Hello Students, Colleagues and Friends,

Here are the details of all the webinars we are running in May, including four new courses.

All these sessions are, as always, available to everyone, free of charge. You don’t need to have any connection at all to the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. We just ask that you answer a few questions and let us know which sessions you’d like to be a part of, using one of the registration forms links below, and we’ll then send you links to the webinars you’ve chosen.
 
The majority of our webinars are run as Live Events on the Microsoft Teams platform, meaning that you can join anonymously and will be neither seen nor heard. Instead, you interact by typing questions and comments into a Q&A panel. Occasionally we will run a course in a Meetings format for a limited group of students, where you will be seen and heard, but these will be clearly identified as such.
 
If you can't make a particular live event you can still enrol and use the link we'll send you to watch a recording later.
 
For course descriptions and much more information about our new BAME curriculum, please click here.
 
Please scroll down to the end of this post for your registration links.
 
Routines for Recovery
Part 1 | 11:30am-12:30pm | Tuesday 4th May
Part 2 | 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 12th May
 
Making Changes: how to start and where to maintain
Part 1 | 11am-12noon | Wednesday 5th May
Part 2 | 11am-12noon | Wednesday 12th May
Part 3 | 11am-12noon | Wednesday 19th May
Part 4 | 11am-12noon | Wednesday 26th May
 
Hearing Voices
Part 1 | 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 5th May
Part 2 | 11:30am-12:30pm | Monday 10th May
Part 3 | 11:30am-12:30pm | Monday 17th May
 
NEW! Caring for Carers | 2:30pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 5th May
 
Moving Towards Self-Compassion
Part 4 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 6th May
Part 5 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 13th May
Part 6 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 20th May
Part 7 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 27th May
 
N.B. Although the course started last month, we'll send you links to the previous and the upcoming sessions.
 
Alcohol: friend or foe? | 2pm-3:30pm | Friday 7th May
 
NEW! Telling Your Story
 
N.B. This course is only available to students who are also either a SLaM service user, a SLaM carer, or a SLaM staff member.
 
Materials you’ll need to take part: writing/drawing paper, pens and pencils, colouring pencils, old magazines, card for collage, glue, and scissors. Any other materials will be and individual choice and will be discussed as the course progresses.
These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are 12 places available on this course.
 
Part 1 | 10am-12noon | Monday 10th May
Part 2 | 10am-12noon | Monday 17th May
Part 3 | 10am-12noon | Monday 24th May
Part 4 | 10am-12noon | Monday 7th June
Part 5 | 10am-12noon | Monday 14th June
Part 6 | 10am-12noon | Monday 21st June
 
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Part 1 | 10:30am-11:30am | Tuesday 11th May
Part 2 | 10:30am-11:30am | Tuesday 18th May
 
Understanding Anxiety
Part 1 | 10:30am-11:45am | Tuesday 11th May
Part 2 | 10:30am-11:45am | Tuesday 18th May
Part 3 | 10:30am-11:45am | Tuesday 25th May
Part 4 | 10:30am-11:45am | Tuesday 1st June
 
Introduction to Beth
This is a stand-alone session, repeated twice in May, so there’s no need to register for more than one.
 
Introduction to Beth | 11am-12noon | Tuesday 11th May
Introduction to Beth | 11am-12noon | Tuesday 25th May
 
Bereavement: coming to terms with loss | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Tuesday 11th May
 
Understanding Depression
Part 1 | 2:30pm-3:45pm | Wednesday 12th May
Part 2 | 2:30pm-3:45pm | Wednesday 19th May
Part 3 | 2:30pm-3:45pm | Wednesday 26th May
Part 4 | 2:30pm-3:45pm | Wednesday 2nd June
 
NEW! Tree of Life | 10am-12noon | Friday 14th May
 
N.B. This workshop is only available to students who are also either a SLaM service user, a SLaM carer, or a SLaM staff member.
 
Materials you’ll need to take part: all you’ll need are some paper and pens /pencils for drawing.
 
This session will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. This session won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are 20 places available on this course.
 
Understanding Personality Disorder
Part 1 | 2:30pm-4pm | Friday 14th May
Part 2 | 2:30pm-4pm | Friday 21st May
Part 3 | 2:30pm-4pm | Friday 28th May
 
NEW! Being an Ally. Part of SLaM Recovery College’s New BAME* Curriculum
 
[* Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic]
 
These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are a limited number of places available on this course.
 
