9th – 15th May 2022
Mental Health Awareness Week is important for not only for spreading awareness; it also allows people, of all ages, who struggle with mental health issues to either come forward and ask for help or just feel a little less alone.
This year’s theme is Loneliness.
As we’re all recovering from the past two years, it’s important to remember that loneliness was at an all-time high during lockdown and people are still experiencing these feelings.
At Youth Talk, we interviewed a range of different people about what loneliness and mental health means to them. It was very interesting to hear the difference and similarities certain ages or genders spoke about when asked different questions.
“Loneliness can stem from anything”
…one 21-year-old male explained. One of the most important things to remember is that loneliness can sometimes present itself in people you would never imagine it too.
“The hardest part it is reaching out”,
Many people go without talking to anyone or feeling as if they can’t, you end up isolating yourself and pushing people away.
This quote says it all.
Sometimes they may need a branch and that can be asking a question as little as, how are you today? Or just a little reassurance like, I’m here if you need me.
““Having a lot of things to say, and no one to tell them too””
22 year old male university student
.
“…feeling overwhelmed, without support and without someone to share the highs and lows with”
Single mum in her 50s
These two quotes are so similar and we don’t think that many people would be able to tell who said which one if we didn’t explain.
What it really shows us is that no matter your age, gender or struggles in life, feeling lonely can sometimes be as simple as not having a companion to share your day with.
What can I do?
This week we invite you to be the companion someone may need, and help raise awareness of the mental health and loneliness.
If you feel able to, perhaps you could even share your own story? The hashtag for the week is #IveBeenThere and do tag us if you share your story on socials.
Remember, everyday someone else comes forward, or opens up, is one step towards us learning and being able to make this world, and St Albans into a safer, more caring and comfortable place for everyone.
Youth Talk provide free counselling support to local young people but we can only do this with the support of our community.
Why not organise a fundraising event or take on a a run, cycle, or swim in aid of Youth Talk? Our fundraisers help us make a huge difference to the young people in St Albans – not just during awareness weeks, but all year round.
Loneliness is not always the same as being alone. Many people find that they can be in a crowded places and still feel extremely isolated.
“Without access to proper human contact and support, almost anyone can fall victim to loneliness – and find that their mental health suffers as a result.
“That’s why community is so important in helping prevent loneliness – whether that’s outreach programs, social clubs, or services like Youth Talk’s free, confidential counselling. Loneliness really can kill, so it’s great that here in St Albans so many community initiatives exist to combat it.”
Daisy Cooper MP
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