Mental health sessions in city

Tackling issues surrounding discrimination and self-stigma for older people with mental health issues is the focus of an event being held in Stirling.

The Stirling area network group of Age In Mind is hosting an Overcoming Self-Stigma event at the city’s community hospital on February 6.

Detailed conversations with more than 150 older people with such conditions revealed that for many “self-stigma”, where people think less of themselves because of their illness and its impact, was a major problem.

Interviewees spoke of a wide range of limitations they had experienced as a result, including avoiding social situations and not having the confidence to seek much wanted work or relationships.

One said:“It makes me feel that people who want to get to know me are sad, depressing, lonely people and it makes me not like them.”

The Age In Mind project works across Scotland to reduce discrimination and stigma against people aged 50 and over who have experience of mental health problems (excluding dementia).

Led by the Scottish Mental Health Co-op, it is part of See Me’s programme of work aimed at ending mental health stigma and discrimination in Scotland and the Age in Mind Project Management group has representation from SMHC members as well as Age Scotland and SOPA (Scottish Older People’s Assembly).

Two sessions will be held on February 6 in Room 1 at Stirling Community Hospital (former Stirling Royal Infirmary site) at 11am-1pm or 2-4pm.

A sandwich lunch is available from 1-2pm. Spaces are limited so to book a place contact Angela Dias on (01786) 451203 or email: angela.dias@actioninmind.org.uk.