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The beauty of a clear coastline is a source of joy, a cornerstone for economies, and a powerful balm for the soul. But when that water turns thick, green, and toxic with a harmful algal bloom, the damage is more than aesthetic. Beyond the visible discoloration of the water and the immediate economic losses, the ongoing presence of the bloom challenges our sense of safety, connection to place, and emotional equilibrium, creating a psychological impact that affects daily life. Regardless of the environmental or political causes, the consequences extend far beyond the water's edge, often invisible and multifaceted.

School can be a place of discovery, where young people develop skills, explore their passions, and build lasting friendships. For many, it's a space of growth and opportunity, but it can also bring challenges. Academic pressures, social expectations, developmental challenges, and looming transitions can all contribute to stress. A certain level of stress can be a healthy motivator, but too much can negatively impact mental health, self-esteem, and academic performance. This article explores the common causes of school-related stress, how to recognise when it becomes a problem, and what parents, caregivers, and teachers can do to help. The article also explores the role of perfectionism, a factor that can intensify ordinary academic pressures into an unrelenting cycle of stress and self-criticism.

Over the past two decades, social media has become a central part of daily life. Unlike traditional media (like TV or magazines), social media is interactive: users create, share, and respond to content. Built-in features such as likes, shares, follower counts, and comments can strongly influence how people feel about themselves and others. Unfortunately, research now confirms what many suspected: social media use can have a detrimental effect on body image.

Just like physical health, psychological wellbeing is an important part of a rich, fulfilling life. Later life can be a time of wisdom and new opportunities – but it can also bring profound change and challenges: health issues, retirement, the loss of loved ones, or shifts in social roles can all impact how we feel. These challenges are real, but their impacts are treatable.

Trauma leaves more than just emotional scars. It can reshape the way we think, feel, and relate to the world around us. Whether it stems from a single event or prolonged exposure to distressing situations, trauma can impact our brain function, disrupt important relationships, prevent us from engaging with work and interests, and even affect our physical health. While trauma can have a significant impact on people’s lives, research has consistently shown that specific targeted therapeutic approaches are effective in supporting people to recover from trauma. In this article, we’ll explore the nature and impact of trauma, define PTSD and its common symptoms, and discuss evidence-based treatments we use at Solasta to help clients process their trauma safely and start to feel more in control, connected, and able to enjoy life again.

At Solasta, we understand that a thriving workplace is one where employees feel supported and valued. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) — a confidential counselling service designed to support the mental health and wellbeing of employees and their families. Whether you're a business owner looking after your team or a leader in HR, Solasta’s EAP makes it easy to prioritise staff wellbeing while partnering with a purpose-driven provider.

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is an important opportunity to recognise and appreciate the unique ways in which people think, learn, and interact with the world. With approximately 15-20% of the population having a neurological difference, and many more experiencing neurodiverse features, it is crucial to move beyond the "neurotypical norm" and embrace the strengths that diversity brings to our communities, workplaces, and schools. Research consistently shows that diverse environments lead to greater creativity, innovation, and problem-solving.

Whilst the brain naturally processes memories and emotions during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, traumatic experiences can sometimes disrupt this natural process, leaving negative thoughts, feelings, and memories unresolved. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy helps to "reprocess" these stuck memories, allowing the brain to heal itself, much like it would during restful sleep.

Interested in exploring intimacy counselling? We've got you covered! At Solasta, we provide a safe, confidential, and supportive space to explore concerns related to intimacy, sexuality, and relationships. Our goal is to help individuals and couples build healthier, more fulfilling intimate lives.