Finding myself again: Lorraine's mental wellbeing journey with Wellbeing for Life

Lorraine, aged 61, shares how a simple visit to Healthworks in Easington became the starting point of a life-changing journey, one that helped her rediscover confidence, self-worth and a renewed sense of identity.

“I first met David when I was a 60-year-old woman living with pre-diabetes and, if I’m honest, feeling like I had lost myself. I was attending a Diabetes Prevention Programme when I learned about Healthworks and the additional support available through Wellbeing for Life, particularly around healthy eating and lifestyle.

I thought I just needed help with my eating habits and lack of exercise but walking into Healthworks turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.

David introduced himself and what started as a casual conversation quickly became something much deeper. I found myself becoming emotional and opening up in a way I hadn’t expected. Accepting support was a turning point for me, David has been incredibly understanding and supportive throughout.

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During my first appointment, David asked what I needed help with. I started off as my usual talkative self but then paused and said honestly: ‘I need to find me. This isn’t who I am. I feel like I’ve been putting on an act for everyone else, and the more I do it, the more I lose myself.’

I realised I didn’t really like myself anymore. I felt as though I had different ‘faces’ for different situations, at work, with friends, but I no longer knew which one was truly me.

Looking back, this began years ago when my mam passed away. I had to stay strong for my family and never really allowed myself to grieve. Life carried on, and I went into autopilot. Then my husband became unwell and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I was supporting him daily, helping my dad, and working, it all became overwhelming.

Eventually, it caught up with me. I realised I was grieving not only for my mam but also for the life and the man my husband used to be. That was when I started hiding how I truly felt, putting on a brave face even when I was struggling.

Through ongoing sessions with David, and by working through the Mental Wellbeing workbook, things began to change. I started to understand that I hadn’t lost myself completely, I just needed to reconnect with who I am and learn to trust myself again. I realised I needed not only to like myself, but to value and respect who I am.

Using the tools provided, I began to see that many things are simply not worth worrying about. I no longer allow other people’s opinions or actions to affect me in the same way, and I find it easier to move forward. Life is too short to dwell on negativity.

I have learned to choose my battles carefully and to think more about how I express myself. I still believe strongly in treating others with kindness and respect, but I now approach situations with greater calm and perspective.

Alongside this journey, I welcomed a miniature dachshund called Yuki into my life. She has brought so much joy, not just to me, but to my whole family. In many ways, she helped mend our hearts when we needed it most. Fittingly, one meaning of her name is ‘happiness’.

I’ve also found simple things that bring me joy, like ice staking at Billingham Ice Rink (you’re never too old to ice skate) and watching Whitley Warriors playing ice hockey.

Today, I am still managing my pre-diabetes, and I am still a mother, a grandmother, and a carer but most importantly, I am myself again. I am learning to accept both the challenges and the setbacks that come with life, and I now understand that asking for help is not a weakness, but a strength.

Walking into Healthworks that day truly changed my life. With David’s support and the tools I’ve been given, I am continuing to move forward with confidence and self-belief. I am no longer defined by my challenges and am determined to live fully as myself.”

For more information about the support available from Wellbeing for Life, visit https://www.yourwellbeingservices.uk/services/wellbeing-for-life or call free on 0800 876 6887.

If you require immediate support or are in a mental health crisis, you should contact NHS 111 and select option 2 for 24/7 access to support. If you are deaf or have hearing loss, use NHS 111 - British Sign Language (BSL) service or use the 18001 - 111 Relay UK app.

Wellbeing for Life is part of Adult Wellbeing Services and is delivered in partnership by County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) and the Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP).