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Andy 3.avif

City Biking

Man running with bridge in background

Andy 3.avif

Smiling middle-aged man

Yoga class meditation session

Health & Wellbeing Alliance

Men`s Groups
Andys man club
Brothers in Arms Cymru
Creative Design Studio
Happy Boots CIC
Marauders Men`s Health
Pontypridd Men`s Shed
Reel Minds CIC
Woodfellas

All Men`s Groups
Andys Man Club
Brothers in Arms Cymru
Creative Design Studio
Happy Boots
Interlink Wellbeing
Marauders Men`s Health
Pontypridd Men`s Shed
Reel Minds CIC
Woodfellas Wood Shed

Woodfellas Wood Shed

Andy Phillips

Andy Phillips

Andy Phillips

🎙️Hi Guys My name is Andy Phillips & I am currently the Secretary of Pontypridd Men`s Shed I am also one of the creatives behind the Creative Design Studio Trallwng. I was born in 1965 The year of the Mods, Army parkas, zoot suits & Scooters the legacy of a combination between a motor mechanic & a seamstress. The oldest of 4 siblings. I am now married with two children & 4 grandchildren of my own. I used to believe in Religion. Yet Religion when I needed it the most was nev

Creative Design Studio

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Sep 238 min read

Woodfellas Wood Shed

Woodfellas Wood Shed

Woodfellas Wood Shed

"Roll up your sleeves & get stuck in" Every Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri We are Open to the public all year round. Please contact Roger Jennings for precise opening times 07561 342527 Woodfellas Wood Sh ed , East St, Trallwng, Pontypridd CF374PH 🎙️ We offer: Whether it`s Making new friends, Learn new Skills including Arts, Crafts, D.I.Y, Hobbies, Make & Mend, Metal working, Re-use, Recycle, Wood carving, Wood turning, Wood working etc. Or alternatively sit back relax & enjoy

Woodfellas Wood Shed

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Sep 11 min read

Health & Wellbeing Database:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1-9

Advocacy is the act of publicly supporting or recommending a particular cause or policy. It involves speaking up, raising awareness, and influencing others to take action on behalf of a person, group, or idea. According to Wikipedia, advocacy can involve various activities, including lobbying, public speaking, and raising awareness through media and social channels.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Key Aspects of Advocacy:

Speaking Up: Advocacy involves actively communicating the needs, concerns, or perspectives of a specific group or individual.

Raising Awareness: Advocates work to inform the public and decision-makers about the issue they are supporting, often highlighting its importance and potential impact.

Influencing Change: Advocacy aims to bring about positive change by influencing policies, practices, or public opinion.

Supporting Individuals: Advocacy can also involve direct support for individuals who need help navigating systems, accessing services, or expressing their views.

Types of Advocacy:

Individual Advocacy: Focuses on supporting one person or a small group of people to have their voice heard and their needs met.

Systemic Advocacy: Aims to address broader issues within a system or institution to create positive change for many people.

Self-Advocacy: When individuals speak up for themselves and their own needs.

Formal Advocacy: Involves professional advocates who are trained to support individuals in various settings.

Informal Advocacy: Can be provided by friends, family, or community members who support someone in need.

Examples of Advocacy:

Civil Rights Movement: Advocates like Martin Luther King Jr. fought for equal rights for African Americans.

Women's Rights Movement: Advocates have worked to advance gender equality and women's rights.

Environmental Advocacy: Groups and individuals advocate for environmental protection and sustainability.

Disability Rights: Advocates work to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access and opportunities.

Healthcare Advocacy: Advocates help patients navigate the healthcare system and ensure they receive appropriate care.

Child Protection Advocacy: Advocates work to protect children's rights and ensure their safety and well-being.

