During this week ROFMH have been busy in Grays town centre, marking mental health awareness week by handing out roses with ‘feel good’ inspirational quotes to Thurrock residents. Find out about the impact of the pandemic on Thurrock residents, how ROFMH can support you, and their new coffee afternoons starting at the Beehive in May!
If there’s one good thing that’s come out of the pandemic, it’s the potential for normalising poor mental health. Traditionally Reach Out for Mental Health would see referrals for individuals who had long term mental health problems, have used mental health services in the past and who had been on medication long term. However, during the pandemic we have seen a sharp increase in referrals for people who have never had a problem with their mental health, particularly key workers. Living through a pandemic will test the resilience of everyone. It’s critical, no matter who you are or what your background is- if you feel you are struggling with life… reach out! It’s not easy, we’re not saying that. But it’s really important. If you can reach out to your family or a loved one it’s a great place to start but often can be the hardest thing to do. Try talking to a stranger. Try talking to us. We’re here Monday-Friday 9am-7pm. We’ll pair you up with a friendly and fully trained volunteer who has either experienced their own mental health struggles in the past or has supported a loved one who has.
Another thing we’ve noticed is an increase in anxiety about coming out of lockdown, more so than when we came out of lockdown last summer. One of the reasons for this we hear at Reach Out for Mental Health is the return to a pace of life which is not sustainable. Are our expectations too high? Are we over committing ourselves? Do we take on too much? Is it time for us to start saying no? YES! Naturally life is about doing things we don’t necessarily want to do but it’s vital we keep this in balance with the things that we enjoy, doing things which enrich our lives and spending time with people who don’t just take, take, take. Again, this is easier said than done but it’s so important to safeguard your own wellbeing otherwise you won’t be in a fit state to be there for those who need you.
What do they say about putting on your own oxygen mask before helping others..?
Coming Soon
Rofmh will be hosting coffee afternoons as of 21st May. They’ll be held at the Beehive on Fridays from 12-2pm. Unfortunately due to covid we are unable to offer drinks so people need to bring their own. We’re hoping this will change as of 21st June. Due to a restriction in numbers people will need to call us to book a place- 07898 220 384. This is for anyone who is struggling with their mental health or is feeling suicidal. View Leaflet