Louise

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 "Hi my name is Louise (Lou)

After having my fair share of ups and downs from been in a abusive marriage one of my goals was to be an advocate and help others see that they can get out of it.

I’ve had 2 hospital stays where I was sectioned under the mental health act, I was having a psychotic breakdown (psychosis) 2016. I’ve been diagnosed with a few mental health problems from depression and anxiety to bi polar, borderline personality disorder and emotionally unstable disorder.

I’ve been on a rollercoaster of a recovery road, lots of ups and downs. One of my self care tools I use is vlogging. I’ve been vlogging since hospital to help spread awareness and to end the stigma behind mental health. 

I've been a part of Red Balloons since the first day Claire set up her online support and then when Claire secured a place for Talking Tuesday’s. Not only is it helping others it’s helping me stepping out of comfort zone. I'm honoured that I’m a part of this great support network for our local area bringing people together from all walks of life who just want the same thing.

My goal is to be a counsellor taking it step by step. Not rushing it though, taking my time.  I've completed distance learning courses related to mental health.  I've completed my Level 2 Counselling through my local college and I'm hoping to start my Level 3 before going on to the foundation degree, all done with my local college.  My role within Red Balloons has grown from strength to strength.  From my group walk and talk sessions to 1-2-1 sessions and my two weekly zooms - coffee morning and hot chocolate club and of course our fantastic merchandise."

#TalkingTuesdays #volunteer #physical #mental #wellbeing #MentalHealthMatters