#BeingBipolar - Reactions

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After much research, discussion and reflection, it's apparent that there are an array of conflicting opinions and views regarding the Channel 4 Documentary "Being Bipolar" which aired March 4th at 10pm. Each view as valid as the next, but here's some of the issues raised and positive points that have been highlighted.


Firstly, the title - 'Being Bipolar'. This instantly created animosity as those living with bipolar ARE NOT their diagnosis. They are do not become bipolar itself. They are simply human beings like everyone else living with a mental health illness called bipolar. You wouldn't name a documentary about those with the flu 'Being The Flu', so why is that ok when it comes to mental illnesses?

The documentary certainly sparked a lot of discussion about bipolar, what that means for those living with it, and what it's like for the loved ones of those diagnosed with bipolar.

In a world, where taboo topics of conversation still exist, and where fear and silence fills any space where there's a lack of knowledge or understanding, it was great to see a topic being openly discussed on such a large scale...or is it?

Some people are of the opinion the documentary could be damaging towards the reduction of stigma surrounding bipolar as not all conversations stemming from the programme will be well-informed or healthy. This is partially due to the ill-informed presenter, and her heavily biased direction within the documentary.

Those arguing this point highlighted her approaching the programme with preconceived ideas about bipolar. However, others have the opinion that there was nothing wrong with that. It is said that viewers with little or no knowledge would be approaching the programme in the way. With ideas about bipolar, what it is and what causes it, and so the documentary could be used as an exploratory programme. As long as the presenter and viewers bring forward their preconceived ideas with an open mind to discovering new information and taking on the facts, what was the issue?

The presenter's views gave the documentary a footing, a place to begin investigating. Were her views widely agreed with, and if not, what other possibilities are there? What facts are well established by experts? However, even when presented with factual information, she seemed unable to detach herself from her initial view points which tainted a lot of the information conveyed.

Could the researches have chosen a more well-informed presenter, or was she chosen for a planned purpose? Did their approach work? What could be improved for next time, if there is one?

Despite the documentary taking this exploratory approach, there was a heavy bearing on psychological therapy being the ONLY right and proper course of action for those needing assistance with the symptoms of bipolar. Of course this is simply not true. There are a range of medications also available, although in many cases that I have learnt of, there is a good result of better management when a happy medium is balanced between medication and physiological therapy.

After reading through many discussions, and watching the programme a second time, it became clear that there wasn't much of a balanced argument for medication from the presenter. Many were left feeling as though those on medication were being portrayed as weak. Of course, in reality, the need for medication is not a weakness by any means. The fact that those in difficult situations have taken the courage to reach out and seek the help they have needed shows true strength, as being open and honest with admitting we are struggling with what we are dealing with can be incredibly difficult.

The documentary, in my opinion, clearly demonstrated that bipolar can be a entirely different experience for each person, and that there is a great need to focus more on the individual and their needs, rather than their diagnosis label. This is something which I believe to be vital in discussions. It has become so easy to see a a diagnosis and mark someone with that label, yet that does not give any insight into each individual person's life, experience, or needs. Even with a diagnosis, no two cases are the same, and there is not one solution for all. In fact it is quite the opposite.

It highlighted and important point. Is there a solution at all? The cause of bipolar is unknown, and it was evident from the programme that experts in the field have conflicting theories due to lack of researched understanding, and therefore there appears to be no cure, no solution to fix, but there any many options and possible pathways to management of the symptoms which appears to be key in living life with bipolar.

Overall, I think the documentary highlighted key points in discussions sounding bipolar- how there is no concrete answer for its cause (or whether there are many causes), the lack of understanding by experts of what is actually happening in the body or mind during a bipolar episode, or if there is even a cure. It's an area of medicine thoroughly lacking understanding. Though, 'Being Bipolar' demonstrated how vast the experiences of one diagnosis can be, and displayed true life experiences without stigmatizing or giving in to stereotypes, opened up opportunities for discussion and paved another step forward in reducing the stigma surrounding one of the many mental health issues. However, it was massively let down by the biased view of the presenter and her inability to 100% let go of her preconceived ideas, the massive weighting that had on the direction of the programme and the information it sought out, the title itself, and the negative attitude towards medication as a whole.

One thing is for certain, it has sparked a lot of emotional reactions from many of it's viewers. Positive or negative, conversations have been started, much to the delight of mental health campaigners!


Want to know more, or need to talk? Here are some helplines/places of information for the UK.

The Samaritans
08457 90 90 90
Talk to us any time you like, in your own way, and off the record – about whatever’s getting to you.

NHS Urgent Care Service
111
You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice but it’s not a life-threatening situation.

Mind
0300 123 3393
Mind are open Mon-Fri 9am to 6pm, to help you make more informed choices about your situation. Perfect if you’re struggling with life decisions.

