Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care podcast as he unpacks the complexities of stress and its impact on behaviour. In this episode, Andy introduces the HELP Framework—Human, Emotional, Cognitive, Location, and Physical—and explores how recognising these stressors can transform the way we manage and respond to challenging behaviours. Through practical examples, he highlights the importance of identifying unmet needs, addressing slow stressors, and fostering empathy to build better connections.

This episode is a must-listen for caregivers, educators, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of behaviour and stress management. 🎧

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Andy’s Book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge—A guide for understanding behaviour, building empathy, and practical de-escalation techniques.

Andy introduces the HELP Framework, breaking down how different stressors influence behaviour:

• Human: Interpersonal issues, such as conflict or rejection, impacting emotional well-being.
• Emotional & Cognitive: Internal feelings and thoughts, including anxiety, fear, and negative thought patterns.
• Location: Environmental triggers, from noise to sensory overload, that contribute to stress.
• Physical: Basic needs like hunger, fatigue, and illness, which can escalate behaviours.

Andy emphasises recognising “slow stressors” (factors that build up over time) to manage behaviour effectively. Proactively addressing stress can reduce escalation and foster better outcomes.

Andy shares strategies such as validating emotions, adapting environments, and using grounding techniques to create a supportive space for individuals to thrive.

00:00:00 - Introduction to stress and its impact on behaviour 00:00:32 - Carer’s Card UK and benefits for carers 00:01:53 - Understanding behaviour as a combination of unmet needs, stress, and strategies 00:03:27 - The importance of responding vs reacting to challenging behaviours 00:04:09 - Slow stressors: How they build up and influence actions 00:05:15 - The HELP Framework explained 00:10:45 - Location stressors: Adapting environments to reduce triggers 00:12:30 - Physical stressors: Addressing basic needs and vulnerabilities 00:14:13 - Using the HELP Framework to prevent and manage behaviours 00:16:11 - Able Hub: Resources and courses for carers, educators, and advocates

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