Member's Story-Tracey's Journey

This weeks blog features Tracey who.has found Designs in Mind to be of massive benefit to her wellbeing.

I asked Tracey how she found out about the studio, she shared how her initial first day drew her in: "My mental health nurse brought me in to Designs in Mind. I remember saying to her that I don't mix with people , but there was something very special about Designs in Mind, it drew me in and I kept going back, that was quite a few years ago."

I was interested in how from.that initial intrepid introduction that Tracey experienced, has led to her being a valued member and someone I very much enjoy mixing with on our shared studio day. Tracey shared:"Designs in Mind has helped me so much and still is!I get quite emotional when I think about it, how much it makes me feel better about myself. My lack of confidence is a ongoing thing,  I know I'll always struggle with it , but I'm able too say it's has definitely improved."

Tracey gets involved in other sessions too, as she's clearly prepared to work towards her wellbeing, even though she admits her lack of confidence, it's great to see her at Singing group. Tracey shared: "I've started singing group again, which lifts my mood. I've also really enjoyed the ceramics focus group ."

Practis Ceramics witn Paul Bohanna Tracey's work

I asked Tracey if she wasn't a Member with us, what support she'd have otherwise? Tracey said"If I didnt attend Designs in Mind, I know I would definitely be going to my GP a lot more.

I asked Tracey what she gets from attending:"Sometimes when I'm having a bad day, just sitting and doing something creative is so helpful, it's nice to have a chat with staff and other Members and of course have a cup of tea as well!"

I wondered what things Tracey's liked working on a Designs in Mind? "There's a lot I enjoy, Ceramics, Collage, Papercut, Linocut. I find embroidery is the one thing that really helps my anxiety, when I'm sewing I feel more relaxed."

I asked if there was a particular favourite project: Tracey shared:"I've loved doing the pocket's project  and if there's any embroidery going on in the studio I enjoy getting involved."

Tracey's pocket, Ceramic Fish plate and Ceramics practice

When writing the Members Journey blogs, I often ask members to think about where Designs in Mind may have encouraged more plans for there life. This can be a difficult question, especially when we are experiencing our own mental health challenges , however Tracey was very honest with herself and me with her reply. I admire her willingness to answer, as it shows wisdom.and good self care strategy: "I never let myself have too many plans, I guess having anxiety disorder, and the problems that come with that,make it hard to plan . I'm grateful if I can just keep myself in a stable position and I know Designs in Mind certainly helps  me to do that. I really look forward coming in to the studio every week."

Many thanks to you Tracey for sharing your journey so honestly. I hope that your personal story would inspire those who may feel shy or lacking in confidence to give us a try.

Blog Written & researched by Willow, Member & Social Media Coordinator