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In 2020, Tackle Your Thoughts began as a social media page aiming to support people experiencing mental health problems.

Now, two years on, it has evolved into a community interest company offering counselling sessions with sports clubs across Caerphilly County Borough – in the hope of ‘tackling’ mental health problems. 

One of its founding members, Dai Evans, told Caerphilly Observer: “We started with a question. Where are the local support networks for mental health?

“We began as a middleman that helped people find the right service; be that depression or financial support. Since then, we now host a podcast, travel around south Wales offering counselling sessions and are even organising event days for more people to get involved.”

One of these events will take place at 11am on Saturday, July 9 at Caerphilly Rugby Club, with a day of activities including two rugby matches and entertainment for all ages.

Speaking about what the money raised will do for the group, Dai said: “At the moment we only offer group counselling once a month. We have great responses every time as our level two and three mental health coaches provide brilliant support.

“Having said that, we’d love to do more. Any money raised goes towards our target of one-on-one counselling which we believe will be another level again to what we’re currently offering.”

This is a very personal mission for Dai, who has experienced the effects of mental health problems himself.

He said: “I’ve lost a few friends and teammates to suicide over the years, as well experiencing addiction to gambling, leaving me in serious debt.

“To see the relief in the faces of some of the people we speak to is great. Every club wants us to come back as soon as possible.”

As well as podcasts and events, the group have recently been cold diving with those brave enough – the benefits of which include reducing stress and improving circulation.

However, Dai likes to focus on the social benefits of activities like these.

“It’s about raising awareness more than anything”, he said. “Letting people know that they aren’t alone and that there are people out there who are like minded and can help.”

For more details about Tackle Your Thoughts you can visit their website or Facebook page.