In South Wales, various organizations offer advocacy support, including Advocacy Support Cymru (ASC), Mental Health Matters Wales (MHM Wales), and Llais. ASC specializes in independent advocacy for individuals in secondary care and community mental health settings, including those with learning disabilities and/or autism. MHM Wales offers support for adults and can be contacted at 01656 767045. For children and young people, the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) is available at 0808 808 1001. Additionally, Llais provides support for raising concerns about health and social care services.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Advocacy Support Cymru (ASC): This registered charity provides professional, confidential, and independent advocacy. They offer services like Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA), Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA), and Community Advocacy, particularly for those receiving secondary mental health services. ASC also has a specialist advocacy service for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.
Mental Health Matters Wales (MHM Wales): They offer support for adults and can be contacted at 01656 767045.
Llais: This organization focuses on supporting individuals who have concerns about health and social care services. You can reach them at 02920 235 558.
National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS): NYAS provides advocacy services for children and young people, reachable at 0808 808 1001.
Victim Support: They offer support and resources for victims of crime in South Wales, including online resources and live chat support.
Age Cymru: This organization provides advocacy services in Wales, focusing on supporting older adults.

These organizations offer a range of advocacy services, including helping individuals understand their rights, explore options, and ensure their views and wishes are considered when decisions are being made.

If someone loses control over their drinking and has an excessive desire to drink, it's known as dependent drinking (alcoholism). Dependent drinking usually affects a person's quality of life and relationships, but they may not always find it easy to see or accept this.

Adfam: www.adfam.org.uk Supporting families affected by drugs and alcohol. Provides publications for families (free for family members and friends) and details of local family support groups. Adfam works with family members affected by someone else's drug or alcohol use. Adfam does not run a support Helpline.

Al-Anon Family Groups: 0800 0086 811 - UK residents 01 873 2699 - Eire residents www.al-anonuk.org.uk Helpline providing support for families and friends of problem drinkers, whether the person is still drinking or not

Alcohol Change UK: www.alcoholchange.org.uk website includes online directory of local services.

Alcohol Focus Scotland (Area served Scotland): www.alcohol-focus-scotland.org.uk Telephone information, advice and other services for people concerned about their own or someone else's drinking. Details of where to get counselling and support

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 0800 9177 650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk Over 3,300 groups in the UK. Help drinkers to stay sober and to help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. Fellowship of men and women share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism

Aquarius 0121 622 8181 http://aquarius.org.uk/ Aquarius is a unique charity based in the West Midlands that has over 40 years' experience supporting individuals, families, organisations and communities to overcome the physical, emotional and psychological harms caused by alcohol, drugs and gambling.

Since its inception in 1977, Aquarius has used evidence based research to shape services that enable them to work with people and challenge the behaviours which lead to the use of drugs, alcohol and gambling. In 2015, Aquarius joined Recovery Focus, a national Group of charities inspiring recovery nationwide.

cgl - Change Grow Live www.changegrowlive.org Offer a range of services including Alcohol service which supports adults and young people to understand the risks their alcohol use pose to their health and wellbeing, and support them to reduce or stop their use safely.

DAN 24/7 0808 808 2234 www.dan247.org.uk National Drug and Alcohol Helpline for people in Wales

Drinkline 0300 123 1110 www.drinkaware.co.uk I information and advice about alcohol Forward Trust 020 3981 5525 https://www.forwardtrust.org.uk/ The Forward Trust empowers people to break the cycles of addiction or crime to move forward with their lives. Services throughout the UK

National Association for Children of Alcoholics: 0800 358 3456 https://nacoa.org.uk/ Helpline offering information, advice and support to anyone affected by a parent's drinking.

Phoenix Futures: Central Office 020 7234 9740 Scotland 0141 332 0121 www.phoenix-futures.org.uk Charity and housing association which has been helping people overcome drug and alcohol problems for more than 40 years. Residential, prison, community and specialist services run across England and Scotland.

Salvation Army: 020 7367 4500, www.salvationarmy.org.uk Runs homes for the treatment of alcoholics and drug addicts Turning Point www.turning-point.co.uk To enable people with serious problems related to drug and alcohol misuse, mental health and learning disabilities to lead more independent lives by providing high quality community services. Running over 100 projects nationally, ranging from residential rehabilitation centres to drop in counselling services, needle exchanges, phone advice services and individual community workers Waythrough https://www.waythrough.org.uk/find-support-near-me/ Specialists in mental health, alcohol, drugs and related areas. Their vision is to break down the barriers that stop people getting the support they need to live a life they value. Find support in your local area on above link.

