Stories

By sharing our knowledge and experiences, we can put an end to the myths and assumptions around parental mental illness. If you want to share your own story and help others find out more about parental mental illness, you can submit your blog or your vlog online through the Our Time website.

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The importance of talking
two young women talking in a cafe at a table
6th February 2019 - Written by Dr Alan Cooklin Talking is a vital part of life but when it comes to mental illness, it can be a hard thing to do for both parents and children alike. We look at how small steps can make a big difference.
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Healthy: Inside and Out
woman holding a coffee cup with back to camera
4th February 2019 - Written by Dr Alan Cooklin For Children's Mental Health Week this year, the theme is "Healthy: Inside and Out". Dr Alan Cooklin explores what that means for children whose parent has a mental illness.
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Can we afford to delay mental health support in schools?
Teenager in a classroom looking worried
16th January 2019 - Written by Christina Clarke Pupils may not have access to mental health services for a decade. What will happen to the generation who are affected now? Our Time looks at the impact on young people affected by parental mental illness.
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Stay mentally well during the festive season
Christmas candy canes held in a heart shape
18th December 2018 - Written by Chineye Njoku The holiday season can be an exciting and relaxing time for some, but it can also be a stressful and draining for many. If you struggle to get through the holiday season, you’re not alone.
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Seasonal advice for parents
Parents and child next to a Christmas Tree
13th December 2018 - Written by Dr Alan Cooklin The Christmas holiday is a time for families to spend time together but for some families it can also be a difficult time. Dr Alan Cooklin offers advice to help you get through the holiday and enjoy being together.
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Ambeya’s Sahara Trek for Our Time 2018
27th November 2018 - Written by Ambeya Begum Our Time trustee, Ambeya, trekked the Sahara to raise funds for Our Time. She shared her experience with us.
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Response to the Children’s Commissioner Report
23rd November 2018 - Written by Dympna Cunnane Our CEO responds to the Children's Commissioner's report on children living in households with mental health issues, parental substance misuse and domestic abuse.
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Parenting groups in KidsTime Workshops
Portrait shot of Leonard Fagin, Our Time Trustee
5th November 2018 - Written by Dr Leonard Fagin Our Time Trustee Dr Leonard Fagin speaks of his experience at the KidsTime Workshops which help parents with a mental illness support their children.
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Being Seen and Heard in School
Jess Streeting
19th October 2018 - Written by Jessica Streeting In the last 20 years, I can think of many times when my understanding of what children say they need has been invaluable. Before I discovered Our Time, it was a different story.
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Falling through the ‘young carer’ cracks
30th September 2018 - Written by Christina Clarke I read with interest this week, a moving story of a girl who has a mother with schizoaffective disorder and spina bifida. She spent much of her time growing up hiding the fact she was caring for her mother.
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