Helping with my anxiety
Jackie lives in a self-contained flat in Essex and gets support with her mental health needs.
We support Jackie to develop her everyday living skills, like cooking, budgeting and housekeeping.
“I am really pleased with my flat. I used to live in a shared house before moving in here. It wasn’t good and I didn’t get on with the people who lived there.” Jackie is very settled now and her family lives close by. “I get on well with June – she lives here too. We often watch TV together in my flat. I like the independence of living on my own, but it’s also nice to have people around me.”
The staff help Jackie to look after her flat and to encourage her to keep well. “I need help hoovering and putting the washing out. I sometimes lack motivation and they’re great with that. They are helping me to try different foods that are healthier.”
My anxiety and nerves stop me from doing some things, especially when there are big crowds of people. Jackie
Jackie volunteers for a few hours at a charity shop one day a week. “I like sorting the clothes out and organising the toys. I get a bit anxious when lots of kids come into the shop though.” Medication helps Jackie to relax, which helps her anxiety. But doing activities that promote positive mental wellbeing is also helpful for Jackie. She enjoys swimming, badminton and cycling. She also loves to go to the cinema and the theatre, and is happy that she can go along to these events with the support of staff.“I like going to art class once a week. It’s at a church and I do all sorts of art. I like drawing the best. It definitely helps me to relax.”