Mental Pressure The dangers of overnight fame - Aspire 2
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ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
Mental Pressure The dangers of overnight fame
Page 15
Freshers: The Thursday is the
“Sort out Pot plants as good, the bad new Friday: the
dementia care!” prescriptions? and the ugly four-day week
Page 9 Page 10 Page 17 Page 24
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
3
An introduction to Aspire2
The Aspire2 Mental Health
Media and Events team:
Welcome to the first online mental causes and ultimately give service users
health digital newspaper provided by a national voice.
Editorial
Aspire2. Over the last few months our
dedicated and professional team have Every year in the UK, 6,000 people take
Sam
been working extremely hard in order their own lives – approximately 17 per
Senior Editor for us to reach this privileged stage and day. While mental health awareness
sam@aspire2.org.uk deliver, on time, one of our company’s is slowly improving in the UK, it isn’t
Alcoholics Anonymous Men’s Health Forum Family Lives goals. We are all extremely proud and where it needs to be yet. Around one
www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk www.menshealthforum.org.uk www.familylives.org.uk Alex honoured to provide this newspaper in four people in the UK will experience
0845 769 7555 020 7922 7908 0808 800 2222 Deputy Editor and Feature as a service and we hope you have an a mental health problem each year and
Corrospondent excellent read. more than 20% of people in England
alex@aspire2.org.uk have had suicidal thoughts. These
Alzheimer’s Society Mental Health Foundation Relate Aspire2 will provide a range of media statistics simply have to improve, and
www.alzheimers.org.uk www.mentalhealth.org.uk www.relate.org.uk Ryan services and events that will give a voice that’s why we’re here.
0300222 1122 0300 100 1234 Journalist/Feature Correspondent to service users and providers, charities
ryan@aspire2.org.uk and organisations, those affected by Our mission and values are clear and
Mind mental health and the general public. our professional team, service user led,
Anxiety UK www.mind.org.uk Refuge Tom We will promote better services, are dedicated to the belief that our
www.anxietyuk.org.uk 0300 123 3393 www.refuge.org.uk Digital & Media Pod Correspondent aspire to help reduce social stigma media services and events can make a
08444 775 774 0808 802 5544 and exclusion, signpost treatment positive difference to mental health and
tom@aspire2.org.uk
and services and provide society an society as a whole.
Narcotics Anonymous opportunity to understand the vast and
Cruse Bereavement Care www.ukna.org Rethink Mental Illness Management
complex issues surrounding mental Thank you for reading, and I hope you
www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk 0300 999 1212 www.rethink.org health in the UK. find our debut publication engaging
0844 477 9400 0300 5000 927 Peter
and interesting.
Operations Manager Our mission is to work in partnership
No Panic peter@aspire2.org.uk with national and local mental health The Aspire2 Team
Bipolar UK www.nopanic.org.uk Samaritans charities and organisations by reporting
www.bipolaruk.org.uk 0844 967 4848 www.samaritans.org.uk Connor on their excellent and dedicated work Aspire2 Mental Health Media and
0333 323 3880 116 123 Deputy Operations Manager through a range of media services, Events is based in York. It is registered
connor@aspire2.org.uk including our social media presence, our with Companies House as a Ltd
NSPCC website, events we have organised and, Company but is set to become a
CALM www.nspcc.org.uk Sane Marketing and PR of course, this newspaper. Community Interest Company (CIC).
www.thecalmzone.net 0808 800 5000 www.sane.org.uk
sanemail@org.uk Tiegan Regardless of age, gender, sexuality, This edition of the newspaper is
0845 767 8000 Social Media & Marketing Manager race, religion or social status, mental digital only but in December 2019 we
Depression Alliance OCD Action tiegan@aspire2.org.uk health has no boundaries or limitations. are aiming to print our first hard-copy
www.depressionalliance.org www.ocdaction.org.uk It is embedded in the fabric of every edition.
0845 390 6232 Shout section of society, it is within every
James
www.giveusashout.org person’s personality, and it is the one If you would like to find out more
Public Relations/Media & Digital
BEAT Text SHOUT to 85258 common goal that society shares about Aspire2, enquire about
www.b-eat.co.uk OCD UK Consultant
james@aspire2.org.uk universally and unequivocally. advertising or if you wish to
0800 801 0711 www.ocduk.org contribute editorial content, please
0845 1203778 Victim Support At Aspire2, we passionately believe get in touch at:
www.victimsupport.org Advertising and Sales
that our media services and events can support@aspire2.org.uk or
Gamblers Anonymous 0808 168 9111 make a positive difference, and we’re editor@aspire2.org.uk
www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk PAPYRUS Bobby
aspiring to champion national and local
0845 769 7555 Young Suicide Prevention Charity Advertising & Sales Manager
www.papyrus-uk.org Young Minds bobby@aspire2.org.uk
0800 068 4141 www.youngminds.org.uk You can find out more about us at www.aspire2.org.uk and our
Mencap 0808 802 5544 Finance and Administration social media channels:
www.mencap.org.uk
0808 808 1111 Janet
Finance & Administration Consultant
janet@aspire2.org.uk
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
4 5
Since starting my role with Aspire2, If you think you have what it takes to
I have been promoting the work we become a brand ambassador feel free
We support...
do and increasing our following on to contact any of our social media
social media. pages or email me at:
tiegan@aspire2.org.uk
I reach out to people to create more
awareness of the company and general
mental health. I feel that social media
can be a cruel place at times, so Tiegan’s quote of the month
hopefully I inspire our followers and
sign post people to services that will
benefit them.
I couldn’t be happier in the work I do,
especially knowing that it’s going to
have a positive impact on people.
Hi everyone! I’m Tiegan, I’m
the Social Media and Marketing
I recruit brand ambassadors who are as
Executive at Aspire2!
passionate about mental health as I am;
it’s lovely to see how many people want
Each month I’ll be giving updates
to get involved and share their own
on the work I do at Aspire2 and
stories!
spreading the inspiring stories
and amazing work of our brand
ambassadors.
