Month: September 2013

Today we looked at a number of things. Some group members expressed changes to their mood and sleeping patterns due to the change in seasons. We discussed how to deal with feelings of guilt while being less active due to the seasonal changes. The big thing discussed was to always remember to be kind to yourself in this situation and use as a learning experience for the future.

We looked at “debunking the myths” regarding Mental Health/Suicide. Some of the quotes from the group included; “Contrary to what people think about a group like this, it’s not totally depressing, it’s inspiring and up-lifting” “There’s no stigma here” “It’s good to talk about suicide, it does not make someone do it.”

We came up with a list of names we would like to invite to the November event. We are currently working on the invitations. We have almost completed the leaflet and are the final stages.

Next week will be our 50th meeting!

Today was a big group. Some group members have been struggling with suicidal thoughts over the last week. The group looked at ways in which these people could be supported. We looked at ways of creating a new set of “keeping safe” measures for someone to do if they felt suicidal. Some of the measures discussed where; phoning friends/keyworker, visiting friends, contacting crisis lines. By having this “safety net” in place in times of despair it could really help someone
There were positive steps being made for arranging the group’s November event with people networking with Radio stations and MSPS. We have made good progress on our new leaflet and is almost ready for publication.

Today was a very special group, celebrating the first year of the group starting! We had arranged the meeting room with birthday banners, a cake and lots of nibbles. As we all gathered around the table we reflected on the group’s first year and what people had got out of it. Some of the examples people gave included:
“I don’t know if i would still be here if it was not for the group”
“I feel part of something”
“I do not feel judged”
“I feel proud of our achievements”
“We have come a long way”
“We are excited about the future of the group”
“Who knows where we will be in the next year!”

The group would like to thank everyone for their support especially the guests and the people who follow the group on-line. Here’s to the next year and beyond!