The Essentials of Healthy Living

"Thanks to Zahra for highlighting such useful tips on how to keep our minds healthy. Indeed, only if our mind is at peace will we be able to reach our full potential and achieve our goals in life!"

Looking after your mind

People with a healthy body live a well-structured lifestyle. A good diet, regular exercise and activities, sleeping well and regular physical check-ups are all part of a rich life that makes for a more fulfilling life. In short, a healthy body means a happy life.

People with a healthy mind live productive and fulfilling lives. They are aware of their mind, its performance, needs and development and so taking care of your mind is as important as taking care of your body. How you think, feel and behave all comes from a healthy mind. I would even say that the condition of your mind can affect your body. It is common to meet people who are aware of the benefits of exercise and regular sleep, but who still make excuses not to start: too busy, no money, no time, of how much benefit would it really be? Science tells us that there is a physiological link between our mind and emotional and rational experiences in life.

The Movers and Shakers!

Click here to check out this fascinating interactive graphic charting estimated global international migration flows between and within regions in five-year increments from 1990-2010.

Asylum Housing Not Up to Standard, say MP's

A report by the Commons committee has concluded that the asylum housing provided by the Home Office's contracts was not up to standard.  Committee chairwoman Margaret Hodge said that the scheme was "poorly planned and badly managed" and that "The standard of the accommodation provided has been unacceptably poor for a very fragile group of individuals and families." Click here to read more about the report. 

When Old Memories Resurface...

Thank you to our resident photographer, who wishes to remain anonymous, for submitting this photo. We hope to post many more like it!

There was a time when a warm, comfortable house was only just a dream.

One day as I walked in the street, I saw this sofa, and suddenly 

I was again that man who used to spend his nights in the open air, 

in the cold and winterish weather, when nothing seemed to make sense.

Luckily today things have improved a little bit, but this sofa reminds me 

of those harsh days that still are a constant presence in my everyday life.

New Syndrome Affecting Asylum Seekers Named

Thanks to David for making us aware of a new syndrome, Prolonged Asylum Seeker Syndrome. If you think you or someone you know might be experiencing the following symptoms, it is important to seek help and support from a mental health professional.

Be Aware of a New Syndrome! 

What is it? Who can be affected? How widespread is it? How can you help those suffering from such a syndrome? 

Well, the new syndrome was called "Protracted Asylum Seeker Syndrome" by a group of psychiatrist researchers. They published their findings at the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists in Hobart in 2012. As the name indicates, it affects asylum seekers. To show how widespread it is, a news report said: "Major depression was diagnosed in more than 60 percent of asylum seekers and about 30 percent of refugees." 

You may click here to read about the syndrome or here to hear Associate Professor Sundram describe it.

You may also read the interesting article pasted below or click here to read it in its original form: