No stone left unturned
What is diagnostics? Diagnostics is about the methodology of coming to a diagnosis – the “how” of reaching a diagnosis. To arrive at a diagnosis it is essential to properly address the diagnostic process – which is what this article refers to as diagnostics. This article will focus on diagnosis in relation to diagnostics. Diagnostics …
The 2024 Southport stabbings refers to a heinous attack carried out Axel Rudakubana. He committed three murders and ten attempted murders. This article is constructed largely from information in the public domain and is being updated at intervals, as new information comes to light. Note again our ‘Fat Disclaimer‘. Rudakubana was 17 years old at …
The tranquillity of a sunny afternoon can quickly transform into a scene of chaos when a wildfire erupts, engulfing homes and livelihoods in its path. Recent events, such as the devastating fires in Los Angeles, serve as stark reminders of the ever-present danger of tail risk. While cutting costs might seem prudent in the short …
In psychiatric practice, effective communication is important for fostering patient understanding, engagement, and adherence to treatment. One increasingly recognised method of enhancing this communication is through writing personalised correspondence to patients about their psychiatric care. Some correspondence may focus on treatment plans or care plans. The activity is not only about outpatient care. For in-patients …
Sleep, often relegated to the realm of leisure, is fundamental to human health and well-being. We spend a significant portion of our lives asleep, devoting roughly one-third to one-quarter of our existence to this seemingly inactive state. However, sleep is far from passive. It is an active state where our brains consolidate memories, regulate emotions, …
People use the word ‘mindset‘ fairly often. But what does it mean? Many will now reach for their dictionaries and Google. When I think about how others refer to mindset, I get the impression that they mean the person’s mind is set in a certain way. I think that’s partially true. People use mindset often …
This post is derived from a manual that I constructed some time ago. It summarises a book that I am publishing. The summary constitutes opinion on how a locum business ought to be run. It is not advice even though it may appear to be directive and refers to ‘you’. The author owes you no …
For the last 30-plus years, UK psychiatry has operated on certain tried and tested models that have shaped the practice and delivery of mental health care. These models have provided a solid foundation for diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric conditions. However, over this period, psychiatry has been evolving significantly, driven by advances in …
Functional assessments in psychiatry refer to a systematic evaluation of an individual’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioural abilities in the context of their daily living and social environment. The primary aim of such assessments is to understand how a person’s mental health condition affects their ability to perform everyday tasks, maintain relationships, and fulfil their roles …
Understanding pain in psychiatric presentations is crucial due to the profound and multifaceted impact pain can have on mental health. Pain, whether acute or chronic, often serves as both a cause and a significant contributor to psychiatric disorders. Acute pain, stemming from sudden injuries or medical conditions, triggers biological responses that can exacerbate anxiety, stress, …
