Katie has been volunteering with Solent Mind to support others and rebuild her confidence. Here she shares her story.

Experiencing anxiety and finding a way forward

Katie explained that her own experience of anxiety is what first led her into volunteering.

“After finishing university, I suddenly began experiencing daily panic attacks and memory loss, and just getting through the day felt overwhelming. I was off sick for a while, and volunteering helped me rebuild my confidence.

“During that time, I gradually learnt how to manage my anxiety, and, over the course of 2 years, I discovered how to persevere by using different coping strategies.”

Realising she wasn’t alone

It was when Katie later returned to studying, that she realised she wasn’t alone in her struggles, and this inspired her to support others facing similar challenges.

“Anxiety can feel isolating, but talking to others and showing empathy makes a huge difference. I became friends with a girl who was living with an anxiety disorder, and that connection really helped.

“I wanted to help others and encourage them that they could feel better with the right support.”

Helping others

In her time with Solent Mind, Katie has supported a group for people experiencing stress, anxiety and depression, and has also led a creative writing group.

“Both groups offer the chance for people to connect, share empathy, and talk through coping strategies.

“The creative writing group focuses on writing as a way of expressing emotions, which can be very therapeutic. It’s something that helped me in the past. I encourage people to write their thoughts down, and it has a noticeable benefit.”

Writing to support wellbeing

Katie began writing poetry to support her own mental health and now has published her first book – ‘A route of hope’, by Katie Ruth.

“When I first started writing poems, I never intended anyone to read them – it was just something that helped me when I was feeling emotional. But when a friend encouraged me to read one at an open mic night, a local publisher overheard, and I was over the moon when he offered to publish a collection.”

How volunteering has made a difference

Katie explains how giving her time, has also made a big difference to her own life.

“I really enjoy volunteering, and love having the opportunity to share empathy and support others. It’s also great for my own personal growth – I’m building greater emotional intelligence and understanding more about my mental health.”

If you're interested in volunteering for Solent Mind, visit: Volunteer opportunities | Volunteer for Hampshire's largest mental health charity