SANE
0845 767 8000
SANE runs a national, out-of-hours mental health helpline offering specialist emotional support and information to anyone affected by mental illness, including family, friends and carers. Open every day of the year from 6pm to 11pm.

AUK infoline
08444 775 774
The AUK infoline is available to provide information and advice on the appropriate self help resources and products available to support people with anxiety

Young Minds Parent Helpline
0808 802 5544
Currently Young Minds only provide a helpline for parents who are worried about their child’s mental health

Mind - www.mind.org.uk/

SANE -  www.sane.org.uk

The Importance of Remembering Our Fallen Heroes - Remembrance Day

On the 11th hour of the 11th day on the 11th month, 1918, The First World War ended. By this point, there were over 37 million casualties (both military personnel and civilians) worldwide; making World War I one of the deadliest conflicts in history. Now, on the 11th hour of the 11th day on the 11th month, people come together for two minutes of silence in respect of those that have fallen. What would the world have been like without those soldiers? Why is it important to remember our fallen heroes? And why, do we only take the time to remember them once a year?

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Remembrance Day

The First World War ended at 11am on the 11th of November in 1918, with the last shot being fired at 10:57am. Over 4 years of bloody battle had ensued between some of the world’s greatest economic powers, including, of course, the United Kingdom. Over 1.63 million military personnel from the UK were wounded during these 4 years, with a further estimated 800,000 killed. It was one of the deadliest wars in history and it shook the entire world. Now, every 11th of November we hold a Remembrance Day, for all of those who lost their lives or were injured.  Poppies are generally worn in the lead up to Armistice Day, another name for Remembrance Day, in support of the fallen troops and The Royal British Legion charity. Crowds then gather at memorials all over the country on the 11th of November, with the most popular being at The Tower of London. People wait with bated breath as a cannon or gun signifies the beginning of the two minute silence. For those two minutes, we’re encouraged to think about those who lost their lives in order to fight for our freedom. When the two minutes are up, people begin to chatter away again, and life seems to resume as normal.

What would life be like now?

What would life have been like without the courage of all those who fought in World War I? Would you even be reading this blog post? It’s doubtful. If Germany had won World War I then life would be very different now. Experts believe that many of our rights as British citizens would have been stripped away, along with the public lives of our country being demoralised. There is even talk of the British economy collapsing completely, meaning that we could have become an impoverished country. Perhaps even third world. There’s no doubt in my mind that you certainly wouldn’t be sitting here and reading this, if it wasn’t for those brave soldiers.

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The Importance of Remembering

So, why is Remembrance Day so important in the UK? Many people throughout the years have tried to sabotage the day, believing it promotes war and the suchlike. However, I don’t believe that this is the case. We can’t change the fact that World War I happened, but we can respect and remember those who fought for our freedom. It is vitally important that we show our gratitude to the families of those who were lost in the war, whilst also raising much needed funds for those who are injured in combat; this is what your money goes towards when buying a poppy from the Royal British Legion. I do also believe, however, that we should remember our fallen heroes for more than just two minutes once a year. After all, these brave men and women battled for more than two minutes in their lifetime. They should be remembered throughout the year, for their courage and determination. Without them, there’s just no knowing what life would be like now; although chances are, you would not have the freedom you have today.

Please remember to give thought to our fallen heroes as often as you can, whether that be on Remembrance Day, Christmas Day, or any day when you have a few moments to spare. 

Lest we forget. 

Do Something Good

On December 13th of this year, I will be donating my hair to The Little Primcess Foundation

Read my story here: https://www.justgiving.com/Lucy-Roberts12

If you feel you can donate, please do, but this post isn't about donating to this cause.

But thanks to The Hair Lounge, Merthyr Tydfil for doing the cut free of charge! Visit their website here: http://the-hair-lounge.co.uk

Or visit their facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Hair-Lounge-Merthyr-Tydfil/157436554326715

Our news headlines and media are filled with negative stories. Seemingly more so recently, so here I pose an idea to each of you.

Do one thing a week (or day, or however often you can) to positively impact someone's day. This could be as simple as giving someone a call to check how they were, or helping someone with their shopping, sharing a smile with a stranger. Whatever it is, no matter how small, do it!

You never realise how much of an impact that small act could have.

In a world where horrific images, and sickening stories can surround us, why not put something positive back into the world the live?

With a bit of hope, this will resonate within the recipient and will be passed on in a chain reaction. Don't wait for someone to act in kindness towards you. Start the reaction yourself.

What wil you choose to do?

Halloween

So here is my first every video upload. I've no idea what I'm really doing, but it's all practice, right?

What could be better than Halloween lanterns, good films, tastey food, and great company?

This was such a great night filled with laughter.

Here's a little snapshot to share with you all and for us to remember.

Click the link below

http://youtu.be/_9_0dI8mRI4

The Future

Recent events have lead me a lot to think about life and my future.