If you’d like to get involved as a Follow us on social media!
brand ambassador, email me on:
Tiegan@aspire2.org.uk
Hi! My name is Katie, I live in I decided that I wanted to promote
Staffordshire, England and I am a positivity with use of inspirational
brand ambassador for Aspire2. quotes and images.
Over the last year, I have been battling I now have over 1500 followers, and my
with anxiety and depression. The last page continues to grow daily. I write the
few months have been up and down. majority of quotes myself, based on my
I have been fighting a tough battle on emotions and surroundings and I also
a daily basis, which eventually resulted often take my own photographs.
in me having to have some time away
from work. I hope that @mrsspositivemind will
continue to grow, and help others who
In June 2019, I decided to start an are struggling to feel inspired.
Instagram account about positive
mental health. My theory was that Aspire2 approached me and asked if
sharing my story and promoting I would be interested in becoming a
YOU?
positivity would help me with my brand ambassador. I was excited to get
recovery, as well as helping others with involved with such an amazing service,
their own personal battles. promoting good mental health and
offering support to people in need.
ire 2 A m ba s s a dor
As p
Additionally, I thought I could use my
skills as a registered nurse working in
of the month!
I promote Aspire2 on my Instagram
mental health and learning disabilities, page and offer support to our followers.
to influence others. I am looking forward to a bright future
If you would like your mental health charity to appear working with Aspire2 and supporting
Combining my own mental health the service to grow further.
here, contact Peter at peter@aspire2.org.uk battle with my skill set, I started
@mrsspositivemind. Follow Katie’s journey on Instagram!
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
6 NEWS 7
Working Together to Prevent Suicide Ways to take part in WSPD 2019 Further failure at Middlesbrough mental
2019 marks the 17th World Suicide We can all make a difference. There On Tuesday 10th September 2019, health unit forces closure
Prevention Day. First recognised in are many things we can do on WSPD you can join with us and many
2003, it takes place on September to prevent suicidal behaviour. Whether others worldwide who are playing
10th each year. it’s raising awareness of the issue, a part in suicide prevention.
educating yourself and others, showing
Every year suicide is among the top compassion for someone who is in Show your support by taking part
20 leading causes of death across the distress, or by questioning the stigma in the annual IASP Cycle Around
globe, contributing to over 800,000 attached to suicide, you could save a the Globe. From 10th September
deaths, equivalent to one suicide every life. to 10th October we’ll collectively
40 seconds. cycle the globe (40,075km or
24,900 miles). The purpose is to
These staggering statistics are so much raise awareness of the risks of The rise of home schooling
more than a number. Every life lost suicide and raise funds to support The BBC has reported a large
represents someone’s partner, child, prevention activities. increase in homeschooling
parent, friend or colleague. A recent over the past few years, with
study suggests that for each suicide, You can also take part in the ‘Light 48,000 children being home-
approximately 135 people suffer in a Candle’ event, where participants educated in 2016-17 compared to
some way, which amounts to 108 million light a candle near a widow at 8pm approximately 34,000 in 2014-15.
people per year who are impacted by on September 10th as a symbol of
suicidal behaviour. support for suicide prevention. One of the main reasons given by
parents are mental health issues
Suicide prevention remains a universal To find out more about WSPD and and the lack of support schools are
the associated events, visit: A 17-year-old girl has died at Upon speaking to the BBC, a CQC providing for their children.
challenge. For every suicide, 25 people Middlesbrough’s West Lane Hospital, spokesperson said “CQC’s priority
make an attempt and many more have just months after the death of is always the safety and wellbeing of
www.iasp.info/wspd2019/ It’s a serious responsibility for
serious thoughts of it. another 17-year-old girl while in care people using services and has taken this parents, with risks of further anxiety
at the centre. As a result, the centre action to ensure they are protected and
through isolation and lack of
will close. kept safe from avoidable harm.
social interaction being a potential
disadvantage.
Help for suicidal thoughts
The believed suicide of Christine 11 young people were patients at the
IMPORTANT
Harnett was reported in June and Police centre when the decision to close it was
have now began investigating the death made. Alternative care will be arranged However, if a child has extreme
of Nadia Sharif, 17, who had autism and for them as the trust aims to minimise anxiety then homeschooling could
If you're feeling like you want to die, it's Papyrus – for people under 35 be carried out alongside providing
mental health issues. She had been in the impact of the closure on the current
important to tell someone. Call 0800 068 41 41 – Monday to
Friday 10am to 10pm, weekends 2pm Is your life in danger? care for four years. patients. mental health support, at least
temporarily, in order to ensure they
Help and support is available right to 10pm, bank holidays 2pm to 5pm Her father Hakeel Sharif says his Middlesbrough MP Andy McDonald are still accessing education while
now if you need it. You don't have to Text 07786 209697 If you have seriously daughter should have had 24 hours previously said the deaths had raised unable to attend school.
struggle with difficult feelings alone. Email pat@papyrus-uk.org care and the hospital is “not safe for the “serious questions.”
harmed yourself – for kids.” A good way to supplement
Phone a helpline Childline – for children and young example, by taking a The 20 previously mentioned staff were homeschooling can be to employ an
These free helplines are there to help people under 19 drug overdose – call It has now been announced that the
centre will close, following months
suspended for using techniques for
moving patients that were “not in line
external tutor, particularly one where
Call 0800 1111 – the number won't
when you're feeling down or desperate.
show up on your phone bill
999 for an ambulance of intense scrutiny. In March it was with Trust policy.” The father of Christine they can meet with a child in a public
space (such as a library) and carry
Unless it says otherwise, they're open 24 or go straight to A&E. announced that 13 members of staff
at the hospital would face disciplinary
Harnett, who died in June, alleged that
his daughter was restrained without out planned and structured lessons.
hours a day, every day. The Silver Line – for older people proceedings over alleged ill-treatment warning and illegally strip-searched.
