You're not
alone
My recovery didn't just happen overnight; I had to learn a lot of hard lessons, but one which will always stay with me is that no matter how you might feel it – you are NEVER alone.
There's a lot of support out there, but knowing where to begin and who to talk to can be a nightmare. It always sticks with me that when I was admitted to hospital with psychosis my dad said “Why didn’t you tell me?” and the fact is, I had no answer. There are always people out there who will listen when you need it the most. Be brave.
SERVICES
I WORK WITH
Service User Governor
IN A CRISIS
You may feel scared, ashamed or just completely numb. It's perfectly fine to feel this way if you do; its okay to not be okay. Your GP will always be able to point you in the right direction but if you need immediate help – Call Samaritans right away on 116 123
If you can't get to, or don't feel you can face your GP, you can self-refer to mental health services in your area using the NHS Self Referral Service.
Run Talk Run
Lincoln
Run Talk Run exists to make both running and mental health support less intimidating, and more accessible.
So many of us suffer a kind of 'impostor syndrome' when it comes to our mental health, which can make it harder to seek support. Experts say that peer support and community can help bridge the gap, and running does a rather lovely job at facilitating those both of those things.
Run Talk Run is a weekly 5km gentle jog. There's a chance to meet the other runners and say 'hello' to the run leader (like me) before every run.
There are Run Talk Run groups all over the world, and I'm very fortunate and proud to be a founder and run leader for Run Talk Run Lincoln.
Visit the Run Talk Run website to find your local group.
RESOURCES
If you or a loved one are experiencing mental health problems, but are not in crisis, then the following website offer a wealth of information.
Rethink are experts in mental illness, they know that with the right support and information people severely affected by mental illness can have a good quality of life. That’s why their aim is to meet each person’s individual needs and make sure everyone living with a mental illness is treated with dignity and respect.
Student Minds works with students, service users, professionals and academics to develop new and innovative ways to improve the mental health of students.
Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. We campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
Big White Wall was
commissioned by over 150 organizations globally, they’re an online service providing access to millions with anxiety, depression and other common mental health issues.