Self-reflective post

I think this blog has a calming and sophisticated feel to it, as I thoroughly chose colours and topics I like and interested in. Blue colour is found to be calming and relaxing. It is something very suitable for the topic of psychology. This blog includes a simple, yet informative, navigation bar which can take you to the topics you are especially interested in. Also, a poll is added at the side, in order to know what is interesting/useful and what isn't from the users themselves. This blog seeks to help those interested in studying psychology, as it tells people about the best ways of getting work placements and useful resources include some more serious book which are included in the academic programme. This blog was an interesting experience for me, although hard. I found writing for the blog rather challenging and certain manipulations with CSS - were experienced by me for the first time. Overall, it was a challenging, engaging and interesting unit this year.

A video shot by me, in order to show the isolation that depression creates and how the world seems to be fading away.

Why blue is most people's favourite colour?

Blue - is the favourite colour

In 2003, a study was conducted by Joe Hallock, who surveyed people from 22 different countries. The survey strived to find out people's favourite colour. The study found out that 35% of females (the majority of participants) and 57% of males (the majority) chose blue as their favourite colour. Moreover, blue was never chosen as the least favourite colour among the participants. 

(male)

(female)

(male)

(female)

“Blue is not only the most popular color on the web today, it is also the most popular color on the spectrum internationally. Long associated with the serenity of a clear blue sky, and the cleansing waters of tranquil seas, the human mind embraces the concept of blue as constant, translating it into a symbolic message of dependability and loyalty.” (Pantone Vice President Laurie Pressman)

                               

                       (Miss Marrs colour which was declared the closest to the overall consensus)

Blue is considered to be the most calming colour for the psychoemotional perceptive. This dates back thousands of years, where blue symbolised things like eternity, stability and purity. It is said to have a positive and calming effect on the mind of most people, whereas others can perceive it as being pressuring and stifling. If you also add, the concept that some people find that blue helps them concentrate, as well as relax, it comes as no surprise that it is widely chosen as a favourite colour. 

I got my Psychology work experience - you can do it too!

Usually it is very difficult, if not downright impossible to get a job in your field while studying. Especially, if you are studying psychology or medicine. You might be refused the job, as you not yet have the right level of knowledge and practice to perform and react to certain things in a more professional way.

After my AS-levels were done, I came home, unsure of what to do for the whole summer.

The opportunity came seemingly out of nowhere!

I heard my parent's friend talking about the psychiatric hospital, where some of the students from universities passed their practical exams and did work experience. It was then it occurred to me, that I might be able to get in, if I am to show the proof that I am, in fact, a student (let's put aside that I wasn't a university student at the time). At first, not much was coming out of the talking, as I struggled to explain to people that I am a student, who is required to have a work experience. After a few days they agreed for me to work half-days (9 to 14 on most days) and under supervision of one of the superior psychiatrists there.

Every morning I had to wake up around 7 am and get a train into the city to start my 'shift' at 8.

At the weekend I was given breaks, in order to have some time off, as working non-stop would be a bit of a nightmare, especially being new and in such a tough environment. Working in psychiatric hospital requires a lot of mental effort. You should always ask for breaks, if you feel like you are starting to strain yourself.

I attended group trainings with day-time patients as well as patients who are to stay in hospitals. The training courses varied between each disorder. However, all of the courses had one mission - to integrate patients back into society and help them deal with their problems and disorders. 

It was evident for me how much knowledge I lacked. I'm not even speaking about knowledge you get from the books, but rather, the practical knowledge you get from just working in this field. 

Nonetheless I was able to find the needed work experience, so what I would like to stress is that, even though it is hard, you can do it! You can achieve the goal you set and find the work experience, just remember to look everywhere and search through all your connections, and soon a chance will appear, as it did for me. 

Not quite a patient: How to get your work experience?

What is it exactly that people will require from you?

People will require common sense and quick thinking. Keep strong emotions to yourself, keep your calm and be cool headed. Psychiatric hospitals can be a downing experience and you should be prepared to see and experience things you have not before.

• Cool Head
• Logic
• Time Management
• Communication Skills
• Fast reflexes
• Quick learner

They tell you what to do/what not to do - you do so/you don't do so.

You have to be careful. There will be certain rules and way of doing things. Every hospital has it's own conduct of behaviour and you should really take on board all the instructions given to you. Especially when dealing with patients. Even if some may seem paranoid, they are there to ensure your safety too, so follow the rules carefully.

What is useful to know before coming to psychiatric hospital?

Any work at a psychiatric hospital - whether a doctor or just as an apprentice - is difficult. It is a mentally challenging situation working in such an environment. Especially, when talking about your own emotional state. If you feel like you might not be ready to take up a job which includes emotional strain. All people are different and it is completely okay to take things slowly or change your decision about doing work experience. Things got very hard for me at some points. There were moments when I wished I would just quit and forget all of it as a bad dream. But really, at the time I felt like not giving it up. I think what I should have really done is take a day off between working days, rather than working full week. I do recommend taking things slowly. A days break in between days of working, can really be what keeps you from quitting this idea of working in this field entirely, so do take my advice, and take things slowly. 

What skills and characteristics will make you stand out and make them choose you more likely?

•  Good analytical skills - the ability to analyse any given information on the spot 

•  Be well aware of the research ethic guidelines in psychology 

•  Have a good knowledge of psychology history and its different research methods

•  Be also up to date with newest research and theories

• And most importantly: have a PASSION for the subject and SHOW IT! 

Looking after oneself

A little infographic to give you the most important tips to battle low mood!

Psychological Help in Farnham

It is really important to check one's health. And it is as important to look after one's mental health. When you are feeling low - try to reach out to your friends or loved ones. If you do not feel comfortable enough or would like to receive a professional and unbiased advice - why not have a look at my map? Here you can find several clinics/practices where you can receive professional help in Farnham (all marked in blue).