Encounters with mental distress: Quaker stories developed by the Mental Health in Meetings Cluster of the Quaker Life Network

Issues relating to mental illness and mental distress

have been of particular interest and concern to Quakers

throughout the history of the Religious Society of

Friends.

It became apparent that it would be helpful to learn

more from Quakers about their personal experiences

of mental ill health. Friends were invited to share their

stories, whether positive or challenging.

The result is this candid collection of encounters,

responses and insights from individuals, carers and

meetings. We hope that it will increase understanding,

reduce stigma and enable people to be more open, more

compassionate and more accepting of those who are

distressed or ill.