Therapy Works

In this thoughtful and uplifting episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a listener's heartfelt concerns about feeling behind in life and grappling with self-comparison as the New Year begins. They explore why these feelings are so common and how our tendency to measure ourselves against others can create a false sense of inadequacy. The Agony Aunties share practical advice for approaching the New Year with self-compassion and positivity, encouraging listeners to focus on their personal journeys rather than comparisons. They discuss the power of recognising and challenging critical self-talk, finding small 'glimmers' of positivity in daily life, and setting resolutions that spark joy instead of fostering deprivation. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on starting the year with self-acceptance and meaningful change, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Agony Aunties are here to help you tackle the highs and lows of the festive season! In this episode, they share practical advice on managing Christmas stress, from handling family tensions to dealing with financial pressures and sky-high expectations. They talk about the power of setting boundaries, planning much-needed time-outs, and having open conversations about presents and plans to ease the strain. The Aunties also highlight the importance of self-care and protecting your mental health during this busy time. With tips like envisioning positive interactions and staying flexible with family traditions, they offer realistic ways to keep the season joyful. Don’t forget—you can check out past AA episodes for even more guidance on navigating holiday challenges! If you're looking for more support this Christmas, please find one of our older episodes about navigating Christmas stress here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/bonus-a-guide-to-navigating-christmas/id1646616622?i=1000639395275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this expert episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Claire Plumbly, the author of Burnout: How to Manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You, delves into the complexities of the autonomic nervous system and explores how it plays a critical role in managing stress and trauma. Using the polyvagal theory by Stephen Porges, she explains how the nervous system is impacted by these experiences and offers practical tools for prevention and healing. The conversation also focuses on key strategies for managing burnout, particularly during emotionally charged times such as the Christmas season. Dr. Plumbly highlights the significance of self-compassion and compassion for others, offering actionable techniques to regulate emotions, navigate grief and loss, and approach family conflicts with understanding. This episode provides valuable psychoeducation and advice, empowering listeners to maintain their mental and physical well-being during the holiday season and beyond. Read Claire's book: https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/burnout-book Claire's website: https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a listener grappling with self-esteem and confidence as they navigate the changes that come with ageing. They share candid reflections on their own experiences, including the challenges of feeling less visible and the impact this can have on self-worth. The discussion explores how ageing can be both a loss and an opportunity to cultivate new strengths, roles, and sources of confidence. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing body positivity, redefining personal power in later years, and finding joy in the wisdom and resilience that come with age. With empathy and insight, the Agony Aunties offer practical advice on how to balance the grief of lost youth with the cultivation of new possibilities, reminding listeners of the value in supporting one another through life’s transitions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices