Molly's story: empowering support networks
Mollys story
Mental health problems affect individuals. But recovery doesn't usually happen in isolation, as Molly's story shows.
In 2021 Molly was battling anorexia. She moved back home from university for treatment. She said:
"I was struggling immensely, dealing with my illness and coping with the transition of moving home after having my independence."
Molly's parents were struggling too. They felt lost and didn't know how best to support her. They began attending our workshops and webinars, meeting other parents and carers going through similar experiences.
Helpful strategies
Molly said: When my parents joined these sessions, I noticed significant improvements in my recovery; they began to understand what was going on in my head more and offer me strategies that really helped.
"They encouraged my brother, grandparents and friends to all join in, so I had such a supportive network around me. I owe my life to my parents and they wouldn't have been able to support me without what the Charlie Waller Trust offered them."
Molly's students now use our resources
Molly is now a teacher. She is still benefiting from our work - as are her students:
"I have started to use your resources for schools and have become increasingly aware of how I can support children's mental health. I'll endeavour to continue with this throughout my whole career and your resources help with this."
Direct positive impact
"Your charity has made a direct positive impact on my life, and I will be forever grateful."
Molly's story illustrates the crucial role of adults in young people's mental health. Parents, carers, teachers, aunts, uncles, friends - we can all play our part.
Eating disorder workshops for parents and carers
We run regular eating disorder workshops for parents and carers based on the New Maudsley Approach, which recognises that family/carers are in a unique position to support their loved one to tackle the eating disorder.
