World Mental Health Day – Funds Raised

Photograph of an outdoor mental health awareness booth set up under a blue canopy labeled "Darlington Mind"

To mark World Mental Health Day we ran an information, activity and fundraising stall in Darlington town centre on Sat 12 Oct. Until the heavy rain came we saw a steady stream of people come and have conversations about what they wanted for their mental health, what services are needed in the town and very […]

Spotlight On…Paul’s Poem Published in the Press!

Photograph of a vintage black and red steam locomotive emitting thick gray smoke while traveling on railway tracks through a green field. The scene includes a cloudy sky and a "mind Darlington" logo

One of our Creative Writing group members, Paul, has recently had his poem, ‘The Worry Train’, published in the Daily Mirror. Paul says, “I have suffered from extreme anxiety since I was 17 years old. I’m now 54 and still struggling, but writing poems and stories helps me to cope. I also really enjoy walking […]

Can Playing Rugby Be Positive for Mental Wellbeing?

Photograph of a rugby ball on green grass. The ball features red and blue patterns and the text "GET INTO RUGBY,"

The links between good physical health and regularly playing sports like rugby are well recognised and documented. Indeed as well as participation in a game the training sessions are hugely important to improve physical fitness and stamina. But what about the benefits to our mental health? Rugby is a sport that offers a range of […]

Amazon Family Day and Raby Castle Raffles

Photograph showing three people standing in front of a blue canopy tent with "www.darlingtonmind.com"

Announcing the raffle winners from the Darlington Mind stalls at each event over this year’s August Bank Holiday:  The winning ticket for the hamper at the Amazon day on Fri 23 August was ticket number ‘5’ held by Joanne R. who redonated her hamper. The winning ticket for the hamper at the Raby Castle Harvest […]

The Mental Health Benefits of Boxing: A Knockout Solution for Mind & Body Wellness

Photograph of a person wearing black boxing gloves and athletic clothing practicing a punch on a black punching bag

Boxing—a sport that combines physical prowess with mental agility—offers more than just a way to break a sweat. Beyond the ring, boxing can significantly have a positive impact on your mental health. Let’s lace up our gloves and explore the surprising benefits to wellbeing of boxing: Stress Relief Life throws punches, and sometimes we need […]

The Hidden Perils: Alcohol and Mental Health

Photograph of a person standing outdoors in a garden or backyard setting with greenery and buildings in the background.

Alcohol – a ubiquitous companion at celebrations, social gatherings, and moments of solace. But beneath its seemingly harmless facade lies a complex relationship with our mental well-being. Alcohol and depression often intertwine, creating a complex relationship. Alcohol is a depressant and regular drinking to excess is proven to worsen mental health. Alcohol also can prevent […]

Golf and Mental Health: A Good Swing Towards Wellbeing

Photograph of a man preparing to swing a golf club on a green golf course under a partly cloudy blue sky. The man wears a white cap, navy shirt, and white shorts, with trees and a clear landscape in the background

Golf, with its rolling greens, crisp fairways, and the distant echo of a well-struck ball, has long been associated with leisure and relaxation. But beyond the picturesque landscapes and competitive spirit lies a deeper connection—one that intertwines the game with mental wellbeing. Let’s tee off into the heart of this topic, how can playing golf […]

The Surprising Benefits of Playing Darts for Mental Health

Photograph of a dartboard with a dart hitting the bullseye, highlighting precision and accuracy in the game of darts.

Darts—a seemingly simple pub game—has more to offer than meets the eye. Beyond the casual throws and friendly banter, playing darts can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Let’s explore how this game of precision and strategy can benefit your mind and overall health. Improved Concentration Playing darts demands focus and precision. As […]

Loneliness and Mental Health

Photograph of a man wearing a black beret, blue jacket, and brown scarf standing outdoors against a clear blue sky.

Loneliness can affect anyone and may be caused by things such as social isolation, retirement, loss of a loved one, or moving to a new place. It can catch you at any point in your life and is quite a common feeling. Prolonged loneliness can have a significant negative impact on mental health and can […]

Gratitude

November is National Gratitude Month, so we want to highlight the benefits of gratitude for good mental health. Gratitude is the feeling of appreciation and thankfulness for what we have, who we are, and what we experience. It is a positive emotion that can boost our mood, reduce stress, and enhance our relationships. Gratitude can […]