In this article, we will define what attachment disorder in adults is, explain the different types they may experience and outline the signs and symptoms of the disorder and how it can be treated.

What is Attachment Disorder in Adults?

The term attachment disorder refers to the emotional and behavioural issues that develop in children who have difficulty forming a secure bond with their primary caregiver, which is often their parents. This connection may not be formed for various reasons, including an absent caregiver, neglect or abuse. In some situations, the caregiver may not be able to physically be with their baby or child, such as if either one is unwell and has to stay in hospital for a sustained duration. This may result in the child not receiving the care and attention needed to form a close attachment with their parents or caregiver. For most people, the experience with their parents or other caregiver is their first example of a secure, loving and trusting relationship. If a child doesn’t have this experience, they may grow up with different expectations of what relationships are like and struggle to form and maintain healthy relationships as an adult.

Although attachment disorder can only be diagnosed in children, adults can experience attachment issues resulting from untreated or undiagnosed attachment disorders from their childhood. For example, someone with attachment disorder may, as an adult, feel as though they cannot trust a romantic partner and struggle to communicate their emotions in an effective way. This can result in them being unable to form meaningful relationships and may cause them to experience commitment problems.

Types of Attachment Disorders in Adults

Different types of attachment disorders may develop as a result of an individual not forming a strong attachment to their primary caregiver as a child. As mentioned, attachment disorders are not formally diagnosed in adults. However, if attachment disorder is left unresolved as a child, they may experience significant difficulties relating to this in adulthood.

Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)

Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a rare condition that can result from neglect or mistreatment during early childhood. It can persist in adulthood if the individual is not successfully treated for the condition in their early years.

Signs and symptoms of RAD in adults may include having difficulty with the following:

• Forming attachments with other people and maintaining relationships.
• Showing or accepting affection.
• Trusting others.
• Understanding how others are feeling.
• Controlling feelings of anger.

Someone with RAD may also experience feelings of low self-esteem, display impulsive or detached behaviours and have issues with control. They may be more at risk of developing a mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression.

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder

Disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED) is a type of attachment disorder which tends to develop as a result of neglect or unsuitable care during the first two years of an individual’s life. A child may try to gain the attention of strangers and not display the usual fear associated with being introduced to new people. If left untreated, DSED can result in the individual struggling to create and maintain healthy long-term relationships with other people.

Signs and symptoms of DSED in adults may include:

• A limited understanding of social boundaries, such as excessive friendliness or touching strangers.
• Quickly placing trust in people they do not know well.
• Hyperactivity and becoming overly excited when meeting new people.
• Acting impulsively or showing a lack of inhibition.
• Displaying other behaviours that are not considered to be socially acceptable.

In some cases, RAD or DSED can result in someone developing an obsessive love disorder (OLD). This is an intense fixation with someone that can result in thoughts and behaviours that can be damaging to both people involved. Symptoms and behaviours may include extreme jealousy, controlling behaviour, possessiveness and an inability to accept rejection. Untreated, it can result in extremely serious behaviours such as abuse, stalking and violence. It’s worth noting that clinicians do not widely recognise obsessive love disorder, and there is discussion over whether it can be considered a mental health condition. However, attachment issues that aren’t resolved can manifest in various ways in someone’s emotions and behaviours, including those associated with OLD.

Signs and Symptoms of Attachment Disorder in Adults

Unresolved attachment disorder in childhood can lead to adults experiencing a range of symptoms and behaviours. These can vary depending on factors, including the reason for the attachment not forming as a child (for example, abuse), as well as individual differences. Although research into attachment disorder in adults is limited, there is strong evidence that certain family problems in early life can have a significant, lasting impact on an individual.

Some of the common signs and symptoms of attachment disorder in adults include:

• An inability to form and maintain healthy romantic relationships.
• Difficulty with responding to their emotions.
• Mood swings.
• An inability to trust people.
• Avoidance of intimacy.
• A feeling of low self-esteem.
• Withdrawal and avoidance of social events.
• Difficulty in certain social situations and interpreting social cues.
• Mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It’s important to recognise that attachment problems may make mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety worse rather than be a direct cause, though many mental conditions are linked.

An adult with attachment disorder will likely experience challenges with relationships. They may find it difficult to communicate effectively and voice their feelings to a romantic partner, resulting in feelings of paranoia, insecurity, jealousy and anxiety. If these feelings aren’t discussed and resolved healthily, the individual may express their feelings in an unproductive manner, such as through anger and accusations. Some people may become withdrawn and find commitment challenging, while others may feel that they need excessive attention and validation from their partner.

Someone with an attachment disorder may also find other relationships difficult, such as those with friends and family. If the individual experienced significant trauma as a child and continues to see those involved as an adult, these relationships can be strained and difficult. This will depend on the specific circumstances, but these interactions can cause stress and anxiety. Many of the signs and symptoms people experience can make it difficult to form and maintain any type of relationship. Someone may find it challenging to maintain strong friendships if they tend to withdraw from social situations or their mental health makes it difficult for them to function well.

Attachment disorder can affect all aspects of someone’s life, from their ability to work effectively to everyday interactions. It can be very difficult for someone to get the help they need, but if these problems aren’t addressed, the individual’s mental wellbeing can rapidly decline.

Want to Learn More?

At High Speed Training, we offer a range of Health and Social Care courses on topics including Advanced Safeguarding Adults and Communication Skills in Health and Social Care. Our courses are designed to support you whether you’re just starting in the industry or are experienced practitioners.

How to Treat Attachment Disorder in Adults

If an attachment disorder isn’t addressed and resolved during childhood, support can be sought in adulthood. Often, a form of therapy or counselling is an effective approach to managing attachment disorder and the behaviours and conditions that can result from it.

Psychotherapy, also referred to as talking therapy, is a type of psychological treatment for mental and emotional problems. Working with a qualified therapist can help someone identify and understand their thought patterns and behaviours. Attachment-based therapy is a specific type which is intended for children, adolescents and adults who have an attachment disorder. For adults, it involves discussing their childhood and past experiences and identifying unresolved trauma impacting their lives. This can help them to understand why they feel or act a particular way, particularly when in romantic relationships. For example, they may find it difficult to trust their partner and receive and/or reciprocate affection.

By addressing these issues, an adult with attachment disorder can work with their therapist to overcome the impact of their early experiences. They may be able to change these aspects which are affecting them negatively by developing techniques and strategies that work for them, such as establishing clear boundaries with their parents.

Alongside therapy tailored to the individual, couple therapy can also be an effective way to treat attachment disorder in adults. Or, some people may find it beneficial for their partner to attend some of their personal therapy sessions. Most people with attachment disorder will benefit from focusing on themselves and considering why they think and behave the way they do independently before introducing their partner to later sessions once they feel comfortable in doing so. Involving a partner in these discussions can help them to understand why their partner behaves in certain ways. As a result, they will likely want to be more accommodating and encouraging of their partner’s circumstances and support them in developing positive thoughts and behaviours. Together with the therapist, couples can build on techniques to strengthen their relationship, supporting the individual with attachment problems to overcome these issues.

Another type of talking therapy that could be useful for someone with attachment disorder is cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). CBT can be an effective tool to enable someone to understand and change how they think about their life and manage any unhealthy behaviours. Evidence shows it can be an effective treatment for mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more. As attachment issues may worsen someone’s mental health, CBT can be used to help manage and treat both their attachment disorder and some conditions exacerbated by it. CBT involves a series of sessions with a therapist during which milestones may be set, and the individual may be required to complete tasks between the sessions.

Conversations about conditions and disorders can be difficult to broach. However, it is important that these topics are talked about and that other people understand what these experiences can be like for someone as best as possible. Our article here provides some conversation topics and tips on talking about mental health, which you may find useful.

Expand Your Knowledge

If you work in health and social care, you need to know how to communicate effectively in a range of situations and with different people, which may include adults with attachment disorder. Take a look at our Promoting Effective Communication article to learn more.