Unit 1:  what is an ally, and why are they needed? | 12noon-2:30pm | Tuesday 18th May
Unit 2: making whiteness visible (bringing privilege and fragility into view) | 12noon-2:30pm | Friday 21st May
Unit 3: seeing the person (rehumanising interracial communication) | 12noon-2:30pm | Tuesday 25th May
Unit 4: starting work (allyship into action) | 12noon-2:30pm | Friday 28th May
 
Keeping Safe Online
Part 1 | 10:30am-11:30am | Wednesday 19th May
Part 2 | 10:30am-11:30am | Friday 21st May
Part 3 | 10:30am-11:30am | Wednesday 26th May
Part 4 | 10:30am-11:30am | Friday 28th May
 
Smoking and COVID-19 | 11am-12noon | Wednesday 19th May
 
Recovering Our Purpose
Part 1 | 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 19th May
Part 2 | 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 2nd June
 
Managing Your Mood
Part 1 | 10:30am-11:30am | Thursday 20th May
Part 2 | 10:30am-11:30am | Thursday 27th May
 
Motivation
Part 1 | 2:30pm-3:30pm | Thursday 20th May
Part 2 | 2:30pm-3:30pm | Thursday 27th May
 
Understanding the Impact of Substance Use on Mental Health
Part 1 | 10:30am-12noon | Friday 21st May
Part 2 | 10:30am-12noon | Friday 28th May
 
Parks, Walks and Walking Meditation
These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are 20 places available on this course.
 
Part 1 | 10:30am-11:30am | Thursday 27th May
Part 2 | 10:30am-11:30am | Thursday 3rd June
 
FIRST TIME REGISTRATION, if you haven’t signed up to a webinar with us before: 
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SuTPoS5olUqOctA7m1iHqjpd3n-l3AxAj-8hQpHMfNlUMVlUQzEzNlBOT0NUNTU3UVVPQ1pHWTdFOS4u
 
RETURNING STUDENTS REGISTRATION, if you have already signed up to a webinar with us before: 
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SuTPoS5olUqOctA7m1iHqjpd3n-l3AxAj-8hQpHMfNlUODNFUlAxQ0dIUTZBUkpCVDRBS0ZaTksxRS4u
 
Please feel free to share this offer of free-to-view webinars with anyone who you think might benefit.

With very best wishes,
 
The team at South London and Maudsley Recovery College

Hello Students, Colleagues and Friends,

Here are the details of all the webinars we are running in April, including seven new courses!

All these sessions are, as always, available to everyone, free of charge. You don’t need to be a SLaM Recovery College student or have any connection at all to the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. We just ask that you answer a few questions and let us know which sessions you’d like to be a part of, using one of the registration forms links below, and we’ll then send you links to the webinars you’ve chosen.
 
The majority of our webinars are run as Live Events on the Microsoft Teams platform, meaning that you can join anonymously and will be neither seen nor heard. Instead, you interact by typing questions and comments into a Q&A panel. Occasionally we will run a course in a Meetings format for a limited group of students, where you will be seen and heard, but these will be clearly identified as such.
 
If you can't make a particular live event you can still enrol and use the link we'll send you to watch a recording later.
 
Please scroll down to the end of this article for your registration links.
 
Understanding Psychosis
 
A three-part workshop about psychosis. These sessions will enable you to have a broader understanding of psychosis, including examples of lived experience and information on supporting someone else.
 
In the first session we will explain what psychosis is, explore the different experiences of psychosis, and share information about psychotic episodes and examples of lived experiences.
 
In the second session will explore schizophrenia more specifically, looking at the meaning of positive and negative symptoms and different types of recovery.
 
In the final session will look at supporting someone who is experiencing psychosis and how we can help ourselves as a supporter
 
Part 1 | 11:30am-12:30pm| Tuesday 6th April
Part 2 | 11:30am-12:30pm| Monday 12th April
Part 3 | 11:30am-12:30pm| Wednesday 21st April
 
NEW! Mental Health Awareness
 
As with our physical health, many people suffer with mental health problems. This course which will be delivered over two webinar sessions aims to increase awareness of the issues surrounding mental health. We will uncover various myths, provide brief descriptions of several mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder, and discuss the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment of each. We will explore what influences our mental health, including the impact of stigma. We will look at ways to promote recovery and wellbeing, and explore verbal and non-verbal communication skills looking at how we can use these skills to support others.
 
Part 1 | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Wednesday 7th April
Part 2 | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Thursday 8th April
 
Recovering Our Purpose
 
Having a purpose is a vital aspect in our personal recovery. Purpose brings direction and intention into our lives, and our intentions count for so much more than we usually think. Our purpose can be like a GPS for our lives, it can be a source of wisdom and energy enabling us to accomplish things we didn’t think were possible. But how are we to discover the distinctive direction and purpose of our lives? In this two-part course, drawing on the work of Jan Chozen Bays and others, we will work together to recover our purpose, and navigate and reinvigorate our lives.
 
Part 1 | 11:30am-1pm| Friday 9th April
Part 2 | 11:30am-1pm| Friday 16th April
 
Optimising Your Sleep
 
Do you have difficulty getting to sleep at night? Do you wake up early in the morning? Do you spend most of the night tossing and turning? Or do you find yourself sleeping too many hours or sleeping too much during the day? In this two-part course we will:

• Self-assess our own sleep​
• Recognise the impact of the pandemic on our sleep​
• Explore the benefits of sleep​
• Explore how much sleep we really need​
• Explore the pros and cons of daytime naps​
• Address excessive sleep
• Recognise the impact of not getting enough sleep​
• Explore methods for improving our sleep

 
Part 1 | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Monday 12th April
Part 2 | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Monday 19th April
 
Introduction to Beth
 
SLaM’s Beth website, designed for us on laptops and PCs, tablets and smartphones, is a free and secure way for our patients and carers to stay connected with their care team. For service users, Beth is very friendly and easy to use, and supports personal choice and autonomy. You can link your Beth account with your NHS number to access your health records and:  

• see who is in your care team and support network 
• securely message your care team  
• access your current care plan 
• see all your appointments 
• keep track of your mood and sleep 
• use free and trusted online health resources 

 
For people caring for someone under SLaM services you can create your own account to look after your own wellbeing and securely message their care team. This is a stand-alone session, repeated twice in April, so there’s no need to register for more than one.
 
