Helping through support.

For much of my life I suffered with debilitating depression & anxiety, including a 17 year vitual imprisonment through agoraphobia. I spend long traumatic periods in hospital which affected not only me but my young family. Mental Health illness wrecked great swathes of my life. It was a horrendous experience that I wouldn't wish on anybody.

I was fortunate that I eventually found help, initially through a Rethink Support group until it was disbanded due to financial cuts. Later I found a wonderful therapist. Talking through my worries helped me in a way that medication couldn't. Since being given the all-clear a few years ago I have dedicated my life to helping others who are struggling as I did. I became a mental health Champion & write about & talk openly & honestly about my experiences. But although I've made a diffence, it's been minimal .More practical action was required.

Since the severe cutbacks in Mental Health funding, much of the support & help that was once offered has now diminished , yet the need for it hasn't! People are now being forced to cope alone. This is wrong!

I have set up a Mental Health Support Group in Wells, Somerset which will be open weekly to anyone who needs to talk. I can't solve mental health problems, but by offering friendship & group support, those having difficulties will find it easier to cope. They will have the opportunity to talk & share their worries, or simply listen, over a cuppa & cake. Isolation is one of the biggest hurdles to cope with, since many people find it near impossible to share how they are feeling. A Support group offers a safe space where noone will judge or critisize & can be a lifeline to many.

I don't believe that my experiences should be wasted, hence setting up S.E.O (supporting each other) group. Unfortunately I am forced to charge a minimal amount to cover hall fees & refreshments. I am a pensioner with limited income, so can't cover the cost personally

. The amount I'm charging is small, yet when money is very tight, even a couple of pounds might prove to be too much for some. I want to offer this as a free service. But to do this I need to raise awareness & enough money to cover the necessary costs. If I was able to raise at least £800 it would keep the group running without a fee for about a year.

If you are able to help, even by just a small amount, it could make the difference between offering a vital service, or it failing. Over 1-4 people will suffer with Mental Health difficulties at some point in their lives. You or a loved one might be one of them. Please, please help me make a difference. Thank you