Here you will find our industry and company news as well as tips and advice on various mental health conditions. We share videos and downloadable resources which tell you a little more about us. This page is also dedicated to ‘Home Life’ so you can keep up-to-date with all of the activities and events from our services.
For many, Christmas is a season of joy, but for others, it can be the hardest time of the year. The festive season often brings expectations of togetherness and celebration, but for adults living in supported-living settings, or those with disabilities…
For anyone rebuilding their life in supported living, the idea of getting back into work often represents more than securing a pay slip. It can signal a return to structure as work offers routine, connection, and the chance to take back control, all of which play…
The terms mental health and mental fitness appear similar at first glance, and it’s easy to see why they’re often used as if they mean the same thing. Both relate to our emotional world, our behaviour, and how we respond to the demands of life. Yet…
Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet; it can also improve the well-being of people in care and the staff who support them. As societies grow more conscious of environmental impact, social care settings such as supported living services are…
Moving from one service, setting or life stage to another might seem like a practical step, but for many people in care, it can feel overwhelming. Whether shifting from hospital to supported living, moving within supported living, or stepping toward full independence, these transitions…
Winter brings its own rhythm with shorter days, clearer air, and a slower pace that invites us to turn inward. It’s a season that naturally encourages reflection and rest, and that makes it a superb time to practice mindfulness. Paying…
Not all eating disorders look the way many of us expect. You might think of Anorexia Nervosa, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), OSFED, Bulimia or Binge Eating Disorder (BED), but that doesn’t cover it all. There’s a less familiar disorder called…
In recent years, there’s been a growing recognition that trauma isn’t just a personal problem; it’s a community and societal one. Whether it’s a car accident, childhood abuse, domestic violence, or displacement through war, trauma shapes the health of millions of…
Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis What is the Gut-Brain Axis? The gut–brain axis is the two-way communication system between your gut and your brain; they’re constantly talking to each other. This connection isn’t just about nerves sending messages up and down.…
Mental health crises can be overwhelming and unpredictable, but with thoughtful planning and support, individuals can navigate the challenging times more effectively. At Northern Healthcare, we embrace a specialist person-centred approach, ensuring that each individual's preferences, values, and needs are…
Schizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition that can change how a person thinks, feels and behaves. It’s commonly described as a form of psychosis - where someone can temporarily lose touch with reality - but experiences vary hugely from…
Recovery isn’t a straight line. Some days feel like leaps; others feel more like shuffles forward. And that’s okay. In fact, noticing and celebrating the “small wins” such as showing up to a group, making a simple meal, texting a…
When we think about mental health support, it’s easy to focus on therapy, medication, or counselling, but the spaces where care happens play a significant role. The environment we inhabit can influence our emotions, behaviours, and sense of independence. Thoughtfully…
When life feels overwhelming - your heart racing before a meeting, lying awake at night with your mind spinning, or snapping at small things - it’s easy to think the problem is all in your head. But these feelings often…
Working in health and social care offers the opportunity to make a profound difference in people’s lives, building meaningful connections and contributing to the well-being of individuals and communities. Alongside these rewards, the role can also present challenges, from long…
We talk to ourselves all the time, silently, out loud, in passing thoughts we barely notice. But have you ever paid attention to what you're actually saying? Chances are, it’s not always kind. “You’re not good enough.” “Why do you…
In recent years, artificial intelligence has found a growing role in the mental health landscape. From therapy chatbots and mood trackers to virtual assessments and self-help apps, AI tools are increasingly being used to support well-being in more accessible and…
"Overthinking is the art of solving problems you don’t have." - James Clear (American Author of the Bestselling Self-Help Book Atomic Habits) Thinking too much is an inevitable part of the human experience. Whether it’s spiralling thoughts, decision paralysis, or…
When Michaela first arrived at Adamson House, she was stepping into the unknown. After a period of crisis and hospital care, the move to supported living felt uncertain - unfamiliar territory after a difficult chapter in her life. But in…
When we talk about addiction, the focus is often on the behaviour, whether it’s drinking, gambling, using drugs, or even compulsive internet use. But behind these habits lies something far more complex: the brain. More specifically, some people may have…
If you work in supported living, you’ll be all too familiar with the ongoing pressures faced across the UK: stretched teams, increasing demand, and fragile funding just to name a few. The recent June 2025 Spending Review brought welcome news…
As we leave spring, the season of fresh starts behind, summer arrives with an entirely different, more mindful energy. The days stretch longer, the light lingers, and there's a natural pull to get outside, breathe deeper, and live a little…
There’s something so soothing in the mundane act of putting pen to paper. Is it because we’re in a world where we’re constantly connected and rarely offered a moment to really pause? Most likely, but still, it’s no secret that…
