mind-management-for-you

Author on how poetry heals

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 14:34:06 GMT

Article placed in the Irish Sun Newspaper

With so many people struggling with their mental health, Lichfield‑based Registered BACP Counsellor Sheila McMahon has seen first-hand how writing poetry can become far more than a hobby.

For many, it has proven to be a lifeline, including Sheila herself.

In the wake of publishing her lifetime anthology of poetry, entitled ‘Behind Closed Doors,’ which includes many poems written during episodes of depression in her teens and 20s, said: “Sometimes people feel overwhelmed by their emotions and simply need an outlet.

“Poetry can give them a way to release what they’re carrying.”

And the research supports Sheila’s stance. A 2023 study that explored the benefits of poetry during the COVID‑19 pandemic reported around 50% of participants said reading or writing poetry helped them manage feelings of anxiety and depression.

“The benefits of writing or reading poetry can extend beyond momentary comfort,” added Sheila. “For some, writing poetry helps their mental health because it offers them a cathartic release to process complex emotions like grief or traumatic memories.

“I didn’t know at the time of writing my poetry, because of my age, but I know now that my poetry helped me to get through my own mental health struggles as it allowed me to openly write down how I was feeling and be honest about how I was struggling with everyday life.”

The same 2023 study also showed that poetry therapy enabled deeper emotional processing in almost two-thirds of participants, how engaging with it improved processing their feelings, with around 80% of people admitting it allowed them to actively express themselves, and it even helped ease loneliness for many during periods of isolation.

Sheila’s relationship with poetry is certainly a deeply personal one and these findings reflect her experience throughout her lifetime.

Having penned poetry throughout her life, and continues to do so today, her sincere hope in publishing her new poetry book is that it will help to give others the lifeline that it gave her as well as hope for those who may be struggling in silence.

The response to Sheila’s anthology, which is available to buy on Sheila’s website here and on Amazon , has already been powerful.

At the launch, which saw the Lichfield Garrick’s lounge packed out, Sheila spoke candidly of her mental health journey and struggles and performed some of her poetry, with feedback including “refreshing,” “honest,” and “amazing.”

One attendee said: “Your talk was so very honest, and I felt that it gave others permission to talk about their own mental health struggles quite openly. It was very refreshing.”

This is Sheila’s second book. Her first book, published 11 years ago, entitled ‘The Power of Knowing You’, is also available on Sheila’s website and on Amazon.

Sheila, who is also the CEO of Mind Management For You, continues to share her mental health message beyond penning books, by delivering mental health and wellbeing talks to businesses, including the likes of JCB. For more visit www.mindmanagementforyou.com

Saving Lives Through Poetry

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 14:54:29 GMT

Book Launch for Sheila's Poetry Book

With so many people struggling with their mental health, Lichfield‑based Registered BACP Counsellor Sheila McMahon has seen first-hand how writing poetry can become far more than a hobby.

For many, it has proven to be a lifeline, including Sheila herself.

“Poetry can give them a way to release what they’re carrying.”

Sheila’s relationship with poetry is certainly a deeply personal one and these findings reflect her experience throughout her lifetime.

The response to Sheila’s anthology, which is available to buy on Sheila’s website here and on Amazon , has already been powerful.

One attendee said: “Your talk was so very honest, and I felt that it gave others permission to talk about their own mental health struggles quite openly. It was very refreshing.”

This is Sheila’s second book. Her first book, published 11 years ago, entitled ‘The Power of Knowing You’, is also available on Sheila’s website and on Amazon.

JCB

Thu, 28 May 2026 09:42:42 GMT

JCB 2024 & 2025

With its world headquarters in Staffordshire, Sheila was delighted to be called on by JCB’s management to deliver not one, but two mental health talks for staff, as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.

JCB bosses shut down production completely to enable Sheila to deliver her workshops to hundreds of employees at the multinational company and even bought in an events firm to construct a purpose-build stage for her.

And, as usual, Sheila’s unique approach to mental health education, fusing education with her music and stand-up comedy, went down a storm at both sessions – one session was for JCB’s day workers and the second was for night shift employees.

JCB’s General Manager Robert Taylor, pictured in a close-up photo here with Sheila, said:

"It was a wonderful session"

He later went on to add that: “There’s been some good feedback today also, where people have taken something from what you were presenting.

“Sometimes, taking people away from the norm and doing something different is enough and really helps anyway.