Young People: For Information about alcohol check out information at https://www.themix.org.uk/search/?q=alcohol

Anger management is a process of learning to recognize and control anger to prevent it from negatively affecting oneself and others. It involves understanding the triggers and physical sensations of anger, and developing coping mechanisms to manage these feelings and reactions in a healthy way. It's not about suppressing anger, but rather about expressing it appropriately and constructively. Here's a more detailed explanation: What it is:

Identifying and understanding anger: Recognizing what triggers your anger, understanding the physical sensations and thoughts associated with it, and acknowledging the underlying causes.

Developing coping mechanisms: Learning techniques to calm down when feeling angry, such as deep breathing, counting, or using a grounding object, and developing strategies for managing anger in the moment and in the long term.

Learning to express anger appropriately: Developing communication skills to express anger constructively and assertively, rather than aggressively or passively.

Addressing underlying issues: Exploring potential past traumas, relationship problems, or mental health conditions that might be contributing to anger.

Why it's important:

Reduces negative impact: Anger management can help individuals avoid destructive behaviours, improve relationships, and reduce stress.

Promotes healthy emotional expression: It teaches individuals to express their emotions in a way that is healthy and effective, rather than suppressing or lashing out.

Improves overall well-being: By managing anger, individuals can experience a greater sense of control over their emotions and improve their overall mental and physical health, according to patient.info.

How it's done:

Therapy: Anger management can be done through individual or group therapy, often using techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Self-help: Individuals can also learn anger management techniques through self-help books, online resources, or by practicing relaxation and mindfulness exercises.

Support groups: Connecting with others who are also working on managing their anger can be helpful and provide a sense of community.

Anger management is a therapeutic approach aimed at helping individuals understand and manage their anger in healthy and productive ways. It's not about suppressing anger, but rather learning to recognize triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and express anger appropriately. This can involve techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation exercises, and communication skills training.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Understanding Anger: Anger management helps individuals understand the physiological and psychological aspects of anger, including what triggers it and how it manifests.

Developing Coping Strategies: It equips individuals with tools to manage anger in the moment, such as deep breathing, visualization, and cognitive restructuring.

Healthy Expression: Anger management teaches individuals how to express their anger in a constructive way, rather than through aggression or passive-aggressive behaviors.

Long-Term Management: It focuses on developing long-term strategies for managing anger, including addressing underlying issues and building healthy communication patterns.

Various Approaches: Anger management can be delivered through individual therapy, group sessions, or even online resources.

In essence, anger management empowers individuals to regain control over their anger, improving their relationships, mental health, and overall well-being.

Anger management is a therapeutic approach aimed at helping individuals understand and manage their anger in healthy and productive ways. It's not about suppressing anger, but rather learning to recognize triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and express anger appropriately. This can involve techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation exercises, and communication skills training.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Understanding Anger: Anger management helps individuals understand the physiological and psychological aspects of anger, including what triggers it and how it manifests.

Developing Coping Strategies: It equips individuals with tools to manage anger in the moment, such as deep breathing, visualization, and cognitive restructuring.

Healthy Expression: Anger management teaches individuals how to express their anger in a constructive way, rather than through aggression or passive-aggressive behaviors.

Long-Term Management: It focuses on developing long-term strategies for managing anger, including addressing underlying issues and building healthy communication patterns.

Various Approaches: Anger management can be delivered through individual therapy, group sessions, or even online resources.

In essence, anger management empowers individuals to regain control over their anger, improving their relationships, mental health, and overall well-being.

What is antisocial behaviour?

There are three main categories for antisocial behaviour, depending on how many people are affected:

Personal antisocial behaviour is when a person targets a specific individual or group.
Nuisance antisocial behaviour is when a person causes trouble, annoyance or suffering to a community.
Environmental antisocial behaviour is when a person’s actions affect the wider environment, such as public spaces or buildings.

