Practitioner Chloe Fleckney- CAMHS service user

Episode 30 – Summer of SEND in Central Bedfordshire

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:29:23 +0100

Councillor Sue Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families Schools, Sue Harrison, Director of Children’s services, Fiona Side, Head of 0-12 Family Service and Howard Hughes Active Lifestyles Manager discuss the range of exciting and unforgettable activities and adventures this summer holiday. There’s something for every member of the family with a range of inclusive and specific activities for all. Summer of SEND programme.pdf | Powered by Box

Episode 28 – Digital Diagnosis and Neurodiversity

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 00:30:00 +0100

Professionals, parents and young people across Bedfordshire and Luton have joined forces to utilise their expertise and collaborate in the development of a co-produced 'Diagnosis Support Pack' - a one stop place for information, support, guidance in multi media format in the lead up to, or following a diagnosis of a neurodiversity. In this podcast we discuss how, why and what the diagnosis support pack is all about and the journey that went in to its creation.

The Diagnosis Support Pack can be found here: https://www.cambscommunityservices.nhs.uk/beds-luton-community-paediatrics/diagnosis-support-pack

Episode 25- Co-production in Central Bedfordshire

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 22:04:27 +0100

In this CAMHSTalk Podcast, our Service User Participation Lead Niki Scott talks to Lydia Rosseter from Cambridgeshire Community Services, Lisa Leonard, head teacher of The Chiltern School and Marcia McKnight from Central Beds Council. We talk about how co-production enables, empowers and supports better outcomes for children, young people, families and professionals in Central Bedfordshire. https://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/info/133/improving_send_services/833/progress_so_far/4 https://centralbedfordshire.app.box.com/s/jh8bak7040ixeyz8hs9xhk9cf8hc1ata

Episode 24 – Bedford Borough summer of SEND

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 20:22:18 +0100

In this episode, Niki talks with Bedford Borough Parent Carer Forum, Chief Education Officer Ben Pearson, Councillor James Valentine and our Local Offer Officer about the Summer of SEND. After a really challenging 16 months for families and young people, Bedford Borough have organised a fantastic and engaging summer of events and activities. SEND is everyone's responsibility so listen in to see how you can GET INVOLVED. Here's the link to the Summer of SEND page on the Local Offer website: https://localoffer.bedford.gov.uk/kb5/bedford/directory/site.page?id=Iuldx0e38aA Twitter handles: Bedford Local Offer - News and events for children and young people with SEND in Bedford Borough and their families. RT does not mean endorsement. Replies during office hours.- @bedfordlocalof1 BBPCF - An independent forum for parent carers of children & young people with disabilities or SEN to participate in developing and influencing local services. @BedsBoroughPCF James Valentine - Labour Councillor for Kempston West, Lead Member for Education & Children's Services, Bedford Borough Council - @JamesEValentine

Episode 23 – The effects of lockdown on mental health. A discussion with Dr Uttom Chowdhury

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 00:30:20 +0100

The second in a three-part series discussing the effects of COVID 19 and lockdown restrictions on the wellbeing of young people. Aisling and Ava met Doctor Uttom Chowdhury, an expert consultant child and adolescent psychiatric who specialises in neurodevelopmental disorders and works at CAMHS. We discuss how the pandemic has affected people’s wellbeing with a particular focus on tics and Tourette’s and Uttom shares his words of wisdom and support for families.

Episode 22 – The effects of lockdown on mental health. A discussion with Professor Tamsin Ford.

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 15:17:07 +0100

The first in a three-part series discussing the effects of COVID 19 and lockdown restrictions on the wellbeing of young people. As lockdown restrictions began to ease, hosts Aisling and Ava were joined by Professor Tamsin Ford, professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Cambridge and an internationally renowned child psychiatric epidemiologist. Listen to find out what all that means, and hear us discuss the data around how the wellbeing of young people has been affected by the pandemic and the support available to young people.

Episode 21 – Using virtual creative activities to manage mental health..

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 25 May 2021 11:53:28 +0100

Throughout lockdown, Bedfordshire and Luton CAMHS have experimented with running groups virtually. One of the most successful formats has been virtual group creative sessions. These have built on the principles of art therapy and brought young people together to make art via Zoom. In this podcast, the staff and young people involved in a group that ran at the start of the year discuss how the sessions worked and what we got out of attending.

