We all lead busy lives and there is nothing wrong in looking for support to get through the ups and downs, so says one local charity as it launches courses to focus on our mental health and overall wellbeing.

Kicking off in early May and running for six weeks, Aware Defeat Depression, is hosting mindfulness courses in the Ramada Plaza, Shaw’s Bridge every Wednesday from May 20 and The Playhouse in Derry~Londonderry every Friday from 1 May.

Mindfulness is a world recognised technique that can help participants decrease anxiety, worry and stress and help them focus their energy and enthusiasm on improving their personal and professional life.

Aware Chief Executive, Siobhan Doherty said, “Our mindfulness courses provide people with the tools that will enable and empower them to discover their full potential by tapping into their reservoir of resilience. We often welcome young mums who are struggling to adjust to thechange a baby brings to their lives, retired people who are looking for a new focus, busy business people in need of some personal time and of course those who are suffering from depression and low self esteem. Mental health is often stigmatised and we want our mindfulness courses to break down these barriers and offer a safe environment to work through a participant’s issues.”

Aware have employed its own Mindfulness Practitioner, Frank Liddy, who will deliver the courses. Frank has more than 25 years experience in the mental health sector and has been at the forefront of developing creative mindfulness based initiatives to communities across Northern Ireland.

Frank Liddy said, “Each group session is tailored to explore the direct experiences of the participants and the obstacles that arise in everyday life. There is a weekly theme that unfolds through guided mindfulness practices that brings benefits to participants. After the six weeks, when participants have committed fully to the course, we know they will discover a new way of being, gain confidence and awareness, as well as developing the tools and skills necessary to deal with life’s challenges.”

Aware is the leading charity in the north that works exclusively for those experiencing depression.  They are also specialise in the promotion of positive mental health and early intervention services.  Since 1996 it has been providing support to those experiencing depression and their carers.

If you wish to attend the Aware mindfulness course, you must register your interest at www.aware-ni.org