Introduction to Beth | 11am-12noon | Tuesday 13th April
Introduction to Beth | 11am-12noon | Tuesday 27th April
 
NEW! Understanding Personality Disorder
 
Personality disorder is a phrase used to describe a group of common, long-lasting conditions that affect how people view and manage their emotions and how they relate to other people.

This course explores what is meant by personality disorder in general and how it can affect other aspects of a person’s mental and physical health.

We will also discuss specific treatments and how people can help themselves to regain a measure of control in their lives.
 
Part 1 | 11:30am-12:30pm| Tuesday 13th April
Part 2 | 11:30am-12:30pm| Tuesday 20th April
 
Bereavement: supporting ourselves and others while grieving | 2:30pm-3:30pm | Tuesday 13th April
 
This stand-alone webinar gently leads us through the four phases (or ‘layers’) of mourning as described by John Bowlby, the founder of attachment theory. We will be thinking about, and sharing, ways of supporting the grieving process. We realise that, taking part in this session, you may recently have been bereaved, or know someone who has and would like to help them. Your emotional wellbeing at this sad time is of absolute importance to us. With this in mind, we ask you to let someone who you trust know that you will be doing this webinar - this person will be your support contact. When you join us, please keep your mobile beside you in case you need to call or text your support contact. Ask them to check how you are when you start watching, and also when it ends. Perhaps your contact might be able to join with you online. We want you to know that you are warmly welcome, and that you are not alone in your grief. 
 
Introduction to Recovery
 
Many people find being diagnosed with mental health difficulties devastating. Too often people feel that their life is over and that they will never be able to fulfil their dreams and ambitions or lead a satisfying and valued life.

But it does not have to be this way. Whatever age a person is, whether they have only recently been diagnosed, or whether they have had a diagnosis for some time, recovery is possible, no matter how serious the person’s difficulties. It is possible for people to rebuild a meaningful, valued and satisfying life.

This two-part course explores the impact of mental health difficulties on people’s lives, what helps people to grow within and beyond what has happened, and how they can rebuild their lives.
 
Part 1 | 11am-12noon| Wednesday 14th April
Part 2 | 11am-12noon| Monday 19th April
 
Moving Towards Self-Compassion
 
This ten-part course explores the idea of self-compassion and how this can lead to a greater sense of self-acceptance and empathy with other people. Each week, we will explore a different topic, practise some self-compassion exercises, then reflect on our experience. There will be pre-session and post-session activities which you can complete at home. We hope this course would be of interest to, and be of benefit to, anyone who might struggle with perfectionism or self-criticism. We also warmly welcome anyone curious about this subject, and who enjoys reflecting on what it means to be human. These are the sessions we’re running in April:
 
Part 1 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 15th April
Part 2 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 22nd April
Part 3 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 29th April

May/June/July dates: 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th May; 3rd, 10th June; 1st July. 
 
NEW! Men’s Mental Health
 
A five-part course. The sessions are:
 
Relationships: In this session we will explore relationships in relation to men's mental health. The session will include use of videos, discussion, current research and lived experience. The session is open to everyone.

Thriving in a Toxic Culture: In this session we will explore thriving in a toxic culture in relation to men’s mental health. The session will include use of videos, discussion, current research and lived experience. The session is open to everyone.

Being a Success: In this session we will explore being a success in relation to men's mental health. The session will include use of videos, discussion, current research and lived experience. The session is open to everyone.

Fatherhood: In this session we will explore fatherhood in relation to men's mental health. The session will include use of videos, discussion, current research and lived experience. The session is open to everyone.

Appearance: In this session we will explore appearance in relation to men's mental health. The session will include use of videos, discussion, current research and lived experience. The session is open to everyone.
 
These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are 12 places available on this course.
 
Part 1: relationships | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 15th April
Part 2: thriving in a toxic culture | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 22nd April
Part 3: being a success | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 29th April
Part 4: fatherhood | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 6th May
Part 5: appearance | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 13th May
 
Communication Skills for Resilient Relationships
 
Join this three-part series to gain insight and skills that benefit your personal romantic and non-romantic relationships. It is suitable for everybody, whether you are currently single or in a relationship.
 
The skills can be applied to partners, friends, family, colleagues, as well as those we are yet to meet. 
 
Part 1 | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 15th April
Part 2 | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 22nd April
Part 3 | 2:30pm-4pm | Thursday 29th April
 
NEW! Five Obstacles on the Road of Recovery
 
 In this programme we will learn how to identify and overcome five significant obstacles on our personal journey of recovery. We will discover what can bring these obstacles about, how we can remove them, and how we can prevent them. We will use a guided mindfulness practice along with practical day-to-day tips.
 
