This week’s Wednesday Wellness session with Sally Wagstaff brought a positive and thoughtful focus to mental health, featuring local guest Sheila McMahon, well known for her engaging mental health shows at the Lichfield Garrick.
The conversation centred on how far attitudes towards mental health have come in recent years. What was once rarely discussed is now increasingly recognised as an important part of overall wellbeing, with more people feeling able to speak openly and seek support.
Sheila continues to play a valuable role in this shift locally, creating welcoming and supportive spaces where people can share their experiences. Through her work — including performances and creative projects — she uses humour, honesty and storytelling to help make these conversations more accessible and uplifting.
From a clinical perspective, Sally shared how awareness of mental wellbeing is growing within her practice. She works closely with clients to ensure their overall health is supported, taking into account both physical and emotional wellbeing as part of a balanced, thoughtful approach to care.
She also highlighted the importance of recognising conditions such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), helping clients access the right support where needed. With screening tools available in clinic, Sally ensures people are guided in a safe and supportive way towards further help when appropriate.
Sheila also spoke about her latest creative project.
My poetry book Behind Closed Doors highlights the insecurities and vulnerabilities that we can all feel at some point in our lives.
It encourages people to express how they really feel and reminds them there’s no shame in those emotions.
I hope the collection offers hope and solace to those experiencing depression. – Sheila McMahon
Her work is rooted in her own journey, using creativity as a positive outlet and a way to connect with others. Alongside reflective pieces, the collection also includes lighter, uplifting moments inspired by people, places and life experiences.
The book will be officially unveiled at an invite-only launch event at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre lounge on Saturday 4th April, sponsored by Malcolm Bembridge of MB Roofing & Property Maintenance.
Malcolm previously featured in Sheila’s Counsellor Convos YouTube series discussing men’s mental health.
I can resonate with Sheila’s work in helping people and I want to support her. – Malcolm Bembridge, MB Roofing & Property Maintenance
Anyone interested in attending the launch can email: contact@mindmanagementforyou.com
For more information on Sheila’s work and to purchase her book, visit:
https://www.mindmanagementforyou.com
Her first book, The Power of Knowing You, is also available via her website and on Amazon.
To find out more about Sally and her services, visit:
https://www.sallywagstaff.co.uk