Call 0800 4 70 80 90 Or ask someone else to of patients. Before this, 20 workers It is also important to consider ways
Samaritans – for everyone including those 13 at the centre were It was also recently revealed that 13 children can spend time with their
Call 116 123 Talk to someone you trust call 999 or take you to suspended over claims that they used of those staff were still working for the peers, such as enrolling them in
Email jo@samaritans.org Let family or friends know what's going A&E. “non-approved” techniques. trust. local evening and weekend group
on for you. They may be able to offer activities.
Campaign Against Living Miserably support and help keep you safe. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) This is believed to be the first time
rated Middlesbrough’s West Lane the CQC has closed an NHS children’s Tips and legal guidance on
(CALM)
Hospital as inadequate and concluded mental health hospital due to failures. homeschooling can be found at:
Call 0800 58 58 58 – 5pm to midnight There's no right or wrong way to talk For more information visit: that patients were at high risk of
every day. about suicidal feelings – starting the “avoidable harm.” The findings of the report are set to be
conversation is what's important. www.nhs.uk/conditions/suicide www.gov.uk/home-education
released imminently.
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
8 NEWS 9
Former Eastenders actor Dame being well enough to go home, at a
Barbara Windsor has launched an cost to the NHS of over £400 million,”
open letter to Prime Minister Boris it continues.
Johnson calling for him to act on the
social care of people with dementia. Dementia patients also pay a “dementia
tax”, as treatments for the illness can
Dame Barbara, 82, was diagnosed be up to 15% more expensive than
with Alzheimer’s in 2014 and she and standard social care.
her husband Scott Mitchell were made
ambassadors for Alzheimer’s Society The government vowed two years
recently. They have signed the letter ago to publish a strategy to end the
which is set to be delivered to Downing “dementia betrayal” but the letter
Street in September. outlines that plans have been delayed
and immediate investment is needed in
“We’re lucky to have amazing support an NHS Dementia Fund.
but my heart goes out to the many
people who are really struggling to get The government responded by
the care they so desperately need,” saying “we have given local authorities
Dame Barbara said upon the launch of access to nearly £4 billion more
the letter. dedicated funding for adult social care
this year.”
Take a walk
“Alzheimer’s Society has shown us
there is life after dementia, and we "The prime minister has been clear he
want to do our bit to make sure no is committed to fixing the social care
one faces dementia alone,” said Scott, system and will outline proposals as Alzheimer’s Society’s Memory
who has taken care of his wife since her soon as possible” Walks could be right up your
diagnosis. street – literally!
In the meantime, you can help by
“People who aren’t as fortunate to signing the letter. To add your name Dementia charity Alzheimer’s
be in the same position as myself and visit www.alzheimers.org.uk Society is raising money and
Barbara financially are facing a constant awareness of the illness with their
battle to get what they need. I want to “We encourage the fantastic UK public Memory Walks, which can be
do everything I can to help them,” he to give their support by signing this found all over the country.
added. letter. It’s time to end the battle people
with dementia and their families are 1 in 3 people will be affected by
The letter urges the government to facing across the country,” Scott said. Alzheimer’s disease and someone
take serious action to support those develops dementia every three
with dementia and their families, with minutes. With your help, the
£2.4 billion being requested to improve charity can campaign for better
access to the care that they need. dementia care.
“Our experience is of a system that There are three kinds of walks;
Dementia Forward is North Yorkshire’s leading support charity for too often doesn’t care – one that the Memory Walk, which can be
people living with and affected by dementia. is completely inadequate, unfair, between two and 10 kilometres,
unsustainable and in dire need of more the Memory Walk Plus, which is
We provide a highly responsive, personalised information, advice and money,” the letter says. anything over 15 kilometres and
signposting service to anyone whose everyday life may be touched the Glow, which is two to ten
by the condition. We achieve this through our experienced team of “By 2021, a million people in the UK will kilometres in the dark.
dementia support advisors, a local helpline, a dementia specialist have dementia. People with dementia
nurse, home visits, wellbeing activities and educational programmes. and their families often have to spend Registration is £10 and can be
typical care costs of £100,000, and too done online. You can find walks
To find out more call our helpline on 03300 578592, many receive inadequate care. Since local to you by visiting:
email info@dementiaforward.org.uk or visit us online at March 2017 people with dementia have
www.dementiaforward.org.uk Registered Charity no. 1148225 spent more than 1 million unnecessary www.memorywalk.org.uk
days stuck in hospital beds, despite
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
10 NEWS NEWS 11
Social
In essence it isn’t the plant itself but the support and enjoyment.
Plants over pills
opportunities that tending to one offers; It would seem the planting scheme
opportunities of self-achievement, a allows for more than one kind of growth
Prescribing
sense of purpose and responsibility, as and is an encouraging sign for the future
well as the possibility of engaging in of mental health and the notion of
social activities through planting that are situational and bespoke care overcoming
the true medicine. ineffective treatments.
How one practice near Manchester is tackling mental health...
Seeing the first few shoots appear on
your windowsill may be the difference
Whether it is a deskbound cactus or
a living room garlanded with verde-
and Link
One seedling at a time.
