Experiencing the loss of a loved one is among the most difficult challenges in life. Grief is a multifaceted and profoundly personal journey, and it's vital to recognize that there isn’t a universal manual for coping with it.

As we go into 2025, I would like to ask you a question—a meaningful question: What will you change this year? Many of us feel the desire for more—not just in terms of things, but for something meaningful, for a life that feels true to you. However, while a new year can spark hope, we often bring with us the issues we intended to leave behind. So, let’s take a moment to reflect. Let’s be real with ourselves. Thoughts by Clinical Psychologist and CEO, Rochelle Masters.

Coercive control is a form of abusive behaviour used to create fear and, as a result, have power over a partner. The abuser will use strategies as a way of oppressing and controlling their partner. This includes behaviours that limit their partner’s freedom or impact their sense of confidence and self-worth, such as monitoring or harassing, isolating them from others, humiliating, or threatening them. Coercive control creates a sense of fear that pervades all elements of a victim’s life, making it difficult for them to feel that they have the ability to leave the relationship and be safe.

The Christmas period can be a very busy and costly time for many people.  From November onwards we are often surrounded by reminders of Christmas everywhere we go in many different contexts.