listen WE’RE HERE TO
By Alice Adamski
It’s safe to say that we live in one of the most stunning places in the world, surrounded by masses of open space and incredible natural beauty. However, this doesn’t mean we are safe from problems like everyone else around the world and this can create an uncomfortable conundrum - are we allowed to have the feelings we have? It’s important to remember though, that life can be tough wherever you decide to call home.
The last two years have certainly taken their toll on our mental health and those of us that live here in the Portes du Soleil haven’t escaped that. Everyone has been affected by COVID-19 and the resulting lockdowns in some way, whether it be missing loved ones, dealing with financial struggles, managing health issues or simply working out how best to move forward after a global pandemic. 114
we're here to listen
The pandemic has also had a bigger impact for some people and mental health charities are reporting a surge in the rise of anxiety and depressive disorders. And it’s not just adults that have been affected. Our children and teenagers have found things particularly tough. Young Minds has conducted studies which show that COVID-19 has led to our youngsters feeling isolated, alone and anxious. Life without COVID-19 was tough enough, now with this added extra, it’s clear that mental health is taking a bit of a battering. Ellie’s Safe House was originally set up to provide workshops, guidance and support for young people and parents in the valley, but over the last year it has really started to evolve into something slightly different. We have been contacted by adults AND children who live in the valley looking for help, asking where they can find support and generally needing that extra bit of guidance. Lots of us here at Safe House undertook Mental Health First Aid Training so that we can be that initial contact for anyone struggling or looking for a bit of advice and direction.
// illustrations by icons8.com
