Articles i have published

Locked in by Labels

Rachel Kent, a mental health nurse, eloquently highlights the challenges associated with a diagnosis of mental illness in her article titled “Locked in by Labels” ¹ ². She aptly describes this diagnosis as a “sticky label” that clings to individuals, often proving difficult – sometimes even impossible – to remove.

In the realm of mental health, labels can have profound effects. Unfortunately, these labels may lead to discrimination, even from health professionals themselves. The weight of such a diagnosis can be burdensome, impacting not only how others perceive us but also how we perceive ourselves.

As Rachel Kent astutely points out, these labels can feel like a prison, locking us into predefined expectations and judgments. It becomes essential for us to recognize the person beyond the diagnosis, to see their unique strengths, resilience, and humanity.

In our pursuit of compassionate care, let us strive to peel away these sticky labels, allowing individuals to flourish beyond the confines of their diagnoses. 🌟

Locked in by labels (rcni.com)

Coerced Marriage of People with a Diagnosed Mental Health Disorder

In her article, Rachel Kent, a mental health nurse at Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust in London, delves into the complex issue of coerced marriages involving individuals with diagnosed mental health disorders. The literature review and anecdotal observations reveal a concerning reality: some patients find themselves in arranged marriages without their consent or capacity to consent. These situations can pose significant risks:

Risk to Patients: Those coerced into marriage may face domestic violence, abuse, and even death.
Risk to Spouses: Often, the unwitting spouses marry without awareness of their partner’s mental health challenges.

Challenges for Mental Health Professionals:

Mental health professionals often grapple with how to intervene when they suspect patients are at risk of coerced marriages.
Unfortunately, there is no specific law or guidance on addressing this issue.

Ethical Considerations:

Staff should feel empowered to question whether marriages place patients or their spouses in jeopardy.
Safeguarding vulnerable individuals remains a priority.

While the topic is complex, raising awareness and advocating for protective measures are crucial steps toward ensuring the well-being of mentally ill patients caught in such circumstances ¹ ².

Coerced marriage of people with a diagnosed mental health disorder (rcni.com)

Great British Athletes' Perceptions of Competing at the London 2012 Olympic Games

The Great British athletes who participated in the 2012 London Olympic Games held a range of perceptions and experiences. Let’s delve into some key findings from a qualitative study conducted by Rachel Kent¹:

Home Advantage:
- Athletes believed they had a “home advantage” due to competing on home soil.
- Media representation played a significant role. Positive media coverage was beneficial, but negative coverage added pressure.
- Expectations influenced anxiety levels. High expectations led to more anxiety, while lower expectations resulted in less anxiety.
- Different sources of expectations (media, coaches, family, friends) impacted athletes’ mental state.
Media Influence:
- The British media speculated about medal-winning performances by home athletes even a year before the Olympics.
- Athletes’ portrayal in the media affected their self-perception and performance.
- Rising media coverage across various platforms intensified interest in athletes.
Recommendations:
- Media and sponsors should provide positive coverage to support athletes.
- Coaches, family, and friends should offer unconditional support to reduce pressure and pre-competition anxiety.