Get to know Laura Hellfeld as we discuss the world of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), self-care, and neuro-affirming support.   Join us as we explore the unique challenges individuals with PDA face, the importance of creating a supportive, understanding environment, and how self-care practices can be tailored for neurodiverse individuals.   Laura shares valuable insights on fostering acceptance, managing stress, sleep and advocating for the needs of those who navigate life through a neurodivergent lens.   Whether you're a caregiver, a professional, or simply curious about neurodiversity, this conversation offers practical advice and compassionate strategies for creating a more inclusive world. Enjoy!   Where to find Laura Hellfeld Website: https://laurahellfeld.co.uk/ Instagram: laura.nd.nurse.consulting

Lets take an in-depth look at Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet remains widely misunderstood.   We break down the science, the symptoms, and the challenges that those living with OCD face every day. From intrusive thoughts to compulsive behaviors, we explore how OCD manifests in different people, and how it impacts ones life in often hidden ways.   Host Josie Maskell brings her own lived experience into the conversation, offering a raw and honest perspective on what it’s really like to navigate life with OCD. Whether you’re personally affected by OCD or simply want to understand it better, this episode will challenge the stereotypes surrounding this mental health condition. Whether you're someone who struggles with OCD or just want to understand it better, this episode will shed light on the complexities of this mental health disorder and challenge the stereotypes that often surround it.   To add an unexpected twist, we’ll also use a playful game of Mario Kart to highlight how OCD can show up in surprising ways. Tune in to uncover the truths behind OCD that often go overlooked and enjoy the ride along the way. Enjoy!

Get to know Nath as we explore the transformative power of human connection in the journey of healing and personal growth.   Nath opens up about his own experiences, reflecting on the impact that addiction, drugs, alcohol, and even thoughts of suicide have had on his life. He shares his personal journey through these dark moments and how it was only through leaning into vulnerability, confronting discomfort, and building meaningful connections that he found the strength to rebuild.   We dive into the often-overlooked role of discomfort in personal development, discussing how leaning into vulnerability though difficult times can unlock profound moments of self-awareness and resilience.   Nath shares his insights on why true healing doesn’t come from avoiding pain, but from embracing it, even when it feels insurmountable.   This conversation touches on the harsh realities of addiction and suicidal thoughts, but also explores the hope and possibility that emerge when we reach out for help, face our demons head-on, and allow ourselves to heal with the support of others.   Nath's story is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to show up for ourselves and others, especially when we’re at our lowest points.   Whether you're navigating your own mental health journey, struggling with addiction, or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode offers valuable insights on the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and finding strength in the relationships that can help carry us through our darkest times.   @nathhryann shares some wonderful takeaways throughout this episode, shown below.   "Comparison is the thief of joy" A powerful and timeless quote, often attributed to Theodore Roosevelt. It captures the idea that constantly comparing ourselves to others can rob us of the contentment and satisfaction we might otherwise feel.   Nath touched on a powerful metaphor Stephen Fry used in discussing depression and mental health. Fry described depression as feeling like it’s "raining in your head" a constant, overwhelming weight of darkness and heaviness. But, importantly, he emphasized that just as the weather changes, the sun will eventually come out. Nath referred to this metaphor when discussing his own mental health struggles.   Nath refers to Simon Sinek's idea about how spending just 8 minutes of intentional, focused time with someone can profoundly impact their mental health and sense of belonging making them feel heard, seen and felt.   Enjoy!

Let's explore the wonderful world of therapy beyond just the traditional talk therapies. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, and the right approach for you might be something you haven't even considered yet. From talk therapies to art therapy and sound healing to equine-assisted therapy and beyond, we dive into alternative options that cater to different personalities, needs, and preferences. Whether you're looking for something more creative, experiential, or outside the box, this episode will open your eyes to the many ways you can heal and grow. Support should feel safe, affirming, and actually accessible. Let’s rethink what therapy can look like. Tune in to discover the therapy options you didn't know existed. Enjoy!

Get to know Melissa and the world of sleep as we unpack the many contributing factors that often lead to burnout and how we avoid this for the whole family. In this episode, we are joined by Melissa De Wys a Baby & Toddler Sleep Consultant at The Little Sleeping Baby talk all things family life, sleep hygiene, and avoiding burnout. We dive into: Why sleep isn’t just about “getting 8 hours” How family dynamics impact mental wellness The signs of silent burnout we often miss Practical, realistic strategies to build better habits without overhauling your life Whether you're a parent, carer, or just someone trying to juggle it all without crashing — this conversation is full of relatable insights, gentle guidance, and support for doing wellbeing your way.   A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Melissa's knowledge and expertise in the field. Enjoy!   @thelittlesleepingbaby

Let's unpack some behind-the-scenes podcast insights, personal reflections, listener and follower questions and what's coming next for Acronym Minds. Expect real talk, a few surprises, and some honest moments you didn’t know you needed. Whether you're a longtime (10 weeker) listener or just tuning in, this one feels like catching up with an old friend. Enjoy!

Get to know Monique as we hear about her experiences as a parent of a neurodivergent child, specifically focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).   Monique touches on her own diagnoses and the importance of understanding neurodivergence, the emotional impact of diagnosis, and the challenges and strengths that come with navigating your own diagnosis while raising a neurodivergent child.   Monique shares her journey with her daughters diagnosis, the process of seeking support, and the significance of labels in providing necessary resources.   A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Monique's story and lived experience. Enjoy!

Let’s explore the rich and multifaceted world of diversity. While this is a broad and complex topic that can't be fully unpacked in a single episode, there are key areas that deserve immediate attention. In this conversation, we’ll highlight the importance of representation, cultural awareness, and inclusive thinking, especially in how we introduce these concepts to children. We will discuss practical ways to start these crucial conversations early, foster empathy, and help kids navigate a diverse world with openness and respect. Toddler friendly books on diversity: All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold We’re Different, We’re the Same (Sesame Street) The Family Book by Todd Parr Lovely by Jess Hong It’s Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr   More books on diversity: The Family Book - Todd Parr Its my body - Elise Gravel The same but different By Sarah Jennings   Books on intellectual disability: “My Brother Charlie” by Holly Robinson Peete (autism) Its okay to be different - Todd Parr “All My Stripes” by Shaina Rudolph (autism)   Enjoy!

Get to know Mel as we unpack her deeply personal journey, from experiencing trauma as a child to finding healing, purpose, and triumph through adulthood and motherhood. Mel opens up about the challenges she’s faced, the lessons she’s learned, and how she’s transformed pain into power, not only as a woman but now as a mother. In this episode, Mel also shares candidly about living with OCD, anxiety, and postpartum depression, and how a combination of everyday coping strategies and medication helps her manage these diagnoses. Whether you're navigating your own healing journey or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers honest insights, inspiration, and hope. It’s a raw and uplifting dialogue that reminds us growth is possible, even in the darkest moments. A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Mel's story and lived experience. Enjoy!

Let’s unpack the five love languages — not just what they are, but how they connect to our mental and emotional wellbeing. Whether you're all about quality time or big on words of affirmation, understanding how you and those around you give and receive love can be a powerful tool for healing, connection, and self-awareness.   Book referenced: The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman Podcast episode mentioned: Mamamia Out Loud – You're A Bitch, And That's Why We Lack Community   Enjoy!

Get to know Jessi as we unpack the emotional rollercoaster that came from her first pregnancy and postpartum journey through to her second empowering and healing journey with her second daughter. While the goal was to have a Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC) Jessi found redemption through her second labour and birth, feeling empowered and informed when choosing to take this path again. Jessi shares her experience so openly, in hopes that it helps other parents feel less alone. A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Jessi's story and lived experience. Enjoy! Jessi's aesthetically pleasing instagram page: @jessiabass 

Hear how becoming a Mum also helped me become a better version of myself mentally and how Motherhood helped me further understand my own mind and the areas I was no longer able to manage or mask. From Post Partum Anxiety and Post Partum Depression signs to a formal OCD diagnosis, hear how I navigate this and now manage it in my everyday life.

Get to know Kim as we unpack the emotional weight that can come with the journey into motherhood. From the physical and emotional toll of IVF, to the often-unspoken reality of postpartum depression (PPD) and trauma (PTSD).   Kim shares her deeply personal story with honesty and strength.   A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Kim's story and lived experience. Enjoy!

Let’s unpack a common misconception: that mental health and mental illness are the same thing. Explore the real meaning of mental health (yes, we all have it!) and how it differs from mental illness, such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. We’ll break down the terms, the stigma that blurs the lines, and why understanding the difference matters — not just for those facing mental health challenges, but for everyone. Enjoy!

Get to know Miranda and hear from her story what life looks like when diagnosed with Type 1 Bipolar Disorder (BPAD) and the effects of mania and psychosis.   A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Mirandas story and lived experience. Enjoy!

Who, what, when, where, how?!   Get to know Josie and how the Acronym Minds Podcast came about.