Episode 7 with special guest Sarah Waltman

In this candid episode, Sam and Richie open up about their personal mental health journeys, the challenges of medication, and the crucial need for support and understanding. Tune in for real talk and practical advice on navigating tough times.

In section two, Sam and Richie welcome Sarah Waltman from Hummingbird Holistic Therapies CIC. Sarah shares her story of overcoming domestic violence through energy healing and Reiki. She provides insights into cord cutting and energy web theory to manage emotional burdens and discusses the development of the Humminbird Holistic Family Hub and its holistic service offerings. Strategies for working with both survivors and perpetrators to break the cycle of violence are explored, along with the role of mental health, hormone testing, and social support in holistic recovery. The importance of community collaboration, funding, and resource sharing across charities is emphasized, along with future plans for a rehab center to rehabilitate medium and high risk offenders. Practical tips for parenting, emotional intelligence, and preventing social isolation are shared, along with personal anecdotes, humor, and encouragement to take actionable steps.

Join the movement to break cycles, empower survivors, and foster community resilience. Whether through holistic therapies, education, or collaboration, every effort counts in transforming lives.

Main Topics:

• Personal experiences with mental health challenges and stigma
• The impact of medication, ADHD, and antidepressants
• The role of social media and online interactions in mental well-being
• Strategies for managing mental health and seeking support
• Promoting community, openness, and kindness

Resources & Links:

• Samaritans - Free confidential emotional support
• Text Crisis Line - Support via text message
• Benzodiazepine information - About medications Richie mentions
• Self-help strategies for mental health

Connect with Sam & Richie:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• TikTok
• Email: minesonthemersey@gmail.com

Note: Remember, it's okay not to be okay. Reach out, talk to someone, and support each other.

Welcome to episode 2 of Minds on the Mersey.

In part one, Sam and Chris chat about mental wellbeing coping methods and strategies, as well as how they spot signs of poor mental health.

In part two we had the pleasure of having the incredible Carly Openshaw as our first ever guest. We spoke all things ADHD/Autism, how Carlys CIC tiny tools for big feelings are helping families in our region, what families can do to get the help they might need, and what her ambitions are for the future of tiny tools for big feelings.

There was even some chat about corrie, and the worst joke you'll ever hear on a podcast. And that was just from Chris!

Thanks to our show sponsor, Pigin Bun fermented sauces.

https://www.piginbun.co.uk

You can find all things Tiny Tools for Big Feelings @

https://www.tinytoolsforbigfeelings.co.uk

It's a landmark occasion as we are now a video podcast!

In this episode, Sam and Richie dive into a variety of engaging topics — from updates on their Mersey Mind Project and its upcoming charity football match at Prenton Park, to reflections on football legends, the rising costs of sports apparel, and their adventures abroad. They also share personal stories, discuss the impact of football on mental health, and explore everyday challenges like card fees and inflation. They talk about

• Upcoming Mersey Mind Project charity football match at Prenton Park on May 16 and fundraising efforts
• Relaunch of Walk and Talk groups for mental health support and community engagement
• The significance of football in mental health and strong father-son relationships
• The effect of football legends like Mohamed Salah and their influence on young fans
• Experiences of traveling abroad to Ireland and Latvia, discovering hidden gems and cultural differences
• Insights into the creeping costs of football merchandise, especially England kits, and their impact on families
• Concerns over rising fuel, energy, and living costs, and frustrations with ticket pricing at Liverpool FC
• Personal anecdotes including taxi stories and family moments during international breaks

• 
  

In part two, the lads are joined by Jess Trigg from Positivity Club CIC. They explore innovative approaches to mental health, emphasizing early intervention, emotional literacy, and resilience-building strategies for children, teens, and adults. Discover how fun, interactive activities can break down barriers, foster self-love, and nurture emotional intelligence across different age groups.

• Jess shares her personal mental health journey and how it inspired the creation of Positivity Club.
• The importance of early emotional education and the role of play in learning about feelings.
• Strategies for teaching children to identify and regulate big emotions with tools like characters and emojis.
• How to involve parents in mental health initiatives and support children’s emotional development at home.
• The impact of inclusive, safe spaces for children and teens to express themselves authentically.
• Practical approaches to reduce mental health stigma among men and within communities.
• The influence of social media, societal expectations, and toxic masculinity on young boys and men.
• The importance of outdoor activities and nature in supporting neurodiverse children and those with ADHD.
• The role of adult groups in fostering community, self-expression, and ongoing mental health support.
• Jess discusses the significance of diagnosis, self-compassion, and understanding neurodiversity.
• Insights on how societal and educational system changes can better support emotional and mental wellbeing.

• 
  

If you have any questions, suggestions, or if something is going your head in, get in touch at mindsonthemersey@gmail.com

https://www.mindsonthemersey.co.uk

To sign up for all the activities that Mersey Mind Project have to offer, visit

https://www.merseymindproject.co.uk

For everything Positivity Club, visit

https://www.positivityclubcic.co.uk