Headstraight
A teen mental health podcast hosted by Mark Taylor that offers real talk and practical support for teens who want to understand what’s going on inside their head.
Recent
8
June 24, 2026
What If This Isn't The Life I Actually Want?
Have you ever stopped and wondered whether the life you're building is actually the life you want? Sometimes the problem isn't a crisis or a major setback. It's a quieter feeling that something doesn't quite fit, even when things look fine from the outside. In this episode of Headstraight, we explore why people can end up following paths that no longer feel right and why self doubt often appears when you start questioning long-held assumptions about your future. You'll learn how expectations, co
7
June 17, 2026
When Everything Feels Out of Control — Here’s How You Stay Steady
Do you ever feel like the world is asking for your attention all the time? News, social media, other people's opinions and worries about the future can create a constant sense of pressure that's difficult to switch off. In this episode of Headstraight, we explore what happens when your mind is carrying more information, stress and uncertainty than it can comfortably process. You'll learn why feeling overwhelmed isn't a sign that you're not coping, how anxiety and overthinking can build when you'
6
June 10, 2026
Why Are Relationships So Complicated Now?
Have you ever looked at a friendship or relationship and realised it doesn't feel the way it used to? Nothing dramatic has happened, but something feels different, and you're not quite sure why. In this episode of Headstraight, we explore why relationships often become more complicated as we grow and change. You'll learn how increased self-awareness, shifting priorities and healthier boundaries can affect the way you connect with other people, and why relationships that once felt easy can someti
5
June 3, 2026
When Life Hits Hard: Real Coping Strategies for Teens
What do you do when life hits hard? Whether it's a breakup, a betrayal, a loss, a disappointment or a sudden change you never saw coming, some experiences can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to move forward. In this episode of Headstraight, we explore what coping really means when life feels unstable. You'll learn why some setbacks hit harder than others, how anxiety and overthinking can keep you stuck and why "just move on" is rarely helpful advice when something genuinely matters
4
May 27, 2026
You’re Doing Adult Life — So Why Doesn’t It Feel Right?
Do you ever feel like you're doing all the things adults are supposed to do, but still don't feel like a real adult? You're handling responsibilities, making decisions and getting through life, yet part of you still feels uncertain, unprepared or like you're figuring it all out as you go. In this episode of Headstraight, we explore why adulthood rarely feels the way people expect it to. You'll learn why self doubt and comparison can make you believe everyone else has life figured out, why confid
May 27, 2026
You’re Doing Adult Life — So Why Doesn’t It Feel Right?
I think a lot of people grow up expecting adulthood to feel more solid than it actually does.You imagine there’ll be some point where everything suddenly clicks into place. A moment where you finally feel confident, certain, and prop…
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About the Host
Mark Taylor
Creator, author and host.
I’m a Qualified/Certified Mental Health Nurse with over 35 years of experience supporting young people and their families. I’ve worked in secure hospitals, eating disorder units, and CAMHS crisis teams—walking alongside adolescents during some of their toughest moments.
My focus has always been on helping young people in emotional distress—especially those who struggle to engage or are finding it hard to stay safe.
I also teach at universities and train professionals across health, education and social care to better understand what young people really need from us.
Headstraight brings all of that together. Just real conversations, grounded advice, and ideas that might actually help. That’s the goal: make it easier to understand, easier to talk about, and more useful to you in real life.
Reviews
This will help me.
I can't wait to get started on this. Going to listen to it all on my commute to work. This guy really sounds like he knows his stuff
- Beth Alice
- July 17, 2025
Such a great find..!
I'm a parent and was desperate to find something for my son to look at. I've tried to encourage him to seek support but he is worried about talking to someone about how he feels. This podcast was just what he needed to find the courage to speak to someone. Now he is talking to his counsellor in school and is noticeably brighter. Thank you so much... !
- Anon
- July 28, 2025
Always something helpful
I found this clear and straightforward. Something to learn for practitioners and young people alike, both professionally and personally as we all go through stuff!Going to listen to the 'confidence' track with a young person who struggles with low self esteem as I'm struggling to communicate with him!
- Elsie
- Oct. 11, 2025