Living with a vision impairment can bring unique challenges, including feelings of isolation, anxiety, or frustration. Talking about these struggles can help ease stress and build connections with others who understand. Opening up to someone you trust can offer a fresh perspective and help you navigate challenges. Remember, it’s okay not to be okay. Prioritizing your mental health and seeking support when needed are positive steps toward greater well-being and resilience. This Time to Talk Day we thought we’d remind you of some of our groups and services.
Helping You Stay Connected and Supported
Vision Supports has launched a new Men’s ‘Time to Talk’ Group in North Wales, offering a safe space for men with vision impairments to connect, share experiences, and support each other. We also run a virtual ‘Time to Chat’ social group, providing an accessible way to engage in conversation from the comfort of your home, designed especially for people with all levels of vision impairment.
Additionally, we offer a free counselling service, helping individuals with vision impairments navigate mental health challenges with professional support.
For those looking to boost their mental well-being through physical activity, we also run weekly gym and swimming sessions at Brio Leisure, Northgate Arena, Chester, creating an inclusive environment for people with varying levels of vision to stay active and connect with others.
You can find our upcoming groups on our events calendar here https://vision-support.project1031.com/home-page/get-involved/events-calendar/ or simply get in touch by calling us on 01244 381515 for North Wales, 01244 478910 for Cheshire or 0151 5117260 for Halton.
Five Ways to Support Your Mental Health
1. Prioritize Self-Care
Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading or listening to audiobooks, or simply taking a break, talking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
2. Stay Connected
Social interaction can be more challenging if you’re having a hard time. Staying connected is vital for mental health. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support. Consider joining our ‘Time to Chat’ virtual group for social engagement in a welcoming and accessible environment.
3. Spend Time in Nature
Engaging with nature can boost your mood and reduce stress. Even a short walk, relaxing on a park bench, or listening to birdsong can enhance well-being and provide a sense of calm. Nature can generate many positive emotions, such as calmness, joy, creativity and help with concentration.
4. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity not only improves fitness but also releases feel-good chemicals in the brain, helping to boost your mood and reduce stress. Our weekly gym and swimming sessions at Brio Leisure, Northgate Arena, Chester, are designed to be accessible and inclusive for people with different levels of vision.
5. Seek Professional Help When Needed
Talking to a professional, such as a counsellor or therapist, can help you explore your feelings and work through difficult situations. If you’re struggling, speaking to your GP can also provide guidance and access to further support. You can also take advantage of Vision Supports’ free counselling service, designed to provide tailored support for people any level of vision impairment.
Urgent Support Lines
If you’re struggling and need someone to talk to, support is available. While GP appointments and counselling may take time, these helplines can provide immediate assistance, especially if you’re in crisis.
- The Silver Line Helpline – 0800 4 70 80 90
A free, confidential telephone service run by Age UK, offering friendship, conversation, and support for older people, available 24/7. https://www.thesilverline.org.uk/ - Samaritans
Available 24/7, 365 days a year for anyone who needs to talk:
Call 116 123 (free from any phone)
Welsh Language Line: 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm daily)
Email: jo@samaritans.org or visit https://www.samaritans.org/
Some branches offer in-person visits. - Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
If you’re affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts, you can call CALM on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight daily) or access their webchat service for support. https://www.thecalmzone.net/ - Shout
If you’d prefer not to talk but need urgent mental health support, text SHOUT to 85258 for a free, confidential 24/7 text service. https://giveusashout.org/
Having a vision impairment can sometimes feel isolating, but you are not alone. This Time to Talk Day, let’s start more conversations and support one another.
