Peter’s story

My name is Peter and I’ve been a Youth Wellbeing Trainer, part of the HeadsUp network, since March 2019. My role involves travelling to different high schools, sixth forms and youth and social clubs, presenting mental health material and signposting to other relevant support services.

The 5 Ways to Wellbeing is central to the presentations, providing scientific and practical information (e.g. research based activities, mindfulness, physical exercise) on how to maintain and flourish our mental health. Another element to presentations is spreading awareness of mental health experiences, targeting stigma and encouraging people to support those who are going through difficulties; a personal story of mental health difficulties is read aloud by one of the HeadsUp volunteers.

Prior to presenting, I was trained via group meet and teach, and personal practice of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing. Mind training inspired me with confidence to ask and talk about mental health openly, and provided me with a supportive space to reflect on my own mental health. Further, I met unique and authentic individuals who made me feel comfortable with myself and were compassionately driven (talk about achieving ‘Connect’ – one of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing!). Thank you Mind in Harrow.