This course is based on the pañca nīvaraṇāni (five hindrances) which are recognised in Buddhist traditions as mental factors that hinder progress in meditation and in our daily lives.
 
These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are 12 places available on this course.
 
Part 1: indulgence | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Friday 16th April
Part 2: ill-will | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Friday 23rd April
Part 3: sluggishness and sleepiness| 2:30pm-3:30pm| Friday 30th April
Part 4: restlessness and worry | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Friday 7th May
Part 5: sceptical doubt | 2:30pm-3:30pm| Friday 14th May
 
Parks, Walks and Walking Meditation
 
Lockdown has meant that a lot of us are spending way more time indoors. This two-part workshop aims to encourage and inspire you to:

• Learn about the benefits of walking for wellbeing
• Learn about Peckham Rye Park and parks in your locality
• Discover activities you can do in your local park and London walks
• Discover how to practice walking meditation (complimentary walking meditation MP3 available to all workshop attendees)

 
These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are 20 places available on this course.
 
Part 1 | 12noon-1pm| Tuesday 20th April
Part 2 | 4pm-5pm | Tuesday 27th April
 
Introduction to Coaching Skills
 
Coaching is a way of opening up spaces for personal reflection, helping people become aware of their strengths and resourcefulness, and supporting them to achieve their goals.
 
Coaching is a series of conversations between a coach and another person aimed at bringing out the best in the person being coached. Whether we are mental health professionals, people who use services, or carers and supporters, we all know that the quality of the relationships and the conversations we have are very important.
 
Coaching tools and techniques can support people’s recovery by helping them tackle the challenges and everyday stresses of life.
 
Part 1 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Tuesday 20th April
Part 2 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 22nd April
Part 3 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Tuesday 27th April
Part 4 | 1:30pm-2:30pm | Thursday 29th April
 
Understanding and Managing Health Anxiety
 
Health anxiety is the name used when you spend so much time worrying that you're ill, or about getting ill, that it starts to take over your life. For many people, the Covid-19 pandemic has increased these types of worries. 
 
This course will look at some of the causes of health anxiety and the things you can do to lessen these worries and the impact on your life.
 
Part 1 | 10:30am-12noon | Wednesday 21st April
Part 2 | 10:30am-12noon | Wednesday 28th April
 
Smoking and COVID-19 | 11am-12noon | Wednesday 21 April
In this session, Mary Yates, Nurse Consultant in SLaM, outlines why it’s more important than ever before to quit smoking during the COVID-19 pandemic. She will give an overview of the best ways to quit and how to access support. She will also explain why some researchers think that nicotine (NOT SMOKING!) may help protect against COVID-19.
 
Eating Healthily and Looking After Your Weight
 
This two-part course focuses on how to work towards a healthier lifestyle and diet.  Many of us struggle to understand the reasons why it is so hard to eat a healthy diet and to manage our weight. 
 
We will explore what is effective healthy eating to support your physical and mental wellbeing. We will discuss the environmental and personal issues that affect our food choices.
 
The second part of the course will outline how to monitor and measure weight, make dietary changes and consider broader lifestyle issues.  Setting realistic weight goals and developing sustainable and personal action plans will also be discussed.
 
The course facilitators will be the Trust Head of Nutrition & Dietetic Services, a peer recovery trainer, and a practitioner trainer from the Recovery College.
 
Part 1 | 2:30pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 21st April
Part 2 | 2:30pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 28th April
 
NEW! Spirituality and Wellbeing
 
This two-part course will focus on a gentle exploration of participants’ spiritual values, world views, and guiding philosophies. It will look at how these are important for, and connected to, a sense of wellbeing. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on those elements that give meaning to their lives, and the ways that can be found to express what is of ultimate importance to them. The course will open up discussion on the relationship between spirituality and mental health as it is experienced in people’s everyday lives, and how this can contribute to recovery and healing. 
 
These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. There are 12 places available on this course.
 
Part 1 | 11am-12:30pm | Thursday 22nd April
Part 2 | 11am-12:30pm | Thursday 29th April
 
NEW! Alcohol: friend or foe? | 2pm-3:30pm| Friday 23rd April
 
People who drink alcohol can have very different experiences.  This workshop looks at why that is and some of the things you can do when you or someone you know is having issues managing their alcohol use. The workshop will include:

• interesting facts you might not know about alcohol
• sharing of tips
• an opportunity to talk to people with professional and lived experience about options to try when alcohol becomes a problem.

NEW! Understanding Panic Attacks
 
​Many people suffer from panic attacks as part of their anxiety disorder or as an expression of their anxiety at a stressful time.
 
This two-part course will describe how people feel during a panic attack as well as looking at potential causes. We will discuss a range of coping methods and strategies that people might find useful. We will also outline what cognitive behavioural treatments are available and how they can help.  This workshop has been designed in collaboration with staff from the Centre for Anxiety Disorders and Trauma (CADAT) and people who have used their services.
 