Episode 20 – How we made our mental health film ‘Not Alone’..

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 11:52:48 +0000

In this episode, we talk about how some of our service users had the opportunity to work with IntoFilm, an organisation who ‘put film at the heart of the educational and personal development of children and young people.’ Over the course of 7 weeks, we attended film making workshops that taught us what is involved in film making, how to develop characters, write scripts and plan our camera shots to produce a film together about mental health. Not Alone follows 3 young people’s different mental health struggles, united by the fact they are not going through them alone. From exam stress, to anxiety, and fear of isolation: the young people all experience varied personal struggles and have different ways of coping. Through exploring these difficult feelings, they realise that they are not alone in these experiences. This film was made as part of the Into Film Moving Minds 2 Filmmaking Project. Young people aged between 11 and 19 were given the opportunity to work with professional filmmakers to devise and create their own short film. Watch the film here: https://vimeo.com/506015431 Find out more about IntoFilm here: https://www.intofilm.org/

Episode 19 – The benefits of exercise on mental health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 12:37:03 +0000

In this episode, Aisling is joined by professionals and young people to discuss the mental health benefits of physical exercise. We discuss the pressure to exercise in lockdown, some of the barriers to exercise we have encountered the past year and the pros and cons of the options that are available to us online. Today's episode is hosted by: Aisling Callaghan - User participation lead for Luton CAMHS We are joined by: Jade Horsley who is the Satellite Club Link Officer for Team Beds and Luton Rob Lindsay, Sports Development Officer for Bedford Borough Council Racheall Monton, yoga instructor Claire Rourke- Clinical Trial Manager, Ready Trial, University of Hertfordshire, Molly- CAMHS service user, Sam- CAMHS service user. Links to the organisations mentioned in this episode.. https://readytrial.co.uk/ - Research study of Physical Activity in Yung People https://bedfordsportlive.crd.co - Bedford Sport Live - Activity sessions at home. https://camhsspace.crd.co - CAMHS Space - Delivered by Bedford Borough Council in partnership with East London Foundation Trust CAMHS team and supported by Team Beds + Luton

Episode 18 – Autism Spectrum Condition and anxiety- how to manage at Christmas

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 17:44:51 +0000

In this episode, Nikki and Aisling talk to Jay and Suzie - two of our service users about how Autism and anxiety can make the Christmas period difficult. Come and listen to Jay and Suzie share their thoughts and tips on how to manage and make Christmas fabulous..

Episode 17 – Eating Disorders – How to manage Christmas (and other festivities with food)

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 00:30:54 +0000

Christmas is a time of celebration, a time where most families plan for weeks so that the two or three days of Christmas goes perfectly.. the perfect presents, perfect company and perfect food. Most of us look forward to this festive time, but for some, it's filled with fear and anxiety. In this episode, Nikki talks to Jay and Roshni, two of our service users talk about how celebrations such as Christmas, Diwali end Eid can be difficult for those with an eating disorder due to the strong emphasis on food and eating. Mark Taylor, a CAMHS Clinician and Specialist Eating Disorder Nurse joins the conversation along with Hope Virgo - a UK Eating disorder campaigner, author, public speaker advocate to share their knowledge and expertise. Hope leads the campaign to 'dump the scales' - a campaign to increase access to eating disorder services in the UK This is a perfect opportunity to come listen in on the discussion and hear honest accounts of how such celebrations present challenges, how you can get your way through the day and how dinnertime bingo can get you through.. Yes.. I did say dinnertime bingo.. listen in to find out to learn about this and other tips for the day.. If you'd like to learn more about Hope's campaign, find out about how you can invite her to speak publicly at your event, or learn more about her publications, go over to her website: http://www.hopevirgo.com/ You can also follow her on Twitter - @HopeVirgo Follow CAMHS Talk on Twitter - @CAMHSTalk.

