When I was 16 a CD changed my life. The cover was a picture that had been ripped out of a magazine, you could see where it had been torn, and the tracklisting was written on the back in biro, artist then song, 1 to 23. Two words were written on the CD itself. You’ve Changed, this time in sharpie, underlined. This handcrafted mix had a profound impact on me. It was given to me … [Read more...] about You’ve changed: a playlist for life
mental health
Look after yourself: a personal story of mental health
It’s a tantalising prospect, living, when you think about it.A couple of weeks ago the sun came out and seemed to fill us all up, like an injection of vitamin D. I felt it. I was at work, doing a few deliveries, and it really felt like the first day of Spring, the start of what was. I texted a few friends. ‘Hope you’re enjoying this.’ A few replied. A few didn’t. We’re … [Read more...] about Look after yourself: a personal story of mental health
Why do we need a Year of Childhood?
‘Great news!’ I said to my chum. ‘2021 has been declared The Year of Childhood in Scotland.’ She looked underwhelmed. Then thought for a bit and asked: ‘Hang on, haven’t we already had a Year of Childhood?’ ‘No,’ I said. ‘That was the Year of Young People.’ ‘Ah! I see…’ Her eyes glazed over. ‘So when do we get the Year of Disgruntled, Disillusioned 45-Year-Olds?’ Happy new … [Read more...] about Why do we need a Year of Childhood?
Easing out of our lockdown bubble
It may be hard for us to remember now, but when we first moved into lockdown, many were highly anxious about the impact it would have on us. The rush in sales of toilet paper, pasta and rice was symptomatic of a fear that we would not be able to leave our homes to buy the most essential items. The concept of no contact with loved ones or colleagues was unfamiliar to many. … [Read more...] about Easing out of our lockdown bubble
Poverty Safari: growing up with ACEs and toxic stress
In his semi-autobiographical book Poverty Safari Darren McGarvey reports that when he talked to the media and spoke at meetings, people wanted him to tell them about ‘his dead mum’.Darren’s personal story is acutely dramatic and it’s easy to see how the media would be drawn to its more sensational elements. But humans, as a species, think and communicate in stories. So, … [Read more...] about Poverty Safari: growing up with ACEs and toxic stress