what to expect at open up
Arriving at the venue, you will be personally welcomed into the space by one of our two friendly Peer Support Workers.
You will be offered a seat, a cup of tea, and introduced to the rest of the group who may be ‘regulars’ or first-timers. A usual group typically sits around 4 - 10 people.
The session begins and the lead Peer Support Worker will introduce themselves. If you've never attended a session, the Peer Support Worker will start with a brief explanation of - what Open Up is, why it was started, how it will run, and some supporting literature which backs it.
Next, the Peer Support Worker reads out the ‘Ground Rules’ - 10 guidelines which we agree upon to make the session more comfortable and smooth. For instance, Ground Rule #3 states that 'nobody is required to speak - if you'd prefer to just listen - that is completely okay’. These Ground Rules were developed through implementing participant feedback.
Now the conversation starts.
This part is the hardest to explain because every group and every conversation is different. What does seem to be consistent, however, is that what usually begins as a room full of strangers (or friends) feeling slightly awkward and unsure - ends as a room full of people who understand each other.
Over the course of the hour-long discussion, you might have gained new insights, connected with people’s stories, or gotten something important off of your chest. People often express how refreshing the honesty is, the casual and judgement-free nature of the group dynamic, and the genuine openness to listen to each other and explore ideas and experiences.
After the discussion, the Peer Support Worker ends the session, reminds participants about the anonymity ground rule, and provides guidance and support as to how to access professional mental health services, should anyone be looking for further support.
Finally, we wash up our tea cups, re-set the couches and say our goodbye's 'til the next one.
But don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some other people had to say!
“Feeling positive after attending and connecting with new people. I was inspired by others who had the strength to open up about their own recent mental health experiences. I felt safe and supported by others.”
“Felt like absolute shit coming in and felt so supported and loved leaving. Thanks legends!”
“This was awesome. I feel so comfortable in this space and it helped me immensely in working through some anxieties I have felt!”
“It was a space to feel properly heard. So rare in today’s society. I am endlessly grateful.”
“When you first hear about Open Up it sounds like such a big idea, but the minute you walk into that rooms it feels so natural. It’s a space that’s completely safe and supportive, filled with people that genuinely want to hear what you have to say. I would encourage everybody to give it a chance and come to an Open Up session, I’m so glad that I did!”
“My son went to Open Up on Monday night and the support he received was incredible. We have been searching for years to find a group to give him the community support he desperately requires after being bullied in his school years. He came home feeling so much better and not as lost as he had felt. A huge thank you, keep up the fantastic work, there are so many out there that need it. He’ll be there next week.”
“Was a really well run online session. Found it especially helpful to connect with others during the COVID-19 lockdown.”
“These sessions give me strength. Fill me with confidence and make me proud to open up!”
“I loved the vibe and the space provided. Thank you for letting me come along and share things; I felt very safe and happy that I went. Thanks to the girls taking the group too, they were really welcoming and very supportive. ”
It is important to remember that Open Up is a community support group, and not a professional mental health care service. If you need extra support, or have further questions about your own mental health, please do not hesitate to reach out to a trained professional at anytime (24/7) at Lifeline on 13 11 14. In cases of emergency, always call 000.