Bipolar disorder is one of the most widely misunderstood mental health conditions, especially around what the disorder really involves. It’s not just “mood swings” or being “up and down.” For someone living with bipolar disorder, the highs and lows can…
So, what really helps when it comes to recovering your mental health? With Mental Health Awareness Week shining a light on the power of community in 2025, it’s the perfect time to talk about something simple but incredibly effective -…
We’re almost halfway through 2025, and many of us are wondering where the time has gone. Amid the mounting pressures of daily life - be it work expectations, family responsibilities, or personal struggles - we often jump from one task…
A recent report by the National Housing Federation has brought renewed attention to a pressing issue in mental health care - delays in discharging patients due to a lack of suitable supported accommodation. In 2023–24 alone, over 109,000 days of…
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us struggle with anxiety at some point in our lives. While there are lots of ways to manage it, one simple but powerful method is getting hands-on. Whether it’s painting, gardening, baking, or building…
“There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature—the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.” - Rachel Carson Spring is nature’s way of showing us that transformation can be both powerful and beautiful. After…
At Northern Healthcare, we understand that staying active looks different for everyone, and as a supported living service provider, we see firsthand how movement plays a key role in both physical and mental well-being. The people we support have their…
What is Mindfulness? The key to happiness? Brain-changing? As effective as leading anti-depressants? These conversations around mindfulness have been ongoing since the practice gained widespread recognition in the 20th century for its ability to improve mental and physical well-being. However, with…
In the field of mental health and psychological assessments, the 5 Ps formulation is a widely used framework that helps professionals gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s mental health challenges. At Northern Healthcare, we regularly encounter complex mental health…
Loneliness is a universal human experience. In fact, when the Office for National Statistics (ONS) conducted a survey in December 2024 to January 2025, 7.7% of UK adults felt lonely often or always – that’s 1 in 13 adults. However,…
As a supported living service, we understand the vital role emotional health plays in overall well-being. Every day, we pride ourselves on recognising and processing our own emotions while supporting those we care for on their personal journeys. Emotional health…
In a world where stress, anxiety and depression are increasingly prevalent, many people are turning to creative methods to improve their mental health, and one of the most popular tools is something we engage with daily: music. Whether it’s a…
Valentine’s Day is often associated with romantic love, but it’s also the perfect time to reflect on the most important relationship you’ll ever have – the one with yourself! A 2024 consumer report by Storyly found “A significant shift in…
Parenting is a rewarding yet demanding role, and when you are also a caregiver for a child with a mental health diagnosis or a learning disability such as autism, those demands can feel even greater. As of 2024, approximately 329,000…
At Northern Healthcare we understand the importance of empowering those we support to maintain their independence and make informed decisions about their lives. A key aspect of our supported living service provision is equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge…
Mental health nursing is a vital component of the UK’s healthcare system, focusing on supporting individuals with mental health conditions to achieve optimal well-being and independence. Registered Mental Health Nurses (RMNs) play a key role in various settings, including supported…
Long-term physical health conditions affect millions of people worldwide, presenting challenges that often extend beyond physical health. While much attention is often paid to managing the physical symptoms of these conditions, the profound impact they can have on mental health…
“75% of UK adults said they had struggled at some point with a mental health related issue including low self-esteem.” This worrying insight makes us question our place on the self-esteem scale. Do we believe we deserve happiness, success and…
"The largest estimated net job gains from AI over the next 20 years are predicted to be in the UK’s health and social care sector." With the astronomical rise of AI technology in the UK, is there any wonder that…
As the years go on and we get older, major changes in our lives take place. We deal with illness, job changes, the pressures of life and eventually the bereavements of those close to us and retirement. All of these…
*Sensitive content. Please note that this article mentions suicide. If you need help, please reach out. We have listed resources at the bottom of this page or you can speak with your GP. If you are seriously worried about yourself…
This Thursday, the 10th of October, the world will observe World Mental Health Day 2024. The theme this year, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is: “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace." In this…
Supported living provides refuge for those unable to cope at home, and is often a safe haven for individuals with a mental health diagnosis, learning disability or autism. According to the Supported Housing Alliance, "Over 600,000 people rely on supported…
If you work in care, you may have seen the phrase Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) used a fair bit. Have you ever considered what it means for you, and the people you look after? In this article, we'll talk…
Insomnia is a common health condition that causes sleep issues that interfere with a person's ability to cope with daily life. In this blog post, we will discuss in detail what insomnia is, what causes it, how it is diagnosed,…
High-functioning depression can be difficult to spot. A person with high-functioning depression will usually experience the majority of the same symptoms as a person with clinical depression. The main difference is that the symptoms tend to be less debilitating. Sadly,…
