This episode explores the topic of mental wellbeing and the factors that affect it. The conversation highlights the importance of individual and collective responsibility in maintaining mental wellbeing. The NHS Five Ways to Wellbeing framework is discussed as a tool for improving mental health. The impact of COVID-19 on mental wellbeing is examined, along with personal strategies for self-care. The conversation also includes a powerful poem about the baggage we carry in life. The episode concludes with a discussion on seeking help and support for mental health issues. Takeaways Mental wellbeing is important for everyone and is influenced by various factors such as environment, social connections, and personal circumstances. Individuals have a responsibility to take care of their own mental wellbeing, but collective care and support from others are also crucial. The NHS Five Ways to Wellbeing framework provides practical strategies for improving mental health, including being mindful, staying active, giving back, learning new skills, and staying connected. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with increased anxiety and challenges in adjusting to the changing circumstances. Personal strategies for mental wellbeing can include activities like walking, writing, engaging in creative outlets, and setting boundaries with screen time. Seeking help and support is important for maintaining mental wellbeing, and there are various resources and organizations available to provide assistance. Help & Support If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support: BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/  Credits "Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:16 Importance of Mental Wellbeing 09:53 Individual and Collective Responsibility 10:21 Projects and Initiatives 11:18 NHS Five Ways to Wellbeing 22:09 Personal Strategies for Mental Wellbeing 26:54 Setting Boundaries and Recognizing Triggers 28:49 Impact of Screen Time on Mental Wellbeing 30:06 Poem: Luggage 35:47 Seeking Help and Support 40:35 Conclusion

This episode of Mindful Merseyside discusses congenital heart disease (CHD), a common birth defect affecting one in every hundred newborn babies. The episode explores the diagnosis and treatment of CHD, as well as a study being conducted at Liverpool John Moores University to improve diagnostic rates. The episode also features interviews with families affected by CHD, providing insights into their experiences. The long-term goal of the study is to develop a blood test that can accurately diagnose CHD in unborn babies, improving their life prospects. Takeaways Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a common birth defect affecting one in every hundred newborn babies. Early diagnosis of CHD is crucial for better treatment outcomes. A study at Liverpool John Moores University aims to develop a blood test for diagnosing CHD in unborn babies. Families affected by CHD face challenges but find strength and support in their journey. Help & Support If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support: Team 1C cardiac patient support group at Alder Hey children’s hospital https://www.team1c.org/ British Heart Foundation support information https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/support Northwest congenital heart network: Finding Out About a Heart Problem Before Your Baby is Born  https://www.northwestchdnetwork.nhs.uk/fetal-pathway/ Heart Research UK https://heartresearch.org.uk/ BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/  Credits "Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Congenital Heart Disease 03:33 What is Congenital Heart Disease? 05:00 Diagnosis and Treatment of CHD 08:26 The Study: Improving Diagnostic Rates 16:22 Family Perspectives on CHD

This episode discusses women's alcohol use in pregnancy and motherhood. The conversation covers the current UK alcohol recommendations for pregnant women, the reasons for changes in these recommendations over the years, and the research on alcohol and women. The discussion also explores fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and the prevalence rates of alcohol-exposed pregnancies. The conversation delves into the reasons why women drink, including social factors and loneliness. It also examines the influence of social media and marketing on women's drinking habits. The perception of harmful drinking and the challenges of stopping drinking are also discussed. This conversation explores the challenges of communicating the risks of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as the broader issues surrounding women's drinking habits. The chapters cover topics such as the difficulties faced by health professionals in discussing alcohol with pregnant women, the importance of language and identity in these conversations, and the need for clear and consistent messaging. The conversation also addresses the confusion around breastfeeding and drinking, the individual factors that influence alcohol metabolism, and the gendered expectations and judgments faced by women. Finally, it highlights the availability of support networks and the importance of improving support within traditional healthcare services. Takeaways The UK alcohol recommendations for pregnant women have changed over the years, with the current guideline being abstinence. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is a broader term that encompasses any neurodevelopmental harms associated with drinking during pregnancy. Women's drinking habits can change during motherhood, with alcohol often being used as a way to de-stress and cope with the responsibilities of parenting. The drinking culture and societal expectations play a significant role in women's alcohol use, and marketing often reinforces the idea that alcohol is a reward or a way to bond with others. Stopping drinking can be challenging, and support is essential for women who want to reduce or abstain from alcohol during pregnancy and motherhood. Help & Support If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support: BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/  Alcohol Change UK: https://alcoholchange.org.uk Soberistas: https://soberistas.com Club Soda: https://joinclubsoda.com Sober Girl: https://sobergirlsociety.com National Organisation of FASD: https://nationalfasd.org.uk UK Birth Trauma Association: https://www.birthtraumaassociation.org Credits "Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:18 UK Alcohol Recommendations for Pregnant Women 04:11 Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder 06:05 Reasons for Women's Drinking 08:03 Changes in Drinking Habits During Motherhood 10:47 Social Factors and Loneliness 13:33 Influence of Social Media and Marketing 15:24 Rewarding with Alcohol 18:39 High Rates of Alcohol-Exposed Pregnancy 21:00 Drinking Culture and Expectations 22:24 Difficulty in Stopping Drinking 24:12 Challenges in Communicating the Risks 25:09 Improving Communication with Health Professionals 26:05 Language and Identity 26:32 Difficulties Faced by Midwives 27:25 Understanding the Risks and Asking the Right Questions 27:55 Personal Experience and Making Informed Decisions 28:51 Clear and Consistent Messaging 30:07 Confusion around Breastfeeding and Drinking 31:30 Alcohol Metabolism and Guidelines 33:17 Making Information Accessible for Women 37:09 Gendered Expectations and Judgments 39:03 Support for Women with Unhealthy Relationships with Alcohol 46:51 Improving Support within Traditional Healthcare Services

