It's our regular monthly meeting on Wednesday 9th April from 6 - 7:45 at Manchester Carers Centre. John Mainwaring from carers support organisation Connect Support is coming to talk to us about the services they offer. And of course we'll be having our usual catch up and cup of tea. Anyone is welcome to join us whether you have personal experience of mental health issues, are a carer, or professional with an interest in mental health.
We had our 'Bring and Share' event tonight and as well as eating too much chocolate (again) I've come away feeling really inspired. We talked about all the skills, experience and knowledge that we've gained by either coping with having a mental illness, or though caring for a loved one who has been very ill. You can see all the ideas we jotted down from the discussion - from coming to understand your limitations (and that these can change), to developing patience, coping strategies and learning how to think positively. We understand how mental health services work and different illnesses themselves. It struck me, particularly from the people in the room who themselves have to deal with what can be devastating mental illnesses, that we're a pretty skilled bunch of people. For some, mental illness forces a process of self examination - and eventually self awareness - that is painful but hugely illuminating. It's a process that many of us won't have to go throu...
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