Offload Cumbria: How Activity-Led Sessions are Revolutionizing Men’s Mental Health Support

The peer support mental health group, Offload Cumbria, has recently introduced activity-led sessions to support men’s wellbeing. Established in 2020 by Liam Edmondson, the group aims to provide a safe space for men over 18 who are struggling with mental health issues. Recognizing the need for a different approach to mental health support, Edmondson started Offload Cumbria as a free talking group for men in Penrith and Carlisle.

Edmondson believes that activities such as bowling and axe throwing provide a positive distraction and create a conducive environment for open conversations about mental health. These activities have been popular among participants, and they believe that it is the way forward in supporting men’s mental health.

To continue funding group activities for the next two years and support more men in need, Offload Cumbria is working to raise £2,000. Edmondson emphasizes the importance of combining traditional talking support with engaging activities to improve overall wellbeing.

For Edmondson, activities are the way forward in supporting men’s mental health. By incorporating them into their support sessions, Offload Cumbria hopes to offer a holistic approach to mental health care that addresses both emotional and physical wellbeing.

Liam Edmondson started Offload Cumbria after struggling with complex PTSD and anxiety disorder while working as an emergency medical technician and special constable. He found it challenging to access appropriate support after leaving his job.

Recognizing the need for a different approach to mental health support, Edmondson established Offload Cumbria as a free talking group for men over 18 who are struggling with mental health issues. The group has now expanded to include activity sessions like bowling and axe throwing, which have been popular among participants.

Edmondson believes that these activities provide a positive distraction and create a conducive environment for open conversations about mental health. To continue funding group activities for the next two years and support more men in need, Offload Cumbria is working to raise £2,000.

Edmondson emphasizes the importance of combining traditional talking support with engaging activities to improve overall wellbeing. For him, activities are the way forward in supporting men’s mental health. By incorporating them into their support sessions, Offload Cumbria hopes to offer a holistic approach to mental health care that addresses both emotional and physical wellbeing.