New Year, Fresh Start: A Youth Worker’s Perspective on Wellness - Guest Blog

Hello my name is Ryan McKay. I’m a Youth and Community Worker, from Edinburgh, based at the Citadel Youth Centre. I have a strong interest in well-being and how I can prioritise my mental health. 

This month, I’m privileged to serve as a guest blogger for Butterfly Minds where I'll be sharing my perspective on wellness as we embark on a new year.  

Join me in this blog as I delve into the growing emphasis of mental health for Youth and Community Worker professionals. 

I share the three well-being practices I plan to adopt in 2024. The practices offer valuable insights into the link between personal wellness and our professional responsibilities.

The Evolving Responsibilities of Youth Workers 

In December 2023 I found myself immersed in a research project with Northumbria University, led by Alison Ni Charraighe and Dr Andie Reynolds. 

We explored how Youth and Community Workers support young people experiencing mental health difficulties. Past research has underscored the crucial role youth workers play in providing much needed mental health support.

This recent project, in which I was interviewed, offered a platform to share the mental health support activities I regularly deliver.  It provided an opportunity to discuss how these activities align with the framework of youth work principles and ethics. This experience was not just an academic pursuit; it served as a catalyst for self-reflection on how best to care for and support my own well-being.  

Prioritising my Wellbeing

At the Citadel, my responsibilities are multifaceted and many aspects of my role involve supporting young people directly with their mental health and wellbeing.  This position, while rewarding, can be demanding and energy-sapping. 

I was inspired by Natasha’s journey at Butterfly Minds to write a children’s book, and her chosen word for 2024 being ‘Faith’. I have chosen ‘Priority’ as my guiding word this year, with health and wellbeing taking precedence. This intention guides me in better supporting those around me.  

As Robin Sharma wisely puts it: 

“Investing in yourself is the best investment you will ever make.  It will not only improve your life, it will improve the lives of all those around you.” 

Focusing on ‘Priority’ as my guiding word for the year, I have identified three key well-being practices that will shape my journey in 2024. 

1. Embarking on a Half-Marathon

As January unfolds my training for the Edinburgh half marathon, on Sunday 26th May 2024, has kicked into high gear. The structured routine provides a sense of accomplishment and motivation. Although it can bring challenges! Each run contributes to increasing my fitness levels. 

Running alongside friends, we’ve dedicated this effort to raising funds for the Citadel.  While we made this decision months ago, the recent news of devastating Edinburgh Council grant funding cuts has heightened the importance of contributing in our small way. 

As we collectively strive towards our goal, running with my closest friends will act as an anchoring activity for the rest of the year, providing a solid foundation from which my other well-being practices can seamlessly flow - much like another essential well-being practice of mine: yoga. 

2. Committing to More In-Person Yoga Classes  

I was originally drawn to yoga for rehabilitation and improved mobility.  My yoga practice has primarily been my own home practice and using Apple Fitness. However, in 2024, I am consciously increasing my participation in in-person classes. 

Under Natasha from Butterfly Minds expert guidance, I concluded 2023 with an immersive ‘Rest and Reset’ workshop surpassing the benefits of home practice. The in-person session not only deepened my connection to yoga but also provided unparalleled immersion and relaxation. To fully connect, I appreciated a phone free environment, free from distractions. 

As I commit to more in-person yoga classes in 2024 I see parallels between my yoga journey’s enriching experiences and the evolving field of youth work.  Much like my personal yoga practice, I reflect on youth workers’ crucial role as frontline contributors to mental health support for the young individuals they serve. Natasha’s immersive sessions have fueled my growth, reminding me of the instrumental role youth workers play in fostering the emotional well-being and resilience of the youth they engage with. 

This aligns with my final well-being practice for 2024: 

Creating space for new goals to grow organically without overwhelming pressure. 

3. Nurturing Growth Without Overwhelming Pressure  

In the New Year, resolutions often bring a multitude of goals, but this year, I’m intentionally leaving room for goals to evolve organically. This approach promises not just personal happiness but also pride in my first two practices: running the half marathon and participating in in-person yoga.

In youth work, where prioritising young people's mental health is increasingly vital, acknowledging the value of letting goals unfold naturally is crucial. Like my commitment to well-being through running and yoga, I understand the same necessity for Youth and Community workers.  Allowing space for goals to shape organically, my aim is to foster personal happiness while contributing to the well-being of the young individuals I work with.

Closing Remarks

To conclude this reflection, may these well-being practices serve as a reminder that self-care isn’t selfish.

It’s a foundation for a fulfilling and purposeful life.

As I lace up my running shoes and roll out my yoga mat, I invite fellow Youth and Community Workers and anyone navigating the challenges of a demanding profession to consider their own well-being journey. 

Good luck with the wellbeing practices you have prioritised for yourself. Remember, not setting a goal is a well-being practice in itself. Goals can feel like added pressure at times.

Natasha’s Endnote

Ryan and I have worked in the voluntary sector for over 30 years between us! 

I am grateful for the work he has put into this blog and for all his time and energy given to his professional work. 
Ryan shares more reflections and insight into his work on LinkedIn. To keep updated on his work you can follow him here.