"I shall always be grateful"

During 2002-2009 I have attended Heath Park Lodge Day Centre to treat my schizophrenia and depression. When I first suffered a breakdown and hospitalisation it was kept a close family secret and was never talked about. Since moving onto college I’ve kept in touch with mental health groups providing support and the friends I have made there. I have been overwhelmed by their openness and learned that people with mental health issues should not carry a stigma. The staff has also helped my growing confidence and self empowerment by creating opportunities for social involvement in group activities. The current policy of “social inclusion” has given back the life I thought I’d lost and is a world away from the institutionalisation of the mentally unwell experienced many years ago. I shall always be grateful to all concerned.