mental health

Wanting to make a difference

I always knew growing up that I didn’t want to work in the corporate world. My father worked in crop research for the British government and in Nigeria and Jamaica. My brother and sister have also always worked in the public sector, so I guess a sense of wanting to do something which would make a difference to the community was instilled in me from a very young age. I also had a strong belief in the impact of women’s education and empowerment on society as a whole. I moved to Dundee in 1986 to study and after completing my degree I worked in higher education and charity retailing.

Illness forced me to look again at my options

Unfortunately I became ill with depression and anxiety in 2005 and couldn’t work for about 18 months. I was encouraged to do volunteering to get some structure back into my life and I was due to go to Cats Protection where I could hide away from people and just play with the cats, but my own cat died the day before I was supposed to start and I ended up at Dundee International Women’s Centre instead! Volunteering as a receptionist gave me the opportunity to regain confidence and feel that I was useful again. DIWC and the Community Mental Health Team were so helpful that I was able to get supported work at the Centre. When the post of Receptionist became vacant, I applied for it and that was the start of my long and varied career at DIWC.

Gaining confidence through volunteering and giving something back

Working at Dundee International Women’s Centre is so uplifting. During my time here I have worked in administration, training and supporting learners and now I evaluate the work that we do and the impact it has on the lives of women (and try to make sure that we have enough money to pay for it!). The people here are my friends and family. As a naturally inquisitive person, I love hearing about all different cultures, inspiring stories and the women’s journeys. I am always reminded of how lucky I have been to have the opportunities and freedom given to me.

I will always be grateful to DIWC, and hope to work here as long as I can make a valuable contribution. By the way – I share my house with another cat now, Merlin!

www.mentalhealth.org.uk came up with 10 simple ways that can be utilised to make the most out of our life. The article describes small changes that can be made in our daily routine that can have a great impact on our wellbeing and mental state.

Mental health is concerned with the way you feel about yourself and how you handle different situations in your life. Making practical changes to how you go about your day does not necessarily cost you anything but can have a significant effect to your mental health.

The following are 10 ways to look after your mental well-being:

1. Talk about your feelings

This is particularly effective when you are faced with a problem, doubt or feeling troubled. Talk to your loved ones or a professional about your wellbeing.

2. Keep active

Exercise can help you lift your self-esteem, sleep better and enhance your concentration level. If the gym is not your cup of tea then take a walk in the park. Gardening and housework can also keep you active

3. Eat well

There is a strong connection between what we eat and what we feel. A balanced and healthy diet would include a different range of fruits, vegetables, nuts, plenty of water, fish, and other dairy products.

4. Drink sensibly

People drink alcohol for different reasons. Some drink to feel happy while others to deal with loneliness. The effect of it is temporary and the damage done to the body can be severe.

5. Keep in touch

Friends and family can assist you in dealing with difficult moments and stress. Stay connected with your loved ones as they can make you feel better.

6. Ask for help

We might not have the answers to everything. When things are too much to handle for us, ask for help. There are different support groups, GPs and professional available that provide assistance and can direct us to the right person to speak too.

7. Take a break

A change in scene can always be good for your mental health. If you are feeling tired take a nap, or try yoga and meditation. Read more about how yoga can benefit you.

8. Do something you are good at

It is important to do things that you enjoy. This will help you get over the stress and boost your self-confidence.

9. Accept who you are

Be happy with the way you are. Focus on what is good for you and love yourself.

10. Care for others

Join a charity or volunteering organization. Sharing your skills with others can make you feel better about yourself. Find out more about volunteering with us.

Download the full booklet here:

#WomenOfDundee: How volunteering at DIWC gave Susan a chance to regain her confidence