On World Mental Health Day, we're reflecting with Andy on how important it is to feel part of our local neighbourhoods.
MacIntyre's Everyone Everywhere approach fits perfectly with the first of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing: Connect. When we know people and feel part of our local neighbourhoods it helps us to feel good.
That's certainly true of Andy, who lives in Bury, Greater Manchester.
He tells us he loves where he lives and makes sure that he talks to people.
I live in Bury it’s my home. When I go into Bury I know everyone, everyone! I go to the charity shops, I know everyone on the market and they know me. I can get a discount because they know me. I work in a charity shop and they always keep any Liverpool FC things for me to one side. They spoil me they do!
Andy is keen to share his love of Bury with other people and is planning to do a tour of the town and markets, show people the best place for a brew, which is the best Bury black pudding stall in the market and the best charity shops for a bargain. This has meant going to chat to people and ask if he can bring a group and also checking out the museums and finding out what’s on.
Things to keep me feeling well? I like my home and I keep it nice. I like my fishing, I like going to work. And I like having a laugh with people I meet.
Sometimes, looking after our mental health can be complicated and long-term. Other times, it may be as simple as making connections or going fishing.
