Mind in West Essex on the benefits of Peer Support Groups

The theme has been set to showcase the power of community in helping us all take care of our mental health. In a time where the cost of living is rising, stress and burnout are far too common, and people are struggling with their mental health, connection is more important than ever. 

For some local people, connection has been found through attending Peer Support Groups run by Mind in West Essex.

This group provides a safe space for those who are struggling to share their feelings and experiences and learn from one another.

This could include discussions centred around: coping strategies, self-care routines, how to improve sleep, the sharing of other support services and any other topics that feel important to the attendees at the time.

Unlike other professional-led groups, these groups are also run by facilitators who have faced mental health challenges themselves. 

Millie Slee says Peer Groups are welcoming spaces (Image: Mind in West Essex) Through these group sessions, attendees have highlighted how important it has been to be welcomed to a safe and supportive environment where they can share honestly, feel understood and not judged.

It has been expressed that whether they are joining for a cup of tea and to listen or are taking an active role in sharing, they are extremely grateful for this space.

In essence, many of the people who come to the group feel a sense of belonging that they may never have experienced before.

By opening up this space in the community, people have said that they feel less alone in their mental health challenges and instead, more deeply connected to those around them. 

The facilitator of one group said: “As someone who is still on their journey of recovery, this group offers me a chance to know that we are not all ‘perfect’, my emotions are valid and that although we may have tough days, these will pass.

“As people who I would normally just walk past in the street, the group members have given me the most powerful insights and reflections to help me to continue to grow, and I am very thankful for this.”

• Mind in West Essex is running a couple of different Peer Support Groups in the area, more information can be found at: mindinwestessex.org.uk. 

​Millie Slee is Peer Support manager at Mind in West Essex