A LICHFIELD mental health counsellor has officially launched her new anthology of poetry.
Sheila McMahon’s new collection – Behind Closed Doors – covers a lifetime of writing, with pieces focusing on episodes of depression.
The book was launched at an event at the Lichfield Garrick.
She said she hoped the collection would support people to recognise how poetry can be a lifeline as well as a hobby.
Sheila said:
“Sometimes people feel overwhelmed by their emotions and simply need an outlet. Poetry can give them a way to release what they’re carrying.
“The benefits of writing or reading poetry can extend beyond momentary comfort. For some, writing poetry helps their mental health because it offers them a cathartic release to process complex emotions like grief or traumatic memories.
“I didn’t know at the time of writing my poetry, because of my age, but I know now that my poetry helped me to get through my own mental health struggles as it allowed me to openly write down how I was feeling and be honest about how I was struggling with everyday life.”
The anthology is available to buy on Sheila’s website and on Amazon.