Under these main headings antisocial behaviour falls into one of 13 different types:

Vehicle abandoned: This covers vehicles that appear to have been left by their owner, rather than stolen and abandoned. It includes scrap or ‘end of life’ vehicles and those damaged at the scene of a road traffic collision that have been abandoned and aren’t awaiting recovery.
Vehicle nuisance or inappropriate use: This relates to vehicles being used in acts such as street cruising (driving up and down the street causing annoyance and bothering other road users), vehicle convoys and riding or driving on land other than a road. It also covers the misuse of go-peds, motorised skateboards and electric-propelled cycles, and the unlicensed dealing of vehicles where a person has two or more vehicles on the same road within 500 metres of each other.
Rowdy or inconsiderate behaviour: This refers to general nuisance behaviour in a public place or a place to which the public have access, such as private clubs. It does not include domestic-related behaviour, harassment or public disorder which should be reported as crimes.
Rowdy or nuisance neighbours: This covers any rowdy behaviour or general nuisance caused by neighbours, including boundary and parking disputes. It also covers noise nuisance from parties or playing loud music.
Littering or drugs paraphernalia: This includes fly posting and discarding litter, rubbish or drugs paraphernalia in any public place.
Animal problems: This covers any situation where animals are creating a nuisance or people’s behaviour associated with the use of animals is deemed as antisocial. It includes uncontrolled animals, stray dogs, barking, fouling and intimidation by an animal.
Trespassing: This is any situation in which people have entered land, water or premises without lawful authority or permission. It ranges from taking an unauthorised shortcut through a garden to setting up unauthorised campsites.
Nuisance calls: This covers any type of communication by phone that causes anxiety and annoyance, including silent calls and intrusive ‘cold calling’ from businesses. It does not cover indecent, threatening or offensive behaviour which should be reported as crimes.
Street drinking: This relates to unlicensed drinking in public spaces, where the behaviour of the persons involved is deemed as antisocial. It also covers unplanned and spontaneous parties which encroach on the street.
Activity relating to sex workers or sex working: This relates to any activity such as loitering, displaying cards or promoting sex worker services. It may also refer to activities in and around a brothel that impact on local residents. It does not include ‘kerb-crawling’ which should be reported as a crime.
Nuisance noise: This relates to all incidents of noise nuisance that do not involve neighbours (see ‘Nuisance neighbours’ above).
Begging: This covers anyone begging or asking for charitable donations in a public place, or encouraging a child to do so, without a license. Unlicensed ticket sellers at or near public transport hubs may also fall into this category.
Misuse of fireworks: This will include the inappropriate use of fireworks, the unlawful sale or possession of fireworks and noise created by fireworks.

In South Wales, support for anti-social behaviour (ASB) includes reporting options, case reviews, and victim support services. You can report ASB to your local council, housing association, or the police (non-emergency number 101). For persistent ASB, the Community Trigger (ASB Case Review) allows for a review of how agencies are handling the issue after three or more reports within six months. South Wales Victim Focus also provides support for victims of ASB, including emotional support, advocacy, and advice.

Reporting ASB:

Local Council or Housing Association: Contact them for advice on reporting and potential actions they can take.
Police: Call 101 (non-emergency) to report ASB to the police. In emergencies, call 999.
South Wales Police: You can also report ASB online through their website.
Community Trigger (ASB Case Review): If you've reported ASB multiple times without a satisfactory resolution, you can request a Community Trigger review from your local authority according to ASB Help.

Support Services:

South Wales Victim Focus: Offers emotional support, advocacy, and advice for victims of ASB.
ASB Help: Provides information and advice on ASB in England and Wales, including how to report it and utilize the Community Trigger.
Victim Support: Can provide ongoing emotional support and advocacy for victims of ASB.
Bawso: Supports individuals from Black and Ethnic Minority backgrounds affected by various forms of abuse, including ASB.

Additional Information:

Community Wardens: Your local council website may have information about a community warden service, which can be helpful in addressing local ASB issues.
Evidence Gathering: You may need to gather evidence, such as a diary of incidents, to support your report of ASB.
Time and Energy: Dealing with ASB can be time-consuming, and there may not be a quick fix. Support services can help you navigate the process.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is when you feel scared, worried or panicky about something. It’s a normal, human feeling and your body’s natural response to stress or danger. Anyone can experience anxiety, regardless of age, gender, race, culture or faith. We all feel anxious from time to time. But the feeling usually passes once we feel safe or solve the problem that was causing the anxiety. The fight-or-flight response

When is anxiety a problem?

Anxiety becomes a problem when it stops you from doing the things you want or need to do in life. If this sounds like you, it might be time to get some help. A good place to start is by making an appointment with your GP. If your anxiety is having a major impact on your life, they might diagnose you with an anxiety disorder. But your anxiety doesn’t have to be severe for you to get help. Young people have told us that their anxiety has sometimes been dismissed as perfectionism or the normal ups and downs of being a teenager. But if it’s impacting your life, you deserve help. If someone dismisses your experience, remember that it doesn’t mean what you’re feeling isn’t valid.

