Report by Thurrock Mind
THE theme of World Mental Health Day this year was ‘Dignity in Mental Health’.
Many people experiencing mental health problems are not treated with dignity and are affected by the attitudes people have towards them. As a result, they can be excluded from everyday activities and become socially isolated. It can be harder for them to get or keep a job and their physical health can deteriorate.
When people feel that they will not be judged, they are more able to seek the help that they need.
At Thurrock Mind we took the opportunity to join with service users, volunteers and members of the public to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
Throughout the week, we encouraged people to think about what dignity means to them and engage in activities to improve their wellbeing.
Monday – our service users attended a forum hosted by Thurrock Coalition to learn how the law supports their rights and entitlements.
Tuesday – our friends from Southmanor Gundogs joined us on a walk through Grays and we talked to local people about mental health. We made posters and decorated t-shirts with ‘break the stigma’ slogans and delivered 15 minute ‘mindfulness’ taster sessions.
Wednesday – we went to Asda at Tilbury and started our campaign to recruit peer mentors and volunteers. We are looking for people who could benefit from sharing their own experiences of mental health and make a difference to the lives of others who are struggling.
Thursday – we hosted an open evening for people with caring responsibilities. CARIADS support anyone who looks after a friend or family member with difficulties, who could not manage without their help.
Friday – we held an activity day with flowerpot painting, gardening demonstrations and cookery tasters (parsnip soup, pizza and biscuits).
Saturday – we were to be found out and about in the community in Asda at Tilbury and Morrisons, the High Street and shopping centre in Grays. Members of the public were encouraged to talk about mental health, write in a speech bubble what dignity means to them, guess the weight of the pumpkin and the children enjoyed ‘Inside Out’ art.
We want to express our thanks to the public for their generous donations which amounted to £166.68.
Myth: People with mental health illnesses are usually violent and unpredictable.
Fact: People with a mental illness are more likely to be a victim of violence.
Myth: It’s easy for young people to talk to friends about their feelings.
Fact: Nearly 3 in 4young people fear the reactions of friends when they talk about their mental health problems.
Myth: Mental health problems are very rare.
Fact: 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem in any given year.
http://www.time-to-change.org.uk/mental-health-statistics-facts
