“In the rush to return to normal, use this time to consider which parts of normal are worth rushing back to.” — Dave Hollis
We’re well into November now — and the countdown to Christmas seems to start earlier every year, doesn’t it? 🎄
Thank you for being here — I appreciate you taking a moment to pause and check in.
The nights are drawing in, the heating’s creeping back on, and festive ads are already in full swing — whether we’re ready or not. The pace is picking up, but underneath it, many of us are feeling the weight of the year.
It’s been a full few weeks. I gave evidence in court as an expert witness (still awaiting the verdict), said goodbye to a dear friend who’d entrusted me as Power of Attorney and executor of his will, and had deeply emotional conversations with family affected by Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean. Moments that strip things back — and remind us what actually matters.
✍️ This month on the blog and in upcoming sessions, we’ll explore:
The Autumn Budget – and how financial strain is quietly impacting our mental health 💷
You’ll also find practical ways to get involved, reflect, and take simple steps that support both you and those around you.
As the world speeds up, let’s not lose sight of what we really need — calm, clarity, connection.
Let’s finish strong — with intention, not just obligation.
— Mike
🌍 Resilience at the Edge
This month, the World Health Organization raised the alarm:
Over one billion people now live with mental health conditions globally. Anxiety, depression, suicide — the numbers are rising fast, yet most health systems remain critically under-resourced.
“Investing in mental health means investing in people, communities and economies — an investment no country can afford to neglect.” — Director‑General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHOFocus is fragile — and energy is everything.
🧠 Did you know? In the UK, only 9% of NHS funding goes to mental health — and it’s projected to fall. We can’t afford to spend less on what matters more.
🎧 Your mind’s not broken — it’s overwhelmed. Let’s fix that.
We’re not built for this level of noise. The tabs, the pings, the pressure to do more with less — it’s draining your focus before the day even begins.
Most people think they need more time. What they really need is more clarity — and fewer mental leaks.
Brain.fm isn’t just music. It’s designed by neuroscientists to get your brain into flow — fast. 🧠 Focus mode helps you lock in and stay there. 🌙 Sleep mode winds you down when your brain won’t switch off. 😌 Relax mode calms the chaos between the peaks.
If your mind feels like a browser with 42 tabs open, this is the reset you’ve been waiting for.
🎧 Try Brain.fm free — and turn your next hour into your most productive one yet.
Here’s what’s inside this month’s edition:
How to Reduce Stress Now!
🧠 Wired, restless, and running on empty?
Stress doesn’t always show up as panic — sometimes it’s the quiet tension in your shoulders, the short fuse, or the sense you’re always “on.”
In this blog, I share proven ways to lower stress fast — plus details of my free online masterclass on 19th November where we’ll go deeper into how to reset your nervous system and regain calm, clarity and control.
🌪️ After the Storm: Mental Health & Hurricane Melissa
When disasters strike, we see the physical damage — but the emotional toll often goes unseen. This blog reflects on the psychological impact of Hurricane Melissa, not just on those directly affected, but also on loved ones watching from afar.
💷 The Budget, Your Brain & the Hidden Cost of Uncertainty
The Autumn Statement isn’t just about numbers — it impacts how safe, secure, and in control we feel. This blog examines the psychological ripple effects of financial pressure and offers guidance on staying grounded when the headlines hit home.
🔥 Would You Know What to Do in a Mental Health Crisis?
📅 Date: Monday–Tuesday, 19–20 January 2026 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM 💻 Format: Live, Online & Fully Interactive
If you’re a: ✔️ HR Manager looking to build confidence and compassion in your team ✔️ HR Director committed to real, lasting cultural change ✔️ Business owner who values people over policies
…this certified Mental Health First Aider course is for you.
🌟 What learners are saying: “Empowering, practical, and transformative. Mike made it feel safe to speak up, easy to absorb, and impossible to ignore. One of the best training experiences I’ve had.”
This is more than training — it’s a leadership essential in today’s workplace.
📞 Call: 01142 670 081 ✉️ Email:hello@mikelawrence.co.uk ⏳ Spaces are limited — don’t wait until a crisis hits.
You know that feeling when a book, podcast, or film completely shifts your perspective? Or when you binge on something so good, you immediately want to tell everyone about it?
Well, this is that space. Whether it’s a mind-blowing book, a documentary I can’t stop talking about, or a podcast that made me rethink everything, here’s what’s been filling my brain (and occasionally distracting me from work).
Curious? Dive in. 👇
📚
Limitless
Jim Kwik
Still dipping in and out. I’ve just hit the part on how to measure your reading speed and create a system to remember what you’ve read. Useful stuff — will probably finish it over the Christmas break (unless Netflix wins).
🎬
Trigger Point – Series 3
I don’t watch much terrestrial TV — but this is a must for me. Lana Washington (Vicky McClure) returns as the bomb disposal lead, now facing a serial killer with a revenge agenda — plus her own battles with PTSD and tinnitus. Gritty, tense.
🎧
What I’m Listening to
Lionel Richie
🎧 “Jesus Is Love”
This one’s been on my gospel playlist for years — but you know when a track suddenly hits different? That happened. Same song, new meaning. Powerful stuff. Sometimes the right words find you when you need them most.
💫 That’s a wrap for November.
From the courtroom to the Caribbean, this month brought a mix of stillness and storm. Supporting family through Hurricane Melissa, navigating grief, and reflecting on the hidden costs of stress — it’s been a powerful reminder that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back, but staying grounded when everything shifts beneath you.
But there were lighter moments too. I caught up with a dear old friend in North London, and spent some priceless father-daughter time with my eldest at Clay’s Soho — virtual clay pigeon shooting, good music, a drink or two, and this time… I won. No more letting her win (or risk hearing about it from Mum!).
Maybe this month reminded you, too, that mental strength doesn’t always roar. Sometimes, it’s the quiet decision to keep showing up — one conversation, one choice, one breath at a time.
Let’s Stay Connected! 🔗💬
💡 If something in this newsletter resonated, challenged, or made you pause — let’s talk. Whether you’re feeling the weight of the budget, battling quiet stress, or facing your own hurricane in life… You don’t have to navigate it alone.📩 Email me directly: hello@mikelawrence.co.uk
Follow, share, or drop a message. Connection isn’t just part of the work — it is the work. 💬🔥
Hi, I’m Mike Lawrence, and I’m dedicated to enhancing mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve committed to a journey of self-improvement and helping others. My adventures range from thrilling skydives for charity to transformative travels in Thailand. I share insights from my experiences and key learnings from impactful audiobooks. Join me in exploring holistic health and wellbeing, and let’s embrace life’s adventures together!
Feel free to connect with me through email at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk or LinkedIn. For more detailed insights and stories from Mike, click here to read the latest blogs.
