Feeling lonely? Breathe Café is open to talk

Loneliness over the festive season and what to do

Lu-Ma’s Breathe Café welcomes you in

The festive season is a time for many families to get together and celebrate... after the nearly two years of COVID separation, this festive season is likely to be one that many of us are looking forward to.

But spare a thought for those who may have lost loved ones during the year or because of the pandemic, those who find themselves alone at this time of year, or are perhaps struggling with anxiety, depression, or some other mental health challenge. For these people the shorter, colder days and the focus on festivities is not a celebration, but rather emphasises their struggles and feelings of loss, loneliness or abandonment. For them, the festive season is something to be endured rather than celebrated.

The Lu-Ma Breathe Café is a place for real conversations, and we’re offering regular drop-in sessions. If you need to talk, we’re here to listen.

Breathe Cafés are a project by mental health charity Shawmind in partnership with cafés and coffee shops around the country. They are mental health safe spaces for those with anxiety and related mental health challenges to come to “just breathe”. They aim to encourage people to connect with one another, give them access to resources that will help to reduce anxiety and improve their own and others’ mental health and wellbeing.

The Lu-Ma Breathe Café features a wellbeing library of free-to-read books, because we believe in the power of reading someone else’s story to heal yourself. It has a cosy atmosphere and is a plant-based restaurant that focuses on healthy eating as a contributor to better wellbeing. There are now a number of trained volunteers who will run drop-in sessions - no appointment needed. To see when the drop-in sessions will be run, visit: shawmind.org/breathe-cafe/lu-ma/ n

If you would like to get involved with the Breathe Café, please contact us here:

shawmind.org/volunteer/

*Note: Breathe Cafes are not clinics or therapy sessions and offer support and signposting to local services. Any information provided does not replace the guidance or treatment of a mental health professional.