#1 The Weddings

As most of you know, I attended two beautiful wedding (check out my facebook profile for the photos) of friends I've know for as long as I can remember. It was such a blessing to be a part of the special days and really see people come together to start a new life as one.

I've been known by a lot of people for being independent, and I've always considered this a good point. Unfortunately, I've also always considered being single a major part of this. After attending the weddings, I've realised, that being part of someone else's life, and letting them be a part of yours is not a bad thing if you are both compatible in what you how, and tolerate the other person. I've realised that having close relationships with people, whether it be friends/family/love interests does not necessarily have to directly impact your independence as a person.


#2 Friends

I was also fortunate enough to have my closest friend to make the 4 and a half hour journey each way to come and stay with me for the week (I'll blog about our adventures soon), despite me working over 8 hours a day! Between this lovely visit and spending some time catching up with what people are doing via social media, I've realised that you have to make the most of appreciating those around you.

I've touched on this topic so many times, but I feel now I've really made peace with it. I've had a lot of friends come and go in my life, and I've sometimes been bitter when they're no longer around...but I've realised that throughout life, everything is constantly changing. Often, day to day those changes aren't noticed, but when you look back at your life you see how much you've changed as a person. So we shouldn't be bitter when those we care about change so much that the relationship you had with them isn't the same.

I guess this comes under accepting people as they are. We often think of ourselves as growing up, and as we learn, we form our own ideas/beliefs about things. We become exactly who we want to be, but we often forget that everyone else is doing the exact same thing. Nothing in life is constant, especially people.

So, I've learnt to make the most of the time you have with those you connect with, because that connection may not last. It may, but you the future is not promised, and it definitely is not certain... enjoy spending time and making memories with those you care about, because in those moments where you find yourself alone, it's those memories that will keep you company. With this said, I'll soon be making a post with just a collage of photos that I look back on and smile at with a little comment for some!

#3 Parents

I think as we grow up (or even when you're fully grown adults), our parents can definitely get on our nerves more than most people... usually because they care and are the most constant people in our lives.

Since staying in North Wales, and my parents being on holiday in Europe or back in South Wales, I've realised how much I appreciate my parents in my life. As much as some days it gets annoying having to text everyday (sorry Mam, I know you'll be reading this), I would not choose to spend one day without my parents. I don't think I have ever realised how much they've done/still do for me... or even them as people. My Dad is my absolute hero, and my future husband (God willing) better take some lessons from him! My Mam is just always, always, always there and I don't think I could be loved more by anyone else in the world. No, I don't share every tiny detail of my life with them (sorry!), but they're definitely the two people I'm closest two, the first I call when things go wrong, and definitely the first I call when I have good news.

I don't think we can ever fully appreciate the value of our parents until we start to build our own lives. I could never imagine building my adult life without them!

(I'm working on making enough time for them and the rest of my family. I'm so bad at keeping in touch!)

My Future

I've never thought it wise to make a very definite choice, for a very uncertain life, but this is one decision I'm happy to make...

I will make my future one where the needs of those around me come before my own, where my family (especially my parents) know how much they mean to me, those closest are shown are great they are as people, where my free time will be filled with as much voluntary work as possible, but also one where I care for myself as much as those around me.

Live a life worth living, not a life less lived

Threaded Canvas and Lucy's Crafty Keepsakes

Here's a quick update on everything.

I haven't kept to my blogging schedule: i apologise!

I've recently started working full time and have set up my own business.

Firstly: the job.
For all those wondering, I'm now working in North Wales at a factory owned by PV France. I'm really enjoying it, but it takes up 8 and a half hours of my day, Monday to Friday, so I've considerably less time to blog to start with!

Secondly: the business.
I've also recently started a business called Lucy's Crafty Keepsakes. Here's the link to the facebook page: www.facebook.com/lucyscraftykeepsakes.

I'm currently running a free give away if the latest status reaches 20 likes by 8pm this Saturday!

Thirdly:
As of today I've become an affiliate of Threaded Canvas. It's a website that uses minor artists work to print on t-shirts mainly, and the artists themselves get a cut of the profits.

Please check out the website. There's now a link on the right hand side of my blog.

You can pay to receive a box a month with different t-shirts and a piece of art work by the chosen artists that week!

Fourth and last thing:
Thank you all for bearing with me recently. Especially friends and family as things are pretty hectic at the moment.

Over and out!

Lucy

Bedlam Behind Bars

A while ago on TV (BBC I believe), there was a programme called 'Bedlam Behind Bars'.

It looked into whether there is enough being done to support prisoners with mental health issues in America.

A lot of people will have the view that prisoners deserve everything they get, and I understand that sometimes people use mental illness as an excuse to commit crimes. It's not an excuse by any means, but if a prisoner had a physical illness, they'd be helped, so is this the case with mental illness too?

There is still a lot of stigma surrounding mental health issues, and some people still do not believe it exists...but the truth is, it does.

