A walking group that is part of a national team supporting people with mental health issues is celebrating its fifth anniversary.
Mental Health Mates Bristol, led by Rachel Rayner, brings people together for walks in and around the city.
“We’re a very eclectic group and that’s where we can support each other,” Rayner said.
The group is inviting anyone struggling with their mental health to join them on a 'getaway' this weekend.
Rayner said taking that first step outside can be daunting for some, but over the past five years the group has grown into a family and is ready to support anyone who wants to join. Ta.
“It can be difficult to go out and say 'hello' to a group of strangers for the first time,” she says.
“Once you take the first step, it gets easier. I've always been open about my mental health struggles, but I've always felt alone.
“This group taught me that it's okay to talk and that I'm not alone.”
In an interview with BBC Radio Bristol, Rayner said: “Whether it's a robin, a blackbird or a puddle that looks like a frog, there's always something in nature that makes me smile.
“We have never canceled walks and can meet in any weather, which has led to some really interesting stories.”
The national organization Mental Health Mates is a collaboration between authors, journalists and campaigners, bryony gordon In 2016.
Gordon took to X (formerly Twitter) to invite everyone to join him in walking and talking in Hyde Park “without fear or judgement.”
To her surprise, she found 20 people waiting for her when she arrived and said she was shocked by everyone's courage to get up on a cold February morning and walk with so many strangers.
Seven years on, Mental Health Mates has now carried out over 150 walks across the UK.
“We're working at a really gentle pace. It's not about gasping for air or gasping for air. We want people to talk and connect and make friends,” Rayner said. said.
“Everyone is welcome.”
The walk begins at 14:00 GMT from Downs Cafe.
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