Workers
between a good day and a bad day, gloriousness it seems plants make us
the regularity of watering and pruning happier and growing them for ourselves
not only become mindful rituals but a is even better. So perhaps from now on
GPs in Hulme, Manchester, are spaces to enjoy the restorative Depression and anxiety can be purpose to engage with the day and its “plants over pills” and a walk to the In January the NHS announced their
trying to turn those blues green by qualities of nature. Patients are debilitating, causing a loss of sharing that achievement with others park certainly beats queueing in the plan to recruit 1,000 link workers
prescribing a course of gardening given a plant each to take home, enjoyment in activities as well as is an organic way of engaging in social chemists. by 2020/2021. But what are link
and planting as an alternative to tend to and then return to the a feeling of purposelessness all situations and building relationships of workers?
more conventional prescriptions. practice’s communal garden; magnified by isolation and feelings
fulfilling the idea of enjoyment, of loneliness. A link worker’s role is to prescribe
This is being done in the hope closeness to others and any activities or support an
that the mindful practice of plant achievement in one single holistic This scheme (now backed by individual may require to get better.
tending increases a patient’s sense scheme. the city’s health commissioners)
of joy and achievement as well as is an example of what is being You may be thinking ‘but that’s what
encouraging the social aspects of Augusta Ward, a Medical termed ‘social prescribing’, a I go to my GP for’ and that is exactly
communal gardening. Secretary at the practice, said: method in which activities and the problem. It is thought that a
“The plants we will be giving social clubs are encouraged as an significant number of appointments
Odd as it may sound, the benefits people are mainly herbs – things alternative to pills picked up at at GP surgeries are not directly
of tending to plants is no new like lemon balm and catmint, the chemists. Other examples of related to medical conditions.
discovery; looking into social and which all have mindful qualities… ‘social prescribing’ include exercise
evolutionary history human beings having something to care for classes, dance groups and local Patients struggling with anxiety,
have always been drawn to natural brings so many benefits to people choirs all vying for the medicinal loneliness, mild depression and
and green spaces as a source of – especially for those who may effects social achievement has on obesity may not actually require
life and respite. Just think of the not have a garden or be able to patients. the support of a GP but may be
relaxing quality of taking a stroll have pets. The plant is a reason to better served with support from a
in the park or having an afternoon come back to the surgery and get Dr Philippa James, one of the link worker who can navigate them
lounging in the garden. involved in all the other activities surgery’s GPs, said: “I’ve seen how to the likes of gardening activities,
in our garden and make new our patients relax in the garden – dancing lessons, art classes, legal
We humans like plants, and friends.” and how they then get involved advice, volunteer support or even
Cornbrook Medical Practice, in in wider events, which all adds just relevant information and
the inner-city area of Hulme, is to pride in our area. There’s a lot guidance.
fully endorsing a return to this of evidence now about how two
primal treatment by regularly hours a week in a green space Social prescribing offers the kind of
dolling plants out as new living can lift moods – and then that help that you can’t take with a glass
and growing antidepressants; an too has physical, mental and or water, spray up your nostril or rub
‘ecotherapy’ if you will. emotional benefits. That’s on your skin. It’s about creativity,
something we need to socialisation and general support.
Most courses of Cognitive harness.”
Behavioural Therapy (CBT) In addition to the believed positive
refer to a trio of qualities According to a recent study effects for patients, the NHS is
that activities proven to be by Arboretum (a London banking on cost savings and
helpful to those suffering with based environmental improved services elsewhere by
depression, anxiety and isolation society), 42 per cent of freeing up GP appointments and
have: achievement, enjoyment 2,000 participants said that reducing medication costs.
and closeness to others. being around plants improved
their mental health. This figure That’s why the NHS aims to have link
The plans primarily target inner- was even higher in London, where Plants are a great substitute if
you’re not allowed a pet and are workers dealing with up to 900,000
city patients who mostly have no more than half (56%) admitted cases by 2023/2024.
access to gardens or usable natural plants make them happier. therapeutic to look after
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
12 LET’S TALK LET’S TALK 13
Let’s talk...
Something on your mind? Need advice? In this regular section in the newspaper, we’re
offering readers the opportunity to send in any mental health questions you have for qualified
psychotherapist Kirsten Antoncich, which will be answered in Let’s Talk each month. This is a fully
“
anonymous service and your questions for Kirsten will be dealt with confidentially.
A huge heartfelt hello About Kirsten
I’m so excited to be a part of Aspire2. recovery in mental health. Albert
Kirsten Antoncich is a UKCP accredited
I’ve worked in mental health with children Bandura wrote in 1977 that hope is
psychotherapist who has worked in a variety of
and adults for a long time now and I’m essential for the prevention of mental
positions from the NHS to private practices.
passionate about better access to the ill health, for coping with it and for
help and support we all need. recovery.
Kirsten’s research background was in self harm
and suicide ideation and she has written guidance
I’m going to be writing each month Hope can often be absent from
for professionals about supporting good mental
about new developments in mental the therapy room and a loss of it is
health.
health treatment and research. Nothing associated with diagnosis in mental
too onerous, just useful information that health. Many of us know what it’s like to
Kirsten works with children, young people and
will hopefully be helpful. lose hope, so we recognise its gnawing,
adults and is passionate about sharing access to
sinking, isolating grip.
mental health education. You can follow her on
I’m also going to be answering your
Instagram at @kirstenantoncich.
questions each month. If you want to So, what do we do if we have lost hope?
seek support for a particular issue or find If we have battled and still feel no better?
Send your questions to Kirsten at:
out ways of managing symptoms, now’s If we can’t get access to the services we
kirsten@aspire2.org
your chance to ask. It’s all confidential, no need? If we still feel alone, disconnected,
names or personal details will be given and that we will never get better?
out, just a summary of the question and
an answer. We connect; we come together in
communities like this one.
Please note: Aspire2 is sadly unable to offer a
I have spent some time thinking about
crisis service. If you are in need of immediate
what to write in my introduction and I’m Sometimes we need others to hold the
help, please visit your GP or any of the mental
health services featured in this newspaper. These
”
going with hope because it’s such a big hope for us. This newspaper was set
part of my work and such an important up to do just that - to connect with you
include the Samaritans, Mind and CALM.
part of our individual journeys to wherever you are. To offer light whilst
wellness. you are still in the tunnel.
The “Let’s Talk” service is an educational service
and questions and answers might be altered
Hope is one of the greatest predictors of We are here, every month, with you.
slightly to benefit a wider audience of readers.
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
14 ARTICLES 15
We’ve all fantasised about it. Quitting the day job to pursue a dream on our own terms. We’ve
all visualised that lottery win - a celebrity lifestyle. No matter who you are, leaving behind
the security of your daily life is daunting, but being thrust into the spotlight with very little
guidance can be intoxicating and dangerous.
