Let’s talk about it - WE CAN LISTEN. WE CAN HELP

Throughout February we are talking about talking. Simply speaking to someone is an important step when it comes to improving our mental health, facing struggles and tackling addiction.

The power of talking

Talking about how you are feeling, particularly if you are struggling with your mental health can feel incredibly hard but when you open up it can do wonders for your wellbeing. Verbalising your thoughts enables you to gain another person’s perspective, their emotional support and understanding whilst helping you to work through your feelings and break down stigmas.

The benefits of talking

• Talking reduces isolation and loneliness, making you feel more connected to people within the community.

• Sharing helps others understand how you feel and puts them in a better position to be able to help and support you.

• Having conversations about mental health helps to reduce stigma and foster acceptance and compassion. The more we talk the more we can help people understand the impact of mental health struggles and addiction.

• Making time to talk also encourages other healthy lifestyle choices such as movement and exercise or getting out of the house for a coffee with friends.

 

CADAS Group Sessions

Our group sessions are the perfect opportunity to talk in a supportive, non-judgmental environment where members can openly share their experiences and offer encouragement to one another.

We hold CADAS groups in multiple locations across Cumbria, offering support for individuals, friends and family and for those who have been bereaved by addiction. Whatever your circumstances, they are a safe space to talk about the impact of addiction.

We are a lived experience charity so our groups are usually led by people who have been personally affected by addiction in one way or another which creates a truly empathetic and understanding environment where attendees can be open and honest.

Find out more about our groups.

 

CADAS Wellbeing Walks

Our CADAS wellbeing walks are another fantastic opportunity to talk. Join us to enjoy some fresh air, get some light exercise and chat to people who are ready to listen in a relaxed environment.

Our walks take place every Thursday at 10am in Carlisle. They are welcoming and accessible and routes take around 1.5 – 2hrs to complete, followed by refreshments at a local coffee shop.

Find out more about our wellbeing walks.

Starting the conversation

Connecting to others and opening up can be hard, particularly when we are struggling with our mental health. Feeling anxious, stressed or sad can make talking feel impossible but sharing how you feel can help you see things from a different perspective and help you find a way forward.

If you want to talk or are concerned about someone else, it can help to write your thoughts down first and then approach a conversation with someone you trust in a way that encourages open dialog.

Some conversation starters could include:

‘How are you REALLY feeling?’

‘I have been feeling worried recently and just need someone to talk to’.

‘I know I need help. Who do I talk to?’

If you are struggling and want to find out more about how CADAS can help, visit our ‘Adult Recovery’ page. 

At CADAS, we believe in the power of talking and we are here to listen.

For support, please call our helpline on 0800 254 56 58 or email contact@cadas.co.uk