Mental health charity Mikeysline hits the road thanks to Dicksons of Inverness

A Highland mental health charity can expand its reach across the north of Scotland thanks to a new set of wheels donated by a local car dealership.

The brand-new Kia Rio will allow Mikeysline greater access to the Highland and Moray communities it works with. The charity provides support and advice to those living with mental health issues and emotional distress, as well as reducing the stigma around mental health and suicide prevention. The car has been supplied by Dicksons of Inverness.

Emily Stokes, CEO of Mikeysline, said: “Since Mikeysline was founded in 2015, our reach has grown from Inverness to encompass the whole of the Highlands and Moray. We now operate three Hives across the north of Scotland, providing face-to-face mental health support to those who need it most, as well as working in rural schools to support young people who are struggling.

“Over the last year we have covered a lot of miles as we have grown, and having a dedicated car within the charity will go a long way to helping us expand even further. Now, more than ever, it’s important for people to know that it’s ok not to be ok, and that help is available for those who need it.

“As well as cutting costs associated with using staff’s personal vehicles, our new car is fully branded which will increase our visibility as we travel around the area. We’d like to thank the team at Dicksons of Inverness for their kind support, which will enable us to keep helping those in need in the Highlands and Moray.”

Dicksons of Inverness has supported Mikeysline since the charity’s inception, with sales director Jim Mackenzie being one of the first to man the text line that provides vital support to those living with mental health issues, emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. Since then, the business has continued to support the charity wherever possible.

Fraser Bryce, managing director of Dicksons of Inverness, said: “When we heard that Mikeysline required a vehicle to add to the response and support they give the Highland and Moray communities, we were in the fortunate position to be able to offer the exclusive use of a new Kia.

“The support Mikeysline offers is vital to the community, and hopefully having the car will go some way to allowing the team to offer even more support to those who need it. ON behalf of all staff, customers and friends of Dicksons, we would like to thank the team at Mikeysline for the great work they do.”

Since 2015, Mikeysline has offered confidential, non-judgemental support to people of all ages with mental health issues or in emotional distress in the Highlands and Moray via a text line service at 07786 207755, as well as via live chat, Twitter, Messenger and WhatsApp. The charity also offers face-to-face support from three Hives across the area – at its Inverness headquarters; at Tesco in Tain; and at Am Bothan Community Café by Skiach, Evanton.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk – or find Mikeysline on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Picture caption: Fraser Bryce, managing director of Dicksons of inverness with Emily Stokes, CEO of Mikeysline.

For more information, please contact Eoin Smith at Planit Scotland on eoin@planitscotland.com or call 07497 137876.

Mikeysline youth champions make big impact in Children’s Mental Health Week

Young people are being empowered to spread the word about positive mental health and suicide prevention by a charity in the north of Scotland this Children’s Mental Health Week (February 7-13).

Since starting its youth champion scheme last year, Mikeysline has recruited 70 young people across the region and has been working in 26 schools to spread the word about mental health awareness, resources and support on offer. The scheme was also celebrated at the Scottish Youth Parliament annual conference in 2021. 

Youth champions help fundraise and promote awareness of Mikeysline and its support services to classmates and the local community – as well as developing messaging for the charity that will appeal to their peers.

Mikeysline youth champion Ross Kinnaird said: “Every youth champion is really passionate about breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide prevention.

“Having youth champions in every school in the Highlands and Moray is so important. We have been able to spread the word about Mikeysline around Nairn through our activities – and it would be amazing to see that happening in even more towns across the area. 

“If anyone out there is passionate about mental health, I would really encourage them to get involved with Mikeysline to help make a difference. Being a youth champion is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s incredibly rewarding.”

Meeting monthly in a youth champion forum with Mikeysline development officer for younger people’s services, Marina Finlayson, and volunteer coordinator, Carenza Young, the youth champions are actively involved in promoting Mikeysline’s dedicated young person’s service – as well as its general text-based and face-to-face support. 

From setting up mental health noticeboards in schools to liaising with local businesses about stocking resources, fundraising at community events to engaging with a younger audience on TikTok, everything the youth champions do raises awareness for the charity and the vital services it provides. 

Emily Stokes, CEO of Mikeysline, added: “Our youth champions are doing incredible work in schools and communities across the Highlands and Moray, and we’re so proud of their efforts. They’re making a huge difference in spreading the word about the services Mikeysline offers to those experiencing issues with mental health, emotional distress and suicide – ensuring young people get access to the information they need. 

“In the last couple of years, we have seen the number of young people using our services rise considerably, often related to the pandemic. We are currently providing support to twice as many 13–35-year-olds than any other age, and the vast majority of individuals are experiencing some form of anxiety.

“It’s incredibly important, then, to make that connection at a young age – and break down the barriers and stigma that otherwise may leave a mental health issue untreated for many years. It’s important for people of all ages to know that its ok not to be ok, and that there are many resources and people out there that can help, including Mikeysline.”

Inverness Half Marathon is front runner for Mikeysline fundraising effort

A mental health charity is calling on supporters to put on their running shoes to raise awareness and vital funds to continue providing and expanding its services.

Mikeysline is encouraging its supporters to take part in the Inverness Half Marathon and 5K on March 13 – with entries open now. As one of the event’s official charity partners, participants can pledge to support Mikeysline through sponsorship for the miles they run. 

The charity provides text-based and face-to-face support for those living with mental health issues, experiencing emotional distress or in crisis in the Highlands and Moray, and offers a safe space for anyone just needing the chance to talk.

Mikeysline CEO Emily Stokes said: “The Inverness Half Marathon and 5K is always a great day out for all ages in the Highlands and offers a really diverse way to raise funds. Whether running novices want to tackle the 5K or more experienced runners the half marathon, there’s plenty on offer.

