Angela's Story

Image by Jeremy Brooks, copyright protected

Angela left work because of anxiety and depression but through determination and with employment support, she's turned her life around.

I left a role that I had enjoyed due to anxiety and depression. I had left other work roles because of similar symptoms. It was not until this episode that I began to understand that I had a mental health condition. My self-esteem and confidence were at a low ebb. 

When I discovered the support offered by Twining Enterprise and Ealing Mental Health team I asked my doctor to refer me.

This was the start of the rest of my life!

I was put in touch with a Twining Employment Advisor who helped me explore my mental health and the world of work; what suited me, what a positive work environment would be for me and how I could manage my mental health.

I also discovered the benefits of CBT through the mental health team and have been moving forward ever since.

I was able to get the appropriate support and move into a volunteering role, one that supported the growth of my confidence.

Following on from this initial support I gained employment in August 2012 and haven’t looked back. It was because of this support I feel I have been able to accomplish sustained employment, in an environment that supports my needs.

I now have an awareness and confidence I don’t remember ever having. It’s OK to have a mental health condition and talk about it

Apart from working full time and being a mum I am also an active volunteer in a local community group. Many people comment on my sons’ positive attitude. This is attributable, in part, to the the skills I learnt being passed on to him.

At one time I feared ‘doing too much’ in case I became overwhelmed and began that downwards spiral of feeling unwell again. I still feel wary of this, however I am now more able to recognise the signs.

This is just a glimpse of how my life turned around in the best way ever with the support of Twining Enterprise!

*This person has chosen to withhold their real image

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