If someone you know or care for is experiencing difficulties that you think may result from attachment disorder as a child, medical advice should be sought, such as through a GP or a therapist. It’s important to remember that attachment disorder is only clinically recognised in children, and adults are unlikely to be given this diagnosis. However, if attachment disorder as a child isn’t treated, it can result in various difficulties in later life, predominantly with relationships and social interactions. Addressing this as an adult can result in an individual developing positive thought patterns and behaviours, enabling them to successfully form long-lasting, happy relationships.

Further Resources:

• Health and Social Care Courses
• Promoting Effective Communication in Health and Social Care
• How to Help Someone With Loneliness

The post Understanding Attachment Disorder in Adults appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article, we will define what delirium is and how it differs from dementia in the elderly, explore the challenges it creates for those suffering from delirium, list the common symptoms and causes and provide guidance on caring for people with delirium.

What is Delirium in the Elderly?

Delirium is more than a fleeting confusion; it is a rapid and profound decline in mental clarity, usually occurring over one to two days. This condition is often a response to various medical issues, making it imperative for healthcare providers to identify and address the underlying problems.

Individuals at risk typically face multiple medical challenges simultaneously, heightening the urgency for proactive care. By understanding the nature of delirium, professionals can tailor their approach to the specific needs of each affected individual.

Symptoms of Delirium

Recognising delirium demands a keen understanding of its varied symptoms. Beyond the commonly observed traits, such as heightened distractibility, reduced awareness of surroundings and confusion, individuals may also exhibit difficulties performing routine tasks or tasks they were previously able to complete with ease.

Furthermore, infections, particularly UTIs, are common culprits in triggering sudden confusion associated with delirium. To deepen your understanding, refer to our article on Urinary Tract Infections in the Elderly, which explores the correlation between infections and delirium, offering valuable insights for healthcare practitioners.

Difference Between Dementia and Delirium

Understanding the disparities between dementia and delirium is crucial for healthcare professionals working in care. While both dementia and delirium can coexist and may share some common symptoms, understanding the differences in their nature and causes is important for accurate diagnosis and tailored care. Dementia is a chronic, progressive condition, while delirium is an acute, reversible state often linked to specific medical issues. 

Onset and Duration

Dementia: Typically, dementia has a gradual onset and progresses over an extended period. It is a chronic condition that involves a decline in cognitive abilities, memory loss, and changes in behaviour. The effects are persistent and may worsen over time.

Delirium: In contrast, delirium manifests suddenly, often within hours or days. It is an acute state of confusion with rapid onset and tends to fluctuate throughout the day. Delirium is usually reversible when the underlying cause is identified and addressed.

Cognitive Impairment

Dementia: Cognitive impairment in dementia is persistent and often includes memory loss, language difficulties, and challenges in problem-solving. The decline is gradual and may not be related to a specific medical event.

Delirium: Cognitive impairment in delirium is characterised by fluctuating attention, disorientation, and confusion. It is usually reversible and linked to an underlying medical condition or environmental factors.

Fluctuation in Symptoms

Dementia: Symptoms typically remain relatively stable over time, with gradual progression. Day-to-day variations are minimal.

Delirium Symptoms can fluctuate throughout the day, often worsening at night. The individual may experience periods of clarity followed by increased confusion.

Underlying Causes

Dementia: The primary cause of dementia is neurodegenerative, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, or other progressive brain disorders. An acute medical issue does not typically trigger it.

Delirium: Often a response to an acute medical problem or multiple medical issues occurring simultaneously. Common triggers include infections, medication side effects, metabolic imbalances, or surgery.

Reversibility

Dementia: Dementia is generally irreversible, with treatment focusing on symptom management and support to enhance quality of life.

Delirium: Delirium is often reversible when the underlying cause is identified and addressed promptly. Effective management of the triggering factors can lead to a full recovery.

Need a Training Course?

Our Health and Social Care courses, notably Dementia Awareness, provide targeted training to equip professionals with the knowledge needed to achieve a more accurate diagnosis and tailored care plan for individuals with either condition.

How to Help Someone with Delirium

Providing effective care for delirium involves a multifaceted approach. Identifying and treating the underlying cause is paramount, as delirium often improves with targeted interventions. Delirium usually lasts for one to two days, and creating a supportive and calm environment is crucial to facilitating the individual’s recovery process.

Alzheimers.uk lists some tips on how to help support the wellbeing of those with delirium, these include:

• Ensuring they are wearing any hearing aids and glasses they may have.
• Providing a 24-hour clock and calendar that is easily visible.
• Encouraging a good sleep routine. Reducing noise and dimming lights at night where possible.
• Reassuring the person if they have delusions and/or hallucinations.
• Helping and encouraging the person to be as active as is safe and appropriate.
• Helping them to regularly drink and eat.
• Refraining from moving the person unnecessarily – either within and between hospital wards or into the hospital if delirium is being managed at home.

Exploring relevant research findings is essential for those seeking insights into the duration of delirium. Additionally, our articles on effective communication and active participation offer practical guidance, aiding professionals in reassuring and supporting individuals during their recovery from delirium.

By understanding the nuances of delirium, healthcare professionals can enhance their ability to recognise, understand, and respond effectively to this often misunderstood condition, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes and quality of life for those under their care.

Further Resources: 

• Health and Social Care Courses
• Duty of Care in Health and Social Care: Responsibilities & Examples
• Urinary Tract Infections in the Elderly: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals

The post What is Delirium? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

One of the biggest challenges with tackling modern slavery is that, due to its nature, it occurs behind closed doors. The first step, therefore, is raising awareness. While we all have a role to play in preventing modern slavery from continuing, it’s especially important for people who have safeguarding responsibilities, or work in roles that involve safeguarding, to be able to recognise the signs that this may be occuring. 

In this article, we will define what modern slavery refers to, explain the different types and the signs to look out for. We’ll also outline what you should do if you suspect modern slavery is occurring.

What is Modern Slavery?

Modern slavery is a crime that involves individuals being forced to work or provide a service for the benefit of others. Though there are many definitions, and it has several forms, they all include aspects of control, involuntary actions and exploitation. 

It is important to remember that victims of modern slavery are not just limited to specific groups of people – anyone can be a victim of modern slavery. There are, however, some people who are more at risk of becoming victims of modern slavery than others:

• Children are often viewed as easy targets as they are more susceptible to pressure and persuasion. 
• People with learning difficulties may not be able to fully comprehend the situation and therefore are more vulnerable to manipulation. 
• People in desperate circumstances – like poverty or debt – are often targeted due to their likelihood of making riskier decisions. 
• Asylum seekers can be trapped by their desperation to reach countries like the UK. Traffickers can exploit them by offering them ‘safe’ travel. 

As we’ve established, modern slavery can be difficult to detect, due to it generally occurring behind closed doors. This is reflected in how challenging it is to get an accurate measurement of its prevalence across the world. However, it is not just an overseas problem and there is an increasing number of reported incidents in the UK. 

In 2021, the UK Annual Report on Modern Slavery found that police recorded 8,730  modern slavery offences across England and Wales, an increase of 5% from the previous year. 

Types of Modern Slavery

As modern slavery is a growing concern, it is especially important that people who have safeguarding responsibilities are able to understand the different types. Types of modern slavery include: 

1. Human trafficking is the illegal movement and trade of people without their consent, often across geographical borders. It often involves the use of threats, violence and coercion in order to use people for forced labour, criminal activity or sexual exploitation. For more information on human trafficking, check out our article, here.
2. Sexual exploitation involves forcing victims to perform sexual acts against their will for someone else’s profit. 
3. Criminal exploitation involves vulnerable individuals – often children – being made to commit crimes like theft, fraud or carrying drugs, often via County Lines.
4. Domestic servitude occurs when people are forced to work as domestic helpers under tough conditions and for little or no pay. It is, however, important to note that not all domestic work is classed as slavery and that this is a reliable source of income for many people. 
5. Forced labour includes any work that individuals are forced to complete against their will. They are often compelled to work long hours, in poor conditions, for little or no pay and usually under threat of punishment. 
6. Forced marriage occurs when someone is coerced into marriage without giving their consent. Victims of forced marriages cannot leave and often face abuse. Most child marriages are considered a form of modern slavery. For more information, check out our article: What is the Difference between Arranged Marriage and Forced Marriage?.