Part 1 | 2:30pm-15:45pm | Thursday 29th April
Part 2 | 2:30pm-15:45pm | Thursday 6th May
 
FIRST TIME REGISTRATION, if you haven’t signed up to a webinar with us before (even if you are a SLaM Recovery College student): 
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SuTPoS5olUqOctA7m1iHqjpd3n-l3AxAj-8hQpHMfNlUQlBWVzFCWkpYU1dNMEtKS0g3WEFCQ1hUMi4u

RETURNING STUDENTS REGISTRATION, if you have already signed up to a webinar with us before: 
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SuTPoS5olUqOctA7m1iHqjpd3n-l3AxAj-8hQpHMfNlUMVRaS09PRFBLUTdBWFAxMjUyWjdRMENVRi4u

Please feel free to share this offer of free-to-view webinars with anyone who you think might benefit.
 
Visit our COVID_19 resources page for details of crisis support, covid-19 advice, online learning, online activities, and staying connected: https://www.slamrecoverycollege.co.uk/covid-19-resources.html 

DESMOND: diabetes education and self-management for ongoing and newly diagnosed. A free online course consisting of four two-hour sessions
Course 1 | 10:30am-12:45pm | Tuesdays 13th, 20th, 27th April & 4th May
Course 2 | 2:30pm-4:45pm | Mondays 17th, 24th May & 7th, 14th June
 
People who have attended the programme have said:
 
·      It’s easy to do, and they felt supported throughout.
·      They have learnt lots of new skills, tailored to them, which they can confidently share with others.
·      They feel re-energised, are sleeping better, and have a more positive outlook on life.

What does the programme involve?
 
You are invited to join an exclusive group of people with Type 2 diabetes. During the pandemic we are pleased to be able to offer you a virtual group. The group of up to 6 people will be held online, run by two trained Educators over four weekly sessions of two hours each (plus a 15min break). You will be able to ask questions and clarify information during the course.
 
Our Educators will support you to increase your knowledge and understanding of what having Type 2 diabetes means for you. The atmosphere is always friendly, informal and very welcoming.
 
Who can attend?
 
Anyone with a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes who is also a SLaM service user, or a SLaM carer, or a SLaM staff member.
 
N.B. These courses will be run in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, meaning that you will be both seen and heard by the other participants.

What will you have to do?
 
You will need to be prepared to attend all 8 hours over 4 weeks. This is for your benefit so that you can be sure of having all the information that you need. You will be sent login details in advance; you will need to make sure well in advance that you can access this and having an electronic device with a speaker and camera will make this easier. Further details of what to expect from a virtual group will also be sent out once you are booked in.
 
What will you get from attending?
 
As well as getting up-to-date information, you will learn practical skills to help to manage your Type 2 diabetes. You will discuss and explore topics such as:

• What is diabetes
• Food choices
• Activity & Medication.

You may find you get more from attending if you come prepared to share your experiences, thoughts, and opinions. No question is too silly, and no one will make you contribute if you find the idea of joining in too difficult, but there will still be lots to learn.
 
To register your interest in DESMOND, please complete this online form:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SuTPoS5olUqOctA7m1iHqgmyKPB4GLVHori7bpbnOyxUQkMyT0hPR0dCWjgxNTdBQ00xU0YzNDVPSCQlQCN0PWcu 
 
N.B. There are 6 places available on each of the two courses. If more than 12 eligible students apply, we will allocate the places randomly, using a random number generator.

The ‘Dare Sessions’ online course
Session 1 | 11am-1pm | Saturday 27th March
Session 2 | 11am-1pm | Saturday 3rd April
Session 3 | 11am-1pm | Saturday 10th April 11 am
Session 4 | 11am-1pm | Saturday 17th April
Session 5 | 11am-1pm | Saturday 24th April
Session 6 | 11am-1pm | Saturday 1st May

Please note that this course is only for people with a connection to SLaM (South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust) - as service users, carers, volunteers, peer supporters, Involvement Register members, or staff.

Ldn Dares Drama Co, in partnership with SLaM Recovery College, are running a body confidence course.
 
This practical drama and performance practice course teaches skills actors use for confidence on stage that we can use in our daily lives. It creates a safe space where we can practice self-compassion and nurture a positive body image with like-minded folk. The workshops are designed to chip away at confidence and body image insecurities and to support ‘Darers’ on their journey of feeling comfortable in the skin they are in. The workshops encompass a wide range of activities with the emphasis on supporting each other, learning confidence techniques, celebrating the body, and having fun.
 
No prior experience is required to attend this course and it is suitable for all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels.
 
As part of this new online blended learning course, participants attending the ‘Dare Sessions’ online workshops will also receive access to tools outside of the session that will support their growth in confidence and body confidence. These include videos, worksheets, an introductory pre-recorded webinar, and further information. There will also be the (optional) opportunity to be supported in the creation and performance of a short piece of theatrical work (either solo or group) to show to a small online audience during the final session (only if the group would like this).
 
This is an online course being held on the Zoom platform and students will be sent a direct link to Zoom after enrolment as well as a reminder the day before the course starts.
 
There are limited places on the course. Places will be allocated using a random number generator. We will stop accepting expressions of interest and hold the draw at 4 pm on Friday 19th March. We will contact people who have been awarded a place by Monday 22nd March.
 