“We’re really grateful to the Inverness Half Marathon for choosing us as an official partner once again. Fundraising during the pandemic has been challenging, but we’re very much looking forward to getting back out there and raising the funds we need to continue to support Highland and Moray communities with their mental health.”

As well as running as individuals, the charity is encouraging families, friend groups and workplaces to band together to support each other while training and at the event. A recent study by fellow mental health charity Mind showed that 62% of Brits aged 16-24 said exercise had provided opportunities to speak about mental health. 

Emily Stokes continued: “Running is proven to help relieve stress and improve your mood – it’s known as the ‘runner’s high’. When you add a social aspect to that, it can have a really positive impact on your mental wellbeing. While exercising and focusing on physical fitness, many people also find it easier to talk about their mental health.

“Getting a group together to run the half marathon or the 5K can also help you get up off the sofa and start training! By working together, you’ll be able to lean on each other as you prepare… and of course, you’ll be enjoying the event itself with your nearest and dearest.”

Runners who pledge to support Mikeysline at the event will be able to claim a t-shirt, collection bucket and other fundraising resources from Mikeysline.

A Scottish podcast highlighting real stories and struggles with mental health and suicide is seeking new participants and sponsors for its new season.

Charity Mikeysline, which offers text-based and face-to-face mental health support in the Scottish Highlands and Moray, is on the lookout for businesses and individuals who may be interested in appearing on or sponsoring an upcoming podcast episode. Interested parties should get in touch to find out more.

The Speaking of Suicide podcast, produced in conjunction with Adventurous Audio Ltd, covers all aspects of mental health and suicide prevention, and has an audience across the UK, and as far afield as the USA, Russia, Brazil, India, Australia, Sweden, southeast Asia and central Africa.

Presenter and producer Pennie Stuart from Adventurous Audio Ltd said: “We’ve been blown away by how honest and open people have been in sharing their stories with us for the series. It’s such a privilege to be trusted with such raw and often painful personal memories, but what strikes us most of all is just how much all our contributors are willing to give in order to try and help others.

“Time and again they tell us that if sharing their experiences helps just one other person it will have been worth it.”

As well as seeking guests, the charity is keen to hear from businesses who may wish to sponsor one or more episodes, to help promote positive mental wellbeing in their industry or simply to promote good mental health across the board.

Producer Dan Holland continued: “We’ve been hugely grateful to the local businesses who have funded the Speaking of Suicide podcast series to date. There’s a real commitment here in the Highlands to supporting these stories, breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging everyone to speak up when they’re struggling.”

The podcast, which started in mid 2021, has already reached over 5,400 downloads worldwide and continues to grow in popularity – with most listeners tuning in for at least 90% of every episode. A recent 12 Days of Christmas miniseries increased the podcast’s reach by 99% – allowing the charity to spread its message that it’s ok to not be ok to an even greater audience. 

Previous guests have included those who have struggled with their own mental health in any capacity; those who have considered suicide and developed strategies to move away from those feelings; and those who have been affected by suicide to share their stories.

The podcast features people from across the Highland and Moray communities, as high-profile figures including global expert in mental health and suicide prevention, Professor Rory O’Connor; Europe’s Strongest Man, Luke Stoltman; and Mikeysline founder, Ron Williamson.

One former guest, Joe, said: “The opportunity to talk about that period in my life came out of a chance conversation with two good friends. I hadn’t talked openly about it for years and, to be honest, had put the stress it caused into a box and turned the key. In many ways I didn’t really want to admit that it had ever happened.

“Pennie is very, very good at what she does: empathy and understanding combined with probing questions and heartfelt concern. The process for me was hugely cathartic and it has allowed me to have honest and frank conversations with a number of friends and family who had no real idea of where my head had been at that time in my life.

“If my speaking out has helped just one person step back from the precipice then it will all have been hugely worthwhile. I know that talking to Pennie has certainly helped me.”

Emily Stokes, CEO of Mikeysline, added: “Although the podcast is called Speaking of Suicide, it really does cover every avenue of mental health and wellbeing. Throughout the series so far, our contributors have shared stories that are inspirational, heart-breaking and deeply personal. They have shared practical advice for those facing mental health issues, the signs to look out for in others, and stories of bereavement by suicide.

“Our mission at Mikeysline is to remind people that struggling with mental health, emotional distress or suicidal thoughts is not uncommon – and that there is always someone available to provide support, whether that is from a friend or family member, or a charity like us.

“This podcast allows us to reach a much larger audience than ever before, to spread that message of togetherness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health, and to remind people that it’s ok not to be ok.”

It’s OK Not to Be OK This Christmas

It might be known as ‘the most wonderful time of the year’ but, if you’re struggling with difficult thoughts or feelings this festive season, please know that you’re not alone.

As the nights draw in, around half of the UK population struggles with their mental health, so it’s important to remember that it’s ok not to be ok – and that help and support is always available.

At this time of year, it’s more important than ever to look out for those close to us – and to look after ourselves, too.

If you are feeling suicidal or lower than normal, or you just need someone to talk to, remember we are here for you throughout the festive period.

And if you have a concern about anyone you know, let them know you’re thinking about them. Start a conversation and remind them that Mikeysline is here every night to listen, too.

Our Festive Support Hours

Over the Christmas period, we’ll be providing non-judgemental support though our text-based messaging services, telephone call-backs and in-person sessions in Inverness.

If you’d like to contact us by text, you can reach us on 07786 207755. You can also reach out to us on Messenger or Twitter – or via our online webchat at www.mikeysline.co.uk.

If you’d like to speak to someone, you can request a call-back via our textline – or drop into The Hive Inverness at 19 Academy Street.

Take a look at the table below to see our festive hours.