What was going on in your life that meant you decided to do the Thrive Programme?
For a number of years I had suffered with obsessive compulsive disorder, it meant I couldn’t leave the house without checking if all the plugs were off, if all the taps were off, if all the windows and doors were shut etc.- it became a ritual for me. It was part of my every day routine. More recently I began to suffer from anxiety, I’d have “freak outs” in meetings at work, at social events and even when driving. It started with the odd bad day but it got worse and worse and practically took over my life. It was like I didn’t recognise this shy, uncomfortable, nervous person that I had become.
There came a point where I knew I just couldn’t carry on being like this, it wasn’t me and I needed it to change. It took a lot of courage for me to speak out, I was worried about what people might think and I guess I was also embarrassed. But eventually I sought help from Mary and the Thrive Programme and it’s the best thing I have ever done!
What difference did it make to you going through the programme with the help of your consultant?
Having Mary’s guidance throughout the programme was amazing. She explained the programme in a way that I really understood, she supported me throughout and was always on hand if I was having a “blip” or if I needed to go over anything. Mary gave me the tools I needed to overcome my issues. I’d come away after every session feeling empowered to keep continuing on my journey to Thriving.
Did you enjoy going through Thrive?
I really enjoyed the Thrive Programme, it was very interactive and practical. The nature of the book made it easy to apply the theories to my situation, which made every section relatable to me.
Was there a key thing in the programme that stood out to you? And if you’ve tried other interventions or therapies before, what made Thrive different?
The Thrive Programme worked for me because it looked at the source of my issues, it made me look inside my own head at my own beliefs and helped me to get to the root of the problem and change it – other interventions only helped me mask and deal with my symptoms rather than finding and changing the cause of them.
What did you get out of going through the programme?
Going through the programme has really made me realise so much about myself, about the way I think, about the language I use and my beliefs. It has made me realise that I am in control of what happens in my life, I create the anxiety and OCD, it doesn’t happen to me.
How would you say that your life has changed by going through Thrive?
The Thrive Programme has completely changed my life. I am now a confident and outgoing person on the inside and out! Most importantly, I am kind to myself and believe in myself. I put me first which is something I could never do before. I feel so much more relaxed about being sociable! I meet with friends every week, I am keeping fit and am regularly attending meetings again at work. I’ve got my life back on track and am feeling better than ever before.
What 3 words would you use to describe you and your life having gone through the programme?
Confident, Happy, Positive
What would you say to anyone who is thinking of going through The Thrive Programme?
I would say do it! Going through the Thrive Programme is the best decision I’ve ever made – it’s completely changed my life! It’s a lot of effort and hard work but every single second is worth it. You don’t just solve your original issue, you exceed your original self. The support and guidance from Mary was incredible, I couldn’t recommend Mary or the Thrive Programme enough.
What’s next in your life now you are Thriving…
I want to continue to Thrive in all aspects of my life. I will continue to believe in myself, work hard and lead the happiest, content and fulfilled life I can.