I'd never heard of Mind Over Mountains until I came across an ad on Facebook. At the time, I had just returned to the UK and was struggling to fit back in. I was feeling anxious, and I needed some support. This seemed perfect for me.  I didn't expect much more than being able to go on a walk and meet nice people. I trusted it was going to be a safe space, and while the walk itself was taken at a slower pace than I’m used to, it was amazing to do this as it really enabled us to make connections along the way. I came away with six genuine, I would say long-term, friendships.  

The walk was a catalyst for hope and personal growth. With hindsight, the lasting impact is more than you can image from just one walk. I’d never been part of such an accepting, non-judgmental community before, or been in a non-judgmental space like this, especially around mental health.  

My experience with Mind Over Mountain has told me, you’re normal. This is life, and the rubbish stuff happens, and it’s ok. It's not about something being wrong, it’s about how you live with it, through it, over it, around it. That acceptance has been massive for me. It’s given me the confidence to just go for it; this is who you are- wonky, quirky! - and that’s you, so just live with it. Accept it.  

I’ve become a lot more open about sharing my own struggles, so that others can be encouraged and supported. It's also reaffirmed my passion for creating safe spaces. 

If you’re not sure about signing up for an event with Mind Over Mountains, I would say: just come and experience a safe place, out in the hills, where you can be yourself. Meet amazing people, be outside in nature. You won’t regret it.