Warriers of Wellbeing tackle mental health stigma
This was a fantastic event which hopefully reached many people on world mental health day and promoted the message of mental wellbeing, rather than the stigma so often associated with mental health.
The day started with an Art Workshop at the Theatre shop in Clevedon where people came to create a group piece of art wok using mandala hands.
At sunset the event moved to Clevedon Pier where the weather stayed dry so that over 70 people could take part in a mindfulness session. Participants were then led noisily down the pier by Bristol’s ambling band for a short walk through Clevedon to the Curzon cinema.
People were met at the cinema with stalls run by local organisations Samaritans, Wellspring Counselling, Positive Step, 1in4 People, Bridging the Gap, Citizens Advice North Somerset and Healthwatch North Somerset.
Silver Linings Playbook was shown to an audience of nearly 100 people. After the film there was a question and answer session with Consultant psychiatrist Dr Tiff Earle and Stephen Budd who spoke about his experiences of living with a diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder and working for the NHS. Questions ranged from challenging stigma and discrimination, portrayal of bipolar in the film, medication and recovery
When looking back over the success of the event Stephen Budd said “it is never easy being in the spotlight on something as personal as your mental health. However if I have contributed to reducing stigma surrounding mental illness it has been worthwhile. Mental health affects us all, it’s important to have these conversations; mental illness should not limit your ability to make a positive difference in all areas of your life.”
