You don't have to wait until you feel overwhelmed
New Park encourages conversations about mental health
This November, New Park Community Centre is encouraging people to make time for their wellbeing, talk more openly about stress and discover the activities and support available in the heart of Chichester.
Life can be demanding. Work, family responsibilities, relationships and financial pressures can all affect how we feel. Sometimes, we may appear to be coping perfectly well while privately struggling to switch off, feeling constantly under pressure or simply sensing that something isnt quite right.
That is why New Park Community Centre is joining forces with Chichester counsellor Jonathan Lacey this November to encourage more open conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking support before things become overwhelming.
You don't have to know exactly what's wrong, have a diagnosis or wait until you reach breaking point before talking to someone, is the message behind the initiative.
Jonathan, who spent many years working as a surgeon before retraining as a counsellor, understands the importance of listening. His work draws on humanistic and psychodynamic approaches, helping people explore their feelings, experiences and patterns of behaviour in a supportive environment.
He believes that asking for help takes courage, particularly for people in demanding professions or caring roles who may be accustomed to looking after others.
We can all have vulnerable parts of ourselves, and it shows great courage to ask someone for help, says Jonathan.
Stigma remains a barrier to seeking support, with the Mental Health Foundation reporting that nearly nine in ten people with mental health problems say stigma and discrimination negatively affect their lives. By encouraging conversations about mental health, New Park hopes to remind local people that they do not have to manage everything alone.
Discover ways to support your wellbeing at New Park
Wellbeing means different things to different people. Sometimes, talking to someone can help; at other times, finding connections, trying something creative or making space to pause and recharge can make a valuable difference.
New Park offers a welcoming place to explore these opportunities, whether that means joining a group, enjoying a shared activity or simply spending time around other people.
On Fridays, the Sing to Health group offers an opportunity to come together through singing. Jonathan will also be attending on Friday 6th November, giving people the chance to speak with him afterwards, ask questions or have an informal chat about mental health and counselling in a relaxed, approachable setting.
Other activities include Mel's monthly sound baths, meditation groups and creative activities, offering different ways to take time for yourself, connect with others and explore what supports your wellbeing.
From exercise and dance to shared interests, creativity and conversation, New Park brings people together through activities that can help nurture a sense of connection and belonging.
Start with a conversation
Jonathan and New Park want to remind people that there is no single way to look after your mental health, and no need to wait until life feels unmanageable before taking a first step.
Whether you would like to explore counselling, try a new activity or simply find somewhere welcoming to spend time, there are opportunities to discover what works for you.
This November, make time for yourself. Come along, meet others, try something new or start a conversation. Sometimes, the first step towards feeling better is simply talking.
To find out more about Jonathans counselling practice, visit Dr Jonathan Lacey Counselling in Chichester, London and online
To discover activities, groups and events at New Park Community Centre, visit newparkcentre.org.uk