How to break the negative thinking loop
Feeling worried or anxious every now and then is normal and is not a sign for concern in itself. Worry can keep us alert, help us remember things, and make us aware of dangers. Humans have evolved to feel worry, and we often use those emotions to drive us towards a solution. Worrying or feeling...
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Coping after a large scale traumatic event
Large scale traumatic events don’t only affect those directly involved – you can also feel the impact of trauma through exposure to ongoing media coverage or public discussion. This may make you feel unsafe, anxious, or powerless, and it’s important you address these feelings so they don’t significantly impact your daily life. Below are some...
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How to strengthen family communication
Our closest relationships are often, though not always, with our family. Parents, partners, spouses or kids may know you best, and want to help when times get tough. However, family relationships can also be a source of tension, especially when there is a focus on negative emotions. Creating an environment for positive communication is paramount,...
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Understanding and Managing Anger
Anger is a common emotion and can be expressed in many ways, from mild frustration to extreme rage. There may be real causes for anger, and genuine (and perceived) injustices in daily life that may make us all feel angry. If expressed positively, anger can be healthy and motivating but it is more often a...
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What does ‘community resilience’ really mean?
‘Community resilience’ is a common term used today to describe a pathway to greater strength and harmony, particularly in minority communities. But what does it really mean and how can it be applied? The concept of resilience is usually applied at an individual level, but over the last decade, we are hearing more about the...
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Community leadership in today’s world
A community leader is generally someone who is seen to be the ‘model representative’ of any given community. Sometimes community leaders are elected, or they might hold a prestigious office. At other times, community leaders can find themselves nominated for that position simply because enough people, either from within that group or wider society, hold...
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Understanding Violent Extremism versus Terrorism
Discussions about Violent Extremism and Terrorism are always difficult, as they elicit strong reactions and opinions. In discussing Violent Extremism, and ways that we can help people who might be vulnerable to participation, we are often asked ‘why don’t you just call it Terrorism?’ Well, there are a few reasons why we use the term...
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How support networks can help
As a friend, family member or professional, you are one of the key sources of support, advice and understanding for someone who is experiencing emotional difficulties. The support you can offer is one of the most important ways people can better manage, improve and maintain their health and wellbeing. Relationships and connections are a basic...
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Our Philosophy
Using social health approaches in Countering Violent Extremism: Step Together Welcome to the Step Together blog, where we’ll be discussing a range of issues related to violent extremism. In the coming weeks and months, we’ll be speaking and writing with a range of experts on the subject. In the meantime, we’d like to explain a...
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