That sounds like a really positive thing to aim for! And it's good that you are being realistic about how much you are able to commit and that it may be a longer-term goal. However, it's worth looking around now and seeing what is out there and what would suit your abilities and interests.
I have been in and out of hospital in the past and am currently quite stable, although still under mh serivices, and have been a volunteer for the past year, helping out in an art group at a mh inpatient unit. It's once a week, and I help to support patients in making the art work, especially those who need a bit of extra help and guidance. I really enjoy it, it's very rewarding, although at times stressful as some of the patients are really unwell and it can remind me of my times as an inpatient. However, it also remindds me of how far I've come and it's good to see other patients gradually recovering and being well enough to be discharged and go back to their lives outside.
It might be worth asking around various local mh serivces and seeing if they need anyone to help out with running a group. Another option is becoming a befriender to someone with mh problems, where you might meet them once a week and take them somewhere like the cinema, cafe etc. Having experienced mh problems yourself could be a real advantage as you would have an understanding that many wouldn't.
I found my volunteer job by asking around, contacting mh serivces in my area. Often, you local MIND will have volunteer opportunities and activley encourage those with mh problems to apply. Also, websites like do-it.org have volunteer posts advertised. Other charities that might want help with campaigning and awareness raising are Rethink and SANE and there might be others that are smaller local ones too.
Good luck with it and I hope you find something that you enjoy!
|