Mental Health Awareness Week is coming to a close, and we wanted to reflect on how we've supported it over the past seven days. In this article, we're going to recap what Mental Health Awareness Week is about, the theme…
What is Mental Health Awareness Week? Created by The Mental Health Foundation, Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) runs every year and is the biggest opportunity for the UK to join together to focus on prioritising mental health. “The week aims…
*Sensitive content. Please note that this article may be triggering to some. If you need help please reach out, there are resources listed at the bottom of this page. If you are seriously worried about yourself or a loved one,…
Sleep is essential and affects our physical, mental, and social health. It is considered one of the most essential functions of the body and directly impacts how we feel on a day-to-day basis. We all do it and we all…
In this article, we explore what paranoia is, examples of paranoia, its causes and its relation to mental health conditions. We will also look at the effects of paranoia alongside ways to support a loved one suffering from the condition.…
In this blog post, we'll explore the different types of talking therapy currently available. "One adult in eight (12.1%) receives mental health treatment, with 10.4% receiving medication and 3% receiving psychological therapy." Not one box fits all, and therapy must…
Please join us in welcoming our new CEO, Nicola Forshaw, to the Northern Healthcare team. Nicola brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role and is excited to lead and support our organisation through the next exciting chapter.…
In this blog, we explore what Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is, the symptoms, the treatment, how it can affect your mental health and how you can support a loved one. What is ADHD? ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is…
Psychotic disorders affect fewer than 1 in 100 people in the UK in any given year. In this article, we explore what psychosis is, the symptoms, the causes as well as the treatment. We will also provide the best ways to support…
In this blog, we are exploring dissociative disorders. We will look at what they are, the symptoms, the types, the diagnosis, and treatments available, and how you can support a loved one with a dissociative disorder. Please note that some…
In the third blog of our series highlighting the different types of eating disorders, we are going to explore Binge Eating Disorder (BED). In this article, we look at the characteristics and symptoms, the treatments available, and how you can…
As we welcome in the New Year at Northern Healthcare our Quality and Governance Team is launching an awareness roadshow! They will focus on a different skill or topic each month and share their expertise and resources with each of…
Health and fitness fads can be hard to avoid as we head into the new year. But what about long-term health and lifestyle changes? Positive New Year's resolutions are always worth making, but at your own pace and on your…
After celebrating her win at our NHC Awards 2023, we caught up with Lauren Carral. What is your role at Northern Healthcare, and how did you get into it? My role at Northern Healthcare is Team Leader. I got the…
We are PROUD to announce that we are The Great British Care Awards finalists! The Great British Care Awards celebrate excellence across the care sector. With twenty one award categories, they pay tribute to organisations and individuals who demonstrate outstanding excellence…
For some getting a diagnosis can either be seen as a positive or negative experience. While one individual might feel relief and hope, finally putting a name to what has been affecting their quality of life. However, others might find…
Gardening is an activity enjoyed by all and has seen a recent boost in popularity. Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic and many people being confined to their homes, the garden became the new place to be and the best hobby…
It’s Mental Health Awareness Week and this year, the theme is anxiety. As one of the most prominent mental health illnesses, anxiety has and will most likely affect everyone at some point in their lives. From exam pressures to starting…
Screen time and how it affects our mood Screen time and blue light are words you might have heard before but you’re not quite sure what they mean. In this blog we seek out the answer to how screen…
The adult health and social care budget has been halved After announcing plans for the health and social care budget on April 4th 2023, the government has unfortunately made the decision to drastically reduce funding. The government confirmed that the…
Ever since 1992 April has been Stress Awareness Month held by the Stress Management Society to raise awareness of one of the biggest public health challenges that we are currently facing. The negative impact that stress has on all individuals…
Baking is an activity enjoyed by many, young and old. But did you know that as well as resulting in delicious baked goods to enjoy, baking also has many mental health benefits? In this blog, we take a look at…
Goal Setting and Mental Health We’re into a new year and we’re already a month in! Soon after we ring in a new year, many of us sit down and plan our goals or new year’s resolutions. But some of…
Whilst December is most commonly known for festivities, parties, and cheer, it is also cold, wet, and it goes dark very early! During this time of year, you may find yourself affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (also known as SAD).…
Mental health diagnoses are common across the world. Data collected by the United Nations (UN) suggests that in 2022, approximately a billion people worldwide have a mental disorder. In England alone, around 1 in 4 people will experience a mental…
You may commonly hear others use the phrase “I’m addicted” when talking about something they love, or you may even use it yourself. But addiction is actually a mental health condition that can cause harm to you and those around…
