Where do you live?
West Parley, Dorset
What is your job with Dorset Mind Your Head?
DMYH Lead CYP Service Practitioner. I deliver Education in Mind to Schools including the Wellbeing Mentor and Big Umbrella programmes. I also develop new and existing programmes for DMYH.
What led you to Dorset Mind? – Include any relevant qualifications
While I was taking a 6 month break from work due to ill health, I became a volunteer for Dorset Mind . I am a Mental Health First Aider and I was interested in working with children to promote mental health and wellbeing. I was given the opportunity to work with other practitioners to run the Education in Mind programmes, I work part-time in the DMYH team.
What are your interests outside of work?
I love walking and seeing the countryside. Also, I run a mosaic making business with my sister called Berrybutton Designs which takes us to fairs and craft markets across Dorset. I also love a good cuppa and a slice of cake in a lovely café with my friends and family.
What is your story related to mental health?
I have suffered from anxiety for most of my life. I was a painfully shy child and teenager who always worried about what might happen, this led to me missing out on having a good life sometimes. My anxiety has been a big part of my life over the years due to events happening that were out my control, but I believe I am stronger because of it. I have now, in my late 40’s been able to contain my anxieties by choosing how I deal with situations and surrounding myself by the love and support of the right people.
If you could give someone a piece of advice what would it be?
Try and live for the moment and don’t regret your past. We should try and learn from the past to embrace a better future.
What is one self-care tip that you have found helpful?
Try not to be everything to everyone. Knowing that I can only look after and support others if I look after myself has been a great help to me.
