Philippa Dobree-Carey, The Mamaholic

Author bio

Philippa Dobree Carey Philippa Dobree-Carey Philippa Dobree‑Carey is a writer, award‑winning author, and safeguarding specialist who shares parenting tips, midlife meltdowns, and the mental load with sharp humour and practical clarity. She is the creator of The Mamaholic Monthly on Substack and the author of two guides: From High School to Uni and The Essential Job Search Guide for Students. Her work supports families through major life transitions with honesty, structure, and wit. Find her on Instagram @themamaholic.

: Published: 08 January 2026

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By Philippa Dobree-Carey, THE MAMAHOLIC

Every year I ask myself how to get even more organised.

My friends will sigh and roll their eyes when they read this, but here we are!

This year, I’m going to be less efficient.

How? By running down the stocks of things I buy “just in case”. The things I convince myself are practical, but that quietly gather dust or skulk silently instead of being used.

I’m choosing to use what I already own and let go of the items that take up space but add nothing to my life.

10 things I’ll STOP buying and START decluttering in 2026 I have split the article into 2 parts. You can read items 6-10 next week.

1. Candles I love but don’t burn

I love candles. I’m always searching for that perfect scent that lingers without being overwhelming. I have a whole drawer full of them that I’ve been saving for ‘special occasions’.

But what actually counts as a special occasion?

Your bestie popping in for a glass of wine?
A self-care Friday night when you have the house to yourself and you’ve ordered a takeaway?
The fancy dinner you keep meaning to host but haven’t actually scheduled since Covid struck?
Benefit : Sanity

: Published: 19 October 2025

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By Philippa Dobree-Carey, From High School to Uni

As parents, we prepare ourselves for the big university departure with emotional farewells, late-night phone calls about feeling isolated or lost, and the occasional existential crisis over course choices. But one thing we might not expect is the mysterious phenomenon known as the 'fresher five'.

No, this isn't the name of a new boy band or a secret society. It's the average weight gain that students experience in their first year at university — around 5 kg (or 11 pounds). It sneaks up on unsuspecting students faster than you can say 'free pizza' or 'happy hour'.

What Causes the Fresher Five?

University life involves making a number of questionable choices. From late-night kebabs and two-for-one pints to all-you-can-eat dining halls, students are suddenly responsible for their own nutrition. And it shows!

Add to that a poor diet, stress, a sedentary lifestyle fueled by empty calories and energy drinks at 2 am while cramming for exams or finishing an assignment at the last minute, not to mention hours spent on Netflix or gaming, and it's clear these habits are not conducive to healthy digestion or involve any kind of exercise.

: Published: 06 July 2025

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By Philippa Dobree-Carey, From High School to Uni

One of the biggest challenges young adults experience when they move to university or live independently is having to feed themselves. Without the knowledge, skills or experience, they are likely to resort to takeaways and ready meals, which are expensive and nutritionally unbalanced.

Why meal-planning matters

Nutritious meals fuel focus, energy and wellbeing. Students who plan their meals save money, waste less food, and stay healthier - both physically and mentally.

A poor diet leads to anxiety, fatigue, weight gain and difficulty concentrating. However, simple home-cooked meals can help to combat this. With a few core ingredients and a weekly plan, students can eat better, feel better and spend less.

How to set them up for success

1. Help them build a starter cupboard

Before they move out, show them the affordable, versatile and non-perishable kitchen cupboard staples that can be turned into real meals. These include:

Carbs: rice, pasta, quinoa, couscous
Proteins: eggs, tinned beans, lentils and tuna
Mixed veg: frozen spinach, broccoli and peas, tinned tomatoes
Condiments: salt, pepper, soy sauce, mixed herbs, stock cubes
Extras: cooking oil, flour, peanut butter

: Published: 19 December 2024

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By Philippa Dobree-Carey, From High School to Uni

As college application season approaches, students and parents face the pivotal question: "What's next?" While university has traditionally been the standard route, it's not the only route to a successful career and fulfilling life. Here are some alternative options for you to consider that may better suit your child's aspirations and learning style.

A Gap Year: A Journey of Discovery

A gap year offers students great opportunities for personal growth and time to gain clarity about future goals. This can include:

Travel and culture experiences
Volunteer work for a cause they’re passionate about
Developing new skills, languages or hobbies

Young adults can build confidence and real-world experience that will be invaluable in the future workplace and give them a sense of renewed focus and motivation.

Apprenticeships: Learning and Earning

Apprenticeships offer a dynamic alternative to traditional education:
Practical, hands-on training and earning a wage while you learn
Recognized qualifications
Immediate industry connections

Available in sectors ranging from digital technology to traditional trades, apprenticeships offer a structured pathway to career success.

: Published: 01 July 2024

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By Philippa Dobree-Carey, From High School to Uni

University is an important milestone, a time of academic progress, personal development, and (hopefully) lifelong friendships. But let's face it, the transition from the familiar structure of high school to the independence and demands of university can be quite overwhelming for most students. Here are some insights from a recent UK student survey to give you a realistic picture of what your child might experience on campus, wherever they are, and some practical tips for you, as a parent, to help them thrive.

How Student Really Feel

While many students reported positive social experiences and a love of their chosen subjects, a significant proportion of students found university life stressful and overwhelming. Interestingly, although 71% were happy with their decision to go to university, only 35% felt that their experience met their expectations.

This highlights the importance of open communication with your child. Discussing their expectations and the potential challenges they may face in advance can help them manage stress and adjust to the realities of university life.