Mind-Spring is a psychoeducational group programme by and for asylum seekers and refugees that is presented in the participants’ native language. It is always run by a trainer who has a refugee or immigrant background.

The main goal of the Mind-Spring programme is to improve the mental health of asylum seekers and refugees, help them integrate socially and culturally, empower them to build a future in their new community, and increase their sense of control.

Through 7 weekly sessions of 2 hours, we look together for balance in your life so that you can find your way, build a strong and positive identity and increase your sense of control for the future in your new community.

The programme is not curative, but rather preventive. We can’t help participants in the asylum procedure. Mind-Spring is a group programme, so everything is discussed as a group. If a participant doesn’t feel comfortable sharing some issues in the group, he/she may share them with the trainer after the session. 

Number of participants: 8-15.

The topics covered are:

• A normal reaction to an abnormal situation
• Stress, stress symptoms, and the vicious cycle
• How to cope/deal with stress
• Loss and mourning
• Identity
• Cultural differences 
• A spring towards the future

Each Mind-Spring programme consists of:

• Seven two-hour sessions, which end with 15 minutes of relaxation exercises
• The last session ends with feedback and a party to celebrate the completion of the course
• A cultural trip after completing the course

Interested?

Contact Meddia Kendi at [email protected] or on 07717147919

   

Here is some feedback we have received from our previous sessions

Wigdan: “After Mind-Spring I learned how to think positively. I also learned
that anyone who has experienced loss, better to stand up again and try to
regain what they have lost”

Fadela: "I am from Kuwait. I have been in the UK for 2 years, but I haven't
studied or done anything. I didn't have any hope. I always had negative
energy and pessimism. It's only after joining Mind-Spring sessions that I
decided to go to college. Meddia helped me change my view. I am more
optimistic now and I want to be a part of any programme I can be. I want to thank
Oasis from top to bottom for their support.”

Maisa: “After joining MS sessions, I recognised that it’s not only me who has
problems and that my issues seem small in comparison to others. When I first
came, my mentality was sub-zero. I feel stronger and learned that everything
is possible.”

Yusif: “To be a refugee is not easy and Mind-Spring helped us to deal with
these feelings. Mind-spring is a very good and beneficial programme. I have
transferred what I have learned to my family as well. My wife who was always
crying and alone is now much happier.”

Abdalla: “When I arrived, I felt alone and isolated. Now I feel I have a “family”
and I can share my sad and happy experiences with the group. I was always
waiting and counting the days between sessions. We learned a lot of things
we weren’t aware of. I would like the programme to continue. 10/10 for this
programme.”