Whether you believe prisoners get things too easy, there's no denying that any illness needs to be treated whether that be physical or mental.

The documentary brought some seriously worrying scenarios to light, that was said to be common practice throughout the states.

Some details in the next paragraph you may be sensitive too...

The documentary visited a couple of prisons. However, Cook County Department of Corrections held the highest percentage of prisoners with mental health issues. Many sufferers were tied up in 4 point restraints, and some have even died from being left there through dehydration. One clip was shown of a psychiatric nurse striking a prisoner who was experiencing a schizophrenic episode. One prisoner was being so badly, his heat stopped due to his chest being compressed, and passed away. Five years later, and there was no punishment for his killers, but they were still on paid leave pending investigation. Almost 100 people with mental health issues have died from abuse or neglect since 2003.

During a short interview with the owner of one of the prisons, he said that mental health was being criminalised.

The programme highlighted some serious issues. It came to the conclusion that the mental health illness sufferers who could not access the treatment the needed, would end up in prison. It even went as far as to say prisons have become asylums.

So, this programme highlighted many problems in the American criminal justice system. Whether you believe criminals get everything they deserve or not, this is a breech of human rights.

How common is this throughout the states? And is this the case for the UK criminal justice system too?

It's never possible to tell whether documentaries are showing a balanced view. This one seemed to show so many negatives, and not one positive. I believe this was to highlight the situations that should not happen.

Many people will say it was biased, but I believe it was to demonstrate the desperate need for a complete overhaul of the mental health system in America.

It was a hard watch, and I'm sure this is NOT ALWAYS the case 100% of the time, but it was shocking that people with mental health issues are still treated like animals.

It needs to change!

One Hundred Moments of Happy #OHMOH #1

I've decided instead of doing 100 days of happy, to create 100 moments of happy so that I'm not tied down to making sure I post every single day!

#OHMOH - pronounced 'oh - mo' - #1

Today is my moment of being happy thanks to those who have helped me in my first stages of becoming a blogger.

I'm going to share these with you:

Firstly, Miss Rebecca Walton, AKA Bex:
As one of the founders of Minds Like Ours, I came across Bex through Minds Like Ours (click here to find out more about them) and soon discovered her work online. This was my first inspiration to properly try and start blogging.

She has found time to help me by answering my questions, and I'm very grateful for that.

Be sure to check out her blog here: www.happinesspain-rainbowrain.blogspot.co.uk/ (though I'm sure this link may be changed soon).

Comments

I appreciate everyone who takes the time to comment on any of my posts.

I'm not going to mention you all, but I will mention Sam Weatherly, and her beautiful blog (www.dreamingofwdw.com/).

Sam was the latest to comment on any of my posts, and I just love her blog, so she is representing all of you who have given me a 'happy moment' by taking the time to comment!

Huffington Post

The people at Huffington Post kindly agreed to giving me my own account in order to post onto their website - www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/lucy-roberts/

This gave me massive publicity at one point when the charity 'SANE' and 'The Black Dog' campaign both posted by work about a mental health consultation with Nick Clegg. (click here to read)

Yet, another happy moment!

I've mentioned three things there, but they have all added up to my happy moment being my first experiences in blogging and the help I've received to get started.

Thank you!

The Garden Centre

There's one place that I love to go no matter what time of year it is - garden centres.

Today I took my grandparents to a garden centre (that they love visiting) for lunch.  Despite the drizzle that showered every once in a whole, it was a lovely day.

First we had some lunch, then came the fun part - exploring the shop!

I'm quite sad when it comes to this kind of thing, and I love looking at all the different coloured flowers and the patterns they make. 

I also love the cute little bits and bobs you find in a garden centre that you won't find anywhere else. You know the type. The unique, chic, homely kind. What you can't find in one of these shops, isn't worth finding! (Slight exaggeration, of course).

The garden centre in question had a whole corner dedicated to Yankee Candles. Now, I for one love the assortment of smells and colours, but despite this, I find them rather over priced. So, today I just enjoyed the sights and smells they had to offer.

I ventured off on my own, leaving my Nan choosing which candle she was going to buy to discover the canvases with quotes, cute little owl ornaments, and other statues/candles. If I had all the money I wanted, I would have bought one of almost everything here.

When we finished shopping my gramps presented my Nan with a choice of two packages. He wouldn't show or tell us what they were. My Nan chose one, and I had the other. It was a car air freshener. Not just any air freshener...a Yankee candle air freshener.

I'd never heard of the 'Sand and sun' fragrance before, but after opening it and placing it in my car, I love it.

Whever I go, and whatever the weather, it smells like summer at the beach in my car - perfect.

    

What a lovely day.

Life...

This weekend, I attended the wedding service of someone I've known for as long as I can remember.