In 2017, semi-professional footballer Sophie Gradon took her own life as she and all the pitfalls that brings, following
Mike Thalassitis threw caution to the struggled to cope with the pressures of two months of living in the show’s villa in
wind, hanging up his boots in pursuit fame following a stint in the villa. Majorca.
of a celebrity status.
But it’s not just the new found fame that ITV bosses have since admitted that
After joining reality TV show - Love takes its toll. they are aware of mental health issues
Island, Mike quickly cemented his place that might come from appearing on
on the celebrity circuit as his popularity When engrossed in the show, viewers Love Island.
rocketed overnight. tend to forget that contestants are real
people, with real lives, jobs and families; Outlining a new approach ahead of the
In March 2019, Mike was found dead. not pawns on a chess board. 2019 series, ITV announced enhanced
An outpouring of grief gripped news psychological support for those taking
channels and social media, with Islanders are subject to torrents of abuse part, training for all cast members
thousands posting of their shock at what from members of the public, which can on financial management and social
had happened. have a real effect on their well-being on media, plus in-depth conversations
their return to social media. with all involved about the impact that
In the days that followed Mike’s tragic participation can have on their lives.
death, mental health experts spoke Many leave to find they have amassed
out about the dangers of reality TV an army of fans, with their social media In addition, a minimum of eight therapy
fame, prompting questions of the accounts often amassing over 1 million sessions are available to each Islander
level of support ITV had offered to the followers in just 8 weeks. once they return home from the villa,
contestants of their smash hit show. with proactive contact being kept up for
Questions were raised about the 14 months after the series ends.
It wasn’t the first time the dating show aftercare that is given to the islanders
had come under scrutiny. In 2016, as they embrace their new found fame
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K
16 ARTICLES 17
FRESHERS:
Written by Alex Morrall
the GOOD
the BAD
and the UGLY
W
ith summer approaching its and takeaways, freshers is certainly not reports of self-harm
uncharacteristically sunny the all-out festival for all that it appears have almost doubled since 2017.
conclusion, leagues of to be for some. On the flipside of all Most concerning of all is the 79%
prospective students up and down the the vodka and frivolity you are also increase in student suicides that took
county prepare to fly the nest, booklist essentially living alone for what may be place between 2007 – 2015 and has
and new bedding in hand to their the first time in your life, anxious about been on a steady increase ever since,
respective new universities. The bags your new living arrangements and eager with the Office of National Statistics
are packed, Mum is crying already, not to make the wrong impression. reporting that on average a student dies
the car is fit to burst and the horizon every four days in the UK from suicide.
is tinted with the giddy promise of a “Freshers week helped me navigate
wicked fresher’s week. Right? living away from home for the first time With statistics such as these
in a long time. I really didn’t expect to it would be safe to assume that student
THE GOOD feel isolated from my home country... welfare and mental wellbeing is of
To preface: Freshers week on the I think what helped me was that many paramount importance, with Universities
whole is brilliant. It’s exciting, inviting, other freshers were feeling the same Minister Sam Gyimah calling prioritising
socially stimulating and a personal way as well as people in my corridor.” the issues ‘non-negotiable’. Using
accomplishment when managed well. - Avery 23, University of St Andrews fresher’s week to establish and gather a
The early weeks of term serve as an wealth of support information should be
exciting rite of passage from home life THE BAD a main objective, as well as registering
to independent living, learning and So, here’s the less awesome stuff. with a local GP and meeting with
friendship. Freshers is a time in which Delving into statistics of the student personal tutors.
young people enjoy a great many things experience is an enlightening (and
for maybe the first time (quidditch club concerning) endeavour. Over three Men seek support the least, only making
anyone?) and start relationships that can quarters of first instances of a mental up 31% of mental health issues reported
last a lifetime and hangovers that feel health issue being reported happen at university, whilst making up 75% of
just as lengthy. before the age of 25. Between 2010 and UK suicide cases. Suicide is still the
2015, the number of university drop- single biggest killer of young British
Despite the copious amounts of alcohol, outs due to mental health concerns men. It is simply too easy to say that
games, fancy dress, casual copulation increased by a whopping 210% and men simply do not report their struggles
Aspire2 Full page Ad 265mm x 313mm with 8mm bleed outlines.indd 1 30/07/2019 15:58:30
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18 ARTICLES ARTICLES 19
well as working alongside charities one (we’ve all seen the crying and into adulthood. And with each new
and organisations such as MIND, confrontations towards the end of a group of people comes a diverse
YoungMinds, Calm, SafeLine and night). Currently, 85% of students agree array of experiences, opinions and
the Universities UK’s wealth of online that drinking and getting drunk is part of cultures colliding together during NUS Advice:
resources. university culture, but this is changing. fresher’s week, a veritable free for all
of young minds. “Don’t be afraid to seek help. If you broke
“I don’t like drinking or clubbing… Figures from the Office for National your arm you’d seek help. It should be the
but at freshers I felt I had no choice, Statistics two years ago revealed the It is a time too for youngsters to same principle for your mental health or
there’s such a massive pressure to drink number of under-25s opting for total put themselves out there, try new any area you are struggling in. 1 in 4 of us
every day, it was overwhelming and abstinence from alcohol had leapt by things, meet likeminded and not- will experience a mental health problem
lonely. The thing that helped was that 40 per cent in eight years, with young so-likeminded peers and discover or disorder, where we may need help
I got lucky with housemates and had people overtaking the elderly as the a wealth of discourse with which to from a specialist. It’s important to get help
someone lovely across the hall” most sober generation. enrich themselves. The nerves are when we need it to prevent difficulties
- Jamie, University of Warwick shared, the apprehensions almost becoming more serious. Also, don’t forget
The pressures to drink appear to universal but the experience of to register with your local GP! Problems
THE UGLY be lessening whilst the acceptance fresher’s is entirely personal. with money, housing, relationships and
No secret is made of the partying of abstaining from alcohol and studying are all common causes of worry,
portion of freshers week. Wristbands, understanding its affects is on the rise, There will always be drinking and your students’ union can provide support
pre-drinks, ring of fire (good luck) and an encouraging sign for the mental parties, dancing and the odd and where necessary sign post to other
countless union events make up a large health and wellbeing of young people. kebab, but that isn’t the end of services that exist to help you.”
Statistics show that male students are much less likely to seek support for their mental health proportion of that first-week student what freshers offers. What it really
experience. It seems easier to converse Organisations such as: Drinkaware, Uni offers is a new beginning. One that
due to embarrassment, societal the country encouraging men to speak with your new flatmates over a drinking Health and Alcohol Change UK all have is perfectly acceptable to take some
pressures of masculinity and ‘not up and out about their own experiences game, starting off awkwardly at the start information and support specifically time getting used to.
appearing weak’. Suicide occurs for a with mental health and manhood, but of the evening over a few wines and for students to understand and control
multitude of reasons and circumstances the battle is far from over to keep men swearing your undying love for each alcohol consumption at university.
and to assume it is simply gender based talking to one another. Being open other at the stroke of midnight after
would be ignorant if not dangerous. about themselves and the first few your third shot of whatever that blue “I didn’t drink much and didn’t really go My advice, as a graduate
weeks of university is a wise place to stuff was. An entire friendship squeezed out clubbing either. For me it was more
But it is true that, for generations, many start. into one evening, glorious. important to settle into a new city…I
societies have encouraged men to be went to lots of activities during the day • Embrace the opportunities freshers offers both daunting and familiar.
hypermasculine examples of strength “I had to help a housemate as he had But with alcohol comes the inevitable which helped me to feel comfortable Remember, everyone is in the same boat as you with just as many new
and stoicism and not to admit they’re been forced to perform an obscene binge-drinking. Overzealous youngsters with my surroundings. The stereotypical faces and names to remember (and inevitably forget and Facebook
struggling. and invasive drinking ritual to remain in determined to be that first week mad fresher’s week can be done in later search later).
the American football society…it was legend, nervous students having a years when you know the best places to • Begin with one person, your neighbour or nearest housemate and
This pressure can be magnified unsafe“ little too much Dutch courage to make go out and still know your way around ‘buddy up’ as you meet the rest of your new living compadres, it will be
whilst embarking on a new life at - John, University of Gloucester introductions easier or the newbies, the city” a lot easier with another person, keep those bedroom doors open at the
university and even more so during the who haven’t encountered such a brazen - Emma, 23 University of Edinburgh start.
performative rituals of freshers. The Freshers week marks the first step in an drinking culture before. The sobering • Wherever possible, begin interacting with course mates before your
image of young, hypersexual, confident educational journey. For all it signifies, (sorry) facts stand as this: arrival, so you have at least a couple of names and faces if all else is
masculinity is one performed at clubs, it shouldn’t however, require the Universities in England found very high beyond you, Facebook, Twitter or any social media sites are great for
bars and student unions across the depredation of a student’s mental health rates of dangerous drinking, with 41% this (it will likely be the first of MANY WhatsApp groups).
nation; to be the life of the party, the or personal wellbeing. Nor should it identified as ‘hazardous drinkers’, 11% • Go to the social fairs – they’re a great hubbub of activity and variety. You
‘big man on campus’, carefree, popular encourage a shift in ideals or introduce ‘harmful drinkers’ and a further 10% as can go alone and stroll through or even better with a new buddy or two.
with the ladies and always out with the pressures to be anyone other than ‘probably alcohol dependent’. • Societies are the best way of finding those likeminded individuals with
lads. oneself. whom you can spend your free time.
With establishments selling alcohol at
• Put yourself out there with something new or find that one thing you
This ideal for young men at freshers Freshers, for all the excitement and extremely discounted prices, and clubs
know will take the stresses of daily activity away and reward yourself for
is preventing men from reporting socialising, should ideally also introduce staying open until the sun comes up,
your hard work by looking forward to it each week.
themselves for support and help if they a new and reliable system of support as the freshers scene enables students to
think they require it. Unable to take well as sufficient signposting to relevant get hammered as opposed to having a • Finally, don’t overthink it; you’ll meet more people than you could
the first step in asking for help, afraid departments and sites dedicated to more casual night out. Freshers is a great time to try new things... possibly remain best friends with during the first few weeks. Every
to drop the façade of manhood and caring for such a diverse and high-risk like paint parties graduate will tell you (me included) they scarcely remember half the
unaware of their own mental health and demographic. Alcohol is a depressive; it’s a downer people they shared freshers with. You may meet your lifelong best friend
wellbeing until it reaches crisis point. as much as it is a mood enhancer. It THE GOOD (AGAIN) during freshers and you may not, both are equally normal. So, stay safe,
Luckily, many universities have changes your brain chemistry and that So, freshers is still wicked, not perfect, stay responsible, eat well (especially before a night out), don’t lose your
The conversation on mens’ mental already decided to act and increased affects your mood. However, that initial but wicked. With each passing academic keys and give yourself a decent night’s sleep before embracing the next
health has increased significantly in the investment in counselling and elated state that comes from drinking year comes a new group of young day’s offerings. You’re only a fresher once so embrace the opportunity
past few years, with campaigns across support services for all students as can quickly turn into a melancholic people eager to take their first steps the way you want to.
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Promote your mental health
charity or organisation for free! SOBER
AND
There’s light in the tunnel
PROUD?