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and research shows that people with more muscle and strength are less likely to develop heart disease. As we age, we experience sarcopenia, a condition where we gradually lose muscle size and strength. This loss of muscle can impact our health, leading to frailty, osteoporosis, cognitive decline, depression, diabetes, and heart disease. The best way to look after muscle health is through exercise, specifically strength-based exercises. Additionally, consuming enough protein, following a Mediterranean-style diet, and considering supplements like creatine can also support muscle health. It's never too late to start taking care of your muscles. Takeaways Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and people with more muscle and strength are less likely to develop heart disease. Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle size and strength as we age, can lead to frailty, osteoporosis, cognitive decline, depression, diabetes, and heart disease. Exercise, particularly strength-based exercises, is the best way to look after muscle health. Consuming enough protein, following a Mediterranean-style diet, and considering supplements like creatine can also support muscle health. Help & Support If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support: BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/  Credits "Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:29 What happens to our muscle as we get older? 04:51 The best time to start exercising 06:17 Effects of losing muscle mass on health 07:43 Frailty and loss of muscle strength 10:07 Muscle loss and risks of diabetes and heart disease 11:29 How muscle affects heart disease and diabetes risk 13:21 Cholesterol and the role of muscle 14:49 The impact of ultra-processed foods on obesity 20:29 Protein and vegetarian/vegan diets 27:38 Research on muscle health in cardiac rehab 31:22 Key takeaways

This episode of Mindful Merseyside explores the use of opioids for chronic pain and the challenges associated with their long-term use. The conversation highlights the side effects and limitations of opioid medication, as well as the impact on patients and their families. Patient stories provide firsthand experiences of reducing and stopping opioid use, emphasizing the positive outcomes and improved quality of life. The discussion also addresses the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in supporting patients and the need for a more holistic approach to chronic pain management. The episode concludes with information on seeking support and resources for those affected by opioid use. Takeaways Opioids are strong painkillers derived from the poppy plant and can be used to treat chronic pain, but their long-term use can lead to dependency and a range of side effects. Reducing and stopping opioid use can improve patients' quality of life, although the process can be challenging and require support from healthcare professionals. A holistic approach to chronic pain management, including non-pharmacological interventions and support from a multidisciplinary team, can be effective in reducing reliance on opioids. The opioid crisis is more pronounced in the United States, but the UK also faces challenges in addressing opioid addiction and providing accessible support services. Help & Support If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support: BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/  Credits "Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:22 What are opioids? 03:21 Chronic pain and the use of opioids 04:48 Side effects and limitations of opioid medication 06:04 Effects of long-term opioid use on patients and families 07:27 Patient experiences with opioid medication 09:54 Challenges and support for patients reducing opioids 11:20 Patient stories: Margaret Arnold and Helen Arnold-Edge 22:18 Challenges and support from healthcare professionals 25:59 Preventative measures and education 29:08 Addressing addiction and steps to stop opioid use 32:29 Opioid crisis in America and the UK 36:38 Regional differences and access to support 38:35 Seeking support and next steps 39:52 Conclusion and closing remarks

