Every year, on October 10th, we recognise and observe our mental health and how vital it is for our everyday life. World Mental Health Day, is our chance to stop, think and talk about our mental health and how we support each other at Paul’s Place.
Meet Gareth Miles, who lost sensation in both his hands and feet. At Paul’s Place Gareth has the freedom to use his hands with paint and different art materials, which he would struggle to do on his own. Gareth said he’s created a Magic Round About, Animal Drums and a Butterfly with different art materials. He enjoyed the fun and laughter while creating art with other members at Paul’s Place.
Gareth also said, “I like trying different things and having the freedom to choose. It creates a positive outlook.”
We then spoke to Karen Butt, who has spina biffida and arthritis. She described her nephew building her a pen holder from a long block of wood. She can now reach, hold and return her pens much more easily. Using colouring-in books for adults calms and soothes Karen while being creative.
Karen did a typing course at college. She says using a computer is easier than picking things up and she would like to write an article. Karen said, “I found my own way to draw, write, paint and type. I’m grateful for what I have and what I’m able to do. Being at Paul’s Place helps with this realisation, as some members are unable to speak due to their disability.”
Simon Hill has cerebral palsy and joined Paul’s Place twenty three years ago. He loves chatting with other members and enjoying a game of poker together. When Simon first joined Paul’s Place he struggled with change and adapting to new situations. Simon met new people joining Paul’s Place over the years and no two days are the same. Simon became more comfortable with change, especially when these changes are communicated in advance. Being able to adapt to new situations has supported Simon to work for the council as a cleaner.
Simon says, “At Paul’s Place you realise it’s not just you, as other people have physical disabilities as well. Everyone’s approachable and willing to listen, help and support.”
Sharing our interest, activities and our precious time together can help us cope better with life’s ups and downs. It goes a long way to create good mental health for all. Let’s check in with each other over Tea & Talk on Thursday 10th October. Today we’re restarting our pottery sessions on World Mental Health Day. A shared activity experienced together.
To support our work at Paul’s Place and our move to Shire Way Community Centre, please donate, so no disabled adult is left behind or alone.
Our new venue will offer a lifestyle centre for physically disabled adults to grow and develop. The existing building needs a total refit and refurb to offer everything we need for physically disabled adults and for the wider community to get involved. Every donation supports our life-changing work and brings us closer to a world with good mental health for all.