Small steps...

Claire Henson
Mar 31
2 min read

Over on the #somewhatanxious social media channels today, I talked about the need for small steps when returning to accessing public spaces, particularly wide open spaces such as parks and recreational green spaces.

When I lived on my own in a flat in Nottingham, I went through a significant decline in my mental health and even leaving the flat was problematic. One day, I walked to the postbox and back and found that I could do that with minimal discomfort. I continued to do this (not sure what my neighbours actually thought!) and then as the weeks passed, I began to add additional bits onto my journey each time. One night I decided to walk up towards the river much further than I had before and I found that because I pushed too far, I experienced a panic attack, which set me back and left me feeling like I didn't want to go out again. But I made myself go back to walking to the postbox and then increased my steps and my circuit each week. Some days were harder than others and it wasn't easy, but alongside the support from professionals, I found myself increasing my tolerance gradually and felt better able to manage my anxiety as and when it came up.

I've had to use this technique many times before and I know I will need to use it again in the future, but I know it's there and it works. You don't have to do it all at once, you can take it at your pace.