Live Well, Be Well; Series Two

Dr David McLaughlan

“I think everybody in society struggles at times with their self worth. And lots of people within society will at some point, struggle with drugs or alcohol misuse. Even if they do not recognise it as an addiction. They still may be using them in a way that harms them some way. Whether thats harming their relationships with their family or friends, or harming the way that they perform at work.”

Dr David McLaughlan is an award winning medical doctor specialising in mental health and wellbeing. He has carved out a respected academic and clinical career whilst increasingly becoming a voice promoting mental wellbeing through the celebration of inclusion, diversity and equality.

Drug and alcohol addiction is an issue affecting 279,793 people in the UK. It is a common issue within the fashion industry related to the pressures associated with fashion including stress, weight management, sleep issues etc.

As well as addiction, Dr David addresses issues including self doubt, self worth and cognitive behavioural therapy as a method to recognise negative thoughts and overcome these related issues.

As a former model, Dr David has a unique insight into the world of fashion and the experiences of a young model dealing with the everyday pressures that the industry presents.

“So the fashion industry, like many industries, has an enormous amount of pressure. Pressure to look good, pressure to work long hours, pressures to please clients and to be popular. And I think when you have an industry with those kind of pressures, it creates circumstances if you are vulnerable enough you can experience mental health problems.”

Dr David recommends a number of different reputable organisations to contact for further support.