What peer support exists in Greater Manchester?
“Peer support is people supporting others through a hard time, whether they are professionals or non-professionals, in a group setting or a 1-1. Some examples might look a bit more structured, like self-help groups or support helplines or recovery centres, but some day-to-day examples might just be bonding through shared experiences, like a baby and toddler group, or even just going for coffee with your friend and talking about your issues. But every peer supporter has one goal in mind, and that’s to support the person in need in an attempt to make them feel just a little bit less vulnerable.”
Find peer support that suits you and your needs:
Struggling to leave the house?
If you’ve found peer support suitable for you that’s happening in-person but you’re struggling to leave the house, the following tips will hopefully help make leaving the house feel a bit more manageable, especially on those days when anxiety feels overwhelming.
Take Small Steps,
One at a Time
Start with something you feel comfortable with, like just stepping outside for a few minutes or walking down the block. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration or distance as you feel ready. Each little step is a victory—celebrate it!
Create a Calming Routine
Before
You Go Out
Deep Breathing: Taking a few slow, deep breaths before you head out can make a big difference. Try breathing in for four counts, holding for four, exhaling for four, and holding again. It’s a great way to centre yourself.
Grounding Exercise: A quick grounding exercise like noticing 5 things you see, 4 things you can feel, 3 sounds you hear, 2 smells, and 1 taste can help calm your mind before or even while you’re outside.
Carry a Comfort Kit
Consider keeping a small kit with things that help ease your anxiety, like a water bottle, a favourite snack, headphones with calming music, or a stress ball. Having items that help soothe you can make going out feel more manageable.
Visualize Success
and Focus on Rewards
Imagine Yourself Calm: Picture yourself stepping outside, feeling calm, and handling everything with ease. Try to focus on the positive feeling of accomplishment.
Plan a Small Reward: Treat yourself afterward, whether it’s a favourite show, a relaxing bath, or something you enjoy doing. It’s nice to have something to look forward to as a reward.
Bring a Supportive Companion,
or Reach Out to One
If possible, go out with a friend or family member who understands what you’re working through. If no one can come, consider texting or calling someone supportive before you go out and checking in with them afterward.
Challenge Anxious
Thoughts
Notice the thoughts that come up and gently question them. For example, if you think, “What if something goes wrong?” you might ask, “What’s the evidence for this? Has this happened before?” Remind yourself, “I’m capable of handling this” or “It’s okay to feel anxious.”
Set Up a Safety Net
with Technology
Knowing your route in advance or setting a plan to return home whenever you want can help ease anxiety. Having this kind of safety net often makes going out feel more flexible and less pressured.
Be Kind to Yourself
and
Accept Your Feelings
Remind yourself that anxiety is a natural response. Accepting it, rather than fighting it, can help reduce its impact over time. Give yourself permission to feel as you do without judgment—self-compassion goes a long way.
Celebrate Your
Progress,
No Matter How Small
Keep a small journal or note in your phone to track each step you take. On days when anxiety feels strong, looking back at the progress you’ve made can be a great reminder of your resilience.
Overall
Take things at your own pace and remember that each small step counts. You’re building confidence and resilience each time. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a meaningful one.