Two years ago I could not dream of a future. To me all of this is amazing.

Voluntary work with Colebrook Housing is doing me a world of good and I would urge anyone to join. The best bit about it all - is that it's fun - and it's for everyone.

Six years ago I became extremely unwell, and spent time in the local psychiatric unit.

The first six months I find difficult to remember, apart from the fact that I know I was scared.

My Personal Low

My life consisted of frequent overdoses and disturbing thoughts night and day. I remember that the idea of time was difficult to understand.

The Drop Inn - a chance to relax and take it easy

I would think that a second had passed and four hours had gone by.

I did not know who or what sort of person I was.

I did not know what I enjoyed or what I was capable of - my memory became very erratic.

I was placed in supported housing with Colebrook Housing Society for my own safety.

A brighter future
I have since moved on and now attend the Colebrook Drop Inn at the weekends. Every week a meeting called the Focus Group is held.

During one of these meetings there seemed a lot for the administrators to do, so I offered to lend a hand.

Then a few months later the Community Fund awarded Colebrook Housing with money for a volunteer co-ordinator - amongst other things.

I was asked if I wanted to become a volunteer. I had really enjoyed helping out and my confidence had grown. So I filled out an application form and had an interview.

Barbara is now studying for CLAIT

I'm now volunteer in the office for Colebrook.

It's a great opportunity for me. I am learning and developing all the time.

My voluntary work is also taking me on to do other things. I have recently applied to do a CLAIT course - I can't wait for this to start.

With the support and enthusiasm of the people here at Colebrook, I can continue to build a positive future for myself.

The Plymouth Mental Health Forum can be contacted at Hazeldene, Plympton Hospital, Plymouth PL7 1QR