Every week we set some goals that we decide together, and they’ll be about taking my mask off for a day or two or one period in school or during lunch. Before I used to wear a mask all the time, but I can take it off sometimes in school now. It’s helped me build more confidence. Before, I used to eat meals alone upstairs, and I don’t know why I was so used to that, but then eventually I started eating with my brother first and then as a family during the holidays. It’s helped me become more close to them, because meal times are really important with your family.
Before starting the sessions I wasn’t going into school much, but the sessions motivated me to go in more because I felt like I would benefit from it a lot, so it was worth attending to see if anything would improve, and things did improve.
In one session I was writing about aspects of my past that were bothering me and I put them in a mind map on a piece of paper, and when I was done writing about all of it we quickly went through it and then we were able to start ripping it up. It was symbolic in a way, it’s like shredding up your past memories.
I didn’t really open up about my mental health before these sessions. It was really hard to talk about it with other people. My Wellbeing Worker is the only person I feel comfortable talking about it with.
If you’re struggling with your mental health I think you should reach out to someone you trust because if you just stay quiet about it then you’re going to suffer in silence. It’s better to talk to someone about it so then you have the appropriate support around you.
ONE-TO-ONE SUPPORT
Aditi had 8-weeks of one-to-one support from a Community Wellbeing Worker with our Know Your Mind service. This service is for children and young people in Central Bradford who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing.
Know Your Mind
TELEPHONE AND LIVE CHAT SUPPORT
Our free helpline Guide-Line is open every day, 12pm-12am, on 08001 884 884 or live chat.
Guide-Line
URGENT SUPPORT
If you need urgent help, call First Response on 0800 952 1181. You may be referred to Safe Spaces our crisis support service.
Safe Spaces