Daves Counselling Expierience

If in Doubt, Reach Out – Dave’s Counselling Experience

In early 2024 I was in a really low place. I was referred to Basildon Mind by Citizens Advice. 5 minutes before that I was standing looking over the side of a multi-storey car park!

It took me 3 weeks to pluck up the courage to check out one of Basildon Mind’s ‘Walk and Talks’ (an hour’s walk lead by a trained Walk Leader, accompanied by an experienced Counsellor and followed by 30 minutes’ refreshments and social interaction). I asked to be added to the Walking WhatsApp group which, gave me a sense of inclusion. The Counsellor messaged me one day when I didn’t attend a walk. Our conversation led to my name being added to Basildon Mind’s ‘Adult’ Counselling Waitlist.

I only had to wait a few weeks before I started counselling in February 2024. My counselling goal was to transform my house from a prison to a castle and my counselling journey lasted 12 weeks.

The Whitmore Way counselling office is a safe place where the staff are amazing. The first time I went there I was literally shaking: they sat me down, made me a drink then sat next to me. The counselling rooms are well thought out, with pictures on the wall to distract negative thoughts and ease anxiety.

My Counsellor really listened to me. She’s even phoned me since my counselling finished to check in and catch up. This reassured me that the support is there.

I absolutely achieved my counselling goal. There’s no way want to kill myself now (I’ve tried several times before). Counselling made me realise that I was burnt out from work. Everybody seemed to understand and no-one judged me (I thought they would). I found out there are some fantastic people out there! Basildon Mind helped me realise I had a problem and treated me as a human being.

The effect of my counselling is amazing. It helped me realise I had a problem, face up to it, then start dealing with it. I get on better with my kids. Now I really appreciate the small things in life. Whereas I used to panic and worry, now I’m calmer: most things happen for a reason. I don’t suffer from panic attacks anymore. I feel more chilled. I can get out more. My prison has become my castle!

My advice to others is don’t forget that support is available. Call the Samaritans on 116123 or call 111 Option 2. I understand that’s the last thing on your mind when you’re in a dark place, but it’s SO true. My counselling has taught me to recognise the triggers and use coping mechanisms I have learnt. On reflection, I’ve got too much to lose, I’m still here and going nowhere.

Since my counselling I visit the Basildon Mind Allotment some Tuesdays and volunteer in the Basildon Mind Charity Shop. If I need help there, it’s easy to talk to the Manager. Now I’m happy to let other people help me – to let them in. Basildon Mind has opened my eyes and made me realise it’s not all my fault: the world is a challenging place where sometimes help and support is needed.