Episode 16 – Young South Asian Females Journey to Accessing Mental Health Services (part 3)

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 15:09:24 +0000

Welcome to part 3..! Cultural diversity and access to services is an issue that is high on the agenda for CAMHS and there is no better way of understanding the needs of the BAME community than hearing directly from the young people that have accessed the service. Today, we are privileged to have four of our ex service users talk about judgement, understanding and how important it is for clinicians to be curious and open to challenging their own beliefs. We also are very happy to welcome Helen Anderson, a CAMHS Clinician based at the Bedford Clinic. Helen has joined the discussion today to further her understanding of the challenges and difficulties that our young service users experience and to discuss the changes that can be made to make the CAMHS service more inclusive and accessible to all.

Episode 16 – Young South Asian Females Journey to Accessing Mental Health Services (part 2)

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 30 Nov 2020 00:30:23 +0000

In the second of this 3 part mini series, we continue the discussion.. Cultural diversity and access to services is an issue that is high on the agenda for CAMHS and there is no better way of understanding the needs of the BAME community than hearing directly from the young people that have accessed the service. Today, we are privileged to have four of our ex service users talk about judgement, understanding and how important it is for clinicians to be curious and open to challenging their own beliefs. We also are very happy to welcome Helen Anderson, a CAMHS Clinician based at the Bedford Clinic. Helen has joined the discussion today to further her understanding of the challenges and difficulties that our young service users experience and to discuss the changes that can be made to make the CAMHS service more inclusive and accessible to all. Come listen..

Episode 16 – Young South Asian Females Journey to Accessing Mental Health Services

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 12:01:26 +0100

Cultural diversity and access to services is an issue that is high on the agenda for CAMHS and there is no better way of understanding the needs of the BAME community than hearing directly from the young people that have accessed the service. Today, we are privileged to have four of our ex service users talk about judgement, understanding and how important it is for clinicians to be curious and open to challenging their own beliefs. We also are very happy to welcome Helen Anderson, a CAMHS Clinician based at the Bedford Clinic. Helen has joined the discussion today to further her understanding of the challenges and difficulties that our young service users experience and to discuss the changes that can be made to make the CAMHS service more inclusive and accessible to all. So come and take a listen..

Episode 15 – Returning to School after Lockdown..

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 09:09:29 +0100

So, the time has come to start to return to the 'new normal'. For many students, this is full of many unknowns that could be exciting and something to look forward to, however, for some, it may be an anxiety provoking time, leading to added stress and worry. In today's episode, we talk to two young people about their experiences of lockdown an we hear about their thoughs of returning to school. We also have on the show today two of the CAMHS psychology assistants, Rachel Mellor and Sevgi Deveci who will be talking about strategies to help manage a successful return to school.

Episode 14 – South Bedfordshire CAMHS service update during lockdown

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 13:57:52 +0100

Welcome back to CAMHSTalk,.. Today we’re continuing to explore how CAMHS delivers services during the COVID pandemic. Previously we spoke to Ross Truscott, General Manager of Bedford CAMHS about the service and some of the new developments - including self-referral and the new 24 hour crisis line. So to continue the conversation.. we’re going to take a look at the Luton service.. with Linda Hurst – General Manager for Luton and South Beds CAMHS and Marc Van Roosmalen – Consultant Clinical Psychologist and is also the Psychological Therapies Lead for Luton and South Bedfordshire.

Episode 13 – Lockdown, Mental Health and Social Media

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 22 Jun 2020 00:30:38 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re continuing the conversation about mental health, lockdown and how to manage during this time.. There’s lots of information in the media about what we should and shouldn’t do.. we see statistics.. we’re given direction and advice.. sometimes it sounds clear to us, and sometimes it doesn’t... we see advice change.. sometimes on a daily basis and this can leave us feeling worried, scared or just plain confused.. but on a more positive note, we’re also hearing about new and inventive ways of living life.. people are coming up with ideas that we maybe wouldn’t have thought of before...so it’s true to say that there’s a mix of experiences that people are having about lockdown. But there’s one aspect of lockdown that we’ve all had to do... We’ve all had to socially isolate and keep to social distancing... which means limited access to friends and family, and our normal ways of socialising are currently off the agenda.. As a result of this, we’ve seen an increased use of social media. Now, there are lots of us that would never have entertained the idea of talking on screen.. but suddenly we’ve all got to grips with video calling, texting and even learning new dances on TacTic (name changed for copyright purposes..!) and no, the last bit doesn’t apply to me. But for some of us, our usual ways of managing health, and in particular, mental health may have become difficult to access.. such as taking exercise, going out and meeting people.. and getting access to fresh air. For those of us experiencing this.., daily life can be difficult... and many of us have increased our use of social media to support our wellbeing. In today’s episode, we’re going to explore how to manage mental health within the current climate...and give tips on how to make social media support our wellbeing as opposed to making it worse. Today we have Nikki Scott, who is the user participation lead for Luton and Bedford CAMHS and is also a co-host on CAMHS Talk. I’d also like to welcome Lawrence Chung who is on the NHS graduate programme and is working an Operational Lead for Bedford CAMHS.Also welcome to our service users, Jay and Gracie

