The MCF’s mission for mental wellbeing

It’s well documented that mental health issues are on the rise across all age groups, which is something the the Freemasons’ charity the MCF  is working hard to tackle.

The MCF can help Freemasons and their families access mental health support if they’re feeling down, have symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress or other mental health concerns. This includes widows and partners of Freemasons regardless of gender, as well as children, step-children, and grandchildren of Freemasons aged between 5-17 years old.

The mental health support service the MCF offers is delivered through an experienced and independent provider and gives access to fully trained and qualified mental health practitioners, ensuring that they receive the highest quality of care – and as far as Lincolnshire’s concerned, that’s well documented by th story of Chris Jones, currently in the south-west peninsula on his round-Britain walk to raise money for the charity, which he’s in no doubt saved his life when his mental health was on the rocks.

Children and young people

 A recent study found that young people, aged 16-24 are the most affected by mental health struggles, with nearly a quarter (23.5%) describing their mental health as either bad or the worst it’s ever been (Forth with Life).

Anna, 20, reached out to the MCF as she was struggling to manage her anxiety, and as a result struggled to complete her university coursework. She was offered a course of cognitive behavioural therapy after an initial assessment where she discussed not knowing how to address her negative thoughts and emotions.

After 12 sessions, Anna has made significant progress and has learnt to manage her worry and anxiety. She is so glad she reached out to the MCF for support and found that the sessions massively helped her self-esteem and confidence, and taught her to understand herself more.

Steven, 13, also turned to the MCF for support after he began to struggle with his anxiety when going to school. In his initial assessment, Steven was lacking confidence and self-esteem and was referred to the MCF’s external provider for six sessions of counselling. With their help, Steven challenged his thoughts and noticed his mood improved and anxiety quickly became more manageable.

He also learnt to feel more comfortable reaching out for support and has since adapted the tools he learnt in counselling to better manage his wellbeing to feel less isolated.

Isolation in later life

Latest figures show that around 1.2 million older people experience loneliness in the UK (Age UK). Thanks to the £1million partnership with Age UK, the MCF has supported over 10,000 older people experiencing loneliness across the country, and more than half (56 per cent) of older people who had originally reported often feeling lonely, now reported lower levels.

Bereavement can have a significant impact on mental health, so it makes sense that widows and widowers frequently show a higher proportion of depression and symptoms of PTSD on average. This can be because many live by themselves, will face isolation, and will often withdraw socially.

The MCF supported Bill, an 88-year old Freemason, who struggled with loneliness since his wife, Nancy, passed away. He told the MCF, “I’ve never experienced anything like the help and the wonderful feeling I’ve had dealing with the Foundation. I can’t say thank you enough.”

Could the MCF support you or someone you know?

Those seeking mental health support should contact the MCF’s Enquiries team who will provide the details required to access the service. 0800 035 60 90 / help@mcf.org.uk

 If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is essential that you seek immediate assistance. Please reach out to charity Mind, who can provide you with the necessary support to ensure your safety.

Learn more about the MCF’s access to mental health support service: https://mcf.org.uk/get-support/freemasons-and-families/health-and-wellbeing/

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