They had the most beautiful service, and of course the bride looked stunning. Everything about it was perfect. The decorations, outfits, the order of services that were given out, the atmosphere...just everything!

It only seems like yesterday that the groom, his sister, my brother, and two other mutual friends (who lived in the same village as us, and went to the same school etc etc etc) used to build snowmen, and try to create igloos. The quote we would all give you if you asked any of us to name one from playing out in the snow was "my numb is bum". I think the cold got to her head a little!

It amazes me how quickly time is going, and how much changes as you grow up. I'm only 19, but things have changed so much from when we were those children out playing (especially in the snow!), and the movies nights and 'get togethers' as we got older. Now we've all moved on and are living all over the country - Bristol, Leicester, London etc. One is married (and another soon to be). Everyone is moving on with their lives.

We've all met some incredible people who we now call our friends, we've done some amazing things and had some great experiences. We barely keep in touch, but when we all meet up it's like there's never been any time apart.

To think we've grown so quickly to being in the same primary school, to now living independently, having jobs/studying at university such seem crazy.

I guess the point of this post is to just say:

• People come and go in your life - appreciate the time you have with them, even if it's only a moment
• Appreciate life for what it is - every changing/a series of experiences, make the most of each one
• Time doesn't ever stop because you want it to
• Make the most of being in the moment - you'll never get another exactly like it

Make a list of what/who you're grateful for and make sure they know it!

Here's a small part of my list:

• Family
• friends (including those who I don't keep in contact with. I'll always cherish good memories and time with great people)
• Acquaintances - the people I don't know the names of but who have brightened my day with little things like exchanging a smile, or moving your bag on a bus for me to sit down, holding the door an extra second so it doesn't slam in my face etc. 
• The every day things - having a bed, a home, warmth, heat, everything I want, most of the things I want, an education, clothes, the very thoughtful and kinds messages/gifts from friends (especially when there's no special occasion!), a nice conversation, people caring, photographs, memories.... I could go on
• The big things - having my work published in a book, modelling, travelling to Italy/Malaysia/Australia/France/Switzerland, my car

I'm sure the little things/big things should be the other way around if it was judged on how important they were to me. The list could go on forever, but writing it all down makes you realise how blessed we all are.

I've realised it's the people I meet that I appreciate most in life. So many people come and go, but looking back, every person I've met has taught me something. Whether that's not to judge, or to accept people as they are, or that not everyone/everything in life is bad, life is what you make it and it's far better when you're accepting of things for what they are, don't try to change people, I could go on... but here's a big thank you to everyone who has impacted my life and taught me something, no matter how it was taught, I'm now in a place where I can be grateful for it.

Appreciate those things on your list whilst they are there, because they may not be tomorrow.

I'm sure I didn't appreciate the happy snow days (for example) anywhere near as much as I do now. Looking back, it's the smallest, simple, everyday things I enjoy and appreciate more - being with genuinely great people I call friends, not the material things in life.

I've realised how many people there are that need to be made aware of how great they are for who they are, not for what they do...now for reality to resume...ie.bed time!

Feel Good Sunday #1

This is a week late, but it will be the first in the series of weekly Sunday posts.

It's usually feel Good Friday, right? Right, but with people usually dreading going back to work/school/university/normality on a Monday morning, Sunday nights can be all doom and gloom. So each Sunday will be a positive blog with a new mantra you can use that week, because who couldn't do without a little positivity?



#1 : The Butterfly Theory

Recently I spent almost two weeks in North Wales (watch this space to find out more about it). During one of the days we visited a place which held a room full of butterflies that would fly around you as you walked through.

Now, this got me thinking, as most things do when I least expect it... These butterflies always appeared beautiful. They flutter on by as they have no other way of getting around. So I thought, wouldn't it be great if we could live our lives like this.

Let me explain. Throughout life we meet some amazing people who always manage to keep a smile on their face no matter what circumstance they find themselves in. They manage to appear to keep moving forward no matter what they're facing, much like butterflies appear to.

Is this always the case?

These people seem flawless in their approach to life, but we all know no one is perfect. So how do they do it?

Step One: a positive attitude

I'm going to call this step 'flutter'.

Some people find this difficult, but if you look closely enough there will be something positive to take from every situation, every moment, every day of your life, even if you have to make that positive moment happen for yourself. This is what keeps people moving forward. They don't dwell on the negative.

Step Two: Smile

I'm going to call this step 'appear'.

We are all automatically drawn to someone to is smiling, and it is scientifically proven that smiles can be contagious. So, even if you're not having the best day, smile. Create that bit of happiness for someone else. If you're having a good day smiling can be a lot easier, and of course this is good to share with the world.

We often look at butterflies and see how beautiful the patterns their wings are. No matter how they may feel, on the outside they look great... so why not see smiles in the same way? This isn't about pretending you're ok, or hiding how you feel, as self expression is an important part of life. It's simply about sharing or creating happiness through smiling.

