Beth’s story: Support that makes you feel lighter
Beth was going through a tough time, constantly feeling agitated and overwhelmed with thoughts. She sought help and spoke to her GP about her struggles with sleep and a range of emotions, such as overthinking and overanalysing. As a result, she was referred to receive support from Change Mental Health in Stranraer.
Beth is supported on a one-to-one basis and in some social group sessions. She finds comfort in knowing there is someone there to listen, care, and remind her that she is not alone. As Beth puts it, speaking with a Support Worker, “When life is heavy, this support can help you feel lighter.“.
Beth gets agitated easily and sometimes can experience a sense of isolation, even in a crowded room. Despite her anxiety Beth is a very positive and happy person. Beth finds fulfilment in her job as a learning assistant in a nearby primary school. Her daughter is her focus and motivation to get up and go every day.
“Anxiety is something I live with. It hasn’t always been this way, but life can throw many curveballs and impact in many ways. Previous life experiences can cause anxiety: I was in a domestic abuse relationship.
“So many people struggle with anxiety,, and it’s a normal human thing. But life is hard – there’s so much going on.
“Anxiety affects how I feel and see things daily. I can feel very agitated—my heart races. I struggle to sleep. I can feel alone, scared, upset, worried. I start to overthink and overanalyse everything. I battle within myself. I know my problems, and I know how to change it. I know how to make myself feel better, but it’s very easy to slip into that mindset of having a negative voice in your head.”
Beth
Support Beth received from Change Mental Health, and her commitment have enabled her to meet new people and gain fresh experiences and opportunities leading to increased confidence.
“Coming to Change Mental Health has given me different opportunities to try new things. It’s just nice knowing that I have someone there when times are hard, out with family.
The one-on-one support and group sessions gave Beth focus and reassurance that although life can be hard, she is not facing the hurdles alone. It helped her understand that it is normal to feel this way, and now she has coping methods.
“It’s just knowing that you’re not the only person dealing and coping with anxiety. I don’t mind talking about it and think it’s important that people talk openly about having anxiety.”
A range of activities and coping strategies like meditation and breathing techniques have benefited Beth and enabled her to relax when going to Change Mental Health.
“The art group has encouraged me to find a hobby to do at home. Nights can be difficult for me. Because of this incredible support, I am inspired and can do something I enjoy.
A continuous support from Change Mental Health has enabled Beth to grow and learn. Everything she learned about herself, her emotions, and the tools she now has to deal with in the challenging moments can be used at different stages of her life. She feels immensely thankful for all the support she receives.
“I have grown and learned so much. I am stronger than I think. I can cope and deal with things better. I can see my potential and that is down to the valuable support I receive.”
Beth
support
Our Advice and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm, where advisers can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs, including our own Change Mental Health services. We offer initial advice on money worries and help to deal with emergencies.
Contact 0808 8010 515, email us at advice@changemh.org or fill out the enquiry form on the Advice and Support Service page.
