About Me

Hello, I'm Steve, and I'd like to extend a heartfelt welcome to Little Big Minds, a sanctuary of compassion, empathy, and support. This website is dedicated to individuals, families, and communities grappling with the intricate challenges of mental health, bullying, and their lasting impact on our lives.

 

My journey:

From the early days of my childhood, the echoes of my parents’ arguments were a constant backdrop, culminating in their divorce when I was just eight. The world I knew was fractured, and I was left to piece together a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos. This upheaval was but the first of many challenges I would face.

As a teenager, I bore witness to the harrowing effects of domestic abuse within my family. The helplessness I felt then has never left me, and it’s this empathy that drives my passion for helping others. The chronic back pain that has plagued me since a traffic accident in 2002 serves as a daily reminder of the physical and emotional scars we carry with us.

My twenties were marked by a struggle with addiction, a path that seemed almost predestined given my family’s history with alcohol. It was a dark time, but also one of profound learning. I sought solace in the bottle, yet it was in my lowest moments that I found the strength to rise above, to seek help, and to begin the journey towards healing.

The loss of a cousin to mental health struggles was a pivotal moment, a painful wake-up call to the silent battles so many face. It was a stark reminder of the importance of compassion and the need for a supportive community. On the other hand, witnessing another cousin’s brave fight against mental health challenges and his eventual triumph was a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to recovery and resilience.

Through my own battles with depression and anxiety, which began in 1996 and were compounded by the onset of anxiety in 2018, I’ve come to understand the intricate dance between darkness and light within our minds. Medication has been a refuge during the fiercest storms, and therapy has provided a map through the uncharted territories of my psyche.

These experiences are the bedrock upon which Little Big Minds is built. They have instilled in me a profound understanding of the struggles others face and a relentless drive to offer a lifeline to those in need. This platform is more than a website; it’s a community, a movement, a promise that no one should have to walk their path alone.

My mission:

My goal with Little Big Minds is crystal clear: I aspire to cultivate a world where mental well-being is not just an ideal but a tangible reality. I am devoted to creating a haven where bullying has no place, and where everyone, including those enduring mental health issues, bullying, chronic back, parents' divorce, and domestic abuse, has access to the support and guidance they deserve. My commitment to this mission is fortified by my level 2 certificates in children and young people's mental health, understanding autism, ADHD, bullying, and cyberbullying.

 

My Commitment:

Support: I stand here as a compassionate ally, ready to lend an empathetic ear, share my own experiences, and provide you with the encouragement and understanding you require. This is a safe space where your voice holds significance.

Education: I offer a comprehensive resource, featuring articles, expert insights, personal narratives, and practical advice to equip you with the knowledge necessary to navigate these intricate challenges.

Community: I firmly believe in the strength of unity. Here, you can become part of a community of kindred spirits who comprehend your journey. Connect with others who have faced similar hardships, and find solace in knowing you're not alone in your struggles, whether they be related to chronic back or the emotional scars of a turbulent upbringing.

Empowerment: My objective is to empower you to reclaim control over your well-being, build resilience, and transform adversity into opportunities for growth.

 

Join My Community

I warmly extend an invitation for you to become a part of my community. Whether you're a child, a parent, a student, or a professional, there's a place here for you. Together, we can collectively make a positive impact, break down barriers, and construct a brighter, healthier future for all.

 

Thank you for visiting Little Big Minds. I eagerly anticipate embarking on this transformative journey with you.

Qualifications

Children and Young People's Mental Health
  • Understanding Children and Young People's Mental Health in Context: I explored the intricate world of mental health, tracing how society's perception of it has evolved through time. Moreover, I delved into the legislative framework aimed at bolstering the mental well-being of children and young people, realising its paramount significance.
  • Navigating the Factors Affecting Children and Young People's Mental Health: As I ventured into this unit, I honed my insights into the risk factors capable of impacting the mental health of children and young people. Equipped with this knowledge, I discovered strategies to mitigate these challenges. I also grappled with the nuances of developmental changes and the tumultuous period of puberty, understanding how they shape the mental landscape of the youth.

  • Unveiling Children and Young People's Mental Health Concerns: This unit offered me a closer look at the telltale signs and behaviors exhibited by children and young people, serving as potential indicators of underlying mental health concerns. My journey led me deeper into the realm of common mental health conditions that can affect this vulnerable population.

