When Work Turns Toxic: Psychological Reflections on Burnout, Bullying and Gaslighting

Over the past few years, I have seen a marked increase in clients coming to therapy not because they “can’t cope with work,” but because work itself has become harmful. They describe workplaces that are chronically stressful, hostile, and dismissive of their wellbeing. What begins as a demanding job slowly shifts into something more insidious:Continue reading “When Work Turns Toxic: Psychological Reflections on Burnout, Bullying and Gaslighting”

Trauma-Informed Awareness in the Workplace: Language, Policy, and the Culture of Care

Introduction Workplaces, like people, hold stories. Within every organisation are individuals who carry experiences of stress, loss, and sometimes trauma — experiences that may be invisible but deeply shape how they perceive safety, trust, and belonging. Trauma-informed awareness in the workplace invites us to look beneath behaviour and performance, to recognise that what appears asContinue reading “Trauma-Informed Awareness in the Workplace: Language, Policy, and the Culture of Care”

When Academia and Education Drain the Soul: Burnout, Stress, and the Hidden Costs

Education should be about inspiration—sparking curiosity, sharing knowledge, and shaping futures. Whether you’re teaching preschoolers their first songs, guiding teenagers through exams, or mentoring university students on their research journey, the profession starts with passion. But what begins as a vocation can too easily turn into a heavy burden. Overwork, being overlooked, subtle gaslighting, andContinue reading “When Academia and Education Drain the Soul: Burnout, Stress, and the Hidden Costs”

The Power of Feeling Valued: Understanding the Psychological Impact of Respect and Demoralisation

By Dr. M – Psychologist As human beings, we are wired for connection. From infancy, our sense of self is shaped by how others respond to us (Bowlby, 1960). Feeling valued and respected is not just a pleasant experience — it is a fundamental psychological need that underpins emotional well-being, personal growth, and resilience. Conversely,Continue reading “The Power of Feeling Valued: Understanding the Psychological Impact of Respect and Demoralisation”

The Power of Resilient Women: Shaping Work, Home, and Society

Introduction International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of women in every aspect of life. Whether in the workforce, at home, or in politics, women have consistently shown remarkable determination in overcoming adversity, challenging societal norms, and driving progress. Throughout history, resilient women have paved the way for change,Continue reading “The Power of Resilient Women: Shaping Work, Home, and Society”

Professionalisation a critical issue

– An Early Year’s professional crisis in an urgent quest for professionalisation? (Author: Kellie Duggan – MA Student) As an early years manager/owner of several rural ECE settings in Ireland, I felt quiet strongly that the answer to the above issue was very straight forward – “The sector needs to be acknowledged for the workContinue reading “Professionalisation a critical issue”