What causes anxiety?

All sorts of things can cause anxiety. There’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ reason to feel anxious. Sometimes it has a clear trigger, but other times it can feel like it comes out of nowhere. Some people might feel it in specific situations. Others might feel it more generally. The cause of your anxiety can also change over time. Below are some real stories from young people about what caused their anxiety.

In South Wales, support for anxiety includes NHS services like the mental health helpline (111, option 2), online therapy through SilverCloud, and Primary Mental Health Support Services. Additionally, there are resources like Mind and YoungMinds, and peer support groups like SWADS (South Wales Anxiety and Depression Peer Support).

NHS Services:

Mental Health Helpline (111, option 2): Available 24/7 for urgent mental health support across Wales, according to NHS 111 Wales.

Armed Services refers to the combined military, naval, and air forces of a nation, dedicated to defending its territory and interests. In the UK, this includes the British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, along with other supporting elements. These forces engage in combat, peacekeeping, and humanitarian aid, working to ensure the safety and security of the nation.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Regular Forces: Full-time, legally binding service in the Army, Royal Navy, or Royal Air Force.
Reserve Forces: Part-time, voluntary service in the Army, Royal Navy, or Royal Air Force.
Strategic Command: A UK command that coordinates joint capabilities across the armed forces.
Ministry of Defence: The UK government department responsible for the armed forces.

n South Wales, numerous organizations and initiatives provide support for the Armed Forces community, including serving personnel, veterans, and their families. This support encompasses a wide range of areas, from mental health and well-being to financial and practical assistance. Key Support Areas and Providers:

Mental Health: Veterans' NHS Wales offers specialized mental health services for veterans experiencing difficulties related to their military service. Combat Stress and Rethink also provide a 24-hour freephone helpline for mental health concerns. Fighting With Pride supports the health and well-being of LGBT+ Veterans, service personnel, and their families.
General Support: SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has branches in South East Wales and South West Wales, offering non-judgmental advice, practical services, and support for emotional, financial, and practical issues. Veterans' Gateway is a first point of contact for veterans seeking support, accessible via phone, text, and online chat.
Specific Initiatives: The South Wales Police Armed Forces Community Covenant is a voluntary agreement between the police and the Armed Forces community, recognizing sacrifices and supporting personnel and veterans within the police force.
Local Government: Local authorities like Caerphilly County Borough Council provide information and support for the Armed Forces community. Bridgend County Borough Council has an Armed Forces Champion who raises awareness and ensures the interests of the Armed Forces community are considered.
Education and Training: The University of South Wales offers support for veterans through the Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) scheme, which promotes lifelong learning.

Armed Forces Community Covenant | South Wales Police South Wales Police Get support as a Serving member of the Armed Forces, veteran or ... 11 Nov 2024 — The MOD's Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Scheme promotes lifelong learning amongst members of the Armed Forces.

South East Wales | SSAFA SSAFA
Show allgov.wales

Assertiveness is a communication style characterized by the confident and direct expression of one's thoughts, feelings, and needs, while also respecting the rights and opinions of others. It's a balanced approach that avoids both passive and aggressive behaviors. Assertiveness allows individuals to advocate for themselves, express their boundaries, and engage in healthy communication without causing conflict or undermining others. Here's a more detailed explanation: Key Aspects of Assertiveness:

Direct and Honest Communication: Assertive individuals communicate their needs and opinions clearly and honestly, without being manipulative or passive-aggressive.

Respect for Self and Others: Assertiveness involves acknowledging and valuing one's own rights and feelings, as well as the rights and feelings of others.

Avoiding Extremes: It's the middle ground between passive behavior (where one's own needs are ignored) and aggressive behavior (where one's needs are prioritized at the expense of others).

Setting Boundaries: Assertiveness enables individuals to establish and maintain personal boundaries, saying "no" when necessary without feeling guilty.

Standing Up for Oneself: It empowers individuals to advocate for their own needs and perspectives in a confident and respectful manner.

Why is Assertiveness Important?

