With a rich history of providing practical and emotional support to LGBTQ+ individuals and those affected by HIV, Sahir is at the forefront of combatting injustice and promoting equality.

Current Vacancy:

Support Worker for PLWHIV: Wirral

£26,000 per year
Part-time (21 hours per week (3 days))
Contract (5 YEARS)

Job description
The post-holder will be responsible for providing practical and emotional support to individuals living with and affected by HIV on the Wirral. This includes ensuring they have access to essential services, resources, and community networks. The post-holder will also support our outreach efforts, working alongside our wonderful partners to promote good sexual health.

This is a unique opportunity for a committed individual to develop their experience and expertise within an evolving regional charity.

Download full job description here.

To apply for this position download the application form here, complete and send to recruitment@sahir.org.uk.

Closing date for applications is 9th of October, 2024.

Over 20 HIV and sexual health charities have joined forces to call on the next Government to make history by seizing the chance to end the HIV epidemic in the UK — and become the first country to do so.

With just five years left to deliver the UK’s commitment to end new HIV cases by 2030, One Parliament Left, a manifesto launched today by Sahir, Terrence Higgins Trust, National AIDS Trust and their partners, sets out the urgent actions Parliament must take to achieve this historic goal.

Incredible advances in treatment and prevention mean the goal of ending new HIV cases by 2030 is in reach. People living with HIV on effective treatment can live a long, healthy life and can’t pass HIV on. HIV prevention pill, PrEP, stops HIV-negative people from contracting the virus. And huge leaps forward in HIV testing mean that we can – and must – find every person living with undiagnosed HIV and get them the care they need.

The charities say with bold, targeted, and urgent action these life-changing interventions will end transmissions and make living well a reality for all who live with HIV.

The 2019 to 2024 Parliament has seen considerable progress – the first UK Government HIV Action Plan was published, opt-out HIV testing introduced in 81 A&E departments, PrEP commissioned in sexual health services, and discrimination is being tackled across multiple settings including; the military, pilots, driving, blood donation and fertility rights.

But the charities say there is so much more to be done. The vital progress made so far is threatened by a new sexual health crisis. Rates of STIs are higher than ever, demand for services is ever increasing, and access is limited for many.

Produced in collaboration with expert charities, doctors’ groups and public health professionals, the manifesto calls for the following six actions to ensure the UK achieves zero HIV transmissions by 2030:

• an expansion of opt-out HIV testing
• the introduction of a national one-stop-shop online PrEP, HIV and STI postal testing service
• the creation of a national re-engagement programme for people living with HIV who are not in care
• the provision of year-on-year, above inflation public authority health grant funding
• the development of a national sexual health strategy
• justice for those impacted by the contaminated blood scandal

Ant Hopkinson, Chief Executive of Sahir, says:

“The Liverpool City Region has a unique opportunity to lead the charge in becoming one of the first places in the UK to put an end to new HIV transmissions. By rallying behind the crucial actions outlined in the manifesto, we can pave the way for a healthier, more resilient City Region.

Together with our partners, we are engaged in productive discussions with our elected leaders on matters related to HIV prevention and support. We’re grateful for their ongoing commitment to supporting all those living with and affected by HIV. We all agree that we must seize this moment to not just envision change, but to actively create it.”

Deborah Gold, Chief Executive of National AIDS Trust, says:

“We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to end new HIV infections in the UK by 2030, whilst also making living well with HIV a reality for everyone affected. That’s why it’s so vital that we don’t lose momentum and political commitment now. So we are calling on all political parties to commit to this manifesto, and asking our supporters to join with us in holding the next parliament to account.

“The manifesto’s six clear asks have been produced by experts in the sector, including charities, doctors’ groups, and public health professionals. When adopted, they will ensure that we are on track for the 2030 goal. They can and must be prioritised by the incoming government.”

Richard Angell, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, says:

“MPs elected in July this year have a simple choice. Be the generation to end the HIV epidemic and stop new HIV cases or not. We are in touching distance but we need to pull our finger out to make it happen.

While progress has been made – PrEP free on the NHS, opt-out testing across the highest prevalence parts of the country and the rolling back of stigmatising laws – every day we are missing chances to make this goal a reality. To end new HIV cases, we have to turn this around.

“If our leaders are serious about ending this epidemic, this is the last parliamentary term to do it. Get it right and we could be the first country in the world to end new HIV cases. What a legacy that would be.”

Read the full manifesto, One Parliament Left, here.

Sahir’s ground-breaking LGBTQ+ asylum and refugee support services secure major grant from the National Lottery Community Fund

We are thrilled to announce that Sahir House has secured a substantial grant from the National Lottery Community Fund, totalling £391,322 over the course of five years. This significant grant is dedicated to bolstering our pioneering LGBTQ+ Asylum Seeker & Refugee Support Service, ensuring its continuity and expansion.

This funding holds immense significance for us, as it empowers Sahir House to continue providing vital support to LGBTQ+ individuals seeking asylum in the UK, as well as those who have recently obtained refugee status. Our service offers comprehensive 1:1 practical and emotional support, professional counselling, and invaluable peer support.

The challenges faced by LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees are profound and multifaceted. Many endure discrimination, isolation, and trauma, both in their countries of origin and upon arrival in the UK. Our service is a lifeline for individuals navigating these complexities, offering a safe space to seek guidance, solace, and community.

With this funding, we anticipate reaching hundreds more individuals in need of our support. Our service will be expanded to include a buddy scheme, additional peer support groups, and innovative engagement initiatives. Furthermore, we’ll develop comprehensive training and digital toolkits tailored for service users, partner organizations, and allies alike.

We are delighted to announce the creation of an additional role within our service, which will be actively promoted to individuals with lived experience. This expansion ensures our commitment to inclusivity and community involvement.

Sahir House’s LGBTQ+ Asylum Seeker & Refugee Support Service is a beacon of hope within the Liverpool City Region. Over the past two years, we have assisted countless individuals in rebuilding their lives and finding acceptance in their new communities. This work is not only essential but profoundly impactful.

One of our community members, Arthur Britney, shared “Sahir House provided me with the support I desperately needed during a time of uncertainty. I found comfort in their understanding and compassion, and I’m grateful for the sense of belonging they’ve helped me to grow.”

Our CEO, Ant Hopkinson, remarks “This grant marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a more inclusive and supportive community. We envision a future where every LGBTQ+ individual, regardless of their background, feels valued and empowered. With the continued support of the National Lottery Community Fund, we are confident in our ability to realise this vision.”

Gillian Halliwell, Head of Funding for the North West at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “Sahir is an fantastic organisation that is working hard to ensure the safety of LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees, allowing them to feel empowered and become active participants within their communities.

“Thanks to National Lottery players and the hard work and dedication of local groups and services like these, our funding is helping to strengthen society and improve lives across the North West region and the wider UK.”

Sahir House is a unique dual-purpose charity deeply rooted in the Liverpool City Region. Since our establishment in 1985, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to supporting individuals living with or affected by HIV, as well as championing the rights of all LGBTQ+ community members. Our organisation is proudly local, serving as a cornerstone of support and advocacy within our communities.

 

Photo Credit: Laura Mccann Photos

April is ‘Stress Awareness Month’ in the UK. So, I thought it would be a good idea to make that the topic for this month’s column.

You may have heard the expression ‘stress is a killer’, and that can be true. Too much stress can be very bad for us. Virtually any medical condition can be exacerbated by stress. Things can take longer to heal and repair if we are stressed. Too much stress can also prevent us from sleeping well, which is essential when our body needs to rest, especially if we have been unwell.

Put simply, when we encounter a stressful situation, our bodies enter a “fight-or-flight” mode. This automatic response, orchestrated by hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, is designed to help us deal with immediate threats. This is really useful, when we are facing potential danger, and need to act without thinking about it, such as running away from someone who may wish to harm us.

Problems can arise if we are constantly on high alert, perhaps because of an ongoing stressful situation, be that at home, work or elsewhere in our lives. Living in an area where we feel vulnerable, or if we feel constantly under threat because of an unpredictable partner, are two examples which can keep us on constant red-alert. Feeling insecure at work, or facing financial uncertainty are also major causes of stress in many people’s lives.

