Hello everyone,
Thank you for all your letters of encouragement and kind words. For some lucky reason I always receive them when I’m in need of an emotional boost to help me get back on track. I treasure them.
I have had a lot of trouble with my mental health setting me back, which has been really challenging. The delay to my Tanzania trip has also made it difficult for me to make plans for applying to return to college or getting work. I am currently on my way to being able to go to Tanzania, I just have to pass the final independent physiologist assessment so please keep your fingers crossed for me!
I have been trying to keep myself busy and focus on my CBT skills in the meantime. My energy levels are gradually improving and sometimes I feel like I might have a bright future. Unfortunately, with mental health recovery it is often one step forward and two steps back, so I am very much still struggling but I definitely think I am more resilient than I have ever been.
I still volunteer with Scouts and YMCA and I am still enjoying it. It helps me feel secure. I would love to say my confidence has vastly improved but it’s been tough due to my trauma – but I am getting there.
I don’t really like to think about the future too much as a lot limits me when it comes to my health, but I would like to return to college and would love to be a brainiac – I enjoy the idea of going to university someday.
I have done Fire Marshall training at my YMCA recently too, which means I wear this super bright orange jacket if ever we have a drill, or a fire. It’s a bit of responsibility and I think it will be a helpful skill for me in the future.
I have found a good friend locally who is fun to hang out with. Hopefully it will continue as it has helped me feel less isolated. I am starting to open up to my old friends more when I need support and that has really helped. On the other hand I am trying to practise mindfulness to be able to soothe me when I worry.
I am camping with the Cub Scouts and another charity this summer and I if I’m lucky I might be able to visit Wales for a few days.
I have been trying to be more physically active which is good, especially as my YMCA has teamed up with a local gym so I am getting free workout classes for now!
Speak to you again soon, hopefully with good stories from Tanzania!
Rachel x
Hi Rachel. just brief note to tell you someone now coming up to the real old age of 70 , who has suffered mental health issues all of a long life DID have a good career, Did get married (4 kids all settled consequently 6 grandkids!) and is now happily retired by the sea. My message, be open and honest about your difficulties and people ARE amazing !
My best wishes for a happy & fulfilling future Rachel.