This episode discusses suicide prevention in schools and the need for effective education and support for young people. The conversation covers current suicide prevention efforts, the importance of early intervention, and the challenges faced by teachers in discussing sensitive topics. The three dads share their personal experiences and their work in policy advocacy. The episode also highlights ongoing research and collaboration in the field. Resources and support for those affected by suicide are provided. Takeaways Suicide prevention in schools is crucial, as schools provide a universal access point for most children and young people. Teachers often feel unequipped to talk about suicide prevention, and there is a fear that discussing suicide may increase the risk. However, research shows that talking about suicide does not increase the risk and can actually help young people feel better. The implementation of suicide prevention in the school curriculum should be done in a safe and controlled manner, with appropriate training and support for teachers. Early intervention and life skills education are essential in addressing mental health issues and building resilience in young people. Ongoing research, collaboration, and policy advocacy are necessary to improve suicide prevention efforts in schools and support bereaved parents. Help & Support If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support: Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/ or call 0800 068 4141 Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/ or call call 116 123 Liverpool CAMHS: https://www.liverpoolcamhs.com/ or call 0151 293 3577 Liverpool Crisis Line: https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/urgent-help or call 0800 145 6570 3 Dads Walking: https://www.3dadswalking.uk/  BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/  Credits "Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:18 Guest Introductions and Personal Connections 06:07 Current Suicide Prevention Efforts in the Region 09:13 National Suicide Prevention Efforts 12:06 Research on Suicide Prevention in Schools 14:01 Three Dads' Policy Work and Campaigning 19:16 Importance of Training and Support for Teachers 23:48 The Need for Early Intervention and Life Skills Education 26:06 Implementation and Timing of Suicide Prevention in the Curriculum 30:20 Ongoing Research and Collaboration 34:30 Future Plans and Support for Bereaved Parents 39:33 Conclusion and Resources

This episode discusses the importance of suicide and self-harm prevention in the community. The conversation covers topics such as the role of community services in crisis intervention, the impact of the menopause on mental health, the need for community-based crisis services, the importance of lived experience in suicide prevention, the power of evidence-based research and lived experience, and accessing suicide prevention services. The episode emphasizes the importance of collaboration and support between different services and the need for a comprehensive approach to mental health care. Takeaways Collaboration and involvement of various stakeholders in suicide prevention leads to better services for individuals in crisis. Community-based crisis services are crucial in providing accessible and rapid support for individuals in need. The menopause can have a significant impact on mental health, and it is important to consider hormonal factors in treatment. Openness, vulnerability, and sharing lived experiences play a vital role in suicide prevention and reducing stigma. Accessing suicide prevention services can be done through self-referral, GP referrals, crisis lines, and support networks. Help & Support If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support: Hub of Hope: https://hubofhope.co.uk/ James’ Place: https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/ Newson Health: https://www.newsonhealth.co.uk/ Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/ or call 0800 068 4141 Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/ or call call 116 123 Liverpool CAMHS: https://www.liverpoolcamhs.com/ or call 0151 293 3577 Liverpool Crisis Line: https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/urgent-help or call 0800 145 6570 BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/  Credits "Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:17 Importance of Suicide Prevention in the Community 06:47 The Importance of Services Specifically for Men 11:05 The Menopause and its Impact on Mental Health 15:20 The Need for Community-Based Crisis Services 22:22 The Role of Openness and Vulnerability in Suicide Prevention 25:13 The Power of Evidence-Based Research and Lived Experience 26:09 The Importance of Hormonal Considerations in Mental Health 30:26 Accessing Suicide Prevention Services 35:00 Additional Resources and Support 37:18 Conclusion

Welcome to Mindful Merseyside, the brand-new podcast series brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University. Mindful Merseyside is a podcast series that delves into healthcare inequalities in Liverpool and beyond. Focused on crucial health topics affecting the city's diverse population, the podcast explores disparities in healthcare based on socio-economic factors and geographical areas of deprivation. Covering issues like suicide prevention, substance misuse, pre-birth conditions, and heart ailments, the series emphasizes their direct impact on daily life. Liverpool, marked by significant social deprivation, suffers from limited resources and services to address complex health needs, compounded by access barriers. This podcast aims to bridge these gaps by educating communities and fostering responsive actions. Featuring personal stories from individuals facing various health challenges, it blends academic expertise with real-life experiences to propose targeted solutions. Beyond Liverpool, the podcast's insights have global relevance, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Encouraging listeners to engage regardless of personal connection, it empowers individuals to support themselves or others dealing with these critical issues. "Mindful Merseyside" offers understanding, support, and avenues for positive change in healthcare disparities. Podcast series produced by Innobella Media with guest presenter Gemma Cutting.