Inspiring Inverness fitness trainer explains why mental health matters
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Full time personal trainer Alan Goodwin is returning early in the New Year with his latest talk in the series Mental Health Matters.
Following two previously successful events, 'The Unwanted Visitor' will be held at Eden Court's OneTouch Theatre in Inverness on February 3.
The 42 year old suffered a steep decline in his mental health in 2019 and began writing about his feelings.
Six months later he was delivering his first talk at Eden Court which was met with much praise.
He described the response he received as "incredible and life changing".
Mr Goodwin said: "It grew way beyond what I thought it would and it really gathered momentum."
Now back for the third instalment, the Inverness-based fitness trainer emphasises the need now more than ever after the challenges presented by Covid and the harsh winter months when suicide rates increase.
'The Unwanted Visitor' is a metaphor for depression.
Mr Goodwin explained: "The name is describing depression as an unwanted visitor coming to your home and giving it an identity.
"It's about how to deal with that."
The talk has progressed from previous ones as Mr Goodwin is no longer in that dark mindset, and is ready to share his healing experience with others.
Mr Goodwin added: "I am more empowered now."
He will talk about his own progress, coping strategies, and ways to help others.
He emphasises the need to go out and find what works for you as an individual.
"A lot of the stuff I do is taking bits and pieces from different therapies and my own learning," he said. "The process has been life-saving, not just life changing."
For those struggling, he has given a helpful starting point.
He said: "The first thing is to recognise what you are going through. Do not deny it, ultimately the first thing in getting through these periods is to accept we are going through that.
"We need to talk about it."
Mr Goodwin does not plan to stop any time soon, and is already brainstorming and writing the next talk after The Unwanted Visitor.
Mental health is clearly something he is passionate about, and wants to share with others.
He had thanked GA Barnie for sponsoring the forthcoming event as well as his previous talks.
Mr Goodwin said he hopes that more businesses take the message on board and help their staff have better mental health.
Tickets are already selling fast. To purchase, head to the website.