Step Three: Take time out

I'm going to call this step 'rest'.

We only ever seem to notice the butterflies that are flying around, attracting our attention. However, an important part of their life (and ours), is to take time out to rest and just be - to take a look and evaluate our life - enjoy the moment so to speak. We're often so busy, that we don't take time to enjoy the moment we're in now and recharge our batteries so to speak.



To sum up...

• Flutter - keep moving forward with a positive attitude


• Appear - remember to smile and share happiness with others


• Rest  - take time out to rest and enjoy the moment you're in

You could carry around a little piece of paper in your purse with a butterfly drawing on to remind you.

If you have any other ideas of how to remember this one, comment below.

- Flutter - Appear - Rest -

Coming Soon...

Attention please...

*Drum roll please*Cue brass fanfare*

This Sunday will be the first in a series of 'Feel Good Sunday' blogs.

It's usually feel Good Friday, right? Right, but with people usually dreading going back to work/school/university/normality on a Monday morning, Sunday nights can be all doom and gloom. So each Sunday will be a positive blog with a new mantra you can use that week.

Also Coming soon will be a series of teaching ideas, lesson ideas, websites etc etc that can be useful when training to be a primary school teacher as many of my friends and I am.

I'm contemplating running a series of artsy crafty bits and pieces, but I'm not sure I'll have the time yet, so we'll stick to these for now!

All other blogs will be about my life and the things I've been up to - 'My Life'.

 "Until Now" will be all the blogs I've posted up until 04/07/14.

The links to each blog series will be available at the side of my blog when that series is up and running.

Quick update

It's been almost 2 months since I blogged last.

For those who have been waiting for an inspiring blog post or something enlightening: sorry to disappoint.

Things have been pretty busy my end over the last 2 months with university assignments and teaching practice (who knew there was so much paperwork?!). I've been working longer hours than should be legal, but I wouldn't change one single thing about any of it.

Quick round up of near future plans:

- finish teaching practice
- carry our summer adventures
- visit friends
- sell more art work
- create more art work
- find more time for music
- start up a twitter account for daily inspirational quotes

Soon after teaching practice, there'll be a blog update of everything I've learnt over the last year, but for now just know I'm so very grateful for: those amazing people and friends that I've met, the people who still stand by me (and me by them), those who have been through the not so good days and still stuck around, those little things everyday that have made me smile, for growing up, and lastly for every single little thing about my life at the moment.

No, that doesn't mean it's perfect, and it never will be, but I've never been more content than right now.

Blogs to come soon:
- things I'm grateful for
- things I've learnt over the last year
- what university life has taught me
- why teaching is the best career
- weekly summer blogs
- what I've been up to (including art&music) and future plans

For now, here's a little drawing I've started. Inspiration taken from a feather!



It's the little things in life that matter most.

Society

When will anyone care without suffocating or hidden motive, for personal gain or selfish ambitions?

When will humanity simply be, stand strong individually, but unite together and support each other?

 

Where is the sense of community in society?

An isolation lingers with nothing to fear,

Or are we blinded by everything, so that nothing becomes everything and so fear is found everywhere? Fear of the unknown. We’re surrounded by the unknown: a world of mysteries, and mysterious beings.

 

Is to be right, right? Or is wrong right, and right wrong?

Is it the old battle of dreams Vs reality?

What is they’ve blurred into one?

 

Not in the sense of getting to live your dream,

But if your nightmares become your reality,

Where’s left to escape or hide?

 

If you’re afraid of judgement,

Yet judge that stripper on the street,

Does that mean you’re afraid of yourself?

 

Or is fear the very thing keeping us safe?

An automatic response mechanism for protection from danger,

That same danger society seems to find in every stranger

 

But isn’t our society a group of strangers,

With decreasing sense of community, compassion and caring?

 

We put danger from a stranger in our minds,

When all along they could be someone to make your day that bit better.

Does that mean the fear of stranger danger is a real concept?

Or something solely created to live in our minds?

 

Is everything in our minds reality?

Do our minds unlock the door to possibility?

 

You see possible can become impossible,

And impossible can become possible,

Depending on the absence of presence of thought and mind

 

Take situations as you find them,

And live in the hope of a possible reality,

Not in the imaginary possibility

 

The world is full on contradiction

The world preaches imagination, but punishes the creative inspirations,

Encourages dreams, but discourages chasing them,

Screams for truth, but silences that which MAY offend

Craves love, but teaches fear,

Blinds you from danger, but warns you to suspect everyone and everything

Demands you to be yourself, but segregates the different, the unique,

Calls you to be part of society, but unless you stick to the status quo society doesn’t want to know

 

I’m saying now to be yourself.

Live your life. Be conscious of other’s wants, needs and beliefs, but don’t bend your own just to fit. Listen, appreciate and adapt accordingly.

Be an adventurer, inventor, a creator or be the supportive, encouraging and loving.