However, this is not an exhaustive list. Modern Slavery is a web of criminal activity with many strands, and further examples can be found here. 

Need a Course?

Our Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery training course provides learners with knowledge of exploitation and trafficking within the UK and teaches you how to identify the signs.

Signs of Modern Slavery

Identifying victims of modern slavery can be challenging for a number of reasons. They are often hidden away by their abusers, or feel unable to tell people about their experiences due to a fear of the potential consequences or shame. Therefore, as someone who works in a safeguarding role, it is crucial that you know the signs and what to look for. 

Signs that someone may be a victim of modern slavery include:

• Isolation, fear and withdrawn behaviours.
• Restricted or controlled movement.
• Appearing tired, unwashed or scruffy or showing signs of physical abuse or malnourishment. 
• Poor living conditions, such as living in overcrowded or substandard conditions.
• Long work hours.

The signs listed above are indicative that someone may be suffering from abuse in general. For some forms of modern slavery, there are more specific signs to look out for. However, it’s important to remember that experiences and signs will be different for every victim.

Forced Labour

If someone does not have a contract or is paid either less than the minimum wage or nothing at all, then this could be a significant sign that they are being exploited for their labour.

They may lack suitable clothing or protective equipment for the job they are doing, or work unusually long hours in poor conditions. Someone who is a victim of forced labour may show signs of psychological or physical abuse or seem to have a nervous disposition.

Sexual Exploitation

A victim of sexual exploitation may appear scared or withdrawn. They may show signs of physical abuse (for example, bruises, cuts or scars) or emotional abuse (they may appear to have low self-esteem or self-worth).

Someone living and working at the same address can be an indication that a brothel is operating from that address.

Domestic Servitude

If someone is held in their employer’s home and is unable to leave on their own or their movements are restricted, this could be a sign that they are a victim of domestic servitude.

Look out for signs such as working unusually long hours or being denied access to their own living space or possessions, including items like their ID or phone.

Criminal Exploitation

Signs of criminal exploitation often include suspicious or secretive behaviour and the appearance of unexplained money or items. Someone who is a victim of criminal exploitation may become withdrawn and preoccupied with phone calls and texts.

What to Do if you Suspect Modern Slavery

Modern slavery is a serious crime and we all have a role to play in preventing it. If you suspect modern slavery is occurring, it is crucial that you inform someone as soon as it is safe to do so. Do not assume that someone else will raise the concern; you must speak out, as your information could save a life.

You can:

• Report it to the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700. 
• Make an anonymous report on the Crimestoppers website or call them on 0800 555 111.
• Contact the police on 101 for non-emergency enquiries or use the textphone service on 18001 101 if you have a speech or hearing impairment. 
• Call 999 if you suspect that someone is in immediate danger. 

Remember that you do not have to be certain of your concern to make a report and you will always be taken seriously.

We hope you’ve found this article on modern slavery informative and helpful. If you have any further questions about the topics discussed in this article, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at High Speed Training. You can contact our friendly team on 0333 006 7000 or email support@highspeedtraining.co.uk.

Further Resources:

• Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery Training
• Methods of Human Trafficking and Recruitment
• Writing a Modern Slavery Policy: Guidance for Employers
• How Can We Work Together to Safeguard Adults?

The post What are the Different Types of Modern Slavery? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article, we will primarily focus on UTIs in the elderly. We will cover some of the common causes of the infection, describe the symptoms they may present with and look at some of the ways UTIs can be prevented. 

What is a Urinary Tract Infection?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect your urinary tract, meaning they are not just specific to the bladder, but can involve multiple areas. The urinary tract includes your bladder, urethra or kidneys, meaning an infection may start in the bladder and travel to the kidneys and the tubes that connect them. 

UTIs can be a singular occurrence, or people may suffer from repeated infections even after treatment has been given. These are known as recurrent UTIs, and may require a different approach to treatment or further investigations to take place. In some cases, a person may be diagnosed with a chronic UTI – one that results in persistent symptoms and a potential need for long-term antibiotics. 

What Causes a UTI in the Elderly?

There are a variety of reasons why the elderly can be more susceptible to UTIs, with the most common including:

An inability to fully empty the bladder 

Weaker bladder muscles can lead to a weaker flow of urine, making it harder to completely empty the bladder. Those with enlarged prostates, or certain conditions that affect the nervous system, can also find this difficult. Being unable to fully empty the bladder can cause a build of bacteria, leading to infection. 

A weakened immune system

As we age, our immune system becomes weaker and our ability to fight off infections lessons. This, coupled with other age-related factors, increases the likelihood of suffering from a UTI in older age. 

Continence issues

Having a urinary catheter can increase the chances of contracting a UTI, whether this be due to poor maintenance or hygiene or because an issue causes a backflow of urine from the bag back into the bladder. Those who require the use of an incontinence pad, for example, will have times where the urine and/or faeces they pass, remains close to the genital area, increasing the risk of bacteria forming and travelling to the bladder and beyond. To learn more about continence care in health and social care, take a look at our article.

Want to Learn More?

All care and support provided to those at risk of UTIs, should always be person-centred, with the person’s dignity being respected at all times. Take a look at our Ensuring Human Dignity and Respect article, or check out our catalogue of Safeguarding Training Courses.

Inability to maintain hygiene 

Many elderly people struggle with mobility issues, health conditions, frailty and cognitive decline. All of these can lead to an inability to maintain good levels of personal hygiene. Personal care and incontinence is a sensitive topic for many that can often lead to a person hiding the full extent of their issues. Consequently, they don’t receive the care and support they need.

A lack of fluids

Not drinking enough fluid is a big issue amongst the elderly and one the health and social care sector are continuously trying to combat. A lack of fluid contributes to an increasing risk of dehydration, UTIs, constipation, confusion and a host of unpleasant symptoms. For more information on this key topic, take a look at our article: ‘How to Combat Dehydration in Health and Social Care’.

It is important to consider each individual’s circumstances and tackle any factors present that could increase their risk of developing a UTI.

UTI Symptoms in the Elderly

For those working in health and social care or caring for someone in advanced years, you should be mindful of the signs and symptoms of a potential UTI. Even mild symptoms should be addressed with urgency to avoid any worsening or spread of the infection.

According to the NHS, the most common symptoms of a UTI can include:

• A burning sensation or pain when passing urine.
• A more frequent need to urinate.
• A need to pass urine more frequently at night.
• A greater urgency to urinate than normal. 
• Passing cloudy urine or blood.
• Pain in the back, just under the ribs or in the lower abdomen.
• A high temperature – feeling hot and shivery.
• A temperature below 36C. 
• Passing dark urine and/or urine with a strong smell.

These symptoms can present themselves in a person of any age, but additional symptoms can be present when an elderly person is affected. Many older people experience issues with their cognitive abilities, such as their memory and concentration, as is the case with dementia. These individuals, and those who have a urinary catheter in place, have an increased likelihood of experiencing delirium.

Delirium can be a telling sign that a UTI may be present as it can cause a significant change in a person’s level of confusion, their behaviour and can lead to an increase in agitation. This is likely to stand apart from any usual signs of dementia or cognitive impairment. An elderly person may also have uncharacteristic incidents of incontinence, or for those who are already experiencing some incontinence, this may become worse. Finally, the NHS states that new shivering and shaking, known as rigors, can also be a symptom of a UTI being present in the elderly.

UTI Prevention in the Elderly

With the right care and support, many UTIs can be prevented amongst the elderly. By following some basic do’s and don’ts, risk can be reduced. 

Do

• Ensure good toileting practice by wiping from front to back.
• Keep the genital area clean and dry – for those providing care, ensure regular pad changes and/or appropriate continence care.
• Drink adequate fluids and take appropriate steps to prevent dehydration. 
• Maintain good hygiene before and after sex. 

Don’t

• Use soaps or scented products that could cause irritation. 
• Hold your urine in if you feel you need to go.
• Only partially empty your bladder if you have the ability to fully empty it. 
• Wear tight underwear or non-breathable fabrics. 
• Drink large amounts of alcohol.
• Eat or drink large amounts of sugar as it can encourage bacteria growth. 

Preventing UTIs in the elderly can involve a multi-prong approach and it is important to see the whole picture to understand how best to support an individual. For example, many older people purposefully drink less fluids to avoid having an accident if they cannot make it to the toilet in time. This in turn may lead to additional support being provided for their mobility, or by providing a commode or continence aid. 

Understanding how UTIs can present themselves in older people and how they can be prevented, is vital for anyone responsible for their care and wellbeing. By following some of the advice within this article and utilising the expertise of those within the health and social care sector, the risk of UTIs can be reduced for many. 

Further Resources: 

• Care Certificate Training Course
• Dehydration in Health and Social Care
• What is Person-Centred Care and Why is it Important?
• Continence Care

The post Urinary Tract Infections in the Elderly: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

Some individuals in your care may require additional levels of safeguarding. However, it is not always obvious when this may be. Children and adults often attempt to keep their problems hidden, and they may be unwilling or feel unable to confide in somebody. This is an example of where professional curiosity can be of use.

In this article, we will explore the meaning of professional curiosity in more detail and how it relates to safeguarding. We will also describe ways to be professionally curious and look at examples of where this may be necessary. 

What is Professional Curiosity?

Professional curiosity is an important part of keeping children and adults safe. It is a term used in safeguarding guidance for many settings, including schools, care homes, hospitals and for roles in the wider community. Professional curiosity involves using your skills and knowledge to recognise when there may be a need to investigate a situation further.

As a professional working with children and adults, you are in a direct position to notice anything concerning. You may be worried that a person is suffering some form of maltreatment or struggling to manage a mental health issue. Perhaps you suspect that someone is involved in criminal activity and is being exploited.

These are a few examples of when you may need to use professional curiosity to fully explore what is happening so that action can be taken to safeguard that person. Remember, too, that some individuals will be more at risk, and you should use your knowledge and understanding to be extra vigilant in these circumstances.

For example, looked after children (LAC) may be more at risk. You can read more about how to safeguard looked after children in our article here. Some adults, such as those with disabilities, learning difficulties or mental health issues may also be at greater risk. Our article: Safeguarding Adults: What is it and Who is it for? can help you to identify the additional support these people may require.

The term ‘professional curiosity’ links closely with ‘respectful uncertainty’. This means attempting to view a situation with a critical eye. You should proactively ask questions and appreciate that the information given to you by the person themselves or perhaps their carers may not always be the truth. This process must be carried out respectfully,  as otherwise, relationships can become damaged, and you may risk losing the trust of the person or their carers.

Why is Professional Curiosity Important in Safeguarding?

As we have discussed, professional curiosity can enable you to identify when there may be an issue with an individual in your care which needs investigating further. Noticing any concerns signs and addressing these can be the difference between a person receiving the help they need and continuing to suffer.

Professional Curiosity and Maltreatment

The term ‘maltreatment’ refers to any form of abuse or neglect. Anybody who is suffering maltreatment requires support and intervention.

It can be challenging to identify exactly how many children and adults suffer maltreatment in the UK, as victims may be unwilling or feel unable to report what is happening to them. The NSPCC suggests that around half a million children suffer maltreatment each year, and there were approximately 541,434 concerns raised about adults in the year 2021/22.

Professional curiosity can be particularly helpful in identifying potential cases of maltreatment. As mentioned previously, it is important that information isn’t always accepted at face value. In some cases of maltreatment, ‘disguised compliance’ may occur. This happens when those around the individual, their family or carers, attempt to create a false sense of the person being safe and well. This might be because they would like to hide that maltreatment is occurring, as is common in cases of adult domestic abuse.

Anybody who experiences some form of maltreatment is at a greater risk of developing mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety, either during the maltreatment or later in life. There is also an increased risk of suicide in those who have, or are, experiencing maltreatment. For example, research by Agenda Alliance, an organisation that campaigns for the well-being of all women, found that those who had experienced domestic abuse were three times more likely to take their own lives.

Looking to Learn More?

Our range of safeguarding courses can teach you more about identifying signs of maltreatment, and other indicators that a person may require additional support, care or intervention. These include Introduction to Safeguarding Children, Designated Safeguarding Lead and Level 3 Safeguarding Adults.

Professional Curiosity and Child Safeguarding

Staff working in schools or in children’s social care are particularly well-placed to recognise when a child is in need. Their professional curiosity may uncover a situation which can easily be addressed, such as a child struggling to fit in with their peers or perhaps a child who has become stressed about upcoming exams. If you work in a school, take a look at this article to support you in achieving effective safeguarding: How to Create an Effective Culture of Safeguarding in Schools.

Professional curiosity also plays a vital role in uncovering more serious cases of child maltreatment. Unfortunately, in some cases where a child has suffered serious harm, a lack of professional curiosity has been highlighted.

For example, a serious case review completed by Calderdale Safeguarding Children Partnership, found that opportunities were missed to investigate a concerning situation further. Despite various agencies being involved, a lack of professional curiosity was cited as a reason for the severity of the maltreatment being missed. Sadly, in this case, while the child died of natural causes, it was later found that they had suffered multiple non-accidental injuries and were at risk for various reasons. 

Many serious case reviews have found that if those involved in safeguarding had asked more questions, or looked into matters further, facts may have been uncovered which would have allowed for actions to be put in place to stop the maltreatment. In some cases, children’s lives could have been saved.

How to be Professionally Curious

Professional curiosity is about understanding when there is a need to look into a situation further and find out more. It’s about being vigilant, acting upon concerns and not being afraid to challenge decisions you may disagree with.

Below are some top tips on how to be professionally curious:

• Know the signs to look out for: you must know what the signs and indicators are that might suggest a child or adult is in need, at risk of maltreatment, or suffering maltreatment. If you feel unsure of this, speak to a manager and ask if you could undertake some training to help you feel better equipped. Take a look at this article which offers guidance on different safeguarding training levels. 
• Respectfully ask questions and investigate: being professionally curious doesn’t need to be overly intrusive or cause offence. It can be helpful to remind everyone involved that you have the individual’s well-being at heart and that, ultimately, your aim is to offer the best possible support.
• Understand the ‘whole picture’: if you are dealing with complex circumstances, take the time to understand everything fully. For example, if you believe a child is suffering neglect, take the time to understand their parent or carers’ situation. It may be that they need some support themselves, and you must be sensitive to this. 

• Raise concerns: there may be occasions where your role is to raise concerns rather than act on them yourself. Always be proactive in doing this, even if you’re unsure whether there is an issue; raising your concern is an important part of being professionally curious. 
• Challenge decisions: if having raised a concern, you are not satisfied with the outcome, you should challenge this decision. This is known as ‘professional challenge’ and, when done properly, can help uncover issues that may have been overlooked or missed. 

We hope you have found this article informative and helpful. Professional curiosity is an essential part of safeguarding, which should happen across all settings where caring for children or adults is involved. Being professionally curious is a vital step in achieving effective safeguarding.

Further Resources

Safeguarding Courses

What is Adultification within Child Protection and Safeguarding?

Safeguarding Adults at Risk: What is it and Who is it For?

How to Create an Effective Culture of Safeguarding in Schools

What is Contextual Safeguarding & Why is it Important?

How Can We Work Together to Safeguard Adults?

What is Safeguarding Training & Why is it so Important?

The post What is Professional Curiosity in Safeguarding? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article we will outline what the eight Caldicott Principles are, why they were introduced and how they apply within the workplace. We have also provided a free downloadable poster that can be printed and displayed within your setting, to act as a reminder and help to ensure everyone acts in accordance with these principles at all times.

What are the Caldicott Principles?

The Caldicott Principles are fundamentals that organisations should follow to protect any information that could identify a patient – such as their name and their health records. Organisations should always use the Principles as a way of determining whether sharing an individual’s information could identify them, and if it does, whether it is appropriate and relevant for it to be shared.

