Jackie shares how a single mental health session helped make a real difference.
Mental Health Counselling:
“Through my employer, one of the great benefits we have is access to several wellbeing resources — one of which is the Mental Health service. When I was seeking support, I chose this service because it offered one-on-one sessions, which I really needed at the time.
At that point in my life, I was juggling a lot — work, personal responsibilities, and the emotional weight that comes from trying to keep everything together. Like many people, I could manage things on my own, but over time I realised that ignoring how I felt was taking a toll on me. I wasn’t sleeping well, I found it hard to concentrate, and I didn’t feel like myself. Reaching out for help felt daunting at first, but knowing that this support was available through my employer made the step a little easier. It was reassuring to know that I could talk to someone confidentially and without judgment. Having that outlet helped me regain balance, rebuild my confidence, and reminded me that prioritising mental health is a vital part of overall wellbeing.
It turned out to be the perfect starting point for my mental health journey. My session lasted just under an hour with a therapist named Cristina, who was absolutely wonderful. Her style was calm, warm, and engaging — she really listened to me. Through active listening and thoughtful questions, she helped me make sense of what was happening and guided me to reflect on things I hadn’t considered before, like suppressed and repressed emotions.
She used a powerful analogy that stuck with me: if you had a sore leg, you’d go to the doctor and take care of it — but we often forget to do the same with our minds. That really made me think differently about self-care and emotional healing. Since that conversation, I’ve been putting her advice into practice — nurturing my mental wellbeing just as I would my physical health.
I started paying attention to the small things that supported my mental balance — taking breaks during the workday, getting fresh air, journaling my thoughts, and allowing myself to feel emotions instead of brushing them aside. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about learning to listen to yourself and taking time to recharge. Cristina reminded me that progress doesn’t have to be dramatic — sometimes, it’s simply about showing up for yourself consistently.
That single session made a real difference. It helped me transition from a place of struggle to one of focus and clarity. Without it, I would have stayed stuck for much longer. That session truly set me on the right path.
What’s also been inspiring is how conversations around mental health are becoming more open in the workplace. Knowing that my employer supports wellbeing and encourages us to seek help sends a powerful message: that mental health matters just as much as physical health. I’ve even shared my experience with a few colleagues, and it’s sparked some honest, supportive discussions that I think we all needed.
I’d absolutely recommend it to colleagues, friends, or anyone who needs a safe space to talk and start their journey toward feeling better. It’s reassuring to know that none of us are alone, and that small, genuine conversations can create lasting, positive change for everyone involved.
*To respect the patient’s wish for anonymity, we have not included a photograph.
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