  • Exploring the Ripple Effect of Children and Young People's Mental Health Concerns: In this module, I was keen to understand the far-reaching impact of mental health concerns on children, young people, and their immediate circles. I delved into the importance of diagnosis, while also probing the reasons behind the reluctance some may have when it comes to seeking this crucial evaluation.
  • Equipping Myself to Support Children and Young People with Mental Health Concerns: As my educational journey culminated in this final unit, I was empowered with a comprehensive understanding of person-centered approaches aimed at supporting children and young people facing mental health challenges. I explored the strategies to foster mental well-being in this demographic and gained insights into the array of services and treatment options available to address their mental health needs.

Bullying and Cyberbullying

  • Principles of bullying: Understand and comprehend the core principles of bullying from my perspective. I sought to define bullying, cyberbullying, and discrimination while examining the broader context in which bullying occurs. Additionally, I delved into the short-term and long-term effects that bullying can inflict upon children and young people, thus deepening my awareness of this crucial issue.
  • Recognising Bullying in Children and Young People: This unit explained how to recognise bullying in children and young people, placing a particular emphasis on identifying individuals who might be vulnerable to bullying. I embraced the responsibility of discerning the signs that may indicate when a child or young person is enduring bullying. Furthermore, I explored the underlying reasons that might lead children and young people to engage in bullying behaviour, aiming to uncover the roots of this problem.
  • Dealing with Bullying: Evaluate how to respond to and support a child who may be being bullied and how to approach the bully themself, striving to understand the situation from multiple angles
  • Unveiling Government Guidelines for Addressing Bullying: I took a deep dive into the realm of government guidelines related to bullying, such as The Equality Act 2010. I sought to understand the legislative framework and explored government and Ofsted guidance and policies dedicated to the prevention of bullying. This unit allowed me to grasp the importance of legal and regulatory measures in combating bullying and promoting safe environments for children and young people. 

Understanding Autism
  • Introduction to autism: Throughout this unit, I gained a comprehensive understanding of what 'autism' entails, delving into various theories and exploring the development of autism. I also honed my knowledge of effective methods for working with individuals affected by autism, all while dispelling common misconceptions surrounding this condition and understanding the co-occurring conditions that often accompany autism.
  • Embracing a Person-Centered Approach for Autism Support: I developed a profound appreciation for tailoring support to match the unique preferences and needs of each individual. I also delved into the legislation and guidance surrounding autism and explored the invaluable support networks available to both those diagnosed with autism and their families.
  • Navigating Communication and Social Interaction Challenges in Autism: In this unit, I delved into the intricate challenges faced by individuals with autism in the realms of speech, language, and social development. I explored various methods and strategies to enhance effective communication with individuals on the autism spectrum, equipping me with valuable tools to foster understanding and connection.
  • Sensory World of Autism: My journey of understanding continued as I delved into the intricacies of sensory processing, perception, and cognition in individuals with autism. This unit equipped me with an in-depth understanding of hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity, enabling me to better comprehend and support the unique sensory needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.
  • Supporting Positive Behavior in the Context of Autism: I explored effective strategies to encourage positive behavior and assist individuals in developing valuable coping strategies to navigate the challenges they may face.
  • Enabling Healthy and Fulfilling Lives for Individuals with Autism: In the final unit, I delved into the crucial aspects of providing support during transitions and life events for individuals with autism. I also explored strategies for maintaining the personal safety of individuals on the autism spectrum and accessing the plethora of services, facilities, and employment opportunities available to them. This unit provided me with a profound understanding of what it means to live with autism, shedding light on the experiences and challenges that individuals with autism may encounter.

Understanding ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals of all ages, from childhood to adulthood. It is characterised by difficulties in maintaining attention, controlling impulses, and regulating hyperactivity. This course aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of ADHD, from its underlying neurobiology to practical strategies for effective management.

ADHD is not simply a matter of being distracted or hyperactive; it's a complex condition that can significantly impact various aspects of an individual's life, including academic performance, work, relationships, and self-esteem. However, with proper understanding and appropriate interventions, individuals with ADHD can learn to harness their strengths and overcome challenges, leading to improved overall functioning and well-being.

Introduction to the ADHD Diploma Course

Whether you are a parent, educator, healthcare professional, or someone personally affected by ADHD, this course will equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of ADHD and contribute to the well-being and success of those living with the condition.

The ADHD course will provide a full overview of what ADHD is, how it is treated, theories surrounding ADHD, and how to live a full life with the condition. When taking this course, you will learn:

  • An introduction and history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
  • ADHD and the family structure.
  • How ADHD is diagnosed.
  • How ADHD affects children, adolescents, teens, and adults.
  • The different treatment methods and therapies for ADHD.
  • How to recognise behavioural patterns in individuals with ADHD.
  • What the future of ADHD might look like.
  • About the misconceptions often associated with ADHD.
  • Examples of ADHD success stories.