HMS Collingwood holds mental wellness fair

Leading Physical Trainer Amanda Billingham organised a Mental Wellness Fair which took place in the Sports and Recreation Centre (SARC), HMS Collingwood recently.

The aim of the event was to cover mental health and to try to reduce the stigma that is sometimes associated with the words ‘Mental Health’. It also gave suggestions for avenues to take should individuals feel that they need support, both through military and civilian organisations.

The highlight of the event was a brief by guest speaker Major Patrick Burgess MBE, who gave the attendees an oversight and practical exercises to use entitled ‘Mindfulness – Plain and Simple’. The aim of his brief was to try and demystify mindfulness and make it accessible to all. On completion of the brief there were various stands located around the gym from organisations there to support everyone.

The Royal Navy is committed to improving and supporting the Health and Wellbeing of all its personnel, who are fundamental to the delivery of operational capability. When asked why she wanted to hold the Fair Amanda said “Mental health affects us all regardless of our age, gender, and rank. Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, promoting and talking about mental health we can break down stereotypes, improve relationships, aid recovery and take the stigma out of something that affects us all. One of the main reasons for the fair was to highlight this and show personnel various associations and avenues they could take should it ever be needed.”