Episode 12 – Lockdown, Mental Health and Education

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 10:36:21 +0100

In this episode, we’re talking about mental health, lockdown and how to manage at this time. Lockdown has affected us all and as such, everyone’s daily life has been significantly affected. Our normal daily routines changed overnight and many of the things we took for granted are things we're currently doing without. We’ve seen lots in the media about how and when we can expect things to go back to normal, but the messages can feel vague and unclear and lead to lots of debate from those with and without ‘professional opinions’... and no-one can predict what the ‘new normal’ will look like anyway. A decision that has brought substantial change for many is the suspension of education. At a time where many teenagers were gearing up for exams and getting ready for university.. suddenly.. their education looks uncertain. For younger children who are maybe too young to fully understand what’s happening, this might be a confusing time, being at home with their family and away from their friends.. but for others, it might be a time of creativity and finding things to do with their newfound boredom. But for many, their education hasn’t stopped just because they’re not at school. This temporary ‘new normal’ still has its expectations and demands.. with changes such as work being sent home, video link classes, increased use of on-line learning and being taught by their parents. But for many, in the new ‘classroom environment’ at home, there can be new challenges. In today’s episode, we’re going to take a look at some of the challenges faced by those in secondary school.. and as such I’m very pleased to welcome today’s guests.. I’d like to welcome: Nikki Scott – service user participation lead for Bedford and Luton CAMHS Lawrence Chung – who is currently on the NHS Graduate Scheme and is working for CAMHS as an Operational Lead whilst studying for his master’s degree. We're also joined by three of our service users, Wiktoria, Kirri and Lucy who share their views, thoughts and tips. Come listen..

Episode 11 – Bedford CAMHS service update during lockdown

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Sat, 23 May 2020 11:57:51 +0100

Now.. as we’re all aware, we’re living in strange times due to the COVID pandemic and this has brought some change to the services that are currently offered by Bedford CAMHS. In this episode, Nikki and I are talking to Ross Truscott, General Manager for Bedford CAMHS about the changes that have been made to make sure that CAMHS can continue to deliver the service to those young people and families that are under their care. We also have the opportunity to hear about new service developments including the self referral process and the new 24 hour Crisis line that is now available for anyone, those that are already under the care of the service and for those that feel they may need CAMHS support.

Episode 10 – Let’s talk therapy dogs..

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 20:22:20 +0000

In this episode, we'll introduce you to Dr Charlotte Bolt and her co-therapist, Ruby (the dog!). this is a great opportunity to find out how animals can enhance treatment for some that struggle to manage with face to face therapy. Come listen as Dr Bolt takes us through how she and Ruby have developed the use of animals in treatment. As a note, not all types of treatment mentioned in this episode are therapeutically appropriate in all cases and may not be available in your area.

Episode 9 – Let’s Talk about CBT..

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 11:15:48 +0000

Today we talk about Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, more commonly known as CBT. In this episode we are so grateful to Gemma Douthwaite and Dr Charlotte Bolt who share their insights and demystify the inner workings of this treatment model. As always, we also have our service users, this week we have Lucy and Jay who also share their own knowledge from a service user perspective. We also get to hear a little about Ruby, our therapy dog - but that's a story for next time! Just to say that in our conversation we discuss some of the options that we have used in our service. It may be the case that some of the options we have discussed may not be available in all areas, or indeed be appropriate in all treatment cases. For more information on CBT, you can go to the NHS webpage here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt/

Episode 8 (Part 2) – Uni Life and Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 10 Feb 2020 00:30:45 +0000

Welcome back to part 2 of Uni Life and Mental Health, come join us again as Mia, Roshni, Sam and Ocean continue to share their thoughts and insights about their first few months at University and about how they have managed everything from their mental health to relationships. They also give excellent advice on what to expect, what you can't predict and how to access the right support for you. Listen in on their discussion about their different experiences, different needs and how they met them. Mia, Roshni, Sam and Ocean also share their thoughts on common myths and the realities of life at Uni for someone with a mental health issue. You can also learn about where to get the best Pizza in Nottingham (useful for some no doubt!)