Though Pride is known for inclusivity, those trying to avoid alcohol are often bombarded with
If you would like to promote your mental sponsorships from major drinks suppliers and excessive drinking, which can be a trigger for those
recovering from addiction. Alex Morrall explains further.
health charity or organisation then Pride month concludes with Manchester disadvantaged backgrounds is that of coming in as the most vulnerable
this page could be yours
rounding up with a huge concert in sobriety and addiction. subgroup.
the city’s historic gay village. Across As a community which experiences
the country, Pride month (or months lifetime trauma such as homophobia, Some of the biggest partnerships with
as celebrations span longer) is a time anxiety surrounding identity and pride come from alcohol brands, with
for queer expression, community and “coming out”, the LGBT+ demographic Smirnoff renewing its rainbow bottle for
celebration. is at a higher risk for disorders and the third year running.
addiction relating to alcohol and other
The event itself is a far cry from the substances. Absolut vodka has been working with
political protest it was once centred LGBT+ organisers for decades and
Aspire2 Mental Health Media and Events are looking for positive stories or articles around, with recent iterations favouring So, what does modern pride mean for while these brands manage to raise
a party atmosphere and parades, the inclusivity of those for whom the significant funds for LGBT+ causes
in relation to mental health. We believe passionately in giving mental health festivals, drinks and frivolity. excessive drinking and partying is a (with London alone raising £650,000
service users, national and local charities and organisations a platform to be heard. trigger point? through branding and partners) the
In theory, it is an inclusive time in which huge presence of alcohol sponsorship at
everyone from the LGBT+ community Up to 25 percent of the general LGBTQ pride can be overwhelming to some.
can come together and enjoy a community has moderate alcohol
collective visibility and draw attention to dependency, compared to 5 to 10 There is pressure to drink lots while
salient socio-political issues minorities percent of the general population. participating in the celebrations, as a
currently face. way of cutting loose and letting oneself
Contact sam@aspire2.org.uk However, an overlooked issue within
Some subgroups of the LGBTQ
community have even higher rates of
mingle with glitter covered strangers
in the colourful carnival that is a pride
the queer space, especially those from abuse with gay and bisexual women parade.
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4 Myths about OCD It is important to remember that not 3. You can see when someone has
everyone with OCD has compulsions OCD.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a related to cleanliness, as is often
common form of anxiety disorder assumed. It may come as a surprise that you’ve
involving distressing, repetitive probably encountered many individuals
thoughts. According to studies, 2. OCD is just being a germaphobe. with OCD and haven’t actually
around three quarters of a million realised it. People with OCD are often
people are thought to be living with OCD manifests itself differently in able to suppress their symptoms in
Pride events are becoming increasingly popular, with most major cities in the UK hosting one each summer.
severe life impacting and debilitating different people. Only a fraction of public, especially if they are receiving
OCD in the UK alone. those diagnosed are actually afraid of professional treatment.
This isn’t possible or safe for those with Addiction is an illness, both mental and of the broader adult population, and
germs and have cleanliness related
addiction issues and as the events are physical, with a multitude of complex this trend is seemingly on the increase.
Surrounded by a number of common obsessions and compulsions. A number of patients demonstrate no
so heavily centred around drinking it can causes and contributing factors, but a
misconceptions, OCD is very often visible compulsions. This is known as
often leave those in recovery or sober common fear for those in recovery is As LGBT+ communities continue to
misunderstood. Here are 4 common Some of the common obsessions in ‘Pure Obsessional OCD,’ or ‘Pure-O’
feeling isolated, alienated and not a true that of triggers. see a rise in acceptance so too it seems
myths about OCD. people living with OCD include: and is a subtype of the disorder that
‘part of the community’ - the antithesis is the acceptance of sobriety and
- Fear of a certain word, number or involved compulsions that take place
of what pride meant in the first place. The social anxiety, constant visual abstinence from addictive or depressive
1. People with OCD love keeping colour within the patient’s head. People with
marketing and cultural pressures of substances and alcohol.
things neat and tidy. - Fear of germs Pure-O often don’t recognise that they
Furthermore, pride events are becoming modern pride can be enough for
- Fear of bringing harm to themselves or are living with OCD, as their symptoms
increasingly ticketed, with prices individuals to relapse in their sobriety As a community vulnerable to
“I’m so OCD!” others do not resemble the traditional
exceeding £200 for some major pride journey. alcoholism and addiction it is
- Fear of a losing a loved one depictions of the disorder.
events to allow greater parties and encouraging to hear that young people
Generally used in a playful way while People living with the disorder have
performances. You could say that pride ‘is what you are becoming more accustomed to
someone organises their desk or cleans their own rituals which they use to Just because you can’t see OCD,
make of it’ but it is unreasonable to being sober or being around their sober
their home, it’s a phrase heard all too mitigate the anxiety associated with doesn’t mean that someone doesn’t
This influx of corporate and commercial think one can avoid the presence of peers, there is still a long way ahead to
often without real understanding of their obsessions, these are known as have it.
turnover related to pride events alcohol during the celebrations as it is ensure LGBT+ people who do not feel
the disorder. In many ways, it’s the compulsions.
and shift in priorities continues the just so overwhelming. safe surrounded by alcohol and other
equivalent of saying “I’m so anorexic,” 4. Everyone is a little OCD.
exclusivity of the event and injustice for substances feel ensure in the knowledge
after choosing to avoid having a dessert. Common compulsions include:
those who cannot or will not pay such But there is a hopeful trend occurring pride will not present an increased
- Repetition of certain movements Affecting 12 in every 1,000 people in
prices for a supposedly inclusive and amongst British young people, one of number of triggers.
OCD is a serious mental illness marked - Hand-washing the UK, people often confuse the fact
queer orientated event. sobriety and acceptance.
by high levels of anxiety and emotional - Tapping or touching objects that they like something to be done in a
Pride is supposed to be among the
distress. Those suffering with the illness - Cleaning excessively certain way with OCD, however people
“It’s a lot of money in most cities Funnily enough, it appears it is the older pinnacle of safe places for LGBTQ+
- Hoarding with OCD don’t want to have it, so their
to go somewhere surrounded by generations with a greater distaste for folks but only through maintaining the might have cleaning routines, but that
doesn’t mean they enjoy them. They compulsions are not something they
drunk people where everything is sobriety, with just over a quarter of conversation on sobriety in the queer
Symptoms very between individuals and want to do. You can’t be ‘a little OCD’ -
commercialised and expensive.” people ages 18-24 identifying as sober community will it become the truly keep things clean and organised to
avoid experiencing the anxiety that the are prone to change during a person’s you either have it, or you don’t.
