I asked Jess various questions about her attendance at our studio, how she found us through her initial introduction, what impact time at Designs has on her mental health difficulties and overall how it has helped shape her life since being a member.
I soon realised how Jess’s journey has been such a huge shift for her.
Before you read on please be aware of any triggers for yourself, as she has shared very candidly the raw and real past reality she was dealing with, just short of a year and a half ago.
It’s been an epic turnaround for Jess and we’re proud to have made such an impression on her well-being and day-to-day structure we are proud of her massive progression and achievements.
Here is her story in her own words.
“I was originally referred to Designs in Mind, by the Counsellor I was with at the time. I’ve been attending the studio for 16 months and have found it to be the highlight of my week. Being a studio member has helped me combat my suicidal thoughts, as well as managing my self-harming.
I have gained so much from taking part. I have made new, great friends, it”‘s given my life purpose, and my confidence and independence have soared. On top of this, it’s helped me gain the clinical support I needed, which continues to support my mental health problems.
I believe that without the weekly support here at Designs, I would be accessing more visits to my Doctor and Emergency services, due to suicide attempts, possibly leading to Mental Health hospitals.
I’ve taken part in lots of things that are available to me via Designs such as our Good Egg projects, Walk & Talk group, Listen & Connect groups and focus groups where I’ve recently attended wood carving”
Designs in Mind signposted Jess to another craft group called Dorcas too, so it’s been a real springboard for her.
She continues to share her brave journey.
“Some of my favourite projects I’ve been involved in are the sewing I was part of for our patchwork quilt raffle prize and painting one of the “Ossie the Sheep” for the Love Oswestry Festival, the one I painted was in the shop window of. Meraki Colour”, as pictured.
“Being a member here has given me the confidence to try new things too, such as Horse Riding for folks with Disabilities and going Swimming in a public pool.
It’s also given me new friends to meet up. with different events as those friends understand my social anxieties and help me through them.
All in all, Designs have helped me to focus on myself in the way of getting my health in order, and the mental health benefits have allowed me to become more physically active throughout the week”.
One of Jess’s favourite projects was our Pockets Project which was featured a couple of blogs back. She was proud of her work pictured below.
Jess told me how she got inspired by this idea….”My pocket design is made up of bright flowers that feature plant textures and animal skins, I chose these as I love bright colours, and I love animals and animal print. My Grandad loved flowers too”
Thank you Jess for your brave sharing and being so honest and open.
To our readers please do reach out to services available if you’re feeling suicidal by calling your local health care professionals, your GP Surgery or The Samaritans on 116 123 or Text SHOUT to 85258 for further support and useful contacts follow the link below
Blog Written & researched by Willow, Member & Social Media Coordinator