So, what happens to all this stress? In therapy, we talk about a metaphorical ‘stress bucket’, that we all have. Put simply, we say that when we encounter stress, or have negative thoughts, we collect them all in this bucket. Problems arise when the amount of stress going in there exceeds our ability to deal with that stress, in other words, when the bucket overflows.

We can also carry a lot of stress with us in the bottom of that bucket, if for example we have been subjected to long-term stressors such an early life bullying, or discrimination. Something which applies to many of us if we identify under the rainbow flag.

One of the ways we naturally deal with stress is during the REM part of our sleep. It is when we detach the emotion from our memories, and ‘file things away’ in our mind. This is one of the reasons why, if you have ever had an argument or disagreement with someone, you may feel differently about things, once you have slept on it. If we are particularly stressed, leading to a lack of sleep, things can seem even worse the next day. It’s also one of the reasons why we might wake up in the middle of the night, wide awake, feeling totally miserable, with many things on our mind, and unable to get back to sleep.

It’s not all bad news though! In fact, some stress can actually be good for you. Think of that jolt of adrenaline that gets you going in the morning – that’s stress hormones kicking in, sharpening your focus, and preparing you for the day ahead. This “good stress,” also known as eustress, can be a powerful motivator. It can push you to meet deadlines, ace that presentation, or train for a race. It fuels our ambition and helps us achieve our goals. This sense of accomplishment can be incredibly rewarding, boosting our confidence and self-esteem.

Facing new challenges can be stressful, it takes us outside of our comfort zone, and we perceive most change as a threat. If you think about all the major things in our lives, which we look forward to, they are also the most stressful for many of us. Things such as buying house, moving to a new area, changing jobs, learning to drive.  However, these things also trigger the release of hormones that enhance memory and learning. So, carefully stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to significant personal and professional growth.

You may well be asking then; how do I sort out the good stress from the bad stress? How can I tell the difference between the two, and what can I do about it?

The trick is finding that sweet spot, the optimal level of stress that motivates us without overwhelming us. We also need to find ways of getting rid of the unhelpful stress in our ‘stress-buckets’.

Getting into a healthier, and more positive mindset, in order to reduce stress is something you can actually train your mind to do. It takes a little bit of time, but it can be like a mini-workout for your mind.

Cast your mind back to the last time you unexpectedly felt really good. For example, when someone gave you a compliment when you weren’t expecting it. Or, perhaps when you were waiting to turn right in the traffic, and someone unexpectedly flashed to let you go. Or perhaps when you received some good news in the post, out of the blue. When this type of thing happens, we automatically generate a hit of ‘feel-good’ chemicals in our body. This is an automatic response to something, and it feels like a little reward in the brain.

If you take a quiet five minutes, and really think back to the last time something like this happened, you can generate a similar feeling. It can settle the mind and reduce stress. Try it! Think back to the last time you really laughed, and try to place yourself back in the moment. This technique is really good for quieting the mind if you are feeling particularly stressed.

Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various modalities and an Instructor Member of Mental Health First Aid England. wellbeing@martinfurber.com

If you would like me to cover any other subjects to do with mental health and well-being please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.

Please feel free to send me an email with SAHIR HOUSE in the subject line to solutions@martinfurber.com

If you would like to know more about the private treatments I offer then please check out my website  https://www.martinfurber.com

Or find me on social media

LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-furber/

Facebook: Martin Furber Therapist

March is a really busy month for me as a therapist. It’s the month when many people come to see me, having fallen by the wayside, in terms of their New Year resolutions.

Gym memberships gather dust, diets falter, and self-improvement plans have fallen by the wayside. Feelings of guilt and failure creep in, as old, unhelpful habits replace all the previous good intentions from what was just a couple of months ago.

Maybe, it’s time to reframe these thoughts.

Failing at a resolution isn’t failure, it’s feedback. Think of it as valuable information about what works and what doesn’t work for you. Maybe the gym routine wasn’t sustainable, or the diet plan felt restrictive and isolating. This knowledge empowers you to adjust and try again, not give up entirely.

So, forget the resolutions, they didn’t work did they? Set some intentions instead. Intentions are less rigid and more focused on why you want to change. Do you want more energy for your family? More time for hobbies? Connecting your goals to deeper values makes them more meaningful and sustainable. Ditch the all-or-nothing mentality, rigid goals often set us up for disappointment. Instead, adopt a flexible, long-term approach.

Start small and specific, don’t overwhelm yourself with drastic changes. Choose one small, achievable action you can do consistently, like a 10-minute walk or one healthy meal per day. Small wins build momentum and confidence.

Stop being so hard on yourself and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Remember, change takes time and is rarely linear. So many of us tend to be kinder to others than we are to ourselves. Treat yourself with the same compassion you’d offer a friend who is struggling.

Surrounding yourself with supportive people who encourage and uplift you can also make a world of difference, so this is a great opportunity to reconnect with someone, make that phone call you’ve been meaning to make.

The changing season offers the chance to shift your perspective. So, ditch the “resolution regret” and embrace a more flexible, compassionate approach.

March is also the month of ‘World Sleep Day’. It’s a global campaign highlighting the importance of sleep for our physical and mental health.  While we spend roughly a third of our lives asleep, it’s often the first thing sacrificed in our busy schedules.  However, prioritising sleep isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity for a healthy mind and body. Look at any other mammal you can think of, they all prioritise their sleep, something we as humans, with our busy lives, tend not to do.

The relationship between sleep and mental health is a two-way street. Poor sleep can exacerbate mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, while pre-existing mental health issues can often lead to sleep disturbances.  Studies have shown that people with insomnia are three times more likely to develop depression.  On the other hand, getting enough quality sleep can significantly improve your mood, emotional regulation, and cognitive function.

During sleep, your brain isn’t just resting – it’s actively consolidating memories and processing emotions.  This is particularly true during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, the stage characterised by dream formation and rapid eye movements.  Research suggests that REM sleep plays a crucial role in emotional regulation.

Imagine your brain as a filing cabinet.  During waking hours, we accumulate experiences, both positive and negative.  REM sleep is like the filing clerk, sorting through these experiences and filing away the important ones, while discarding the emotional baggage associated with less important events.  Without adequate REM sleep, these emotions can linger, potentially leading to increased vulnerability to mental health problems.

Here’s something else that your sleep can help with – weight loss! In the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, many individuals focus on diet and exercise, often overlooking a crucial element that plays a significant role in weight management – quality sleep. As it is World Sleep Day next week, it’s the perfect time to tell you about the profound impact that a good night’s sleep can have on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Numerous studies have confirmed the intricate relationship between sleep and weight management. Sleep deprivation can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones that regulate hunger and satiety (feeling full or satisfied), leading to increased cravings for high-calorie, sugary foods. When we don’t get enough sleep, the levels of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for stimulating appetite, rise, while leptin, the hormone that signals fullness, decreases. This hormonal imbalance creates a perfect storm for overeating and poor food choices.

Inadequate sleep can also hinder our ability to make mindful food decisions. Fatigue and sleepiness impair cognitive function, making it more challenging to resist tempting snacks and make rational choices about portion sizes. When we are well-rested, we are better equipped to make conscious, healthier choices, about the foods we eat.

The impact of sleep on metabolism is another crucial aspect of weight management. Quality sleep promotes a healthy metabolism, ensuring that the body efficiently processes nutrients and burns calories. In contrast, sleep deprivation can lead to a sluggish metabolism, making weight loss more difficult to achieve and sustain.

That’s it for this month. If you would like me to cover any other subjects to do with mental health and well-being please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.

Please feel free to send me an email with SAHIR HOUSE in the subject line to solutions@martinfurber.com

If you would like to know more about the private treatment I offer then please check out my website  https://www.martinfurber.com

Or find me on social media

LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-furber/

Facebook: Martin Furber Therapist

 

 

Get ready to ignite your pride and join us for an electrifying atmosphere at our unmissable Queer Town Hall! 🏳️‍🌈

Empowered by Sahir but fuelled by our vibrant LGBTQ+ community, the next LCR Queer Town Hall is due to take place at The Brink, Liverpool City Centre on Wednesday 3rd April 2024.

