How Y Mind helped a young person get their life back

Aaliyah* has been working on her mental health, and while she does have some coping skills that help with her anxiety, she’s noticing they’re not working as well as they used to. 

She’s struggling to leave the house and it’s affecting her education and her ability to access health and medical services.

So, when she saw a Y Mind flyer at a local Starbucks, she thought it would be a good opportunity to learn new skills and strategies that could help her live her daily life.

As a free, seven-week mental wellness program, Y Mind offers support for those experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or stress. Participants learn evidence-based coping skills based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and self-compassion, and connect with peers who are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings.

Aaliyah attended an in-person Y Mind group in Brantford and says the sense of community in the group made it easier for her to open up about her experiences. More than just talking, Aaliyah also learned new tools and strategies to help improve her mental health.

“[Y Mind helped me] better understand my anxiety,” she says. “I go out and I’m nervous, but I can still do it.”

The chance to speak and be listened to, and learning new ways to manage her anxiety, has given Aaliyah a new outlook and allowed her to move forward.

“Anxiety will always be a part of me, but it doesn’t have to control me or my life.”

*Names have been changed to protect the individual’s privacy. 

#IgnitePotential #ShineOn #TheYSavesLives

At the YMCA, we support people at every stage of life, helping them overcome any obstacle they may face. When you donate to the YMCA you spark the potential in every young person, adult and senior. 

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