Episode 8 (Part 1) – Uni Life and Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 27 Jan 2020 00:30:36 +0000

Come take a listen to four of our ex-service users, Mia, Roshni, Sam and Ocean share their thoughts and insights about their first few months at University and hear then talk about how they have managed everything from their mental health to relationships. They also give excellent advice on what to expect, what you can't predict and how to access the right support for you. Listen in on their discussion about their different experiences, different needs and how they met them. Mia, Roshni, Sam and Ocean share their thoughts on common myths and the realities of life at Uni for someone with a mental health issue. We have separated this ep[isode into two parts. Part two will be out in 2 weeks.

Episode 7 (Part 2) – How the Bedford Borough Early Help Team support ‘The Forgotten Population’

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 00:30:42 +0000

Let's rejoin the conversation and continue to hear about the SWITCH Program where Dawn Bere, Post 16 Personal Adviser & Enhanced Evidence-Based Practitioner and Christopher Allan – Early Help Professional at Bedford Borough talk with two of their service users, Georgia and Stephen about ‘The Forgotten Population’ – young people who are not in education, employment or training (or NEET for short). Georgia and Stephen give very frank accounts of how they were supported by Dawn and Christopher’s team within the SWITCH project – a project designed to provide targeted support to NEET young people. The risks associated with being a NEET young person is significant in terms of developing mental health difficulties and falling by the wayside in society with increased risk of getting into crime, drugs and gang violence. Come listen to the work that is happening in Bedford.

Episode 7 (Part 1) – How the Bedford Borough Early Help Team support ‘The Forgotten Population’

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 00:30:58 +0000

Come listen to Dawn Bere, Post 16 Personal Adviser & Enhanced Evidence-Based Practitioner and Christopher Allan - Early Help Professional at Bedford Borough talk with two of their service users, Georgia and Stephen about 'The Forgotten Population' - young people who are not in education, employment or training (or NEET for short). Georgia and Stephen give very frank accounts of how they were supported by Dawn and Christopher's team within the SWITCH project - a project designed to provide targeted support to NEET young people. The risks associated with being a NEET young person is significant in terms of developing mental health difficulties and falling by the wayside in society with increased risk of getting into crime, drugs and gang violence. Come listen to the work that is happening in Bedford.

We’re taking a short break over December..

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 08:58:17 +0000

Just to let you know that we're taking a short break over December so that we can support other ventures throughout December. Many of you may already know that December specifically can be a difficult time of year, so we clinicians that are involved with the podcast felt it important to divert our efforts elsewhere for the time being. But don't worry..! We'll be back and will release our next episode on Monday 6th January 2020.

Episode 6 – What’s on offer in Bedford Borough for SEND children?

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 18 Nov 2019 00:30:48 +0000

Navigating local support and services for children with special educational needs can be cumbersome and stressful. Come listen and learn all about the Bedford Borough Local Offer Service that works tirelessly to bring information about what's out there into one easy to access website. We discuss how to access the services and also have first-hand feedback from some of our service users about how having a 'one-stop-shop' has improved their own well being and that of their family. To take a look at the Bedford Borough Local Offer website, just click the link or cut and paste if you'd prefer. If you are a local service that wants to be included on the local offer website, you can also click the link below and make contact. The more services that make themselves known, the richer the mix of support is available to SEND children. https://localoffer.bedford.gov.uk/

A plea from us.. Do you use mental health apps?

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Sun, 10 Nov 2019 12:09:51 +0000

A quick request from us at CAMHSTalk - do you use any mental health mobile phone or tablet apps? Which ones? how are they useful? would you recommend any specifically? We are going to do a podcast where we review mental health apps on the show and help you to decide which could be useful to you. We are going to bring together professionals and service users and ask them their views. There are loads of apps out there. Some that the CAMHSTalk team already know about, but we want to know about the apps that you use, so we can look at those too. We hope to bring you the best of the rest.. and make it easier for you to find the apps that work for you.. Come let us know by Clicking here...!

