Friday 17th November 2023
The Wee Retreat

Unity Family Services hosted a powerful and inspiring event, “Taking Care of Your Mental Health,” at The Wee Retreat. We were joined by an incredible panel of speakers who shared their expertise on key aspects of mental wellbeing, sparking conversations that left attendees feeling informed, supported, and uplifted.

Dr Cathcart opened the session by exploring how vital sleep is to both our physical and mental wellbeing. She highlighted the role that habits, behaviours, and our environment play in achieving restorative rest. Attendees left with practical tips on improving their sleep routine, reminding us all that small changes can make a big difference.

Dr Ghouri guided us through the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety, conditions that affect so many but are still often misunderstood. She spoke with compassion about the importance of recognising these challenges early and offered coping strategies that attendees found both relatable and achievable. Many people shared that this discussion helped them feel less alone and more empowered to seek support.

Closing the programme, Dr Dar spoke about the incredible influence that words have on our thoughts, behaviours, and overall mental state. She encouraged us to consciously choose words—both in how we speak to others and ourselves—that nurture growth, positivity, and resilience. Her session reminded us of the strength we all carry in everyday language.

Alongside the expert talks, the event created a safe and welcoming space for open discussion. Attendees were able to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others over a warm cup of tea. The feedback we received was heartwarming—many expressed how reassuring it was to learn from professionals while also feeling part of a community that truly cares.

This event was a beautiful reminder that taking care of our mental health is not something we do alone—it’s something we can strengthen as a community. We’d like to thank our incredible speakers, our team at Unity Family Services, and most importantly, all the attendees who joined us.

We hope that everyone left feeling more equipped with tools and insights to take into their daily lives.