Not All Wounds are Visible!

Before learning about Scouts Healing Invisible Wounds, I often felt isolated and overwhelmed by my mental health challenges. I battled with anxiety and depression, struggling to find the right support and being ashamed to talk openly about my struggles. It was a lonely journey and I yearned for understanding and connection. Being involved with the initiative has been nothing short of life-changing. It provided a safe and inclusive space for open dialogue, where I could share my struggles without fear of judgment. Attending physical activities such as Psychosocial Camps and Trails for Mental Health allowed me to connect with others who understood mental health challenges, fostering a sense of belonging and empathy that I had been missing for so long. I gained immeasurable benefits from the involvement. I can say I possess a strong sense of self-awareness and emotional resilience. I have learned lots of techniques for managing stress and anxiety, which have a great impact on my daily life. SHIW has connected me with a network of supportive individuals who continue to inspire and motivate me. I no longer feel alone in my struggles, and I am more confident in seeking help when I need it.

SHIW was birthed at a time when the world was faced with a major pandemic, COVID-19, which not only caused a global crisis and deaths but also psychological distress and  a fair share of increased mental health conditions. The consequences of not addressing these extend into late adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health, and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults. Beyond these statistics, we have personal experiences that drive us in our work. We have watched friends and sometimes family members hide behind ‘Emotional Masks’ , acting like they have it all together and figured out while deep inside, going through a lot of distress. We know how important it is to have a strong support network around you, spaces where you can be real and find the psychosocial support needed to stay afloat. Ours is a call for people to become real with themselves and be intentional about taking care of their wellbeing. Most importantly, a challenge for individuals to BE KIND, in a world where they can choose to be anything else!