In this episode, we explore the mental health challenges facing young people today, from barriers to accessing support to the impact of social media, stigma and the pandemic.

shmu volunteer Alan Parker is joined by the Two Steps Forward Engage group - Ayden, Marcus and Yousef, alongside Justine Dunbar from SAMH.

Together, they share lived experiences, insights and ideas for what needs to change, highlighting the importance of listening to young voices in shaping better mental health support.

If you have been affected by anything in today’s episode, reach out for Mental Health support by:

Call Samaritans on 0330 094 5717

Text SHOUT on 85258 

Walk in support at Penumbra 365 - open daily 9am - 9pm located in the Mackenzie Building on 168 Skene Street, Aberdeen 

In this episode, we explore recovery, trauma and mental health, and what support can look like in real life. Through honest conversation, we reflect on the realities of recovery, the importance of feeling safe and understood, and the role of connection.

shmu volunteer Jon is joined by Faye, Craig, Sarah and Dr Claire Campbell to share lived experience and professional insight, challenging stigma and offering hope to those on their own journey.

If you have been affected by anything in today’s episode, reach out for Mental Health support by:

Call Samaritans on 0330 094 5717

Text SHOUT on 85258 

Aberdeen in Recovery - 01224 638342

Alcohol & Drugs Action - 0333 3 448 355

Walk in support at Penumbra 365 - open daily 9am - 9pm located in the Mackenzie Building on 168 Skene Street, Aberdeen 

This episode explores the link between food insecurity and mental health.

Join Dave as he chats to Sean from Cfine, Vanessa from Aberdeen Science Centre and Prof. Chris Yuill, RGU.

Through this thought-provoking conversation, we hear how access to food impacts stress, wellbeing, and daily life and why no one should have to face these challenges alone.

If you have been affected by anything in today’s episode, reach out for Mental Health support by:

Call Samaritans on 0330 094 5717

Text SHOUT on 85258 

Walk in support at Penumbra 365 - open daily 9am - 9pm located in the Mackenzie Building on 168 Skene Street, Aberdeen 

n this episode, we explore how creativity can support mental health and wellbeing. We discuss how creative activities can help people process emotions, build confidence, and feel more connected.5

shmu volunteer Mike Arthur is joined by Michelle and Fiona from Citymoves, alongside Irene and Martine from Graffiti Grannies, to share their experiences of creativity and its impact on wellbeing.

If you have been affected by anything in today’s episode, reach out for Mental Health support by:

Call Samaritans on 0330 094 5717

Text SHOUT on 85258 

Walk in support at Penumbra 365 - open daily 9am - 9pm located in the Mackenzie Building on 168 Skene Street, Aberdeen 

In this special episode of the Slice of Us Podcast for Mental Health Awareness Week, Tegan, Connor & Noah come together to share honest conversations and insights into the factors that can impact mental health and the actions that they take to improve their wellbeing.

They reflect on the isolation felt during COVID, explore the role of social media and technology and discuss what it's like to navigate identity, belonging, and the pressures to fit in.

Alongside these personal stories we hear from Kelly, a youth worker, who offers insight into supporting young people’s wellbeing, along with a member of the local community who shares the simple, practical ways they nurture their own mental health.

And the one thing that comes up throughout this episode - it's good to talk!

If you have been affected by anything in today’s episode, reach out for Mental Health support by:

Call Samaritans on 0330 094 5717

Text SHOUT on 85258 

Walk in support at Penumbra 365 - open daily 9am - 9pm located in the Mackenzie Building on 168 Skene Street, Aberdeen 

In this episode, we explore the realities of lone parenthood and its impact on mental health and wellbeing. Through honest conversation, we reflect on the challenges, the importance of support, and the small moments that bring joy.

shmu volunteer Rachael is joined by Dana, Fatima and Tasha, who share their lived experiences of parenting alone, highlighting resilience, self-care, and advice for others navigating a similar journey.

‘I’ve seen people say people with Tourette’s need their tongue cut out, people with Tourette’s should be muzzled, gagged. A lot of people have misconceptions of what Tourette’s is’

In the Two Steps Forward Podcast brought to you by shmu, Luke chats to Aydn, Yousef and Marcus about what it is like to live with Tourette’s and how it impacts his daily life and wellbeing.

Research suggests around 1 in 100 people live with this neurological condition – yet a recent social media storm revealed how misunderstood it is.

We also hear from Lynsday Hay from Tourette Scotland, a charity that supports people with Tourette Syndrome as well as their family, carers or those in education or workplace settings.

A shmu-produced podcast on behalf of the Poverty Alliance, looking ahead to the Scotland Demands Better march and rally in Edinburgh on October 25th 2025