Improved Communication: Assertiveness fosters clearer and more effective communication, reducing misunderstandings and potential conflicts.

Increased Self-Confidence: By expressing oneself authentically, individuals can build self-esteem and confidence.

Stronger Relationships: Assertive communication can lead to healthier and more positive relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.

Reduced Stress: Being able to express needs and boundaries can help individuals manage stress and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Enhanced Personal and Professional Success: Assertiveness is a valuable skill in both personal and professional settings, enabling individuals to advocate for their goals and build strong interpersonal connections.

In South Wales, support for assertiveness is available through various avenues, including training courses, counselling services, and resources focused on mental wellbeing and self-advocacy. These resources can help individuals develop communication skills, build confidence, and manage challenging situations effectively.

Training Courses:

Assertiveness Skills Training: Several organizations offer assertiveness skills training courses in South Wales, both online and in-person. These courses cover topics such as assertive communication, conflict resolution, and building self-confidence.
NobleProg: Offers instructor-led live Assertiveness training courses in Swansea, both online and on-site at customer locations.
Revolution Learning and Development Ltd: Provides Assertiveness Skills courses in various locations across Wales, including Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport.
Ascent Training Wales: Offers a "Mastering Assertiveness Skills" course in Cardiff, focusing on communication techniques, self-confidence, and conflict resolution.
Training4Wales: Provides an Assertiveness Skills course in Swansea, designed to help individuals develop assertiveness in both personal and professional settings.

Counselling and Support Services:

C.A.L.L. Helpline: The Community Advice & Listening Line (C.A.L.L.) offers a confidential listening and support service for people in Wales, providing emotional support and information on mental health.
RCS Wales: Offers "Your Wellbeing at Work" services, including talking therapies that can help with stress management, anxiety reduction, and building coping mechanisms.
Rehab Recovery: Provides resources on assertive communication and offers support for individuals struggling with addiction, with a helpline available for assistance.

Other Resources:

UNISON College: Provides an Assertiveness Skills certification course for members, covering topics such as defining assertiveness, its value in the workplace, and overcoming flawed thinking processes.
Carers UK: Offers a self-advocacy guide for carers in Wales, which includes advice on making complaints and supporting your rights, which can be a part of assertiveness.
NHS: Provides guidance on improving self-confidence and assertiveness, including techniques for identifying positive qualities, challenging negative self-talk, and acting more confidently.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. It's characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and interaction, and by restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. High-functioning autism (HFA) is an informal term, not a clinical diagnosis, often used to describe autistic individuals with average to above-average intelligence and no significant language or cognitive delays. Here's a more detailed breakdown: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):

Definition: ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition impacting how the brain processes information, affecting social interaction, communication, and behavior.
Symptoms: Common symptoms include difficulties with social communication (e.g., understanding social cues, making eye contact), repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand-flapping, lining up objects), and restricted interests.
Spectrum: ASD is a spectrum, meaning symptoms and their severity vary widely among individuals. Some individuals may have significant support needs, while others may function relatively independently.
Developmental: ASD is considered a developmental disorder because symptoms typically appear in early childhood (within the first two years of life).
Causes: While the exact causes are not fully understood, it's believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Prevalence: The prevalence of ASD is rising, possibly due to increased awareness and improved diagnostic methods.

High-Functioning Autism (HFA):

Informal Term: HFA is not a formal diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).
Characteristics: It generally refers to autistic individuals with average or above-average intelligence who have no significant delays in language development.
Challenges: While they may not have significant cognitive or language delays, individuals with HFA may still experience challenges with social interaction, communication, and adapting to change.
Variability: Functioning levels can vary greatly among individuals with HFA, with some excelling in certain areas and struggling in others.
Not a Separate Condition: HFA is not a separate diagnosis from ASD. It's simply a way of describing a subset of individuals within the autism spectrum.
Examples: Some examples of challenges associated with HFA include difficulty understanding social cues, maintaining relationships, or coping with unexpected changes.
Common Misconceptions: It's important to note that individuals with HFA are not necessarily "high-functioning" in all aspects of life. They may still experience difficulties in social situations, sensory sensitivities, or emotional regulation, according to Attwood & Garnett Events.

