Dating & Relationships

1 in 4 people will experience mental illness each year and it is thought this number is rising. Someone recovery or with a history of mental illness needs to think carefully about when the right time is to start looking for a partner and dating. I had been ill for a long time and I had been working hard on recovery when I thought I’d got to the point, I was not quite fully recovered but my illness did not define me anymore. I was happy being single but I wanted to investigate the world of dating to see if “the one” was out there for me.

We can’t always control circumstances and we certainly can’t control the actions of others. But there’s much we can do from our own point of view, to create a more serene path. Here are some tips for getting and giving the most on your dating journey, without it feeling like an emotional rollercoaster. Get some […]

‘I’m losing heart with online dating,’ said the Facebook post. ‘No one answers my messages. Last week, I sent over 30 messages to different people, and they were all ignored! Where am I going wrong?’

A few weeks ago I received this email in response to a post I’d written.

I came across your blog post titled ‘The Power of Your Authenticity’ and I was really blessed by it. I need your advice: I recently met a lady and she’s not opening up to me. I understand she wants to take things slow and build a good friendship with me first but it’s really difficult to get through to her. How can I get her to share and be more open about her thoughts with me?

Easter is a time of hope, renewal and new beginnings so how can we bring that fresh energy into our dating life? I know from speaking with single friends and coaching clients that the dating process can wear people down. But if we approach dating feeling downhearted, it’s probably not going to go too well. So here are some ideas to freshen up your romantic life:

It might not be something that jumps to mind when you’re dating. But have you considered your sense of self-esteem and self-worth? We’re much more likely to focus on looking good, having great chat, thinking of super date ideas and being considerate to others when on the dating journey. Yet how we perceive and value ourselves is very important – and all too often overlooked. Let’s take a look at the reasons it matters and how your personal positivity can improve your dating experience.

‘I live with a chronic illness that isn’t obvious to others but can be disabling,’ said the email. ‘I’ve joined a Christian dating website but I can’t decide whether to mention my condition in my profile. I know it could put people off, but I also don’t want anyone to feel deceived. What do you think, HopefulGirl?’

If you live in the northern hemisphere, winter officially ends this month and it’s time to look ahead to the annual season of beginnings. March ushers in new life, blooming vegetation and more light. This spring time feeling can apply to your search for a mate too. Here are some top tips to brush away the cobwebs and make a fresh start.