To register you interest, please complete this expression of interest and participation agreement form:  
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScqA7arYtImWu21F8CJhWwfdZwbZ32H3Frqx1GaGIAmAYjX0A/viewform
 
“Because of the Dare Sessions course, I’ve never felt more worthy of life and loving of myself” - Dare Sessions Participant

Hello Students, Colleagues and Friends,

Here are the details of all the courses we are running in March, including six new courses!

All these sessions are, as always, available to everyone, free of charge. You don’t need to be a SLaM Recovery College student or have any connection at all to the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. We just ask that you answer a few questions and let us know which sessions you’d like to be a part of,using one of the registration forms links below, and we’ll then send you links to the webinars you’ve chosen.

The majority of our webinars are run as Live Events on the Microsoft Teams platform, meaning that you can join anonymously and will be neither seen nor heard. Instead, you interact by typing questions and comments into a Q&A panel. Occasionally we will run a course in a Meetings format for a limited group of students, where you will be seen and heard, but these will be clearly identified as such.
 
If you can't make a particular live event you can still enrol and use the link we'll send you to watch a recording later.

There won’t be any Daily Mindfulness sessions during March, while we redesign and repurpose our Mindfulness offer. Please see the Mindfulness section of our website for other options: https://www.slamrecoverycollege.co.uk/covid-19-resources.html.  
 
Living Through the Third Lockdown Drop-In Sessions 
Throughout March, we are going to explore topics such as disinformation about the pandemic and what our journey out of lockdown might look like. We will also start contemplating life after the pandemic, when alongside the long awaited relief and joy, there are some challenges we as individuals within our communities and our society might also face. As ever, we warmly invite suggestions for any topics you would like us to cover. Please email us at hello@slamrecoverycollege.co.uk with your suggestions, questions and/or feedback. These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. This month’s sessions:
Living Through the Third Lockdown Drop-In | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 2ndMarch 
Living Through the Third Lockdown Drop-In | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 9thMarch 
Living Through the Third Lockdown Drop-In | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 16thMarch 
Living Through the Third Lockdown Drop-In | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 23rdMarch 
Living Through the Third Lockdown Drop-In | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 30thMarch 
Then every Tuesday thereafter during the lockdown. 
N.B. There's no need to register again if you have already registered for this course.
 
Introduction to Beth 
SLaM’s Beth website, designed for us on laptops and PCs, tablets and smartphones, is a free and secure way for our patients and carers to stay connected with their care team. For service users, Beth is very friendly and easy to use, and supports personal choice and autonomy. You can link your Beth account with your NHS number to access your health records and:   

• see who is in your care team and support network  
• securely message your care team   
• access your current care plan  
• see all your appointments  
• keep track of your mood and sleep  
• use free and trusted online health resources  

For people caring for someone under SLaM services you can create your own account to look after your own wellbeing and securely message their care team. This is a stand-alone session, repeated three times in March, so there’s no need to register for more than one.  
Introduction to Beth | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 2ndMarch 
Introduction to Beth | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 16thMarch 
Introduction to Beth | 12noon-1pm | Tuesday 30thMarch 
 
Understanding Depression 
Depression is a common mental health condition which can take hold of your life and just won’t go away.  Understanding the signs, symptoms and causes of depression is the first step to overcoming the problem. This course runs over 4 sessions and will explore what depression is, its causes and how it is diagnosed.  We will discuss what can help overcome the hurdles to recovery such as negative thinking and what professional support is available. We offer practical tools to help overcome depression as well as how we can support others. 
Part1| 2:30pm-3:30pm | Tuesday 2ndMarch 
Part2| 2:30pm-3:30pm | Tuesday 9thMarch 
Part3| 2:30pm-3:30pm | Tuesday 16thMarch 
Part4| 2:30pm-3:30pm | Tuesday 23rdMarch 
 
NEW! Being a Carer: the facts and the challenges| 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 3rd March 
This stand-alone webinar contains helpful information for people who want to learn about the caring role and the challenges all carers face. It will provide guidance to assist carers in navigating mental health services and finding out how to access support. This session may be particularly useful for new carers, or for anybody wanting to understand more about the carer's role. 
 
Creativity and Wellbeing| 2pm-3pm | Wednesday 3rdMarch 
Developed by the Education Department of Dulwich Picture Gallery in collaboration with SLaM Recovery College. Taking inspiration from the gallery’s Vase with Flowers by Jan Van Huysum, participants will work collaboratively with the gallery's artists to explore new techniques to develop their own creative artwork. This stand-alone webinar has been developed to support participants’ creativity and wellbeing. Throughout the session you will be encouraged to explore new skills, to be mindful, and to learn how to connect with the five ways of wellbeing: connect, be active, learn, take notice, give. All you need to have with you at the start of the session are a pencil, a pen and 8 x sheets of paper (A5 or A4). 
 