Episode 5 (Part 3) – Let’s discuss Men’s Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 13:01:15 +0000

In part 3 we continue the discussions around the need for developing emotional language and where we can support this to happen. We also take a look at not making assumptions about the meaning of expressed emotions such as anger or withdrawal. In the discussion, we also explore generational issues such as parental role modelling and what impacts on our choices around emotional expression. As this is the final part of the episode, I'd like to say a big thank you to Robert Lindsay, Mark Thomas-O'Keefe, Nicki Scott, Jay and Arron who shared, discussed and debated key issues around men's mental health. It was a privilege to have contributed to the national/worldwide movement and we hope that you have enjoyed listening in on our discussion. If you'd like to comment. please feel free to share your thoughts or ideas, we would be happy to hear from you!

Episode 5 (Part 2) Let’s discuss Men’s Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 00:30:30 +0000

In part 2 of this episode, we continue the discussion around men's mental health and talk about the difficulties that an autism spectrum condition can add to seeking support from others. We are so privileged to be able to hear first-hand from the panel about how difficult it is to seek out support, be able to trust others and how others can misinterpret this for lack of motivation.

Episode 5 (Part 1) – Let’s discuss Men’s Mental Health

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 21 Oct 2019 00:30:17 +0100

The issue of men's mental health has been the focus of a lot of debate and a common theme is how difficult it is for men to open up and talk about how they feel. In this three-part episode, we have brought together a group of men, both service users and professionals who share and debate the issues that affect men today. This is a good opportunity to listen in on a heartfelt discussion about stigma, society expectations and the ways in which men are 'supposed to be'. In this discussion, we talk about our own experiences of mental health issues, how we manage them and what needs to be different.

Episode 4 – Let’s discuss Eating Disorders

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 00:30:19 +0100

In this episode, we offer you a great opportunity to listen in on a discussion between me, Mark Taylor, an Eating Disorders Nurse within CAMHS and a service user who reflects on her own experience of her recovery,

Inbetweenisode – Free CAMHS Event on Anxiety, Panic and School Pressure.

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 12:44:15 +0100

I just thought you'd want to know about a free event that's been offered by our Child and Adolescent Emotional Wellbeing Programme. The team are following on from their very successful first batch of events that they ran earlier this year.

Episode 3 – Let’s discuss Art Therapy

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 06:00:57 +0100

CAMHS offers lots of different kinds of therapy. In this episode, you have a great opportunity to learn about Art Therapy from Kat Fusco - one of our CAMHS Art Therapists and two of our service users. During the discussion,

Inbetweenisode – New Role in CAMHS – Volunteer CAMHS Parent / Carer Representative

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Sat, 21 Sep 2019 13:46:09 +0100

Are you interested in being a volunteer in our CAMHS Service? - We have a really exciting new voluntary role in our Bedfordshire and Luton CAMHS Senior Management Team (SMT) meeting, as our new Parent /Carer Representative.

Episode 2 – What’s it like to come to CAMHS?

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 18:35:35 +0100

Welcome to the second episode of CAMHS Talk. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to come to CAMHS for the first time and wished you could talk to someone who has? In this episode, two of our service users share their experiences and talk openl...

Episode 1 – Meet the Service User Participation Group

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 14:25:38 +0100

Welcome to the FIRST episode of the CAMHS Talk podcast - and we are so very excited to be able to bring you the very best interviews and discussions between the service professionals and our very knowledgeable service users.

Inbetweenisode – Quick Update!

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Sat, 07 Sep 2019 12:29:33 +0100

Just thought I'd give you a quick update about what's happened so far, what's in the planning and when we launch (if you don't know already). Also - If you haven't found us on Twitter - come over - @CAMHSTalk where you can be part of the conversation..

Welcome to the pre-launch episode!

East London NHS Foundation Trust — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 15:52:56 +0100

Hi and welcome to CAMHS talk, a new podcast about child and adolescent mental health. Take a listen to hear what we are doing..!