Finding purpose through lived experience - Sophie Pounder's story

This year's theme is for #World Mental Health Day is 'Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change'. Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP) wants to take the opportunity to shine a light on how sharing lived experience can make a difference and influence positive change. Please read below an incredibly moving story from PCP Lived Experience Officer, Sophie Pounder.

Sophie and her Dad

"My journey with mental health began at a young age. I struggled with quite severe anxiety growing up, and although I was able to access support through CAMHS, the children’s mental health service, it was still a difficult and confusing time. My appointments were held at PCP, and while that support mattered, my family circumstances meant that mental health was affecting more than just me.

"My dad had experienced trauma, and over time his mental health began to deteriorate. As a family, we tried to support him as best we could, and I helped him access mental health support through the NHS. During that period, I often felt as though my own support had to take a backseat so that my dad could be the priority. I understood why, but it was still hard to carry my own anxiety while also worrying about someone I loved.

"There came a point when my dad’s mental health took a serious negative turn. My mum and I were frightened that we were going to lose him. That experience was terrifying, but it also pushed me to look for answers. I began researching different support groups and charities in the local area, determined to find something that could help. Eventually, we managed to get him the support he needed.

"That experience changed the direction of my life. It gave me a passion for mental health and a strong belief that nobody should have to feel alone when they are struggling. I went on to work for a suicide prevention and bereavement charity, supporting people and families who were facing some of the hardest moments of their lives.

"In that role, I often heard people describe how difficult it was to reach out for help. Many spoke about feeling as though there was no support available to them, whether because they did not know where to turn, felt they would not be listened to, or had faced barriers when trying to access services. Hearing those experiences stayed with me, because I knew how much difference the right support at the right time can make.

"This has brought me full circle to where I am today as a Lived Experience Officer. It feels empowering, and like no coincidence, that my CAMHS appointments were once held at PCP and I now find myself working there. My role allows me to hear people’s voices, understand what matters to them, and use those experiences to support positive change. My own journey has shown me that lived experience can be powerful, not only in shaping who we become, but in helping to create services and support that are more compassionate, accessible and meaningful.

"For me, World Mental Health Day is a reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family and a story. It is also a reminder that support should never feel out of reach. By listening to people with lived experience and using their voices to influence change, we can help make sure there is support out there for everyone."

Thank you to Sophie for sharing her story showcasing how lived experience can make a difference and influence positive change.