READING Borough Council has shared moments of joy expressed by residents as part of its campaign marking Mental Health Awareness Week in May.
More than 50 contributions were made by members of the public as part of a campaign aiming to help friends and neighbours find daily joy.
The Reading Joy Project: Feel Good, Live Well took place in May, but a popular reception meant that the council continued the program for Loneliness Awareness Week, from June 9-15.
Contributions were collated into a video and included spending time with family, nature, pets, in the sun and volunteering in the local community. Several joys were about how important local areas and events are to Reading’s residents, including Forbury Gardens, Harris Gardens and the upcoming Water Fest.
The council explained that while family is “one of the biggest joys,” not everyone is lucky enough to have those closest to them around.
The joy project also identified that many people experience joy and make friends through connecting with the local community, either joining events such as photography crafts and wellbeing walks, or by volunteering their time to help others.
Local resident, Monique Grindal from Tilehurst, who took part in the project said: “My joy is being creative with simple activities like crafts and photography.
“It’s not about being perfect and focusing on the outcome, but instead the joy of the process, learning new skills, not giving up and meeting new people. I also swim regularly at the local pool, and I’ve made new friends of all ages.”
Rachel Eden, Lead Councillor for Public Health at Reading Borough Council, said: “It’s been fantastic to see residents getting involved in the Reading Joy Project.
“Small, everyday moments of joy can have a big impact on our mental wellbeing, so we’re pleased the project has struck a chord with residents.
“Sometimes it can be really hard to find joy. The project tries to show that joy can be the smallest of things that uplift you, even when battling challenging things.
“We’ve had people share some deeply personal joys. I was particularly inspired by the survivor of domestic abuse whose joy is helping others who’ve experienced abuse, and the person who’s dealing with a gambling addiction whose child’s laughter brings them joy and reminds him that recovery is a daily act of progression.”
The Reading Borough Council video is available to view via: youtube.com
For residents struggling to find their joy, Compass Recovery College offers mental health and wellbeing support.
To access support through Compass Recovery College no formal diagnosis or medical referral is needed.
For those needing more support, residents can access free support with no waiting list for common mental health challenges by visiting compassrecoverycollege.uk, calling 0118 9373 945 or emailing compass.opportunities@reading.gov.uk.
