Greig
'Well?' – it's a name that I will never forget. It's become a part of me in many ways; something I never could have imagined. Since contacting Rocket Science after the initial advert for young people to form an editorial team for Well in early 2004, my life has changed so much, and all for the better.
As a Community Learning and Development student and as a youth worker, I have always been interested in promoting wellbeing and supporting young people. I have also had a keen interest in mental health and wellbeing for many years, and for that reason my supervisor encouraged me to apply for the position on the team.
The process of building the magazine was surprisingly swift but action packed, and we went through every emotion by the time the draft was ready.
The eclectic mix of young people in the team was amazing. Our different strengths, abilities and knowledge all fused together and made us a stronger entity.
I am immensely proud of the Well magazine. We totally re-designed it and pushed it in new directions. I'm very proud to be part of its history.
However, it's the ripple affect of Well that's been the most surprising thing for me. I have kept in contact with most of the team and are good friends with some of them; something I never considered when I first started the project. I thought we'd just work and that was all. I am glad to say that was not the case.
Professionally, it has also opened new doors for me. I have been asked to do talks locally about the magazine and about mental health, because teachers and other professionals have read the magazine. They found it an excellent resource and I hope that it's been useful for them.
I was also invited to help by being part of the young people's committee; to plan for the young people's health conference which was held in Glasgow at the end of August.
I loved every minute of my experience with Well. It's opened many doors for me and given me opportunities that I would never have had without it. I'm very grateful to all the workers in the various agencies and organisations that helped play a part in the magazine, and the conference too.
When the call goes out for young people to help with Well, I would encourage you to answer it. Who knows what opportunities you will receive, and I promise you won't regret it!
Do you have a personal story you would like to share?
Telling your story can help others feel less isolated and help raise awareness about a range of mental health issues. To find out more or to comment on any of the stories you've read here email: wellscotland@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
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