Dive into riveting discussions, spark debates, and share your passions in a safe and inclusive space, as well sensational performances from local queer artists!

Pride in the Community

🌈 This time, our theme is “Pride in the Community.”

🌈Together, we’ll unpack the true essence of Pride and its impact on our LGBTQ+ family. From Pride as Protest to championing local LGBTQ+ charities and businesses, we’re diving deep into four Pride-themed topics that matter a great deal to our community.

🌈Meet various Pride organisers from across the Liverpool City Region who are ready to listen and soak up your insights and feedback

🌈And let’s not forget the cherry on top: indulge in tea, coffee, and delectable cakes while being serenaded by Lunemaate, an incredible local queer vocalist and performer

🌈Plus, rest assured, accessibility is our priority. The Brink is fully accessible, and we’re working hard to ensure a BSL interpreter is by your side throughout the event.

🌈Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to make waves of pride at the Queer Town Hall!

Register your attendance by clicking the link below –

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-first-lcr-queer-town-hall-of-2024-tickets-846889287657

 

February is a month rich in significance for our community. As we celebrate LGBT+ History Month, I’d like to recognise the incredible advancements made in HIV treatment, a journey that began with the identification of HTLV-3 in the very early 1980s.

It certainly affected the mental health of much of our community, it also brought out the best in all of us, and created unbreakable bonds across the entire rainbow community.

As we reflect on this shared history, one truth shines bright throughout our entire community – resilience.

Being of (ahem) a certain age, looking back, I can remember how easy it was to become overwhelmed by the initial fear and uncertainty surrounding HIV. The stigma, the isolation, the constant battle for acceptance and basic healthcare access – these were very real struggles faced by many in our community.

Those of us who were around then couldn’t help but be affected by the way much of society viewed anyone under the rainbow flag with contempt. Thinking back to those early days of the first cases, it was not much more than a decade earlier that homosexual acts between two men were still illegal! I can still remember the outcries from certain quarters, about how we had brought it on ourselves, it should never have been made legal!

Over in Manchester, the then Chief Constable, James Anderton went on the record as stating ‘Homosexuals were swirling around in a cess pit of their own making’, and the press loved it! Can you imagine what that did to the mental health of any gay man?

But within this darkness, a beacon of hope emerged. Scientists, activists, and individuals living with HIV fought tirelessly, demanding change and pushing for research and development. We got together and protested! I can remember being on protests with a troupe of lesbians (the lowest risk group of all) who were standing shoulder to shoulder with us as we made our noise, demanding change – true community!

The discovery of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the mid-1990s was a watershed moment, transforming HIV from a death sentence into a manageable chronic condition.

This progress, however, wasn’t simply confined to the realm of medicine. It sparked a revolution in attitudes and awareness. As we celebrate LGBT+ History Month, I want to acknowledge the incredible contributions of activists and community leaders who fought for inclusion, challenged discrimination, and demanded access to healthcare for all. Their tireless efforts paved the way for a more understanding and accepting society, creating a space where individuals living with HIV could not only survive but thrive.

Yet, the journey is far from over. While advancements in HIV treatment are truly remarkable, the emotional scars left by stigma, discrimination, and past experiences can linger. Many in our community still grapple with anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. It’s crucial to remember that prioritising mental health is not a luxury, but a necessity. Just as we fought for access to life-saving medication, we must now fight for access to comprehensive mental health support.

Here in Liverpool, we are fortunate to have a network of resources dedicated to supporting the well-being of individuals living with HIV. From Sahir House counselling services to community support groups and mental health professionals, there is help available. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength, resilience, and a commitment to your own well-being.

