WELCOME

Are you excited for autumn, with the prospect of closing the curtains, hunkering down with a fire, candles, and cozy blankets? Or do you hold on to summer till the very last? Change, whether it be from season to season, or in our lives, can be daunting. Yet what comes next is often better.

We talk to people who have been through challenges, yet were enriched by the experience. We meet Jess, who has discovered friends come in all shapes and sizes (page 8).

As the NHS celebrates its 75th birthday, we go all out to spotlight those who enrich the lives of others. We talk to the prison counsellor transforming the lives of the men she supports. And Maura (page 4), who helps primary pupils make the giant leap to high school –with a little help from the worry monster!

There’s no life without good mental health says a leading academic. You have the chance to shape future mental health care by becoming a researcher in a £10 million project set in Liverpool. Find out how to get involved (page 21).

A new survey on ageing says 60 is the new 40, with most of us putting off old age until our 80s. An expert shares his thoughts on why being young at heart really can help you live longer (page 20).

Embrace autumn, enjoy this issue. The MC Magazine Team.