Understanding the Impact of Substance Use on Mental Health 
This three-part course explores the use of substances (drugs and alcohol) and their impact on mental wellbeing. At times, using substances can appear to be a solution but it often has a longer-term impact on our wellbeing. During these sessions we will explore why this happens and what support is available to aid recovery.  
Part 1 | 2pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 3rdMarch 
Part 2 | 2pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 10thMarch 
Part 3 | 2pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 17thMarch 
 
Moving Towards Self-Compassion 
This ten-part evening course explores the idea of self-compassion and how this can lead to a greater sense of self-acceptance and empathy with other people. Each week, we will explore a different topic, practise some self-compassion exercises, then reflect on our experience. There will be pre-session and post-session activities which you can complete at home. We hope this course would be of interest to, and be of benefit to, anyone who might struggle with perfectionism or self-criticism. We also warmly welcome anyone curious about this subject, and who enjoys reflecting on what it means to be human. These are the sessions we’re running in March: 
Part 8| 6:30pm-7:30pm| Wednesday 3rdMarch 
Part 9| 6:30pm-7:30pm | Wednesday 10thMarch 
Part 10| 6:30pm-7:30pm | Wednesday 31stMarch 
Please note the break of a few weeks between session 9 (10thMarch) and session 10 (31stMarch) 
N.B. There's no need to register again if you have already registered for this course.
 
Emotional Intelligence: the path to emotional serenity 
This five-part course aims to help you develop an understanding of what emotional intelligence is, how it operates in everyday life, and why it’s important to develop & encourage it. The course will give you more confidence in interpersonal relations, and more self-awareness, enabling you to discover your personal E.Q. The program is packed full of discussions to enable all participants to learn, interactively, the components of emotional intelligence and how this relates to the mental health of service users and social care professionals alike. The more you understand E.Q., the more you can recognise and understand your emotions. And the more you can recognise and understand your emotions, the more you can learn to love them. Emotions are a key to recognising our needs, which can then be managed to enrich our lives. These sessions will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. There is a maximum number of places on this course – fifteen. These sessions won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. 
Part 1| 10:30am-12noon| Thursday 4th March 
Part 2| 10:30am-12noon| Thursday 11thMarch 
Part 3| 10:30am-12noon| Thursday 18thMarch 
Part 4| 10:30am-12noon| Thursday 25thMarch 
Part 5| 10:30am-12noon| Thursday 1stApril 
 
Parks, Walks and Walking Meditation 
Lockdown has meant that a lot of us are spending way more time indoors. This two-part workshop aims to encourage and inspire you to: 

• Learn about the benefits of walking for wellbeing 
• Learn about Peckham Rye Park and parks in your locality 
• Discover activities you can do in your local park and London walks 
• Discover how to practice walking meditation (complimentary walking meditation MP3 available to all workshop attendees) 

Part 1 | 10:30am-11:30am| Tuesday 9thMarch 
Part 2 | 10:30am-11:30am | Tuesday 16thMarch 
 
Smoking and COVID-19| 11am-12noon | Wednesday 10thMarch 
In this session, Mary Yates, Nurse Consultant in SLaM, outlines why it’s more important than ever before to quit smoking during the COVID-19 pandemic. She will give an overview of the best ways to quit and how to access support. She will also explain why some researchers think that nicotine (NOT SMOKING!) may help protect against COVID-19. 
 
Understanding Anxiety 
Anxiety is something we all experience from time to time. Most people can relate to those anxious, butterfly feelings when doing something which feels uncertain or feeling fearful about sitting exams, having a medical, going to the dentist. It is a natural feeling and can be useful, as it warns us when we need to take action, when we may be in danger or can even help us to perform better. This four-part course will examine the facts about anxiety, how it is diagnosed and what it feels like to experience anxiety.  We will discuss professional support available, practical techniques to help to relieve anxiety as well as lifestyle changes for wellbeing. 
Part 1| 11:30am-12:45pm | Wednesday 10thMarch 
Part 2| 11:30am-12:45pm | Wednesday 17thMarch 
Part 3| 11:30am-12:45pm | Wednesday 24thMarch 
Part 4| 11:30am-12:45pm | Wednesday 31stMarch 
 
NEW! Understanding Eating Disorders 
Eating disorders have both biological and psychological causes and can affect any of us regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. But they are treatable. Recovery is possible but, because of stigma or misperceptions, some people may not get the help they need. It is important for people to understand what eating disorders are and what they are not. 
In the first session, we will be looking at the classification of eating disorders, identifying anorexia, explaining myths and facts around the illness, and thinking about the different types of treatment and recovery. In the second session, we will recap the different eating disorders, identifying bulimia and binge eating disorder, and we will explain what it is like to live with an eating disorder and how to seek help. 
Part 1| 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 10thMarch 
Part 2| 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 17thMarch 
 
NEW! Advance Decision Making: how to make a mental health advance directive 
This two-part course is likely to be most useful if you have had experience of being admitted to hospital. You will be offered information and support to start work on making your own mental health advance directive using the Crisis PACk template (SLAM’s advance decision-making document). The Crisis PACk can be used by anyone, wherever you may be. 
We will cover: 

• What a mental health advance directive is 
• Others’ experiences of making and using advance directives 
• Your legal rights to make advance decisions about your care 
• How to make your mental health advance directive (using the Crisis PACk template) 

