Caol hosts mental health and wellbeing event
THIRTY people gathered at Caol Youth Centre last Tuesday to take part in thought-provoking discussions about how best to interact with people in relation to their mental health and wellbeing.
The event, organised by Chris Evans, volunteer for HUG (Action for Mental Health), sought to discuss and explore ways in which society can approach the subject of mental wellbeing, with a series of presentations and workshops taking place throughout the day.
The aim was to create an open ‘market place’ of ideas and opinions on how to broach what can be a very sensitive issue.
With this being the Year of Young People, guidance staff from Lochaber High School were there to present their experiences and ideas on the issues, as well as youth workers and the young people’s worker from HUG (SPEAK project).
Graham Morgan MBE from the Mental Welfare Commission opened the day with a personal account of how he communicates both with friends and family but also health staff when he has been very unwell.
Holly Hendry offered insights on the Scottish Recovery Network and explained how the organisation works, in particular engaging with communities.
Discussion groups talked animatedly with help from Cothrom Lochaber (previously known as the Glengarry Centre), Highland Senior Citizens Network, with Holly and Graham as facilitators.
Others present were representatives from Advocacy Highland, In Care Survivors, Headway, Lochaber Hope, Creativity in Care, Ewen’s Room, Lochaber Community Health Team, West Highland College and the Scottish Health Council, together with those who use services. Conversations continued over lunch.
Common themes emerged from the afternoon feedback, including use of language, empathy and body language and there was some discussion around what support and services are available in Lochaber, together with how to publicise them and keep them updated.
Speaking about the event, Chris Evans said: ‘Evaluation was very positive, with some useful constructive comments. People found the day enjoyable and the venue excellent, with Highlife Highland staff very helpful.