Joining a support group

I was my mother’s full-time carer for seven years until she passed away in 2007. It did have an impact on me and it’s only recently I’ve started getting myself back together really. It’s been a bit of a struggle.

"I worry that I might someday get ill and have no one to count on."

I’m really active. I enjoy jogging and cycling on my exercise bike. I’ve even become teetotal to look after my physical health more. But it’s only recently I’ve been able to take care of my head in the same way.

I discovered the Resolve group through a friend. It sounded interesting so I just called in and got involved. There are 16 of us that meet. We’re all different ages and from different backgrounds. Some are confident, others are quieter. I’ve been going for four months now.

"What happens when we meet really varies. Sometimes you can hear us laughing from the other end of the building, sometimes we’re completely silent to allow someone get something off their chest."

The important thing is that we all give our time to share and support each other.

Joining a group isn’t the same as starting in a new job. To start in a new job you’re feeling quite nervous. But it didn’t affect me like that.

The group gets me amongst people. We talk about things we may have in common, and talk about possible events we may arrange that we’ll take part in.

I appreciate the chance to be with like-minded people.

I’m aiming to come off my antidepressants completely now and become a volunteer in the local area.

"It’s about being part of something and possibly achieving something in the end which may be good for all of us, not just individuals."

It’s about being part of something and possibly achieving something in the end which may be good for all of us, not just individuals.

 Find out more about peer support >