WISEMINDS - learning for wellbeing by Michele Mackay

Beat the January blues with Wiseminds

Categories: AdultsPublished: January 18, 2016

In January the weather is at its worst, the days are dark, our bank accounts empty and our New Year’s resolutions, however well-intentioned, have already gone by the wayside.

Carrie Hanson is one of many students to have benefited from the Wiseminds scheme

So it is no surprise that some research has suggested that the third Monday in January is the most depressing day of the year.

However, we are encouraging people to try and beat the winter blues and improve their wellbeing and self-esteem by learning something new and connecting with others who have similar experiences through the WISEMINDS Project which is being led by Kirklees College and its partners on behalf of the Kirklees Community Learning Trust.

The WISEMINDS Project offers FREE training courses to adults aged 19+ who maybe experiencing (but not limited to) low mood, anxiety, depression or those suffering from long term physical health problems which, in turn, are impacting upon their mental wellbeing.

There are a wide range of courses available including creating digital music, ceramics, tai chi, mindfulness, knitting and family first aid.

Courses are easily accessible being held mainly in Huddersfield town centre as well as courses being run at the Recovery College in Mirfield.

There are plans to offer further courses in Dewsbury and the wider community throughout Kirklees in the very near future.

To some of our learners the project has had a huge positive impact on their lives.

Indeed, one of the learners reported a positive effect on her wellbeing. Carrie Hanson, from Slaithwaite, said: “The project helped me with confidence issues, it gave me an aim and showed me that I am able to get myself motivated to do something with my day.”

Since taking part in the project not only has she gone on to further education but she has also become a volunteer with Proper Job Theatre Company.

“Before attending these courses I felt that I had no direction and didn’t think that I had anything positive to look forward to,” said Carrie.

“Now I have a future and am beginning to feel more positive and confident that I will be able to find a job and use my newly discovered skills.”

So don’t be beat by the winter blues, sign up for a course today or find out more by simply contacting Wiseminds@kirkleescollege.ac.uk or call 01484 437156.

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