"Recovery College"

I've been suffering with depression and anxiety for many years now which has meant that my life has been on hold. I can't work or socialise or do many other things I should be doing.

After a long time on medication I decided to try out the recovery college since I'll give anything a go if it might help my situation. I have to say, so far I've been very pleased.

I've just finished my second course and I'm sure it's helping me. While I think I still have a way to go I feel like I've made progress for the first time in ages. Firstly, it helps me to be in an environment where I can talk amongst people that are going through similar issues to myself. I also love the fact that along with a mental health professional the classes are lead by someone who's also been through problems as well. This makes me confident that I'm understood.

The courses themselves are great. Everyone gets to have a say at some point, and the staff have been friendly and understanding with everyone. My favourite so far has been the mindfulness course. I've found that really helpful in managing the day to day struggles that comes with mental health issues. I would and will recommend this service to anyone I know going through similar problems.

I haven't seen a course that includes some kind of physical exercise (unless I've missed it), which I think would also be helpful for people with certain conditions. That'd be my one suggestion to improve it.

I'm really glad that I'm getting some effective help now on the NHS and am grateful to all involved. I'm hoping to volunteer there so as to get myself ready to start working again.