Guest Post: Fishing in Mind

At Accuro, we understand the huge importance of taking care of your mental health and encourage a safe space for our members to be themselves.  Two other people that know how important mental health and safe spaces are, are Accuro Volunteer Michael and Darren at ‘Fishing in Mind’ and who kindly shared this story with us…

Mental ill health has carried an unhealthy stigma for far too long.

Fishing is a great way to forget about the stresses and strains of life. The aim of Fishing in Mind is to bring people together to enjoy not just the sport, but the company of others. The objective is to help people overcome, or learn to cope with Mental ill health. Mental ill health has carried an unhealthy stigma for far too long.

We want to offer people the opportunity, and safe space to talk about the issues they face, judgement and stigma free! Fishing is just a tool amongst this to allow you to relax and unwind. You do not have to be “good” at fishing, or even fish at all. Fishing is just the gateway to feeling free to talk and share how you feel with like-minded people.

“It should not be seen as weak to talk about how you feel.”

Recently, Michael Hammond and I met for a fish and a chat, and oh boy did we chat! We had a lot of laughs about many things.

We both spoke about our respective struggles and recovery from bouts of mental ill health in our lives. Michael, who has kindly volunteered at the Accuro office, is very open and honest about his struggles, he said this now famous line “men just don’t speak about their mental health… it should not be seen as weak to talk about how you feel.”

I feel that it takes me more strength to be open and honest, than it does to sit and suffer in silence. Michael has had an incredibly difficult 12 months, he has lost 4 family members in the last year, including his father.

Michael told me with great pride, and sadness that his father bought him the rod he used today, every time he catches a fish with that rod, he says a quick “that’s for you Dad”.

Fishing gives us the space to reflect and relax. Fishing also gives you the opportunity to make new friends, and to make memories that will last a lifetime.

If you are interested in arranging a trip to a local Pond, River or Lake, just get in touch.

At present, this Fishing in Mind meets on a social basis only. We are not a medical establishment, nor do we offer medical advice. If you feel that you are in crisis, you need to contact the appropriate support service, or ask somebody else to do this for you.

Ways to get in touch..

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/974535623173127

Instagram @fishing_inmind

Darren: 07800579777

A big thank you to Darren for sharing his story with us! If you have a local business or service that could also benefit local people, please get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.