Afternoons with Helen Farmer

It's the latest health trend to go global, largely thanks to social media. But is off-label use of weight loss drugs actually effective or advisible? Metabolics expert Ali Hashemi is on hand with the answers. Meanwhile, as a post about the realities of dating in Dubai sparks conversation on Facebook, we talk break-ups, get-togethers and everything in between with psychologist Charlotte Spurway. And Conde Nast Traveller's Selena Denman joins Helen to talk travel - and the rise of the last minute long haul break... See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

65% of workers in the Middle East say they get anxious about taking annual leave, while 54% admit they check emails on holiday. So, what is behind the annual leave anxiety leaving so many of us unable to switch off? We ask the experts. Plus, one neurodiverse teen explains why inclusion means including more voices like his. And Dr T is on hand with help and advice for navigating the holidays - and the reality of living in very close proximity with your loved ones… See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

We’re often told we are what we eat – but could Tik Tok’s latest obsession, fibremaxxing, actually make sense for anxiety sufferers? Clinical dietician Mitun De Sarkar has the answers. On the family front, ever parent wants their childs’ abilities to be recognised – but is labelling children as ‘gifted’ placing them under undue pressure at too young an age? Helen asks The Family Hub’s Hanan Ezzeldin. Meanwhile, as our kids spend more time on screens in summer, The Cyber Cop Susan McLean talks safety. And with Dubai’s rental market busy with families looking to relocate for the school year. Jake Walton, Leasing Director at Haus & Haus is on hand with all the info renters need… See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

We’re taking you behind the scenes—to discover why those burgers, shakes, or pancakes look more enticing on your social media feeds and on those billboards. Food stylist Henriett spills the beans Global pioneer in contemporary Latin cuisine Chef Richard Sandoval joins Helen live in the studio to share his journey from Mexico City to the world, and how he managed to open over 60 restaurants across four continents. We're travelling with you to Peru from Dubai, without really ever leaving the emirate with Chef Andree Nuñez of La Mar at Atlantis Dubai With Dubai's competitive dining scene, what really goes into launching a hit, from the first idea to opening day? Josh Craddock shares details from experience We continue to fill you with options on where to bring your kids (and yourselves) for a productive summer—starting with sewing and crocheting if you want to clear your mind and create something useful with ThreadWerk and we switch to football for girls with Banaat FC. And do you want something free? Yes, here in Dubai there are still lots of things and activities you can enjoy without paying a penny. Find out here. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

A recent UAE report reveals a 14% jump in emotional check-ins and a fourfold increase in severe risk cases among students. So what’s behind the rise in anxiety and low mood, and what can be done? Joining us today are two leading voices in school wellbeing: Dr Louise Lambert, Director of Happiness and Wellbeing Programs at HappinessMatters!, and Laura Tristram, former teacher and co-founder of Lumii.me – an AI-powered tool giving students a daily way to share how they really feel. With more international schools in the UAE than almost anywhere else on the planet, parents are spoilt for choice – any curriculum, any fee point, any specialism. But are schools truly delivering on their promises of “premium” education? David Harkin, CEO of 8billionideas, joins us to unpack the shiny brochures and talk about what really matters. And this week, Barbie has made headlines by launching its first-ever doll with Type 1 diabetes and a glucose monitor– a huge step forward for representation in children's toys. But for families living with the condition, the daily reality is far from plastic-perfect. We're joined by Abby Lyons, mum of a young boy with Type 1 diabetes and the author behind What Is Diabetes Anyway?, a children’s book that helps young readers understand this often-misunderstood condition.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.