“Time for reflection is so important in my view and your talk helps people to do just that… relate to what you are talking about and reflect on how that relates to their own stories. Love that and look forward to working with you going forward!”

One of the controls engineers said:

"It is one of the best talks I have ever seen at JCB.",

Another member of staff said

“Thank you. I don't understand mental health so can I honestly say it helped me so much more today to actually understand it."

Sheila went on to deliver Mental Wellbeing Workshops at JCB in 2025 with Testimonials of ……

‘Sheila absolutely helped me with inner peace. I enjoyed the structure of the workshop. I feel Sheila helped me understand how to handle anxiety and depression’

‘Simply just thank you again’

‘The workshop was very insightful and useful – definitely plenty of things which could be used in daily life’

VINCI Safety Week Highlights

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:49:19 GMT

"Thank you, Sheila for your contribution to a meaningful and memorable Safety Week"

As part of VINCI Safety Week, our Balfour Beatty VINCI sites had the pleasure of welcoming guest speaker Sheila McMahon.

Sheila delivered a powerful and engaging session focused on the critical topics of depression and stress—issues that are especially pertinent within our industry.

Throughout the week, Sheila visited Bromford sites, delivering impactful performances that explored:

Self-Talk – Understanding and managing our inner critic
Emotional Expression – The importance of healthy emotional release
The Drama Triangle – Identifying unhelpful behaviours and fostering healthier relationships

In addition to her valuable insights, Sheila uplifted the teams with a spirited early morning sing-along—bringing both energy and community to the start of the day.

Thank you, Sheila, for your contribution to a meaningful and memorable Safety Week.

R & C Williams Public and Civil Engineers and Crown Highways Limited

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:17:39 GMT

What has Sheila been doing this week?

“Sheila's talent for combining such a serious, thought-provoking topic with a balance of humour and enjoyment is second to none."

Following Sheila’s latest mental wellbeing talk for R&C Williams Ltd as part of Mental Health Awareness Week, she's received some amazing testimonials from their management team.

Sam Drew, Business Director, pictured right with Sheila here, said: “Sheila delivered a fantastic two-hour talk on mental health awareness to our team.
"She presented the information in a very light-hearted way, drawing on her extensive knowledge and skills. She shared valuable insights into different ways of thinking and how to approach situations to foster a more positive environment for both ourselves and our colleagues, and anyone else you interact with throughout life.

“Sheila's engaging approach, incorporating her talents as a comedienne, singer, and guitarist, made the session interactive and enjoyable for everyone. It was truly a pleasure to witness such a well-presented session by a talented and knowledgeable individual.”

And Arron Roberts, H&S Manager, said: “Having worked with Sheila on a few different events now, I knew we would be in for an action-packed morning, and she did not disappoint!
“Sheila's talent for combining such a serious, thought-provoking topic with a balance of humour and enjoyment is second to none.
"The way she approaches aspects of mental health gets everyone engaged, and the relaxed atmosphere really helps people to open up.

“Sheila's work with our business has helped a great number of people, and I am 100% sure it will help many more in the future.”

If you're interested in Sheila delivering her unique take on mental health education, featuring live music and humour, for your staff, please email her @ contact@mindmanagemementforyou.com or call or text 07799 791537.

You can also visit her YouTube channel @SheilasYouTubeChannel for free tips, advice, and podcasts around mental health.

Counsellor Convos

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:54:56 GMT

In this podcast we talk about the loss of a mutual friend, the challenges and community building associated with it, and simply the power of kindness.

Listen above or watch on Sheila's Youtube channel by clicking the button below.

What makes you happy?

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:38:39 GMT

Talking with broadcaster, DJ, MC and Birmingham Pride founder Phil Oldershaw about identity, friendship, connection and why getting out and socialising matters more than ever.

Podcast "Counsellor Convos"

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 12:42:04 GMT

PODCAST - "Counsellor Convos"

with Bishop Finton Monahan - talking about the church and mental health.

Bishop Fintan Monahan and Sheila speak about many things in this episode, folks. We discuss cases and incidents that have happened in Ireland, the outreach and support that the community offers, and how the church can be a place of respite for those feeling isolated.

Bishop Fintan is an exceptional person who places emphasis on love, hope, prosperity, and healing. He truly embraces the modern world, accepts all views, and really listens. Thank you so much, Bishop Monahan, for providing relief and a place of hope. For part two of this amazing conversation, check out my channel where it is live NOW!