World Mental Health Day is marked annually on 10th October and is all about raising awareness of our mental health and wellbeing. The theme for this year is, “Make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority”, which has been…
*Sensitive content. Please note that this article mentions suicide. If you need help please reach out, there are resources listed at the bottom of this page. If you are seriously worried about yourself or a loved one, you can visit…
When reading medical notes or letters, or searching for information online, do you often find yourself trying to cryptically decode a series of letters, or frequently Googling the meaning of words to find out what they mean? Medical jargon is…
In recent weeks, we have been experiencing extremely hot weather with unusually high temperatures here in the UK, and it is important that we are keeping safe in the heat. As well as keeping ourselves safe, certain vulnerable groups in…
In the second blog of our series highlighting the different types of eating disorders, we are going to focus on bulimia. In this article, we look at the signs and symptoms, the treatment available, and how you can support a…
How often do we hear the phrase, "that's my OCD", or, "you're so OCD"? It is a common saying in day to day life, but a diagnosis of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is actually pretty rare, affecting approximately 1.2% of…
25th July 2022 is National Schizophrenia Awareness Day. Hosted by Rethink Mental Illness, the day aims to shine a light on the challenges individuals living with a schizophrenia diagnosis face. A schizophrenia diagnosis A schizophrenia diagnosis is usually confirmed by…
It is essential that we take care of our mental and physical wellbeing to ensure that we remain happy and healthy. There is evidence to suggest that there are 5 ways to wellbeing – the New Economics Foundation has analysed…
Does the food that we eat have an effect on our mental health? Yes, there is plenty of research around the topic of nutrition and mental health, and overall, the findings point to a link between our diet and our…
On average, 1 in 200 people will develop schizoaffective disorder within their lifetime. Most commonly, it develops during early adulthood and is more prevalent amongst women than men. In this article we take a deeper look into schizoaffective disorder, including…
Loneliness in the UK is a prevalent issue, and research has shown that it can have negative impacts on our mental health. The Covid-19 pandemic has also contributed to an increase in reports of loneliness over the past 2 years.…
Social media is a big part of modern life. According to the Statista Research Department, as of 2022 internet users worldwide spend an average of 147 minutes per day on social media. This has increased year on year and is…
What is anxiety? Anxiety is typically defined as a feeling of worry and unease. Everyone will likely experience feelings of anxiety during certain times in their lives, for example when preparing for a job interview or when going on a…
International Women’s Day 2022 falls on Tuesday 8th March, and this year’s theme is #BreakTheBias. The idea behind the theme is to raise awareness against gender bias, and celebrate women’s achievements. We’re doing our bit by taking a look at…
There are many roles within the Health and Social Care sector, such as Support Workers, Service Managers, Occupational Therapists, Nurses, Counsellors and Social Workers, to name a few. This article focuses on how to become a Social Worker and the…
Poor mental health can affect anyone at any time in their lives, however unfortunately there are some people for who the likelihood of experiencing a mental health problem is higher than average. This results in health inequality not just across…
Historically, the development of occupational therapy arose from the treatment of mental health diagnoses. In 1928, Dr William Rush Dunton Jr., founder of the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy (now known as the American Occupational Therapy Association),…
For many people, lockdown has exacerbated feelings of loneliness. For adults with learning disabilities, feeling lonely can be a long-term challenge, and one that they may have been experiencing prior to lockdown. Whilst everyone can experience feeling lonely at some point…
One in eight adults in England receive mental health treatment, with 10.4% of these adults receiving medication as either sole or part of their treatment. (McManus S et al., 2014) Despite this, there is still stigma attached to the use…
January Blues [noun] Feeling low or down in January with a lack of motivation, usually due to cold weather and dark mornings. The January Blues are a common occurrence every year, after the excitement and busyness of the festive season…
Social media has gained incredible popularity in recent years. From the humble beginnings of Bebo, MSN Messenger and Myspace, to the viral trends on TikTok and Instagram, social media platforms have now become much more interactive and creative. As of…
Careers in health and social care are extremely rewarding and varied. There are patient, resident or client-facing roles. At Northern Healthcare these include Support Workers, Team Leaders, Occupational Therapists and Mental Health Nurses. There are also valuable behind the scenes…
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. October is ADHD Awareness Month, and this month the theme is all about reframing ADHD and discovering new perspectives. Much like many other mental health diagnoses, ADHD can often be misunderstood or misinterpreted. The purpose…
This year, our services will be fundraising for our chosen charity for 2021-2022, Mind. Historically, our services have competed each year to raise the most money for Children in Need, with the winning service crowned our Fundraising Champions at our…
It’s not long now until Christmas Day but for most of us it will be a little different this year, and whilst traditionally seen as the most wonderful time of the year, it’s ok to feel overwhelmed and struggle to…
Our mental health is our level of psychological wellbeing. It encompasses our social, physiological and emotional states; someone who has good mental health may feel balanced in these areas of their life. This video from ‘Mental Health at Work’ helps…
