First Psychology blog

From time to time, we all have those nights when we may struggle getting to sleep or even waking up several times during the night, but when this becomes more of a regular occurrence, you could be suffering from insomnia. Insomnia is when we either have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep and it can be quite common, especially in adults, not to mention exhausting and frustrating. Insomnia can be brought on by various factors such as: Stress Anxiety Depression Too much caffeine or sugar Hot or cold temperatures Stress and anxiety are among the greatest causes of insomnia as our body and mind are unable to relax due to the constant worrying thoughts and fears that keep us awake. A study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information  states that: “In the last two decades, several models have been proposed to understand the etiology and pathophysiology of insomnia and most of them have emphasised the importance of the joint effect of stress and psychological facto...

Whether it’s through work relationships, our personal lives or daily tasks, social interactions are an integral part of our daily lives. However, for anyone suffering from social anxiety, these interactions can often seem overwhelming and distressing.  Social anxiety, characterised by a persistent fear of being in social situations, can significantly impact both our personal and professional lives, which can lead to mental health issues. However, there are effective strategies and techniques for managing social anxiety and promoting improved overall wellbeing. Understanding social anxiety Before practising any recommended techniques, it’s important to understand the nature and causes of social anxiety. Research suggests that social anxiety disorder arises from a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors. Additionally, childhood experiences, such as a history of bullying or social rejection, can also contribute to the development of social anxiety. A study publ...