Sleeping difficulties, often referred to as Insomnia, encompass a range of issues related to getting to sleep, staying asleep, or experiencing a lack of restful sleep. These difficulties can manifest as trouble falling asleep, waking up multiple times during the night, waking up too early and being unable to return to sleep, or simply feeling unrefreshed after sleeping. Long-term sleep problems can significantly impact daily life, affecting mood, concentration, and even relationships.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Difficulty falling asleep: This could involve lying awake for extended periods, trying to fall asleep but being unable to relax and drift off.
Difficulty staying asleep: This can include waking up multiple times during the night or waking up too early and being unable to get back to sleep.
Poor quality sleep: Even with adequate sleep duration, the quality of sleep may be poor, leaving the individual feeling tired and unrefreshed upon waking.
Consequences of sleep difficulties: Insomnia can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and even depression or anxiety. It can also impact physical health, potentially affecting blood pressure and other bodily functions.
Causes: Sleep problems can stem from various factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, poor sleep habits, and underlying medical or mental health conditions.

In essence, sleep difficulties are characterized by a persistent inability to achieve adequate, restful sleep, which in turn negatively affects various aspects of life.

In South Wales, support for sleep problems is available through the NHS, charities, and specialized services. The Aneurin Bevan University Health Board has a dedicated sleep service with a clinic at St Woolos Hospital and an overnight sleep laboratory at Nevill Hall Hospital. The Sleep Charity, a leading independent organization, provides advice and support for various age groups and professionals. Additionally, Sleep Wales offers services for children and adults dealing with sleep disorders.

Specific Support Options:

NHS Services:
- Sleep Clinics: The Aneurin Bevan University Health Board operates a sleep clinic at St Woolos Hospital with drop-in clinics for replacement parts and masks, and an overnight sleep laboratory at Nevill Hall Hospital.
- GP Referrals: Your GP can assess your sleep problems and refer you to specialists like therapists for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or sleep clinics if necessary.
- SilverCloud Space for Sleep: This free online CBT-based programme is available for anyone in Wales to help overcome sleep issues.

Charities and Helplines:
- The Sleep Charity: Offers advice, education, and support for individuals and professionals dealing with sleep issues. They also have a helpline (03303 530 541).
- National Sleep Helpline: Run by The Sleep Charity, the helpline (03303 530 541) offers support during specific hours.

Specialized Services:
- Sleep Wales: Offers services for children and adults with sleep disorders like insomnia, nightmares, and sleepwalking.
- Wales Psychiatry Centre: Provides adult sleep disorder treatment, including assessment and management.

Online Resources:
- NHS 111 Wales: Offers information and resources on insomnia and other sleep-related issues.
- Melo Cymru: Provides information and resources on sleep and mental wellbeing, including the SilverCloud program.

Other Support:
- Samaritans: Can provide confidential support for anyone struggling with their mental health, which can impact sleep.
- Cerebra: Offers resources and support for children with additional needs and sleep difficulties.
- Parent Workshops: Some Children's Centre Psychology Teams, via their website, offer workshops to help with sleep and other issues.

Adventure Athletes

Podcast from adventure athletes sharing stories from those creating a difference within themselves to benefit others

https://adventureathletes.co.uk

Affordable Talk Counselling

A NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION, ALL PROFITS GO BACK TO HELPING CREATE MORE AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING FOR EVERYONE

www.affordable-talk.co.uk

Andy’s Man Club – Merthyr Tydfil

Creating judgment-free, confidential spaces where men can be open about the storms in their lives. Achieved through weekly, free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups for men aged over 18.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550705296998

Andy’s Man Club – Pontypridd

Creating judgment-free, confidential spaces where men can be open about the storms in their lives. Achieved through weekly, free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups for men aged over 18.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064911483387

Andy’s Man Club – Porthcawl

Creating judgment-free, confidential spaces where men can be open about the storms in their lives. Achieved through weekly, free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups for men aged over 18.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071434457122

Anxiety UK

A user-led charity providing information, support and understanding surrounding all anxiety disorders.

08444 775 774

www.anxietyuk.org.uk

All Wales, UK Wide

Anxiety

Men`s Groups
Andys man club
Brothers in Arms Cymru
Creative Design Studio
Happy Boots CIC
Marauders Men`s Health
Pontypridd Men`s Shed
Reel Minds CIC
Woodfellas

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