In 2024, I had a breakdown. Over the past 12 months, I reached rock bottom. I couldn’t have sunk any lower. I had suicidal thoughts and genuinely didn’t want to be here anymore. I’d had enough. Life was – and still is, at times – a struggle. The skies were black. Everything felt dark. Everything was negative, and I could see no positives in anything. I had lost hope. I had completely lost myself and was wallowing in my own self-pity. I did this for quite some time. It was hell. Sometimes it still is.
Thankfully, I was thrown a lifeline. I had approximately 12 one-to-one peer support sessions with Project 6, which very slowly helped me begin my long recovery journey – a journey I’m still on today. Project 6 explained that I was suffering from complicated grief and internalising my stress. As the counselling ended, I needed to find other support services to help manage my mental health. I was referred to Mental Health Connect at KHL. About a week after the referral, I received a phone call from one of the health coaches. We had a one-to-one session where we spoke at length for over an hour. I felt very anxious – outside my comfort zone and in a new environment – but my health coach was so kind and really helped to put me at ease.
She suggested the ‘Positive Vibes’ group at KHL, which has since moved to Central Hall due to staffing changes. I still attend this group, now called ‘That Friday Feeling’, run by Missing Peace. I find it to be a safe space where I can speak honestly about how I feel without judgement, which means everything to me. The group helps me manage my mental health and share my feelings with others who are also struggling.
KHL has encouraged me to try and learn new things, which has given me a sense of purpose and helped me feel less isolated. I now regularly attend the seated exercise class at the Civic Centre – it’s beneficial for both my mental and physical health, and I truly enjoy it.
I completed a six-week ‘My Wellbeing Journey’ course, which I found really enjoyable and helpful in my recovery. One of my goals from that course is to go for a weekly walk in the countryside near my home, which I know will benefit my health. I also attend a cookery class at KHL, which I’ve really enjoyed. I love trying different things, and I even gave an origami class a go – it was fun and satisfying. I regularly check the KHL monthly activity list for new things to try, and I look forward to each one. All the groups and activities I’ve taken part in have supported my general wellbeing. Meeting new people has helped with my confidence, as my self-esteem is low.
Slowly, little by little, KHL is helping me with my recovery. Through attending KHL, I’ve taken the time to sit with myself and reflect on what I truly enjoy. I’ve gradually begun to reconnect with myself again. What does Sue like? What does Sue enjoy?
Being part of KHL has also opened new doors for me. I’ve successfully completed a 12-week WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) programme – one of the most important things I’ve ever learned. I’ve gained invaluable knowledge and, more importantly for me, wisdom. WRAP will be so beneficial in helping me manage myself in the future. I’m now starting to look forward rather than back. I feel more positive, and the skies are showing a glimmer of blue instead of constant black. I still have a long way to go, but I’m taking small, manageable steps – baby steps – to become me again.
KHL has been, and continues to be, an absolute godsend. It has been so beneficial to my mental health and recovery journey. I would be lost without it. A million thank-yous, much love and respect.
