Gwen’s early life was far from easy. At just 18, she was admitted to hospital after attempting to take her own life and was later diagnosed with a personality disorder. By the age of 20, she found herself back in hospital again.
A few years later, Gwen met her children’s father. They were together for seven years and had two children, but during that time she experienced domestic abuse. Eventually, she made the brave decision to leave, fleeing with her children to a refuge in Cambridge.
Cambridge became a turning point. For the first time, Gwen felt a sense of belonging. “I love Cambridge. It felt like a fresh start and it actually feels like home. I’ve never felt at home anywhere before,” she says.
Starting over as a single parent in a new city without a support network was incredibly challenging. Combined with her history of mental health difficulties, things became overwhelming, and Gwen ended up going to A&E for support.
It was after this that things began to change. Gwen was introduced to CPSL Mind’s Discharge Buddy Service, which she describes as the moment her life started to turn around.
Support When It Matters Most
The period after leaving hospital or crisis services can be one of the most difficult times in a person’s recovery. CPSL Mind’s Discharge Buddy Service is designed to provide support during this transition, offering holistic, strengths-based help in the first four-six weeks after discharge.
Discharge Buddies provide emotional support, encouragement and practical guidance. They help individuals build self-care strategies, regain confidence and reconnect with their local community.
For Gwen, this support was life-changing. Through CPSL Mind, she found hope again.
Building Connections and Confidence
Gwen also accessed other CPSL Mind services that played an important role in her recovery. The Sanctuary provided a safe, welcoming space where she could talk openly without judgement.
“It’s a small team, so there’s that sense of continuity and community,” she explains.
She also began attending Good Mood Cafes. Although she felt nervous at first, she kept going and soon began to feel the benefits.
“They are really lovely, non-judgemental places,” she says.
Good Mood Cafes offer a relaxed and friendly environment where people can connect with others, share experiences and pick up wellbeing tips.
Giving Back and Moving Forward
Today, Gwen volunteers with CPSL Mind, the organisation she credits with helping to change her life. She has been volunteering for two years, supporting Good Mood Cafes and offering one-to-one peer mentoring. She also gets involved in fundraising events, including the Cambridge Half Marathon.
Gwen often brings along her dog, Christine, who has become a much-loved presence.
“Everyone loves Christine. She really helps the whole family with our mental health and is such an important part of our lives. I bring her to the Good Mood Cafes and she’s a great comfort.”
Gwen is passionate about using her experiences to help others, particularly when it comes to perinatal mental health.
“When you have children and struggle with your mental health, people can assume you’re not a good mum, but that’s absolutely not the case. I want to show people that and use my experience for good.”
Her message to others:
“Please don’t be afraid to reach out for help, and don’t be afraid to keep asking for help. You need to advocate for yourself.”
Volunteering has not only allowed Gwen to support others, but has also helped her maintain her own wellbeing.
“If I can help just one person not go through what I went through, then everything I experienced was worth it. CPSL Mind are so supportive. I feel so privileged to be part of this family.”
It’s OK to Reach Out
Gwen’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, and that the right support at the right time can make all the difference.
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Reaching out could be the first step towards feeling better.