In 1997, Dame Fiona Caldicott – and the committee she chaired – produced a report regarding confidentiality and the transfer of identifiable patient information within the health service. From this, a set of standards known as the Caldicott Principles were formed. Originally beginning with six principles, subsequent reviews have since taken place, with a seventh and then an eighth principle being added in 2013 and 2020 respectively.

Why Were the Caldicott Principles Introduced?

Not so long ago, our personal information – including that relating to our health – was not protected from public access. This meant that not only could your personal information and health status become public knowledge, but that it could be used inappropriately. For example, those wishing to exert power or control over others and those who would use it as a means to socially discriminate and abuse others, were able to do so.

In the past, there were many stigmas associated with certain health conditions and treatments and the worry over this information becoming known within their community could be a huge source of concern and upset for many. As technology advanced, these concerns understandably became greater.

Therefore, the motivation behind the Caldicott report was the increasing concern about advancements in technology and its capability to distribute information about patients quickly and extensively. The basis of the review was to ensure that confidentiality was not being undermined.

The Caldicott Principles helped to set out what, when and how information could and should be shared – supporting an acceptable level of confidentiality without compromising the quality of care received. The formation of these standards helped to tackle the problems within the National Health Service (NHS) involving patient data and its accessibility, storage and use. 

As technological advances and the digitisation of data continues to evolve, keeping up-to-date with developments and the use of technology in health and social care is vital to help you to understand the various ways a patient or service user’s personal information can be used, stored and shared.

The 8 Caldicott Principles

Below is a summary of each of the eight Caldicott Principles as outlined by the National Data Guardian for Health and Social Care. You can find the information in full here. 

Principle 1: Justify the purpose(s) for using confidential information

Every proposed use or transfer of personally identifiable information, either within or from an organisation, should be clearly defined and scrutinised. Its continuing uses should be regularly reviewed by an appropriate guardian.

Principle 2: Use confidential information only when it is necessary

Identifiable information should not be used unless it’s essential for the specified purposes. The need for this information should be considered at each stage of the process.

Principle 3: Use the minimum necessary confidential information

Where the use of personally identifiable information is essential, each individual item should be considered and justified. This is so the minimum amount of data is shared and the likelihood of identifiability is minimal.

Principle 4: Access to confidential information should be on a strict need-to-know basis

Only those who need access to personal confidential data should have access to it. They should also only have access to the data items that they need.

Principle 5: Everyone with access to confidential information should be aware of their responsibilities

Action should be taken to ensure that those handling personally identifiable information are aware of their responsibilities and their obligation to respect patient and client confidentiality.

Principle 6: Comply with the law

Every use of personally identifiable data must be lawful. Organisations that handle confidential data must have someone responsible for ensuring that the organisation complies with legal requirements.

Principle 7: The duty to share information for individual care is as important as the duty to protect patient confidentiality

Health and social care professionals should have the confidence to share information in the best interests of their patients and within the framework set out by these principles. They should also be supported by the policies of their employers, regulators, and professional bodies.

Principle 8: Inform patients and service users about how their confidential information is used

Steps should be taken to ensure patients and service users understand how and why their confidential information is used. They should always be provided with accessible, relevant and appropriate information.

Looking for a Course?

Take a look at our catalogue of courses for those working in Health and Social Care. These include courses to help you further your knowledge of data handling, such as our Information Governance training course.

How to Apply the Caldicott Principles

The Caldicott Principles are something that all health organisations should follow and promote to staff to protect patient information. The seventh principle, however, can cause a lot of confusion in healthcare environments. Often, people are uncertain about when it’s acceptable to share information about someone and when it’s not. 

There are certain circumstances that override your duty of confidentiality. This is the aim of principle 7: to realise that sharing information can be as important as protecting confidentiality. It’s important that you can successfully balance the need for maintaining confidentiality with the need for keeping people safe.

You should share information about a patient when:

• They, or others, are, or might be, at risk of harm.
• They are at risk of posing harm to someone else.
• A crime could be prevented if the information is shared.
• A serious crime has been committed.
• A court order or other legal authority has requested the information.

Knowing both when and how to maintain confidentiality in health and social care is not only important to ensure you are upholding your legal responsibilities, but it also helps to build and support trust between yourself and those within your care. 

Always follow your organisation’s policies and procedures to make sure you are complying with confidentiality standards and the 8 Caldicott Principles within your day-to-day duties. This could mean that you do not provide the personal information of those within your care without certain identity checks, or it may mean that you do not repeat details of anyone’s personal life or events with those you don’t need to – including other colleagues.

Free 8 Caldicott Principles Poster

You can download our free poster at the link below. Why not display it within your setting to act as a reminder of the key principles of confidentiality.

Download Our Free Caldicott Principles Poster

The 8 Caldicott Principles provide a framework for all health settings to follow to protect identifiable patient information. If you work in a health setting, it’s important that you’re aware of these responsibilities and know what your duties are in relation to them.

Further Resources:

• Information Governance Training
• Duty of Care in Health and Social Care: Responsibilities & Examples
• How to Maintain Confidentiality in Health and Social Care
• What are the 6 Principles of the Care Act 2014?
• Safeguarding Adults Quiz

The post What are the 8 Caldicott Principles in Health and Social Care? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article, we will outline the different levels of safeguarding training and provide guidance on the information that they cover, helping you to choose the most appropriate course. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, so ensuring you are completing the correct training for your role is vital.

If you wish to find further information about any of the courses outlined below, you can find all of our Safeguarding training, here.

Who Needs Safeguarding Training?

The term safeguarding is used to define actions taken to protect at risk groups from harm. As someone working closely with groups who have care and support needs, it’s important you understand what safeguarding is and why it’s important. Anybody who works with children and/or adults at risk, no matter how frequently, is required to have knowledge of safeguarding to ensure they are supporting and protecting those in their care. You can learn more about safeguarding in our article: What is Safeguarding?

Schools, charities, hospitals and care homes, along with other organisations, must all be invested in safeguarding and they have a legal responsibility to provide safeguarding training for all staff. 

In the rest of this article, we will take you through the three different levels of safeguarding training and provide guidance on each, to help you decide which is required for your role.

What is Level 1 Safeguarding Training?

Level one safeguarding training is the most basic level and is an introduction to safeguarding, so no prior knowledge is needed to complete this level.

Level one safeguarding training will teach you what safeguarding is and why it is so important, as well as the different types of abuse and neglect, and how to identify that they are occurring. It will also cover how to respond to a disclosure, report your concerns and record information.

Jobs that Require Level 1 Safeguarding Training

Level one training is suitable for workers of all levels, including managers, supervisors, full-time staff, part-time staff and volunteers. 

Examples of people who may take this training include: 

• Teachers, nursery workers, teaching assistants, carers and childminders. 
• Doctors, nurses, paramedics and health workers. 
• Social workers, council staff and immigration workers. 
• Youth workers, activity leaders and volunteers. 
• Sports coaches and teachers. 
• Church leaders, religious leaders and volunteers. 
• NHS staff, such as GPs, nurses and healthcare assistants.
• Carers, both in a residential home or domestic setting.
• Private healthcare workers.
• Taxi drivers and bus drivers.
• Workers who enter people’s homes, such as gas engineers, maintenance workers and cleaners.
• Health and social care professionals, such as paramedics and health visitors.
• Council staff and immigration workers.

This list is not exhaustive and, depending on your duties, you may need a higher level of safeguarding training. If you are unsure, ask your employer. 

Take a look at our range of level one courses including Introduction to Safeguarding Children, Introduction to Safeguarding Adults and Safeguarding Essentials.

What is Level 2 Safeguarding Training?

Level two safeguarding training is often referred to as ‘advanced’. This level of training develops and maintains your safeguarding knowledge, so you should already have some prior knowledge of safeguarding. 

Level two training covers everything in level one but goes into further detail about safeguarding procedures, scenarios and what happens after a referral. It provides you with a thorough understanding of how to protect the children or adults you work with. 

