My anxiety became increasingly worse after the birth of my daughter 4 years ago I knew something wasn't right but was afraid to ask for help so put a smile on my face and carried on, people thought I was fine and coping but deep down I wasn't. It wasn't until the start of this year when my daughter became poorly and my anxiety started badly again, I then realised how I had felt for such a long time and how I was worth more than these feelings and that I needed to break the cycle not only for myself but for my family as well. I was starting to seeing traits of my insecurities rubbing off on my daughter which was even more heart-breaking.
I was too scared and worried to talk to the doctor, however through conversations with others they suggested talking to Jon the school’s well-being consultant. This for me this was a massive stepping stone but one I felt comfortable with. I went and found him and poured out how I had been feeling, how I was struggling and how I wanted to change. He sat, he listened and responded with such kindness and no judgment and I felt heard and understood. I knew then I had made the first positive step in moving forward. He said I was a candidate for some counselling sessions through school something I previously didn't know about. He suggested some tools that I could start straight away to help and within two weeks I had started my sessions through zoom at home.
Three months on I have come such a long way, the counselling sessions have enabled me to identify and understand my anxiety and triggers and ways in which I can cope. They have also helped me become more confident in talking about how I am feeling to others, doing this has made me confront some hard feelings and emotions but I am now able to process them and move on in more positive mindset.
In-between these sessions Jon has been a great support checking in on me, providing a safe space to chat and providing me with any extra guidance and support that I need. It is always nice to know he is around either in school or I can drop him and email and get in touch. Jon has kindly offered to continue to work and check in with me after my counselling sessions have finished, knowing this is such a comfort and makes me feel more positive and confident about maintaining my mental health on a long-term basis.
I can honestly say this is the most calm, happy and safe I felt in a very long time, this allows me to not to worry and stress as much and be more productive both at home and at work. I have become more open when talking to others about the journey I am on and hopefully it may help others seek advice and support if they need it.
I feel very lucky that as a school we have Jon and that we are able to be offered these services to help with our mental health and well-being.
I know the road ahead may not always be easy but I am gaining the tools and support around me now to help guide me and to continue being the best version of myself for my daughter, my partner, my family and friends, the children I work with and most importantly myself.
I will be forever thankful and grateful to Jon and the services that the school have provided since December 2021. I would encourage anyone that may be struggling with their mental health & well-being to utilise the services that are available, I feel very grateful to work in a school that values their staff and provides amazing support.