Katherine's story
It is widely recognised that taking part in regular exercise benefits not only our physical health but also our mental wellbeing. To mark Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we spoke to one of our customers about her personal journey and how staying active has made a positive difference in her life.
Katherine Paterson (61), a regular at Nairn Leisure Centre, attends four fitness classes each week: Aqua Fit twice weekly, as well as Body Conditioning and Dance Fit, all led by instructor Jane MacDonald.
“I have suffered from poor mental health for around 15 years now,” Katherine explains. “It was brought on by personal family circumstances and progressed gradually. Ultimately, I have needed medication, and I’m now under the care of the NHS Mental Health Support Team.”
Katherine first started attending Nairn Leisure Centre two years ago. “I was very nervous at the beginning – it felt quite daunting because of my anxiety. But from day one, the team made me feel so welcome. They encouraged and supported me every step of the way.”
I look forward to my classes every week. They give me a reason to get up in the morning, and I always leave with my mood lifted.
She now attends four classes each week and credits much of her positive experience to her instructor. “Jane MacDonald is one in a million. She’s fantastic with everyone in the class, it’s always fun, and she really gets us all motivated.”
For Katherine, staying active has become an essential part of her routine. “I look forward to my classes every week. They give me a reason to get up in the morning, and I always leave with my mood lifted. There are days when I don’t feel like going, when I feel too low, but my husband Jim encourages me – and he’s always right. I go along, and I come home feeling so much better.”
She says the benefits go far beyond physical fitness. “As a result of attending classes, I feel both physically and mentally well. But an added bonus is the social side - I’ve made so many new friends.”
What Katherine would say to others
When asked what advice she would give to others experiencing low mood or mental health challenges, Katherine is clear: “I would say give it a try. It might feel daunting at first, but in my experience, High Life staff are so supportive and encouraging. I promise – you will enjoy it, and you will feel better. I know that if I had to stop exercising now, I would be back to square one.”
Looking ahead, Katherine hopes to build on her progress. “My long-term goal is to reduce my medication and maybe come off it altogether. That’s something I would never have considered before seeing the benefits that physical activity has had on my mental health.”
If you're struggling with your mental health and looking for support, you can find mental health services and resources on the NHS website.
Ready to take that step?
Our friendly teams are here to welcome you — just like they welcomed Katherine.