Acknowledge everyone’s different, and appreciate the beauty of that.

Accept everyone is a warrior in their own battle,

But never forget we’re all connected in the existence of humanity.

All flawed, but perfectly natural.

Student Union Elections

It's that time of year when the campaigning starts to win your votes and become a representative of the SU.

So, this is my first year in university, and so it's my first time experiencing this time of year in the university calender! However, I've written just a couple of things to keep in mind over the voting period (10am on Monday the 24th to 5pm on Thursday the 27th!):

- Were there things you weren't happy with this year, but weren't heard?

Vote for someone who you believe will listen and keep to their word! It's important you have your views heard, and there are candidates who will listen and do what they can to improve your experiences.

- What do they stand for?

Take good time to look into what each candidate stand for before you vote! It only takes 5 minutes on www.tsdsu.co.uk . Don't agree with what they stand for? Then, don't vote. Simple.

- Are the reliable?

The chances are you're not going to know this unless you know the candidates personally. So, get to know them. Keep an eye out for them around campus, ask them questions, or send them a quick email/facebook message. It's usually easy to see if you're being fed a load of lies, or if their heart is really in it.

- Invest time in voting

Most people reading this won't have got this far into the blog post, however, if you have, PLEASE make sure you vote for who you want to represent you. You can't expect to have your say or your voice heard if you don't take the chance to vote for who respresents your voice when it matters. These representatives will be the ones taking the time to make the changes you want to see, so the least you can do is take the time to vote at www.tsdsu.co.uk

Happy campaigning/voting!

Dan for Carmarthen SU President!
https://www.facebook.com/DanDoyleForCarmarthenPresident

Sophia for Carmarthen SU Vice President!
https://www.facebook.com/votesophiaklitou

Flora for Lampeter SU President!

Beth for Swansea SU President!

https://www.facebook.com/VoteBethForPresident

The Latest Social Media Craze

The latest social media craze of uploading a bare faced 'selfie' has recently taken over the internet. Women all over the world are uploading a bare face photo of themselves and donating £3 to cancer research by texting BEAT to  70007. The idea is then to tag a few friends so they do the same, etc. 

The initial reaction from a minority was one filled with negativity (as there always is), but there's no doubt that this latest trend has led to a significant increase in the funds raised for cancer research despite the instigation of the trend not coming from a cancer research charity. The initial cause was to lower the age of smear testing after the latest news of a young female who passed away after being denied a smear test. Click here to read the full story. However, Cancer research UK has noted an increase in funds of £2,000,000 due to the #NoMakeUpSelfie trend.

Click here to see Cancer Research UK's reaction.

However, there will always be a minority of those who upload their picture for their own vanity. Are we as a society becoming more concerned with how we look rather than the major issues people face every day? There's no doubt the majority of those joining this latest trend have the cause close to heart and are doing what they can to keep that in mind and act on it...but is it enough for those others to simply post their photo to try and make themselves appear to be doing good?

Baring your face to the whole world via the internet can be a daunting thing to do, however, it seems this isn't being appreciated and the 'haters' are more concerned about how society is moving on in the way we raise funds for charity. Whilst traditional methods of fundraising involve the person needed to put a lot of effort in to achieve their goal and gain sponsors, or involve a physical and face to face interaction, the online campaigns still achieve the fundraising needed. Is the method important as long as it's an honest one?

The sheer volume of responses to this latest trend is definitely the mark of a milestone showing how technological advances are changing the way the world works.

There's no way to avoid technology on a day to day basis, so is there an issue with utilising this online access to the world wide public? It opens up another avenue for individuals to become lazy, but also, it's a great source of widening people's knowledge and understanding of the world around them, and bringing major issues to light.

 

So, is the negative response from the minority the right one?
More importantly: Will this campaign pave the way in which funds are now raised, and cause traditional good deed methods forgotten?

You decide.


View my latest HuffPost blog here: http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/lucy-roberts/breast-cancer-selfie_b_4992424.html

Live Every Day Like It's Your Last

(Short blog inspired by song. Link to be found below)

"Live every day like it's your last"
 Such a common phrase thrown around. We all agree with it and then carry on our lives as normal.

Stand back and take a good look. Do you live every day like it's your last? Do you appreciate every moment possible to make it the best life you can?

I'm not one for big grand gestures, but perception of life can ultimately determine how you live it.

*Brace yourself for a controversial statement*
I think we ALL could live our lives that little bit better regardless of who we are, where we come from, our age, or how busy our lives are.

If someone said to you "today is your last day. Spend it wisely", would we let fear stop us taking the chance of achieving what we want? Would we let the people we love slip away without telling them? Would we take for granted the simple things?
I know I wouldn't, but we're all different.

Life is for living and so often we let petty arguments, possessions or fear get in the way of what we truly love and appreciate. What a waste, right?!