Jobs that Require Level 2 Safeguarding Training

The jobs mentioned as requiring level one safeguarding training may also require a level two qualification. This is likely to be dependent on the job and can vary between employers. 

For example, teachers are expected to have an advanced level of safeguarding training. School staff have a duty of care to children and, being the ones who are likely to spend the most time with them, are likely to encounter the warning signs presented by abused children.

Anyone who engages in regulated activity will likely need level two safeguarding training. 

Example job roles include:

• People that work in hospitals and GP surgeries.
• Workers in nursing homes, care homes and domiciliary care.
• Workers in religious organisations and community groups.

Take a look at our range of level two courses including Advanced Safeguarding Children and Advanced Safeguarding Adults.

What is Level 3 Safeguarding Training?

Level three safeguarding training refers to the training of a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). This is someone who is the first point of contact for staff or those with access to the organisation you work for, and is a requirement in schools. DSLs are also responsible for ensuring that everyone in their organisation is following best safeguarding practices. 

Level three courses offer information on the Designated Safeguarding Lead’s specific responsibilities. This may include content, such as working with other organisations and sensitively sharing the information in accordance with data protection laws. 

The course is suitable for anyone wishing to understand the responsibilities of the Designated Safeguarding Lead, including those already in this position seeking further training and support, deputies and those assisting whoever holds the position, as well as those taking on a safeguarding lead for their organisation.

This level of training will include when and how to make safeguarding referrals, and how to work with other agencies to ensure all adults and children in your care receive the correct safeguarding support. 

Jobs that Require Level 3 Safeguarding Training

Level three safeguarding training is designed for anyone who is in a position of responsibility in an organisation where adults at risk and/or children are present. 

This includes, but is not limited to, managers, supervisors, and Designated Safeguarding Leads in: 

• Care homes and residential settings.
• Social housing settings.
• Charities.
• Social and religious group setting.
• Adult education establishments.
• Sports clubs and leisure centres. 
• Health and social care environments.

Take a look at our range of Level 3 courses including Designated Safeguarding Lead and Level 3 Safeguarding Adults Training.

If you are still uncertain as to what level of training you require, you should ask your employer for clarification. You must have an up to date knowledge of child and vulnerable adult safeguarding practices. As a result, it is recommended that you recomplete training every three years. Some training suppliers will offer refresher courses that are specifically tailored for this requirement.

If you work with children or adults in need, it is essential that you receive the correct level of training required for your role. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and crucial to keep people safe. If you have any further questions or wish to find out more information on the topics covered in this article, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at High Speed Training!

Further Resources:

• Safeguarding Training Courses
• What is Safeguarding Training & Why is it so Important?
• Safeguarding Children Legislation: Guidance for School
• Safeguarding Adults Quiz
• Safeguarding Flowchart: Procedure for Reporting Concerns

The post Safeguarding Training Levels Explained: What’s the Difference? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

One in four adults experience mental illness in any given year in the UK. As a result, there’s a massive demand for people to fill roles associated with mental health – for example, there are currently over 64,000 jobs advertised on Indeed working in this field. Supporting people with their mental health can be a challenging, rewarding and exciting career choice, with so many different roles available.

In this article, we’ll explore the types of mental health professionals in detail and explain the qualifications these positions require. We’ll also look into possible career pathways to these careers.

Types of Mental Health Professionals

There are many types of mental health professionals, with various roles, responsibilities and purposes. Mental health professionals work in various settings and with people of varying ages.

We’ll have a look into these roles in more detail below:

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are physicians that have a deep understanding of the science behind how our brains function and operate. This allows them to diagnose psychological issues in their patients.

Psychiatrists are also qualified doctors, allowing them to prescribe therapies and medication to patients. Often, psychiatrists are involved in diagnosing the most complex psychological concerns.

Psychological Professionals

This large field encompasses all kinds of counsellors and clinical psychologists. Counsellors and clinical psychologists offer a variety of treatments to help support people with issues such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders.

Mental Health Nurses

Mental health nurses provide support to people experiencing poor mental health in a variety of ways. They may be involved in early interventions and supporting people to find the right services and therapies that suit their needs. Another typical duty of theirs is to ensure that patients take their prescribed medication. They may also liaise with family members and help to build a network of support for an individual.

Mental health nurses work in various settings, from specialist hospital wards and units to residential centres and people’s homes.

Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists (OTs) help people to overcome numerous challenges in their everyday lives, including mental health issues. They help people to adapt and respond to the things which they find difficult in order to live a full and happy life.

OTs liaise with numerous other agencies and organisations to ensure that they take a practical approach that benefits the person best.

Social Workers

Social work is incredibly varied, and in contrast to popular belief, social services help children and adults, not just the former. These professionals build relationships with individuals and families who may be facing a multitude of challenges. They offer guidance and support and help to signpost people to additional services which they may need to access.

To learn more about careers in health and social care, take a look at our hub article here.

Personal Skills Required for Roles in Mental Health

A career in mental health can be incredibly rewarding. Many people embark upon this kind of career because they find that helping and supporting others brings them joy and satisfaction.

As with many rewarding careers, it is also one that will likely come with challenges. However, several personal skills can help you with any challenging situations that you may encounter.

Some of these notable skills are explained below.

Patience

In some cases, it may take some time to make an impact and to see your hard work pay off. It’s important to be patient in these situations and understand that everyone is different.

Suffering from a mental illness can be scary for the individual, and you should treat everyone with the same level of patience. Some people may be sceptical towards getting help, and, therefore may take a while to trust you and open up to the point where you can understand how best you can help them.

Empathy

Being able to appreciate and understand how another person may be feeling is a crucial part of a career in mental health.

Having empathy is the ability to recognise and respect the emotions, ethics, beliefs and values of others. You’ll need to be able to understand how someone feels about a situation and be sensitive to their needs.

Active Listening

There is a difference between simply hearing what someone says to you and actively listening to them. The latter involves reacting to what has been said meaningfully and is so important when discussing mental health. Much of your role may involve talking to and communicating with those you support, their families and your colleagues.

Active listening means:

• Listening with intention, without distractions.
• Listening for meaning in what the person is saying.
• Not interrupting and allowing the person enough time to speak.
• Not listening with preconceived ideas.
• Not pretending to listen whilst actually waiting for a gap in the conversation to speak yourself.
• Using positive body language and facial expressions to show you are listening, such as nodding and smiling.
• Paying attention to the speaker’s tone of voice and body language.
• Using affirmative words, such as ‘okay’, ‘right’, and ‘I see’ to show that you’re listening and to encourage the person to continue talking.
• Repeating or paraphrasing what the person has said to show you have understood.
• Asking relevant, open questions (those that require more than a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer).

For more further guidance on active listening skills, take a look at our hub article: How to Improve Active Listening in Communication.

Working Under Pressure

Many careers in mental health are demanding and will present you with numerous tasks and deadlines that you will need to be able to manage.

It’s therefore important that you can not only prioritise your tasks and manage your time effectively, but also be able to do so with a clear mind in a pressurised situation. You may only have a moment or two to make an important decision, and it’s crucial that you feel able to do so.

Making Important Decisions

If your role involves building a support plan for someone with mental health concerns, important decisions will need to be made.

There is a huge responsibility that comes with this, and you must feel comfortable taking a proactive approach and feel confident in the decisions you make.

Resilience

Resilience is the ability to ‘bounce back’ and comfortably carry on in the midst of adversity. As we’ve mentioned, this career will likely be challenging at times. You’ll need to be able to face complicated – and potentially difficult – situations, remain calm and resilient.

For more information on resilience, check out our article.

You may already possess valuable and transferable skills which you could apply to a job in mental health. To consider this further, take a look at our hub article: Transferable Skills: What Are They and Why Are They Important?

What Qualifications Do I Need to Work in Mental Health?

The qualifications you’ll need for a career in mental health depend on the type of role you’re interested in. Many jobs do require qualifications to at least a degree level. There are also various mental health certificates and diplomas offered in colleges which can help you to develop the skills and knowledge required for an entry-level position in this field.

