Jonathan’s story
Finding a new path through creativity Hello. My name is Jonathan, I’m 28 and live on the Isle of Lewis. I have been supported by Penumbra since 2014. In that same year, my support worker, Dave, said that I may be interested in an art group run by the Catch 23 drop-in centre. With Dave’s help, I
... continue reading.Dave’s blog
This wee article, a mere handful of paragraphs, is about actions. Being bereaved by suicide has had a seismic impact on my life. I can never truly define the scale of this, but it changed my relationships, career and lifestyle. I became unwell for several years. I see this clearly now with the blessing of
... continue reading.Nicola’s story
The importance of treating yourself with compassion When a person gets to the dark stage of feeling suicidal, it is not inevitable that they will attempt suicide. Being able to spot the signs of these thoughts and try and help your friend or family member, does not mean you have to be a professional or
... continue reading.Harriet’s story
My plan to self-disrupt was scunnered by a squish Don’t underestimate the little things you do for your friend, family, or loved one who needs support. Those gestures are like rays of light in a dark, dark room. I can tell you this as I have been in that room many times. What do you
... continue reading.Ian’s story
Two packets of crisps and….the rule of thirds? Hi everybody – as usual it’s almost 2 am. Two packets of crisps and a bar of chocolate at my side as sup-port plus a mug of tea made three hours ago which now is a little chilly. Invigorating though. Anyway, apologies, for rambling on. Is that
... continue reading.Sarah’s story
Sarah’s (rather chilly) leap for wellbeing The cold burns against my skin, numbing it instantly. I wade out, knowing that the icy water stabbing against my legs is an inevitable part of this. A bitter blanket weaving about my body welcoming me, a dear friend; I plunge violently in, gasping, salt water teasing my lips.
... continue reading.Robbie’s story
Robbie and Glenn’s fundraising marathon Last year I was going through a very difficult time in life, where I felt like my world had collapsed and my life had come to a complete halt. I had lost someone very close to me and I was struggling in a way I’d never experienced before. A friend
... continue reading.Jack’s story
Accepting the past and looking to the future I’m an eastend boy born and bred. I’m one of seven children who grew up in Garthamlock in Glasgow and some of us have suffered various addiction problems. My mum died of cancer when I was sixteen and my dad died in my arms three years later
... continue reading.Jeanette’s story
There are always brighter days ahead Hello, my name is Jeanette. I am 24 years old and a 3rd year Public Sociology student. I currently do a lot of volunteering with various organisations such as Who Cares? Scotland, Children in Scotland – advisory group Changing Our World. I first came across Penumbra Mental Health when
... continue reading.Andy’s story
Discovering a new confidence during my mental health journey I am the middle child with a older sister and younger brother. I have always been more of the naïve and softer one out of my siblings, sometimes even called the child out of the three of us. I am a lover of comic books and
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