"You'll find your way" - Navigating diagnosis, big life changes and breaking the silence around mental health stigma with Thomas and John

WelcomeWelcome to People Like Us: Mental Health Activism in Scotland. We believe that sharing open and honest conversations about mental health can help to reduce stigma. If you have experience of mental ill health, you’re not alone - you’re just like us.Episode overviewThank you for joining us for the FIRST EVER episode of People Like Us.  In this episode our project volunteers John McVey and Thomas McCallum have an honest, entertaining and compassionate conversation about stigma, based on their own life experience.They explore how stigma around mental ill health, disability and neurodivergence affects all aspects of life such as learning, friendships, work environments and finances.  Although they are very open about the challenges of living with disability and facing stigma and lack of understanding, Thomas and John also discuss the positive opportunities which they've been inspired to pursue.Content informationA note on the term Asperger SyndromeSome people who previously received a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome continue to use this terminology to refer to themselves and understandably identify with the term.  It is no longer used as a diagnostic term and is broadly accepted as part of autistic spectrum conditions.  You can find about this more in this  information provided by the National Autistic Society. Potentially triggering topics mentioned in this episodeBrief mention of suicideIn depth discussion of Asperger Syndrome (see above)In depth discussion of Parkinson's In depth discussion of mental ill health and stigmaFollow Thomas and JohnYou'll most likely want to hear more from our podcasters after listening to this fantastic  conversation!Catch Just John's Jams show on Sunny G, and his weekly 90s and Noughties show on the Hospital Broadcasting Service.  John is already a seasoned podcast host and you can listen to thought-provoking conversations with fascinating guests on his own podcast It's Just a State of Mind.  You can tune into Thomas's weekly Fabulous Friday show on Radio Parkies, as well as discover his fantastic music via his artist website.  Related linksParkinson's UKNational Autistic SocietyGlasgow Disability Alliance Stigma Free LanarkshireKing's TrustUrgent HelpSamaritansSamaritans provides confidential non-judgmental emotional support for anyone who is struggling to cope – you don’t have to be suicidal.The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Call: 116 123Text: 07725 90 90 90Visit: www.samaritans.orgEmail: [email protected] SpaceBreathing Space is a free, confidential phoneline service for any individual who is experiencing low mood and depression, or who is unusually worried and in need of someone to talk to.Lines are open:Weekdays: Monday-Thursday 6pm to 2amFollow Mind Waves on Instagram and at our blog