John Tierney – Mountain Leader & Mental health first aider

Mountains have always been a place I go to reflect. I find a certain peace out here that is seldom available in daily life. I enjoy walking on my own and the reflections that come up from the back of my mind. I have often found myself reflecting on problems or situations I wanted to improve when out in the hills.

I enjoy walking alongside a friend or partner and the conversations we have. The topics seem bigger and the conversations calmer out here. Pauses and silences are easier in this environment somehow. It’s not just the change of scenery, its the being in nature that is these days accepted as good for humans . In a theraputic context it’s called ecotherapy

I have a past history that includes Psychosis, Depression and Anxiety. Conditions I have survived, recovered from, learnt about and continue to manage through periods of wellness and unwellness. I view my mental health as a status, and status can change, be influenced and managed. I understand everyone’s experience and frame of reference is uniquie, and that’s why I’ve recently completed the Mental Health First Aid qualification (which Emma Stubbings also has). I want to be able to help to signpost people to sources of help and support for whatever is affecting them. I know there’s not a one size fits all solution for each mental health condition or illness. I know there’s still significant stigma involved in talking about mental health. Especially in the workplace. But I’m excited to see how the landscape is changing and its getting easier to speak about. Indeed some workplace cultures are really forward looking in this area. Because they care about their people. But they also know the impact on the bottom line of reduced absenteeism, and improved mental health whilst in the workplace.

I feel better when I’m out. And that’s why I use my mountain experience to help others. When not connecting outside, I lead groups with Mind over mountains and Wild new routes amongst other awesome initiatives.

When a Connect Outside client is looking for help with well being, or mental health we love to create a workshop and walk that helps people focus on what matters to them. Taking ownership of their own well being, and identifying clear steps they will take in self care after spending time with us.

We also find that groups who come with us to spend time on sticky subjects like strategy, team cohesion or personal development feel much better doing it on a hillside than in a meeting room of function room! You don’t need to have a mental health issue to benefit from the power of walking in the wild places or getting up above it all to find perspective.