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Neil Thompson’s Lessons for Living – Dress for the part

Neil Thompson’s Lessons for Living – Dress for the part

‘I should be able to wear what I want and not be judged’ said one participant on a training course I was running. I agreed with her, particularly the word ‘should’, but I had to point out that people do attach significance to what we wear, even though ideally that should not happen. Our clothing is part of nonverbal communication. Whether we intend it or not, whether we agree with it or not, what we wear provides information about us that other people will generally attach significance to. For example, you may be highly committed to a job you are applying for, but if you turn up for the interview wearing jeans and a T-shirt, it is highly likely you…
Dr Neil Thompson
December 10, 2024
Recent incidents lay bare the ongoing epidemic of male violence against women and girls

Recent incidents lay bare the ongoing epidemic of male violence against women and girls

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is not a series of isolated events—it is a global epidemic, perpetuated by the silence of society, the complicity of institutions, and the unchecked behaviours of men in power. In the UK, The National Police Chiefs’ Council and College of Policing declared VAWG a national emergency in July, with one in 20 people estimated to be perpetrators of VAWG. (EVAW) Every case of violence leaves indelible scars, not only on the direct victims but on the collective consciousness of women who see themselves reflected in each tragic incident. Recent events remind us that this violence knows no borders, and no woman, regardless of her race, class, or status, is immune. Click here to read…
Dr Neil Thompson
December 10, 2024
Play therapy

Play therapy

Because play is a major outlet through which children demonstrate what is on their mind, whether they have words or not, a branch of therapy has developed around understanding children and their needs by observing their play and helping solve problems through play. Play therapy is typically targeted to children ages 3 to 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy is real therapy conducted in the medium of play. Play therapy takes place in a comfortable playroom where few rules are imposed on a child, allowing the child free and spontaneous expression of feelings. The therapist, schooled in child psychology, usually has an array of toys that children can use to act out their feelings. In addition,…
Dr Neil Thompson
December 10, 2024
The Neil Thompson Academy

The Neil Thompson Academy

Have you joined the Neil Thompson Academy yet?. There you will find information about Neil’s books, e-learning provision and his other services. Membership is free and gives access to a growing number of free learning resources. Don’t miss out, sign up today at www.NeilThompson.info.
Dr Neil Thompson
November 21, 2024
Neil Thompson’s Lessons for Living – Look for reasons, not causes

Neil Thompson’s Lessons for Living – Look for reasons, not causes

People commonly talk about what causes a particular behaviour or reaction. However, as it is people we are talking about, it makes more sense to talk about reasons, rather than causes. Human beings exist in a social context that is very powerful in its wide range of influences and we are, of course, subject to certain biological forces and constraints. But none of this removes human ‘agency’, to use the technical term, the ability to make choices. If we are looking for causes not reasons, we can be neglecting some key aspects of how a situation arose or how it is likely to unfold. For example, if I chose to make a complaint about a person or organization treating me…
Dr Neil Thompson
November 21, 2024
Time off: Redesigning leave policies to support longer, healthier working lives

Time off: Redesigning leave policies to support longer, healthier working lives

People in the UK are living and working longer than ever before. However, the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath have exposed serious physical and mental health issues facing our workforce. Declining population health is a long-term trend that is forecast to get worse in coming years. Over the last century, rights and access to time off work have steadily increased. However, our ageing workforce today has more complex health needs and evolving responsibilities outside of paid work. Currently, 2.83 million people are economically inactive due to long-term health issues, and the Health Foundation predicts a significant rise in working-age adults with major illnesses by 2040. Meanwhile, the International Longevity Centre has warned that the retirement age may rise to 71…
Dr Neil Thompson
November 21, 2024
Men’s Sheds: Changing lives for the better

Men’s Sheds: Changing lives for the better

In an innovative collaboration, Helpu, the leading men’s mental health hub for Wales, has partnered with UK Mens Sheds Association and Pontypridd Mens Shed to produce a compelling campaign film to promote the benefits of Social Prescribing Day, observed annually on March 14th. Social Prescribing Day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of social prescribing in healthcare, highlighting its potential to improve individuals’ mental health and wellbeing by connecting them with community-based activities and support networks. Click here to read more
Dr Neil Thompson
November 21, 2024