The second session of this course will be in the Microsoft Teams Meeting format, which means we will be able to see and hear each other, have group discussions, and share experiences and helpful tips. Once you have registered your interest in the course, we will ask you to complete an online participation agreement. This session won’t be recorded, so you’ll need to take part live. 
Part 1| 2pm-3pm| Wednesday 10thMarch 
Part 2| 2pm-3pm | Wednesday 17thMarch 
 
NEW! Mental Health Disclosure and Your Rights at Work 
The aim of this course (two two-hour sessions on the same day) is to help participants gain a better understanding of their rights with regards to disclosure of their mental health condition to employers. This is an area that people often feel very confused about and it is hoped that by the end of the sessions participants will feel more equipped to make an informed choice as to whether to disclose their condition or not. We will cover the advantages and the disadvantages of disclosure, how to disclose, and the role of the Equality Act (2010) and how it can protect the individual if they do choose to disclose. 
Part 1| 10am-12noon | Thursday 11thMarch 
Part 2 | 1pm-3pm | Thursday 11thMarch 
 
Understanding and Managing Bipolar Disorder 
A two-part course. Bipolar is a mood disorder characterised by extreme changes in mood. Although we all have mood swings, in bipolar disorder these can become unmanageable and overwhelming - individuals can experience severe and/or rapid mood swings that can last several weeks or months, far beyond the normal ups and downs. Session 1 explores how bi-polar is diagnosed, and what the symptoms and early warning signs are. Session 2 looks at how bi-polar is treated and explores self-help ideas and how to manage during the COVID outbreak. 
Part 1| 10:30am-11:30am | Tuesday 16thMarch 
Part 2| 10:30am-11:30am | Tuesday 23rdMarch 
 
Bereavement During Lockdown: supporting ourselves and others while grieving | 2:30pm-3:30pm | Tuesday 16thMarch 
This stand-alone webinar gently leads us through the four phases (or ‘layers’) of mourning as described by John Bowlby, the founder of attachment theory. We will be thinking about, and sharing, ways of supporting the grieving process within the restrictions of the pandemic. We realise that, taking part in this session, you may recently have been bereaved, or know someone who has and would like to help them. Your emotional wellbeing at this sad time is of absolute importance to us. With this in mind, we ask you to let someone who you trust know that you will be doing this webinar - this person will be your support contact. When you join us, please keep your mobile beside you in case you need to call or text your support contact. Ask them to check how you are when you start watching, and also when it ends. Perhaps your contact might be able to join with you online. We want you to know that you are warmly welcome, and that you are not alone in your grief.  
 
Caring During COVID-19 
A two-part course that focuses on the changes and challenges carers have experienced due to Covid-19. We will explore how the changes have affected carers in both inpatient and outpatient settings, share experiences, and look at how carers can cope with these new challenges.  
Part 1: the role of the carer during the COVID-19 pandemic | 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 17th March 
Part 2: equipping yourself for caring during the COVID-19 pandemic | 11:30am-12:30pm | Wednesday 24th March 
 
NEW! Understanding Epilepsy and Managing Its Life Impacts 
This two-part course is an introduction to epilepsy which will provide information about the condition and explore the impact that it can have on physical and mental wellbeing. During the two sessions we will: 
• Learn about the causes of epilepsy and some of the seizure triggers 
• Learn about the links between the epilepsies and mental illnesses 
• Look at common feelings and mental health difficulties for those living with epilepsy 
• Discuss strategies that can help self-care 
Both sessions will be an opportunity to ask questions and share experiences in a safe and comfortable space. This course has been designed in collaboration with staff from King’s Health Partners Neurosciences 
Part 1| 1:00pm-2:00pm | Monday 22nd March  
Part 2| 1:00pm-2:00pm | Thursday 25th March 
 
NEW! Managing Your Mood 
This course will help students explore practices around managing our moods. Learning to improve the way we manage our emotions is often an important first step for many people with mental health difficulties. Topics covered will include: 

• the evolutionary context of moods & emotions 
• influencing mood changes 
• self-compassion 
• behavioural activation 
• gut & mood 

Part 1| 2:30pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 24thMarch 
Part 2| 2:30pm-3:30pm | Wednesday 31stMarch 

FIRST TIME REGISTRATION, if you haven’t signed up to a webinar with us before (even if you are a SLaM Recovery College student): 
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SuTPoS5olUqOctA7m1iHqjpd3n-l3AxAj-8hQpHMfNlUM0lQU1o5NEw4Ujk5UlE5V1g5S1dIRE1SRi4u

RETURNING STUDENTS REGISTRATION, if you have already signed up to a webinar with us before: 
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SuTPoS5olUqOctA7m1iHqjpd3n-l3AxAj-8hQpHMfNlUNFI5NTlDMkY3MEdHQUJXWkFQTE5YTkIxVy4u

Please feel free to share this offer of free-to-view webinars with anyone who you think might benefit.

Visit our COVID_19 resources page for details of crisis support, covid-19 advice, online learning, online activities, and staying connected: https://www.slamrecoverycollege.co.uk/covid-19-resources.html 
 
With very best wishes,
 
The team at South London and Maudsley Recovery College
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