In this episode of the Harley Street Doctor podcast, host Alya Shakir, CEO of Harley Street Health Centre, sits down with Michael Imonirhua, CEO of KeySteps Wellbeing, for an open and important conversation about a quietly growing issue: prescription medication dependence.

They explore how sleeping pills, opioids and benzodiazepines, often prescribed legitimately for pain, insomnia or stress, can unexpectedly lead to dependency, sometimes without the patient even realising it. Michael shares insights from his work at KeySteps, including the subtle warning signs families might miss, why shame and secrecy often delay help-seeking, and what a truly compassionate, medically sound detox and recovery pathway looks like.

The discussion also highlights how integrated, team-based care, spanning GPs, psychiatrists, nurses and therapists, can make all the difference. Drawing on Harley Street Health Centre's own model of continuity, rapid access and coordinated diagnostics, the episode shows how clear pathways and honest conversations help patients avoid unnecessary escalation while getting the right support at the right time.

Whether you're a busy professional, a concerned family member, or someone quietly struggling with prescribed medication, this episode offers practical insight, reassurance and a reminder that evidence-led, non-judgemental help is available.

Key topics covered:

• How prescribed medication can become a hidden dependency
• Why opioid and sleeping tablet withdrawal is so challenging
• The role of specialist addiction psychiatry and modern treatments like buprenorphine
• Creating safe, non-clinical environments for recovery
• How trusted primary care and mental health services work together for better outcomes

About the Harley Street Health Centre

Combines same‑day GP access, rapid on‑site diagnostics, and genuine continuity of care. We specialise in evidence‑led health checks, discreet sexual health support, visa and travel medicals, with clear, upfront pricing. Our role is clearly defined for rapid assessment, essential labs, preventive screening, and coordinated referrals to trusted NHS or hospital partners when needed. For busy professionals, expats, and families who want thorough, no‑surprise private care without unnecessary tests or uncontrolled costs.

About KeySteps Wellbeing

Provides private, one-to-one support for addiction, anxiety, burnout and mental health challenges. Outpatient clinic on Harley Street, plus a truly unique inpatient alternative in private apartments with a dedicated wraparound team of nurses, therapists and a psychiatrist, just for clients. No wards, no strangers. Just evidence-led treatment, relapse prevention and genuine recovery, on patients terms.

Listen now to understand the signs, reduce the shame, and learn what truly joined-up, sensible private healthcare looks like in practice.

The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Why do so many people struggle to lose weight, even when they know what they “should” be doing?

In this episode of the Harley Street Doctor Podcast, Alya Shakir, CEO of Harley Street Health Centre, explores the psychological and emotional factors that often sit behind weight gain, emotional eating, and repeated cycles of yo-yo dieting.

The discussion looks beyond calories and exercise plans to examine the underlying emotional patterns that can sabotage weight-loss journeys, including stress, self-criticism, subconscious beliefs, comfort eating, and the relationship between self-worth and body image.

Alya explains why many people start weight loss journeys from a place of shame or self-punishment, why this often leads to failure, and how chronic stress and cortisol can physically affect the body’s ability to lose weight.

The episode also explores:

• Emotional eating and subconscious habits
• Why motivation alone is often not enough
• The connection between stress and fat storage
• Why does losing weight not automatically create happiness
• The importance of self-awareness and emotional well-being
• How to identify a meaningful and sustainable “why” behind weight loss goals
• The psychological impact of unrealistic expectations and social pressure

This episode offers a more compassionate and realistic conversation about weight management, focusing not only on physical health but also on mindset, emotional well-being, and long-term, sustainable change.

The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

In this enlightening episode of the Harley Street Doctor Podcast, host Alya Shakir sits down with Dr Jane Benjamin and Mr. Simon Brittz to explore critical aspects of mental health in the workplace. The discussion centers around identifying mental health issues early, the importance of training for managers, and the creation of support systems within organizations to enhance mental well-being.

Key Discussion Points

• Integrated Mental Health Services: The episode begins with an overview of how the Harley Street Health Center's integrated model supports patients dealing with both occupational and mental health issues.
• Importance of Early Referrals: Emphasis on the significance of recognizing mental health issues early to reduce the length of treatment and improve outcomes.
• Signs of Mental Health Struggles: Identifying cues such as recurrent absences, performance changes, and social withdrawal that may indicate mental health challenges.
• Manager and HR Involvement: The vital role managers and HR personnel play in recognizing signs of mental distress and facilitating early referrals for intervention.
• Mental Health Stigma and Generational Differences: Addressing the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in younger generations, and the importance of creating an open dialog within the workplace.
• Support Structures for Graduates and Employees: Discussing resilience training for new employees, the role of mental health first aiders, and top-down approaches from senior leadership to foster a supportive organizational culture.
• Chronic Stress Awareness: Exploring the implications of chronic stress on both physical and mental health and promoting awareness among employees and employers.

Guest Bios

• Dr. Jane Benjamin: A seasoned psychologist with expertise in addressing occupational mental health issues, focusing on creating therapeutic strategies that facilitate quick recovery and a return to work.
• Mr. Simon Brittz: A key member of the HCA team, bringing insights into managing corporate mental health through training and tailored wellbeing strategies.

The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre