To mark Men’s Health Awareness Month, throughout November we have been sharing stories from colleagues whose own experiences of mental health have inspired them to help others.
Our third story comes from Tyler MacPherson, Receptionist and Administration Officer, who shares how being a carer for a family member from the age of five has shaped his own experiences with mental health.
Tyler explains:
“I always thought I didn’t have much experience of mental health but recently after starting to have open conversations I have realised that I do, and I can use my own experiences to help others. I’ve been a carer for my mum for the past 20 years since I was at primary school. Being a carer has undoubtedly impacted my life and left lasting implications on my mental health.
Throughout school I struggled to socialise and make friends as my caring responsibilities meant I wasn’t able to spend time away from home, I was bullied for most of my school life which naturally effected my confidence and self-belief leaving me feeling anxious and very lonely at times.”
Before joining Community Roots, Tyler had struggled to maintain a permanent full time job as previous employers failed to understand his commitments as a carer and didn’t take any time to understand his situation and the support he needed. The inability to find suitable employment often left Tyler feeling extremely frustrated, unable to sleep properly and lacking in confidence.
Tyler joined Community Roots in February 2022, through the government Kick Start programme which was designed as a get back into work scheme. Following the six month contract, Tyler was offered an extended 12 month contract, and now works on a permanent full time contract and is due to start studying towards a digital marketing qualification.
Tyler continues:
“I really enjoy every day working at Community Roots, I’ve found I’ve been heavily encouraged to get involved in all aspects and not be defined by my job title. Being the first person people see when walking into Community Roots at Deepdale gives me a sense of pride and I love creating bonds which mean people come back again and again as they feel comfortable and welcomed.
I want to use my own experience and knowledge of being a carer to help others, not just with practical advice but emotional support. When people hear my story they can often think it is a sad story, but my story has a happy ending and others can too! I’ve now found the help and support I needed and I’m determined to help as many other people as possible by letting them know they aren’t alone.”
Part of Tyler’s work has involved producing a course for carers which includes a host of resources, information and support which Tyler delivers as part of the Community Roots termly offer. Tyler’s future plans also involve developing his passion for digital marketing, growing the online sessions and accessibility of the courses on offer.
Tyler adds:
“Being able to sit down with our service users and explain they aren’t alone and I understand their struggles makes sharing my story worthwhile. Everyone and their journeys are different but sharing your journey with likeminded people makes you and them feel included and heard. I can see how supportive the Community Roots team are, they helped me from the moment I submitted my application and they continue to help me daily and I want to return the favour and help other people on their mental health journeys.”
