What the Friday Youth Podcast

Episode 34: 'The 'Opening Up About Mental Health' episode

In this podcast episode, Noah interviews Danny from Invictus Wellbeing about the challenges young people face when opening up about their mental health.
Danny explains that young people often fear judgment and feel misunderstood, especially with the pressure to compare themselves to others online. He emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence and encourages seeking help as a sign of strength, not weakness.
Danny suggests starting small, such as journaling or talking to a trusted friend, and highlights various support options like school counselors, mental health charities, and anonymous online platforms. He reassures that asking for help is a positive step and can lead to better mental health outcomes.

Episode 33: The 'Cyber Bullying' episode

Blake discusses cyberbullying with Danny from Invictus Wellbeing.
Cyberbullying is defined as any form of bullying that occurs online, including social media, messaging apps, and gaming chats. It can be particularly damaging due to its 24/7 availability and anonymity.
Danny advises victims to document evidence, block the bully, and seek help from trusted adults or mental health professionals. Cyberbullying can severely impact mental health, leading to decreased confidence, sleep disturbances, and long-term relationship issues. Schools and communities should educate youth on digital respect and provide safe spaces for support.
Various resources, such as Childline and Young Minds, are available for those affected.

Episode 32: The 'Depression' episode

In this episode of the "What the Friday" podcast, Warren and Danny from Invictus Wellbeing discuss depression, differentiating it from general sadness, and its impact on daily life.
Danny explains that clinical depression is a diagnosable mental health condition affecting cognition, behaviour, and emotions, and can manifest in various forms, including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder.
He emphasises the importance of recognising signs of depression, such as prolonged sadness, loss of interest, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and the need for professional help. Danny also highlights the role of lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication in treatment, and encourages reaching out for support to overcome depression.

Episode 31: The 'Sleep' episode

Tamara and Latifat discuss sleep deprivation among teens and young adults, inviting Dr. Joy to explain the science behind it.
Dr. Joy explains that teen brains release melatonin later, causing sleep difficulties. Teens need 8-10 hours of sleep, which lack affects focus, memory, and mood. Screen time before bed suppresses melatonin and disrupts circadian rhythms.
Insomnia can be caused by stress, caffeine, screens, and inconsistent routines. Naps are beneficial if short, but weekend sleep-ins can disrupt the body clock. Energy drinks are discouraged due to their negative effects. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to immune system issues and poor vaccine response.
Dr. Joy advises consistent sleep habits and a wind-down routine for better sleep.
For more information: 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk
You can also find a range of useful links on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 30: The 'Connection Between Mental Health and Sexual Health' episode

In the "Headspace vs Bedspace" episode of the What The Friday youth podcast, host Gabby and expert guest Dr. Joy discuss the inextricable link between mental and sexual health.
Dr. Joy explains that mental health issues like anxiety and low self-esteem can impact sexual well-being, affecting body image, performance, and relationships. Conditions such as vaginismus and erectile dysfunction can be directly linked to mental health. Stress and poor mental health can lead to avoidance of sexual activity or promiscuity.
Dr. Joy emphasises the importance of open conversations about sex and relationships to break taboos and improve overall health. She advises seeking help from GPs, sexual health clinics, and mental health services.
For more information: 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk
You can also find a range of useful links on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 29: The 'Youth Diabetes' episode

Bailey Grace interviews Lucy, a type 1 diabetic, about her experiences and the impact of diabetes on young people.
Lucy shares her symptoms, including extreme thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss, and discusses the importance of raising awareness for type 1 diabetes, which is often overshadowed by type 2.
She highlights the emotional challenges, such as anxiety and stigma, and the need for proper management, including carb counting and insulin injections. Lucy emphasises the importance of being prepared, seeking support, and using new technologies like CGMs. She also advises on maintaining a balanced lifestyle and seeking help for psychological struggles.
For more information: 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk
You can also find a range of useful links on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 28: The 'Self Harm' episode

Tobias and Danny from Invictus Wellbeing discuss self-harm, emphasising it as a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotional distress rather than attention-seeking.
They highlight various forms of self-harm, including digital self-harm like cyberbullying and negative content consumption.
Danny stresses the importance of addressing the root causes rather than the behaviour itself.
They debunk myths, such as self-harm being exclusive to teenage girls, and discuss signs like mood changes and physical scars. Danny advises seeking help from trusted adults or helplines and suggests healthier coping strategies like finding a sense of purpose and using grounding techniques.
For more information visit: 
For immediate support call 111 or visit your local A&E department.
Invictus Wellbeing https://www.invictuswellbeing.com
You can also find a range of useful mental health support services on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
You can also follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to National Lottery Awards for All and Invictus Wellbeing for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 27: The 'Endometriosis' episode

Krystal and gynaecologist Dr. Ghosh discuss endometriosis, a common condition affecting 190 million women globally, with a delay in diagnosis of 4-11 years.
Dr. Ghosh explains that endometriosis occurs when blood from the uterus deposits in the pelvis, causing pain and bleeding. Symptoms include pain before bleeding, heavy and irregular periods, and pain during sex.
Diagnosis can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms and societal norms.
Treatments include painkillers, hormonal therapies, and surgery. Dr. Ghosh emphasises the importance of raising awareness, seeking professional help, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She also debunks common myths about endometriosis.
 
For more information: 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk
You can also find a range of useful links on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 26: The 'Eating Disorders' episode

Monique shares her journey with an eating disorder, emphasising the importance of early intervention.
Her issues began in summer 2020 during lockdown, influenced by social media and K-pop idols. Initially, she made healthy choices but soon spiralled into restrictive eating and excessive exercise.
Her daily life was consumed by food and exercise obsessions, affecting her school performance and social interactions. A turning point came when she felt dizzy and sought medical help. Her parents' early intervention, despite her initial resistance, was crucial in her recovery. Monique now advocates for seeking help early to prevent severe complications.
For more information: 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk
You can also find a range of useful links on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 25: The 'Connection Between Mental Anxiety & Physical Pain' episode

Kleo and Chloe from Invictus Wellbeing discuss the connection between mental anxiety and physical symptoms.
Chloe explains that anxiety triggers the fight-or-flight response, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, leading to physical symptoms such as muscle tension, shallow breathing, and digestive issues.
They identify common physical symptoms in young people, like headaches, stomach problems, and sleep disturbances, which can be mistaken for physical illnesses.
Chloe advises seeking professional help if symptoms persist or significantly impact daily life. She emphasizes the importance of grounding techniques, distraction, and professional support to manage anxiety and its physical manifestations.
Thank you to National Lottery Awards for All for funding this episode https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/
For more information visit: 
Invictus Wellbeing https://www.invictuswellbeing.com
You can also find a range of useful mental health support services on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
 
You can also follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to National Lottery Awards for All and Invictus Wellbeing for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music.