On Saturday 5 September, Compass Counselling joined mental health services from across Portsmouth at the SALT Festival (Suicide Awareness – Let’s Talk). The festival brought people together for a day of conversations about mental health and suicide awareness, alongside live music, free exercise sessions, talks and plenty of opportunities to connect with local support services.
At the Compass Counselling stall, Counselling Service Manager Siobhan and Good Neighbours Assistant Stephen invited visitors to think about what helps them when life feels a little “wonky”. Using wonky vegetables and a fun “Yes or No” game, visitors were encouraged to have a laugh while also thinking about the things, people and activities that can help us through difficult times. The team also handed out “Bags of Hope”, each containing vegetable seeds, a herbal teabag and, of course, a wonky carrot! The seeds were a reminder that you can be wonky and still grow, while the tea encouraged people to take a moment to slow down and rest….
… And the wonky carrot? That was simply a cheeky reminder of the day’s theme!
It was a brilliant day filled with lots of laughs, meaningful conversations and connections with people across Portsmouth.
The message from Compass Counselling was simple: when life feels a bit wonky, you don’t have to face it alone.
Compass Counselling offers affordable counselling in Portsmouth, with appointments available from £20–£65 depending on income.
To find out more click here: Contact – Compass Counselling
“S.A.L.T Festival (Suicide Awareness Let’s Talk) previously known as Let’s Get Talking About Suicide, is a free, family-friendly wellbeing day in Portsmouth, now in its 4th year. It was held on the 5th September this year in Victoria Park, Portsmouth.
Sarah Mitas was inspired to take action after losing her father to suicide at age 13. In 2023, alongside her friend Lara, she brought their vision to life and raised suicide awareness through the Portsmouth Baton of Hope. S.A.L.T. exists to ensure no one feels alone.”
To find out more click here: S.A.L.T Festival (Suicide Awareness Let’s Talk)
