MHA’s Writing & Well-Being Support Groups have been an integral part of our organization for many years. These groups provide a welcoming space where members can use writing and poetry as part of their own mental health and wellness journeys. Over the years, countless poems, stories, reflections, and even anthologies have been created and shared within our groups.
Our writers are incredibly talented and creative, and they bring so much vulnerability, heart, and honesty to their work. Some members have been part of our groups for years, while others have joined us more recently. No matter how long they’ve been writing with us, each person brings a unique voice and perspective to our group.
I wanted to find a way to celebrate and showcase that creativity more regularly, and that’s where Writing Wednesday comes in!
Each Wednesday, I’ll spotlight a few pieces of writing created by members of our Writing & Well-Being Support Groups. Writing Wednesday is a way to celebrate the creativity and courage of our members, recognize the commitment they make by showing up and sharing their work, and highlight the support and connections they’ve built with one another and with MHA.
I also hope Writing Wednesday will give those who may be interested in joining one of our groups a glimpse into what we do. It’s completely understandable to feel hesitant about joining a writing group, especially if you’re wondering whether your writing is “good enough,” how much you’re expected to write, or whether there is a certain level of experience required.
There isn’t.
There is no required level of writing and no “right” way to participate. Writing is simply one of the tools we use to express ourselves, explore our experiences, connect with one another, and support our mental well-being. You don’t have to consider yourself a writer to belong in our group.
So, whether you’ve been writing for years or have never put pen to paper before, I hope you’ll enjoy following along with Writing Wednesday and getting to know some of the voices and stories that make our groups so special.
Interested in joining one of MHA’s Writing & Well-Being Support Groups? I’d love to hear from you!
Please contact 716-886-1242 ext. 323 or sreese@mhawny.org for more information.
MHA’s Writing & Well-Being Support Group meets:
- Mondays at 1 p.m. via Zoom
- 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. in person
I look forward to sharing our members’ words with you each Wednesday!