Common undergraduate degrees which lead to careers in mental health include:

• Nursing.
• Nursing (specialising in mental health).
• Health and Social Care.
• Medicine.
• Occupational Therapy.
• Psychology.

For certain roles within the mental health field, it might be required to have a master’s or postgraduate qualification following an undergraduate degree to specialise in a particular area. This would be common for roles such as behavioural therapy and psychological counselling, as you need to become an expert in your field in order to competently help others. It is then possible to work in various settings using your qualifications, such as schools, hospitals, residential settings and in people’s own homes.

A great way to kick off a career in mental health is to get involved in volunteer work. Volunteering is a way to get a feel for whether this kind of work is right for you, and you can fit it around existing commitments. Having some practical work experience like this on your CV will also make you a more attractive candidate when applying for courses and qualifications.

Need a Course?

At High Speed Training we offer a range of courses to help you to manage your own mental health as well as the skills need to support others, such as our Mental Health Awareness course, designed to increase your understanding of common mental health conditions.

Mental Health Career Pathways

The pathway you’ll need to take to start a career in mental health will depend entirely on the position that you want.

For example, if you are interested in psychiatry, the first step would be to complete medical school. Typically, you’ll need appropriate GCSE and A-levels to be accepted into a university to study a five-year undergraduate degree in medicine. However, if you have an undergraduate degree already – even if it’s in a different subject – you could take a postgraduate degree in medicine, which would take four years. Once you have completed medical school, you’ll be required to join the paid foundation program, where you’ll gain experience by working in different settings across six different placements.

As you become experienced in your chosen field, you may choose to set up your own business offering services such as counselling and psychotherapy. Many people who take this path will become a part of a professional body or association, such as BACP (British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists) or UKCP (United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy). This offers their patients reassurance that they hold the relevant qualifications and have the right level of experience to offer specific therapies.

You may also choose to work on a specialist psychiatric ward in a clinical setting or perhaps in medical research. Once you have experience, the correct training and the right qualifications, you will find that new opportunities are made available to you.

On the other hand, if you’re interested in becoming a mental health support worker, the requirements are quite different. There are no specific qualification requirements – however, employers will likely prefer you to have a diploma or NVQ in healthcare or something similar. Having experience of working in mental health is also likely to be preferable. Still, this experience could be from your own personal circumstances, and doesn’t necessarily have to be past work experience.

Once you begin studying for a qualification in mental health, you will likely find particular areas more interesting than others. It may be that you find you are fascinated by the science behind how the brain functions, or perhaps it is the practical skills of caring for people with mental illness which interest you. You’ll also begin to realise where your skills are best suited.

A career in mental health can provide challenges and fulfilment in equal measures. With so many different job roles and career paths associated with this type of work, the opportunities are vast. If you feel you have the right personal skills and level of interest, this may be an excellent career to explore further.

Further Resources

• Mental Health Myths vs Facts: What are the Realities?
• A Personal Development Plan (PDP) Guide & Template
• Careers in Health and Social Care
• Writing A Professional Development Plan – Example & Template

The post How to Get a Job in Mental Health appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

Physical exercise has been proven to have huge potential in improving our mental wellbeing, with studies showing that people who exercise regularly experience better mental health and emotional wellbeing, as well as lower rates of mental illness.

In this article, we will explore the link between physical exercise and mental wellbeing and how they interact, explain why this is so important for our overall health, and recommend some ideas for how to use physical activity to improve mental wellbeing.

The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Mental Health

Physical activity involves any movement of the body that uses the muscles, increases  your heart rate or breathing, and expends energy. Luckily, there are endless possibilities of ways in which to do this and therefore there’s an option that everyone will enjoy. 

Physical exertion and mental health are directly connected due to changes in chemical activity that occur in the brain during and after exercise. This includes the increase of ‘happy hormones’ such as serotonin and the release of endorphins, as well as a reduction in stress hormones such as cortisol. As a result of these chemical changes, physical activity is shown to have a hugely positive effect on our mental wellbeing.

It’s important to remember, however, that everyone’s experience with mental health is unique, and therefore the impact of physical activity on mental wellbeing will vary for each individual. It’s normal for our mental state to fluctuate between positive and negative as we experience natural changes in mood and circumstance. However, there are a variety of named mental health issues that occur when there’s a clinically significant disturbance in an individual’s mental wellbeing. You can learn more about the different types of mental health in our article here.

Want to Learn More?

 Our range of mental health courses, including Mental Health Awareness, Child Mental Health Training and Health and Wellbeing, aim to increase your understanding of mental health, common mental health conditions and how to promote positive mental health.

Why is Physical Activity Important for Mental Health?

In the UK and beyond, mental wellbeing is increasingly being discussed as something that we need to actively maintain and improve, as almost everyone suffers from ill mental health at some point in their life. New research among 2,000 adults in England has revealed that around 4 in 10 people report having trouble sleeping, feeling less confident, and having less energy due to anxiety.

Despite physical activity being repeatedly shown to improve mental health in a myriad of ways, less than half of adults are aware that it’s proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety, alleviate stress and distract from negative thoughts. 

These statistics demonstrate the importance of discussing mental health openly and frequently, to help raise awareness and fight ignorance or stigmas. You can find suggestions for how to talk about mental health in our article, here.

How Does Exercise Improve Mental Health?

Releases Feel Good Hormones 

Although it can be hard to motivate yourself to exercise, it’s unlikely that you’ll regret it once you start. This is due to the release of ‘feel-good’ chemicals during exercise, including mood-boosting endorphins, endocannabinoids, which improve sleep and reduce anxiety, and memory improving dopamine. 

Improves Confidence and Self Esteem

Self esteem is a strong indicator of someone’s mental wellbeing. Exercise gives you a way to frequently achieve goals and gain a sense of pride that you’ve pushed yourself to move despite it being difficult. This all contributes to improving self-esteem almost immediately. 

Improves Sleep

People who regularly exercise are shown to sleep better and feel less tired during the day. Regular exercise also improves the symptoms of insomnia and increases the amount of time you spend in the deep, restorative stages of sleep.

Improves Memory, Concentration and Focus

Exercise increases your heart rate and causes more blood to flow to the brain. This promotes cell growth which allows for greater focusing abilities. Additionally, physical activity releases proteins in the brain which the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for retaining information, is very susceptible to. 

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Physical activity helps to control the levels of stress hormones in our body, such as cortisol and adrenaline, and acts as a means of release for negative emotions building up inside of us. It also helps to relieve physical tension, which is often a side effect of stress or anxiety. If you’re interested in other ways to help manage stress, take a look at our article, here.

Promotes Social Connection

Certain physical activities make it easier to socialise and form connections. For example, sports teams and local groups, like walking or running clubs, are a great way to meet new people. Socialising with friends is an effective form of self-care, helping us to establish strong, healthy connections and support networks. 

Contributes to the Treatment of Mental Illness

Not only is physical activity proven to help maintain mental wellbeing, it has also been shown to be an effective form of treatment for mental illness, even more so than medication in some cases. A recent study demonstrated that physical activity interventions of any kind can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in all clinical populations. Importantly, the research shows that it doesn’t take much for exercise to make a positive change to your mental health, with short to mid-duration bursts having a greater effect than long durations of exercise. 

How Does Lack of Exercise Affect Your Mental Health?

Whilst exercising has hugely positive effects on mental wellbeing, a lack of exercise can have the converse effect and contribute to a downturn in mental health. In fact, research suggests that just 10 days without fitness can cause the brain to start losing cognitive function. Additionally, whilst it can be harder to motivate yourself to exercise when you’re feeling low, if you don’t engage in physical activity your mood could suffer even more. 

Some of the negative impacts of a lack of exercise include:

• A higher risk of anxiety and depression.
• Difficulty to think positively or see the bright side.
• Trouble with problem solving.
• Development of self-deprecating thought patterns.
• Reduced ability to manage stress.

The NHS recommends doing 150 minutes of physical activity per week in order to get the physical and mental health benefits that exercise provides. Despite this advice, however, it’s been found that 4 in 10 adults are currently not meeting this target. 

