Leaving a Gift in your Will

I didn’t realise I was as unwell as I was and I went to the doctor who diagnosed me with severe depression. After receiving this diagnosis, I started attending the groups at Leeds Mind regularly. I was really anxious at first and I wasn’t sure whether the groups would benefit me.

Peer support has made a difference because I can now manage my mental health, I am not as anxious, lonely or fearful. I feel free, safe, not judged, not discriminated against, safe and comfortable when I am at Leeds Mind and when I am in sessions. I am now more socially active, physically active and emotionally well and I feel that I have really made progress. I am also more financially secure, when I was in crisis I struggled with my money but now I have done a lot of self-development I feel I can better manage both being in crisis and my finances. I feel that the groups and peer support have also helped me to grow spiritually, it feels amazing and I have noticed massive improvements. I also now have good coping strategies to use in times of crisis. The groups have helped me to become more resourceful. I now know that there is support available. There was good signposting in the sessions and I received information such as the crisis card.

I have volunteered at Inkwell since 2012. I always say my role of baker at Inkwell is “the best thing since sliced bread”. I have a feeling of belonging; being part of something, especially as I’m retired. I find volunteering necessary for survival. I have opportunities to share my anxieties if necessary and share empathy with like-minded, “suffering” people. For me volunteering here is very positive and helps me develop my creativity. Seeing my finished cakes, along with positive feedback from colleagues and customers means a great deal as I’m not good at seeing positive outcomes.

Karen Chaney