Safe spaces to support women’s mental health are being offered by a South Yorkshire woman.
Toni Sharpe, who works for the Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Trust, hosted her first event, ‘Ladies Coffee and Catch Up’ at Cusworth Hall last Tuesday.
After suffering a breakdown in early April, she posted on Facebook asking if women would be interested in taking an hour away from their everyday life.
Miss Sharpe, a freelance nail technician, suffers with mental health issues and is also a domestic abuse survivor.
She said: “I was parked up somewhere and just going to end it all. I’d had enough. Initially, I didn’t know who to call but once I remembered, I realised that there’s people out there that don’t, so I do think regular meet-ups will be helpful for some.”
According to the Agenda Alliance, 19% of women experience a Common Mental Disorder, such as anxiety or depression, while 53% of women with mental health problems have experienced abuse.
She was thrilled to see a wide range of interest in her event, and even had attendees from beyond Doncaster.
“My mum and [sister] Shannon were both there, but sometimes it’s easier to have people to talk to that aren’t family.
“One woman came from Barnsley. I didn’t know her beforehand but we ended up there for hours talking about anything and everything.”
While Miss Sharpe’s events are targeted at women, she was clear they are not designed to detract from men speaking out about their mental health issues.
She spoke very highly of work done by charities like Andy’s Man Club, which her partner Craig has previously attended. She is hoping to one day replicate the work they do through her events, to provide a female equivalent.
“When it comes to mental health, you speak about and deal with your issues when you are ready to,” Miss Sharpe said.
“It’s easy for women to bottle up their feelings, but the work Andy’s Man Club do is amazing and I’d love to formalise these events to provide something similar to them for women.”
Miss Sharpe’s next event is due to take place at some point this week and said to check her Facebook page for further details once they are confirmed.
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article, the Samaritans are available 24/7 to call for free on 116 123. Alternatively, you can text SHOUT to 85258 to start a conversation with a trained volunteer.
