When Sophie learnt about Mental Health Mates through Bryony’s book – Eat, Drink, Run – she found the courage to get involved and start a Walk in Ipswich. Soon after, Sophie spread the word about Mental Health Mates and invited Libby to share the walk with her.And then came Jacqui! Unable to find a walk in her area, Jacqui contacted Sophie and asked if she could also get involved. With three wonderful Walk Leaders, MHM Ipswich is growing and thriving!
How does being a part of a community help each of you with your Mental Health?
Sophie: It’s so reassuring to hear others go through the same things as it makes you feel much less alone. I’ve also made great friends through MHM.
Libby: Having never sought help with any of my issues I find it reassuring to hear other people’s experiences and to know that I’m not alone.
Jacqui: My anxiety can make me feel very self-critical and avoidant, so the community has helped me to understand there are others who have a deeper understanding of how I feel.
Favourite place to Walk?
Sophie: There are fab parks in Ipswich (including our walk location, Christchurch Park.) Outside of Ipswich I love heading to the Suffolk coast.
Libby: I love to walk by water so I head out to the coast or along one of the rivers. There’s a lovely walk along the river Gipping from the mermaid up to Bramford.
Jacqui: Captains Wood in Sudbourne is my favourite. It’s an ancient wood with loads of wildlife and it makes me feel so calm.
What is it like sharing the Ipswich Walk between the three of you?
Sophie: I was too afraid to do it alone and I’m so grateful that we have eachother if we are ever anxious about anything.
Libby: Being able to share the responsibility makes it easier to host the group both on walks and online. For me, it would be slightly terrifying to host a walk alone.
Jacqui: So good! I’ve made two lovely friends and it means we can third the workload – win win!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get involved with a community support network like Mental Health Mates but feels anxious to take the first step?
Sophie: See if a friend will help – either as a joint leader or by attending walks. Lots of group leaders are willing to help as a buddy/mentor.
Libby: Sharing the experience is a great way to get started – it allows you to discuss ideas about how you want to operate and takes the pressure off when it comes to hosting.
Jacqui: Use that fear, take the energy and reach out – you will find your support and your community and it will the best decision you’ve ever made.
Words that stick with you?
Sophie: ‘Be afraid and do it anyway!’ – I still fear nobody coming or whether people will have a good time, so you’re not alone if you’re worried. I’ll always have that fear because of my anxiety but how I feel after and the feedback we get makes it worth it.
Libby: This may sound a little too much like a motivational poster but just focus on your next step.
Jacqui: ‘We’re all doing the best we can with what we have.’ Basically, be gentle on yourself, we are only human and can only do so much. Remind yourself you are worthy!