Here are some practical steps you can take to prioritise your mental health:

• Keep connected, social connection is vital for emotional well-being. Join a support group, attend community events, or simply reach out to a friend or family member you trust.
• Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. This could include exercise, mindfulness practices, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies you enjoy.
• Stay informed and educate yourself about HIV and mental health. Knowledge is power, and it can help you make informed decisions about your own well-being.

We have come a long way together, and by looking after our mental health, we can build an even brighter future for ourselves and future generations. Let’s celebrate our shared history, honour the struggles and triumphs, and move forward with hope, resilience, and a commitment to our well-being.

That’s it for this month. If you would like me to cover any other subjects to do with mental health and well-being please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.

Please feel free to send me an email with SAHIR HOUSE in the subject line to solutions@martinfurber.com

If you would like to know more about the private treatments I offer then please check out my website  https://www.martinfurber.com

Or find me on social media

LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-furber/

Facebook: Martin Furber Therapist

 

Do you identify as LGBTQ+? Are you over 18 and live in Knowsley?

Sahir presents ‘Proud As! Knowsley’, a brand new peer group set up for anyone living in Knowsley who identifies as LGBTQ+.

This is a brilliant opportunity to meet new people, make new connections and share information with your Knowsley peers!

The meetings will be a mix of fun social activities, discussions in a safe confidential space, and an opportunity to get your voice heard.

We will be inviting in guest speakers to talk about their services and we want hear from you and your experience of living in and accessing Knowsley services as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

You’ll also be the first to hear about new and exciting Sahir projects including our research collaborations, as well as news and events from our partners.

You’ll have the opportunity to get involved in our annual timetable events and activities, including Pride, World AIDS Day and the LGBTQ+ Queer Town Hall project and work together to create new and exciting LGBTQ+ events in Knowsley.

The group will meet on the first Thursday of the month with the first taster session due to take place on

Thursday 7th March, 2 – 4pm in Huyton Library, Knowsley

If you would like to attend the session please click the Eventbrite link to register;

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/proud-as-knowsley-tickets-827168181297?aff=oddtdtcreator

If you’re unable to make this time but would be interested in the groups progress please contact Gill on gillian.clotworthy@sahir.org.uk

 

It’s with a heavy heart that Sahir House would like to inform you that Mark Julius, a long-time volunteer of our organisation, has recently died.

We send our condolences to his partner, David, his family, and friends.

For those of you who knew him you will know he was a talented musician (often playing at our World AIDS Day vigils), a master of quiz questions, a champion and activist for a number of causes.

Mark had a wicked sense of humour, which delighted his fellow volunteers and lifted anyone who had the opportunity to tune into his stories and one-liners.

Mark had presence. He would light up a room when he walked in. He would feed you food for thought.  He would lift your spirits. He would challenge and call things out.

He shall be greatly missed.

There is a service followed by a wake to celebrate Mark’s life.

The details are as follows:

Mark’s funeral will be on the 29th of January at 15:30 at Springwood Crematorium.

The funeral cars will depart from Peter Kavanagh’s pub on Egerton Street at 14:30 to leave for 14:45.

The wake will be from 16:30 till 23:00 at OSQA’s bar on Oldham Street to celebrate and commemorate Marks’ glorious, vibrant, and impactful life.

It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I share the news of Kevin Burgess’s passing. Kevin, a cherished member of our community, left an indelible mark on Sahir and the lives of many.

Kevin’s commitment to advocacy for the needs and rights of local people living with HIV was remarkable. As a long-standing and respected member of our community, he was at the forefront of activism –  demonstrating unwavering dedication to making a positive difference.

We mourn the loss of not only a friend but also a leader. Kevin previously served with pride as the Chair of our Trustees, spearheading the development of services that continue to benefit countless individuals today. His legacy is woven into the fabric of Sahir, and he will be sorely missed. Kevin was one of our longest serving volunteers, particularly supporting our training service, supporting students and professionals in learning and gaining an understanding of HIV.

During this difficult time, our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends. We understand the profound impact his absence will have on our community, and we share in the grief that accompanies his departure.

We will keep you informed about funeral arrangements as soon as this information becomes available. In the meantime, let us come together to remember and celebrate the life of Kevin.

With deepest condolences,

Ant Hopkinson
CEO, Sahir House

New Year is well and truly behind us, this first month of the year, seems to stretch out for so many people, counting the days towards the end of the month and the first pay-day of the year.

Did you know that the name for January is inspired by the Roman God Janus – He is associated with transitions of all types. So lets hope this year is a better one for my trans-siblings.

As we look, with cautious optimism, towards the year ahead, it’s easy to fall into the trap of new year, new stress. Resolutions pile up, obligations beckon, and the pressure to make this year “the best yet” can feel like a tightening band around the metaphorical ‘stress-bucket’ that I talk about so often. So, before it overflows, causing a cascade of anxiety and overwhelm, I’d like to tell you about something known as your ‘stress signature’.

What is a stress signature? It’s your own unique cocktail of physical, emotional, and behavioural changes that signal your internal stress level is rising. It’s the tightly wound jaw when deadlines loom, the sudden urge to eat a whole triple-chocolate cake when anxieties simmer, the incessant nail biting when facing a difficult conversation. These are the telltale signs, the blinking red lights on your personal stress dashboard, if you like, that others around you may well recognise before you do.

So, why is it important to know your stress signature? Because awareness is the first step towards control. By recognising the patterns in your own stress response, you can equip yourself with tools and strategies to intervene before the bucket overflows. Instead of letting stress hijack your reactions and decision-making, you can become the captain of your own emotional ship.

Think back on the past year, what were your stress triggers? What were the physical, emotional, and behavioural changes you noticed in yourself when the pressure mounted? Did you become withdrawn or irritable? Did your sleep suffer? Did you start reaching for unhealthy coping mechanisms?

I frequently say, ‘If you keep on doing what you’ve always done, you’ll keep on getting what you’ve always got’. In other words, if you’d like things to be different for you this year, then you need to do things differently.

A good place to start is by becoming aware of the things that cause you stress. Once you have a good understanding of these triggers, you can think about how these things have made you react in the past. What kinds of things would other people notice about your behaviour or attitudes as you became more stressed? You may well have become withdrawn or irritable, perhaps treating people very differently to how you usually do.

So, what can you do this year that is different from previous years, to get more in tune with your own mind and body, and keep those stress levels down?

The first thing I would suggest is to listen to your body, paying attention to those subtle physical cues such as tightness in the chest and changes in your breathing. Make an effort to monitor your own emotions and acknowledge if you are feeling more anxious, withdrawn or irritable than usual. Have a think to yourself about the people and situations that tend to increase your stress levels. It’s a good idea to keep a track of your own thought patterns, particularly if you find yourself engaging in a lot of negative self-talk. That inner critic that we all have, tends to go into overdrive when we are stressed.

How can we equip ourselves and plan ahead, so that we can manage our stress levels in the first place? It’s called self-care and it should be a priority. Self-care isn’t all about bubble baths and face masks, although they are great for those who enjoy them. It’s about integrating your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Here are a few suggestions:

• Set realistic goals and break them down into manageable steps.
• Make sleep a priority! Aim to get 7-8 hours a night.
• Learn to say no to requests that overwhelm you.
• Schedule time for hobbies and interests.
• Delegate tasks when possible.
• Take regular breaks throughout the day to recharge.
• Keep connected with loved ones – New Year is a great time to catch up with people you have been meaning to call or message.
• Don’t be afraid to alter your plans if you find your stress levels rising.
• Forgive yourself for mistakes and setbacks – you’re only human after all.

Your stress signature can be a roadmap to self-awareness and resilience. So, take a deep breath, acknowledge your stress signature, and embark on this new year with the knowledge that you are in charge, it can make all the difference.

If you would like me to cover any particular aspect of mental health & well-being then please drop me a line with Sahir House in the subject line to solutions@martinfurber.com

You can find me online at

https://www.martinfurber.com

https://www.facebook.com/MartinFurberHypnotherapy/

Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various disciplines and an instructor member of Mental Health First Aid England.

Please note: If you feel you are in a mental health crisis or emergency and feel you may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others then please contact your GP, The Samaritans on 116 123 or attend A&E.