Everyone is different, and appreciates different things...but where we all come together with common ground  is a need to find what matters to us and appreciate it/make the most of it.

Life your life. Don't let fear stand in the way of happiness. Appreciate every moment of your life: it's worth living.

If today was your last day, would you spent it this way anyway?

Click here to listen to the song that inspired this blog

Minds Like Ours

Many of you who read my blog are aware of a mental health non-profit organisation called Minds Like Ours.


Here's everything you need to know:
"In July 2013 BBC Three ran a mental health season called “It’s A Mad World” . It featured many incredible programmes including Don’t Call Me Crazy, OCD Camp, Inside My Mind and Diaries of a Broken Mind. Taking part in Diaries of a Broken Mind was a young woman called Bex, who lives with agoraphobia. Once the show was aired Bex could not believe the positive response coming from people all over the internet; it gave her an idea.


Just three days later…

3 days after Diaries of a Broken Mind was aired Bex and a friend James put together Minds Like Ours."                                    - Taken from the Minds Like Ours website

What we do:

Minds like ours is a non-profit organisation ran by those affected by mental health for those also affected by it.

The forum creates a large community feel where all sorts of discussions are held and we all get to know each other. Our aim is to stamp out the stigma surrounding mental health and provide support for those who are affected by it.

How you can help:

Are you or a loved one affected by mental health? Would you like to share your story? To get involved head to the website : www.mindslikeours.co,uk

Check out our shop here: http://mindslikeours.co.uk/get-involved/shop/

Links:

- Website

- Forum

- Twitter

All other Minds Like Ours (MiLO) social media activities can be found from the website.

Please check out these amazing blogs from MiLO Directors/Ambassador

Bex Walton:houseboundceo.wordpress.com/ / http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/rebecca-walton/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/XebNotlaw

Kimbereley Chastney: http://www.thehopefulhummingbird.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KimmoBug

Mia Gahan: http://miasstuff2013.tumblr.com/post/72096339112/13-unlucky-for-some-definitely-not-for-m
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MiaGahan

The Typical New Year Blog Entry

I bet no one was expecting this blog...NOT.

Ok, so this is a bit predictable, but anyhow when having a relaxing bath earlier I thought I'd go for it.

This time of year is one where a big divide is put into society. There are those who declare they will become a new person at the strike of midnight, and there are those in reality. That's a tad harsh, I know. However, New Years Eve shouldn't be a time to focus on all the things we don't like and want to change about ourselves/our lives. It should be a time to celebrate our lives and the positives...whether that be simply having a roof over our heads, access to warm water/electricity, and bed to get into every night: a time to be grateful for ALL the little bits and pieces.

It's always the little things that have the biggest difference, so if you take into account all the times someone cared enough to ask how you were and be genuinely interested, all the times a random stranger smiled at you on the street, all the time you DID get to see those you care about (not the time you didn't), all the little accomplishments like getting out of bed when that seems impossible.

You see, those things are so often not noticed because they don't scream out "THIS IS A BIG THING", but it's these things we should be more grateful for :)

So, if New Years is a time filled with bad memories, why not take this year to make some new memories.

Grateful for all the little random things that made you smile even for a second? Thought so. So why not take control of your happiness and also brighten someone else's day:

For Yourself:
One of the directors at Minds Like Ours, Bex, posted about this earlier and I thought it would be good to share it here to:

For Others:

An idea: to leave little inspirational messages on sticky notes at random public places for people to find. One smile could change someone's day :)

Quick mention of a very lovely, inspirational lady, Kimbereley!

Please take time to check out her blog
http://www.thehopefulhummingbird.com/2013/12/12-days-of-mental-health-day-1-social.html?m=1

Cheese Spread Sandwhiches

An unlikely inspiration for a blog, however, cheese spread sandwiches are exactly what inspired what you're reading now. Also, how could these sandwiches change someone's life this Christmas?

It's often the smallest deeds that have the biggest positive impact on someone's day.

This morning my father came in and made me some sandwiches. So, this isn't an unusual occurrence for me, but I don't think I've ever appreciated it as much as I should since coming home from university for Christmas. You get so used to looking after yourself and having no one to do anything for you, so being back at home is amazing!

It reminded me, at this time of year so many people feel so much more lonely than the rest of the year. They feel so much more isolated. So many people spend it with their family and friends. What about the people who have no one?

So you're wondering what's this got to do with cheese spread sandwiches, right? It reminded me how much doing a little deed for someone can make them feel loved and there's no better feeling than that. Also, no worse feeling than being alone and having no one.

How great would it be if everyone took their time to do one small thing for someone they care about or someone who has no one else this Christmas just to make them feel cared about? Whether that's popping to the shop for someone, or even just sending them a Christmas card.

There's no better excuse to do something good for someone than Christmas.

And that's how cheese spread sandwiches could turn someone's day around.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!