Wednesday 9 September 2009

'Local People, Local Lives.'

I have been flattered that Media Action Group for Mental Health (MAGMH), which is based in Stoke on Trent, has asked me for my input regarding one of their upcoming projects. The project has been named, 'Local People, Local Lives.'
Statistics have indicated that approximately 1 in 4 of us will experience some form of mental health concerns within our lifetime. Yet the 'ripple effect' that mental health issues can cause, goes beyond these statistics. That is why it is vital for all of us to further understand the impact our enviroment has on our lives.
With today's uncertain world, a world where a change in lifesyles can produce negative situations; we may start to have worries about our mental health. With this change, you might find that a negative environment can be overwhelming. You might think you are alone but it doesn't have to be this way.
This is where a project like 'Local People, Local Lives', can be of great benefit. Together, those of us with mental ill health, those of us who are worried about potential mental health problems, or those of us who are just curious to learn more about mental health; can all be here for each other. We can work through the inaccurate stigmas and stereotypes attached to mental illness. We can realise that we have shared interests. We can see that beyond the diagnosis, is just another person trying to make the most of their life.
I am submitting the following links so you can get a better idea about this project. Those of you who do not live locally, may consider seeking out a similar, or creating a similar project where you live. After all, we are all in this together. Help each other, we help ourselves.

Here are the links:


You will see on this link a section pertaining to the 'Local People, Local Lives' project.


My good friend, David, has done a blog that explains very well what the ethos behind the project is.

I thank you for your time.

10 comments:

  1. Hi Gary,

    This is an incredible idea. While professionals can be part of the solution, it is individuals that often do the most good when they support on another.

    Those of us who have struggled know the feelings of isolation it brings. A good deal of the suffering comes not from the illness itself but the stereotypes that are attached to mental issues.

    The program is lucky to have you as I know you have much to contribute.

    Namaste my friend.

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  2. It all sounds fantastic, Gary. I hope it all goes well and you really manage to make a difference.
    I'm sending my positive vibes over to you.

    Julie xx

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  3. A great post, Gary. Thanks for the links.

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  4. This will be of great assistance to so many others, Gary, hugs.....

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  5. Hey,Gary,in you they have a great ambassador for this worthy cause,we both know that it is individuals who matter ,not labels.Stereo types only reinforce ignorance,so the truth needs to be told.PEACE.Dave.s

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  6. Congratulation; best of luck with this event and the on-going project. You are certainly the best man to handle this.

    Warm regards for your continued success! In peacefulness, Dixie

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  7. Dear Gary,
    Thankyou for this tribute to our small, but heartfelt camapign at MAGMH. We are all very glad to have you on board and your contribution is always worthwhile.
    With Very Best Wishes,
    David.

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  8. Makes you realise just how useful the web can be.

    Nice one Gary.

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  9. I agree, Gary, that in helping others, we help ourselves. I wish you good luck in this particular endeavor. Peace.

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  10. Hi, normally I would respond back to each individual person who has so kindly taken the time to comment.
    This particular blog was more of my way of trying to be of some assistance to a cause that I consider of utmost importance.
    To me, the folks that are at the heart of this project, Amanda, John, Helen and that wonderful MAGMH volunteer and blogger, David, whose link I supplied, are to be commended for their dedication.
    Thanks to all of you who have contributed to this blog. Your comments are most encouraging.
    With peace and respect, Gary.

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I do try to comment back to each commenter individually. However, I might have to shorten my replies or give a group thank you. That way, I can spend more time commenting on your blogs. Thank you and peace, my friend.