How to Get Started with Using Physical Exercise for Your Mental Health

If you’re at the beginning of your fitness journey, it’s best to start slowly with short durations of low impact exercise such as walking or playing a gentle sport like golf or badminton.

By easing yourself into physical activity, you will avoid becoming demotivated by the difficulty and pressure of trying to do too much too soon. Instead, it’s better to gradually increase the duration and strenuousness of your exercise and, if you maintain regular activity, you will soon begin to see improvements in your abilities which will have a positive effect on your self esteem and overall wellbeing. 

The Best Exercises for Mental Health

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that the best exercise for your mental health will be one that you enjoy. This is the key to making physical activity a healthy habit that you can maintain over time. With that in mind, here are a selection of mood boosting exercises that you could try:

Walking

Although walking is sometimes disregarded as not being ‘proper’ exercise, this is a myth and there are in fact many physical and mental benefits to going for a walk. Some of the advantages of walking is that it’s a free activity and one that is low impact and therefore can be enjoyed by most people. Additionally, walking is a good way to get outside into fresh air and experience nature, both of which have also been shown to positively influence mental wellbeing. 

Yoga

Whilst yoga is a form of physical exercise that gets the body moving, its core focus is on establishing a connection with your mind and breathing to establish a state of relaxation and focus. Thus, it has long been recognised for its benefits on mental wellbeing. This form of exercise is great for easing stress and tension, lowering blood pressure, and boosting serotonin. Therefore, it can be effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

If you’re looking for a more intense and challenging form of exercise that can be practised in short durations,  a HIIT workout may be the perfect option. This form of physical activity raises the heart rate considerably and therefore gets the blood pumping around the body, increasing blood flow to the brain and releasing endorphins. 

Running

Running is perhaps the most celebrated and best recognised form of exercise to combine physical fitness with mental wellbeing. Similarly to walking, it is free and often gets you outside. Famously, running can produce a phenomena known as ‘runner’s high’ which occurs when the body is flooded with feel-good chemicals during or shortly after a run. Many  people describe this feeling as a state of euphoria or bliss; not only is your mood boosted but the feeling can also reduce pain and anxiety substantially. 

If you’d like to start running but are not sure how to begin, the NHS Couch to 5k is a great running plan for absolute beginners, which will help you work up towards running 5k in just 9 weeks.

Boxing and Martial Arts

Boxing, or any other form of martial art activity, is not only a great form of physical exercise but also helps to let off steam and release pent up negative emotions such as stress. Additionally, martial arts is a great form of exercise to raise self esteem and confidence as it builds visible strength and provides regular trackable improvements. 

Dancing

There are many different types of dance and all of them have varying benefits that relate to mental health. Ballet, for example, has similarities to yoga in being grounded in mindfulness and self-awareness, and many forms of dance such as hip hop and zumba are free flowing and intense so raise your heart rate and produce endorphins. Additionally, dance can be an extremely social form of exercise, as it’s often partaken in group classes and involves close collaboration. Thus, it’s a good way to form connections and build a strong support network. 

These examples describe just a few of the many forms of physical activity available to try, but the options are almost limitless. Your local leisure centre is a good place to start, as they often offer a variety of sports and fitness classes for anyone to join. Whilst each type of physical activity benefits wellbeing in slightly different ways, all forms of exercise have a hugely positive impact on maintaining and improving mental health. 

Your mental health is just as important to care for as your physical health, and exercise has been shown to have a direct impact on improving and maintaining mental wellbeing. There are so many different ways to take part in physical activity, so why not try a few various forms and find the ones that work best for you. 

Further Resources:

• Types of Mental Health
• How to Talk About Mental Health
• Mental Health Myths vs Facts: What are the Realities?
• Stress Management Activities to Try at Home
• Mental Health Awareness Course

The post The Benefits of Exercise on Mental Health appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

DoLS and LPS refer to the protection of your rights if you are, or may become, deprived of your liberty in a hospital or care home.

If you work with adults that lack the capacity to make particular decisions for themselves, DoLS and LPS are especially important to your role. There are also some key changes that you need to be aware of. In this article we will outline the aim of LPS and why it is changing from DoLS.

What is the Aim of Liberty Protection Safeguards?

Liberty Protection Safeguards provide protection for people aged 16 and above who are, or need to be, deprived of their liberty. This is to enable their care or treatment and only for people that lack the capacity to consent to their arrangements. This includes people who are sectioned and detained under the Mental Health Act and people with learning disabilities, autism or dementia.

LPS hopes to deliver improved outcomes for people and has been designed to put the rights and wishes of those people at the centre of all decision-making. To deprive someone of their liberty means they are not allowed to leave where they live without being accompanied and are always under supervision.

LPS applies to a person’s own home or family home, shared living and supported living, hospitals and care homes. If an individual lacks the capacity to consent to being deprived of their liberty, due to illness, injury or disability, decisions will be made for them and within their best interests.

It is important to note that if you work in health and social care, you may be called upon by an approved mental capacity professional (AMCP). The role of an AMCP is to review a person’s capacity to make decisions about their care; they call upon people involved in the individual’s care, powers of attorney and the person themselves to make this decision. Consequently, as part of your role you may be asked questions about an individual you care for as part of their assessment.

If an individual in your care has LPS in place, their care will be different to those without LPS. You must be aware of whether individuals have LPS as it will affect every aspect of their care. This should be documented in their care plan and is part of your duty of care as a health and social care worker to implement when you support or care for them.

Why is the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Being Changed?

In 2014, the same year the Care Act was implemented, the need for safeguarding people who lack capacity and need to be deprived of their liberty increased. As a result, there was a large increase in the number of DoLS applications which left local authorities with a backlog of cases and struggling to cope. Therefore, the DoLS procedure was reviewed and subsequently the government formed the Mental Capacity Amendment Act (2019), which outlines a new system – LPS.

LPS have the same goals as DoLS but with some streamlining to make the system run a little more smoothly. It is worth noting that DoLS will run alongside LPS for a year after implementation to ease the transition of existing cases.

It is also important to point out that the five principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 remain in place; from a person being assumed to have capacity unless it is established that they don’t, to a person not being treated as unable to make a decision merely because they make an unwise decision.

The aim of the new scheme is to spread the responsibility across hospitals, Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) and social care so as to share the administrative burden, whilst also building the LPS process into the care planning procedure itself. LPS also broadens the scope to treat people, and deprive them of their liberty, in a medical emergency, without gaining prior authorisation.

Summary of the LPS Update

LPS will replace the DoLS system to deliver improved outcomes for those who are, or need, to be deprived of their liberty. It is designed to put the rights and wishes of those people at the centre of all decision-making on deprivation of liberty.

The key changes include:

How Might Health and Social Care Professionals Put LPS Into Practice?

If you work in health and social care, it is important you have an awareness of what is covered by the safeguards and the Mental Capacity Act 2005. This ensures you know what level of support people need in line with their abilities and ensures you are providing high-quality care. Awareness of the legislation also protects and empowers people using any care services, which is an important element of person-centred care. 

Workers across the adult social care system should prepare for the LPS as the changes will affect direct work with adults, and in some cases young people. LPS will require new systems and ways of working at all levels across these organisations and it is vital that implementation of LPS is successful so that the new system provides the safeguards needed.

Areas where partner agencies come together in good time to plan how they will prepare for the LPS will be well equipped for their implementation. This includes colleagues across: local authorities, Clinical Commissioning Groups, Hospital Trusts, care provider organisations, ambulance services, the police force, and prisons (as it is possible that arrangements for securing care and treatment in prison will require authorisation under the LPS).

Liberty Protection Safeguards protect individuals aged 16 and above who are, or need to be, deprived of their liberty. These changes aim to streamline the safeguarding system by sharing responsibilities between services. If you work in health and social care it is important that you are aware of the changes that are going to be made so you can prepare in advance and provide the appropriate care and support.

Further Resources:

• Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) Training
• Duty of Care in Health and Social Care
• Whistleblowing on Safeguarding Adults

The post Liberty Protection Safeguards: Guidance on Key Changes appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.