The Ripple Pond

Feedback like this helps us do what we do. Find out more: www.theripplepond.org

Our new blog post about the impact of gratitude on mental health is out now. Give it a read and let us know your thoughts https://ow.ly/HxMC50UT7q9

We mentioned yesterday that our peer support networks are lovely communities full of likeminded people who truly get it. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what one of our members had to say… #whywedowhatwedo #peersupport

To all those supporting a loved one with a service attributable injury, you may feel at times that your love, patience, and sacrifice go unnoticed, but we see you. In moments of struggle, letting go isn’t about giving up; it’s about finding peace within yourself and giving your heart the space to heal, too. It's okay to take a step back, to lean on others; your loved ones journey to recovery is your journey too. You don’t have to carry it all alone. Our peer support networks are lovely communities full of likeminded people who truly get it. To find out more, https://lnkd.in/eiUXrQrg. #seenheardsupported

Our Members say it best... "I like speaking to people who understand what it's like having to try and help our loved ones with their demons." #CommunityVoices #MemberStories

Our new blog post about how we support those caring for loved ones with psychological injuries is out now! You can read it here https://lnkd.in/eiWCUYZd.

Supporting a loved one injured in service? We recognise that injury can take many forms. It might not always look like loss of limb or PTSD, it can also look like anxiety or depression, chronic pain, acute stress disorder, blast injuries, adjustment disorder, occupational stress injury, moral injury, psychosomatic disorders and dissociative disorders and more. At The Ripple Pond, we don’t ask to see proof of your loved ones injury when you join. If you’re supporting a loved one with service attributable injuries, you’re always welcome in our community. To self refer visit www.theripplepond.org

Our CEO, Rodger and Engagement Officer, Carolyn had a fantastic visit to RBL's Battle Back Centre yesterday to see the work that they do and explore the incredible facilities there. Centred around adaptive sport and adventurous training activities, such as wheelchair basketball, archery, mountain biking, climbing and caving, Battle Back helps build camaraderie as well as the chance to connect through shared experiences. The programme is designed to help grow confidence and improve motivation as well as the ability to deal with stress. Delivered alongside expert coaching, it also helps to develop positive thinking – focusing on what someone can achieve instead of what they cannot. As well as continuing to support wounded, injured and sick service personnel, more recently the centre has expanded its service with the introduction of wellbeing courses for veterans. We were so impressed, not only with the facilities, but also the dedication and knowledge of the whole team. We also had the opportunity to speak with some of those that were attending a course and hear first hand how helpful they were finding it. To find out more, see https://lnkd.in/eCBRZMhy. Thank you to the team for a great day!

Weekends can be hard when you’re caring for someone. But our peer support groups are always there , with members who’ve got each others back and truly understand. Many of our members have said that these groups are a lifeline – could it be the support that helps you? Self refer today ➡️www.theripplepond.org #seenheardsupported #militarycarers

One recurring theme that we are seeing among new Members is gambling addiction, a hidden issue wreaking havoc in the veteran and serving communities. Technology has propelled gambling into a new and dangerous era. No longer confined to betting shops or casinos, it now lurks in our pockets—accessible 24/7 via smartphones, tablets, and laptops. We’re working hard to ensure that we are best equipped to help our members with this issue. We’ve recently undertaken training with GamCare and have been in conversation with Betknowmore UK and researchers from Anglia Ruskin and Swansea Universities. Because, when we are armed with knowledge, we can do more. #GamblingAddiction #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #GamCare