– John, 25, Coventry in 2017 compared with just over a fifth accepting event it is supposed to be.
lifetime.
illness can bring.
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Thursday
Despite the clear benefits, it could be
some time before businesses begin
adopting the four-day week policy en
masse; not least those companies that
do not operate a standard Monday-to-
Friday structure.
is the new
“[The four-day week] works for us
because we’re a small business in a
niche market. Retail would be difficult
because you have to have staff there
every day – so you would just hire more
staff. We haven’t needed to do that, we
Friday
just work a bit harder and we’re more
focused,” Neil commented.
The team at The Intrepid Camera Company, let by Director Maxim Grew (centre). The Confederation of British Industry
has opposed the four-day week
proposal on the basis that “more
Neil Knowles, who is the director of the Aidan Harper is a founding member of
flexibility, not less, is needed.”
company, started the four-day week the campaign, and he believes that the
Ultimately though, it will be for
With the four-day week attracting interest from policy in February. fundamental working structure of the UK
employers to decide if the policy
needs to change.
businesses all over the UK, Aspire2 investigates “I was looking at it for a while, so I
benefits their businesses and more
importantly, the mental wellbeing of
the positive effects this could have on the mental found out a bit more and did some “At its heart, the 4DayWeek campaign
their staff.
research. It looked like a really aims to politicise working hours. It
health of employees. good thing to do. We’re still closely feels in the last few decades as though
With the results of The Labour Party’s
monitoring it and it’s too short a time our Monday-to-Friday work structure
investigation into the impact of a four-
to finally decide if it’s something has become crystallised. It has been
T
day working week due in September, we
his year in the UK, several In a white paper published in July by didn’t discuss it ever ending so we still permanent, but it’s been positive so far,” changed in the past and it can be
hope to see more companies starting to
companies have trialled the Henley Business School entitled Four have it. The overall wellbeing of the Neil said. changed in the future,” he said.
look into the benefits of reduced hours
four-day working week – where Better or Four Worse, 78% of employers staff, in terms of social bonding at work for their staff, as evidence shows that it
employees are paid for five who had adopted the policy said that and having everyone on the same shift Like with The Intrepid Camera According to Aidan, a reduction in
positively benefits employees’ lives and
full days but have Fridays off. Many their employees were happier. 70% has meant that relationships between Company, Elektra is experiencing a working hours is crucial for people to
their mental health, as well as saving
of the trials have been a success, with of employees said that their mental staff are better,” Maxim said. boost in staff morale without negatively have happy lives in the UK.
companies money by reducing sick days
increases in productivity as well as wellbeing would improve as a result of impacting the company’s bottom line.
and increasing productivity.
reductions in the amount of sick days the four-day week and 69% said that “Everyone seems happier too. “The Government’s Health
staff take. their family lives would be better. There has been a noticeable shift “We’ve had no reduction in turnover, and Safety body has shown Aidan’s final suggestion is one to
in positivity at work and the job and we all have Friday off which I would that workplace related anxiety, employees: once you’re out of working
With workplace stress levels rising in the Aside from this, the study reveals that not being seen as a burden. Our say is a success. We were worried clients depression and stress has gone up hours, try not to reply to work emails
UK, mental health in the workplace is businesses who have made the change productivity has also gone up quite wouldn’t be able to get to us, but in the last few years, to the point of or pressure others to reply to theirs.
becoming a major talking point, and the have made savings already (£92bn, a lot,” he added. they’ve been very supportive and think being a crisis. The biggest cause It is important to put your personal
four-day working week could provide a in fact) and that the policy would our four-day week is great.” Neil added. of anxiety, stress and depression life before your professional life and
big boost to our mental wellbeing and have a major positive impact on the The extra day off has allowed Maxim’s is overwork, and we’re constantly understand that others might want to do
enable us to find that perfect work-life environment. workers to spend more time on their Elektra’s staff have had more time to burning ourselves out,” he said. the same.
balance. hobbies and focus on what makes them become more invested in their hobbies,
But how is it working out for those happy outside of work. but Neil himself is thankful just for the When you go back to the issue of sick
If you’re interested in the 4DayWeek
After all, we spend a third of our adult UK businesses who have made the extra day off. days, “one in four were as a result of
campaign, you can sign up at
lives at work (with up to another third switch? Another major benefit is the reduction overwork and the effect that it has on
www.4dayweek.co.uk
spent sleeping), which means we have in unplanned absences. “We’ve seen a “I’ve got children so it’s the only wellbeing.”
little time to enjoy hobbies and family Maxim Grew, who is Founder and massive reduction in sick days as a result I get where I don’t have to be
time in the way we would like. The four- Director of The Intrepid Camera of the reduced working hours,” Maxim at work or look after my kids “This isn’t an individual problem – there
day working week has received interest Company in Brighton, introduced the said. which makes such a difference. are self-help books and articles for your
from political groups, including the four-day week policy to his staff at the Just having time to myself is an stress and wellbeing but ultimately it’s a
Labour Party, who are in conversation beginning of this year. He says it has Elektra Lighting Design, another astonishing luxury,” he said. problem that’s inherent in the structure
with economist Lord Skidelsky about the been a success so far. company currently with a four-day of work. We need to change that
effects of the UK adopting it as a policy working week, has also seen a reduction The UK’s potential four-day week is structure so that work fits around our
– with a report set to be published in “Initially we signed up to the four-day in unpaid absences: 1.59% compared to being spurred forward by the 4DayWeek needs as individuals and society,” Aidan
September. week as trial until February, but we their 2.81% of 2018. Campaign, which was founded in 2016. added.
ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U K ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2019 W W W. A S P I R E 2 . O R G . U KYou can also read
