A letter of hope from BeWell@StepOne participants

Dear reader,

Well done for reaching out for support and understanding.

I just wanted to let you know that whatever you are going through you are not alone.

I myself felt alone for many years, but through peer groups I found tools to help me make progress, one step at a time.

It is important to be patient and to be kind to yourself. Take your time and congratulate and reward yourself for the steps that you have already made.

Take the time to look back and to see how far you have already come and the achievements you have done.

Try to be open to different approaches, it is very easy to focus on the negatives, the things you haven’t accomplished, instead of what you have achieved.

If you try one tool and it doesn’t work for you, please try another way to manage your anxiety. There are many available so please be open to venturing to new ways.

You will find your way. It will be individual to you but know that the rest of the group will be there to support you.

The positives of peer support are that the group are very understanding and will have had similar experiences. The group is non-judgmental and empathetic.

There is no right or wrong and no silly questions or answers, we will help you find your voice and you will be heard.

There may be times when you feel overwhelmed and that you cannot cope, but it is OK to not be OK. At these times take a step away from your negativity and show yourself some compassion.

Joining a peer support group will enable you to make new friends and feel part of a community or family, who will understand where you have been, where you are, and where you can go to create a better future or new adventure.

We look forward to seeing you. You are welcome to join us.

Kindest regards,

Step One Anxiety Peer Support Group.