Isobel’s Journey - from uncertainty to confidence

When Isobel was referred to Tracks&Dales through Carnforth & Milnthorpe Primary Care Network, she had been struggling with her mental health, experiencing depression and anxiety alongside a period of significant change in her life.

Isobel had recently started medication to support her depression and was also coming to terms with a new diagnosis of ADHD and autism. Understanding herself had become difficult, particularly while navigating the challenges of parenting a neurodivergent child and separating from her child’s dad. At times, she felt that the people around her—including friends and family—struggled to understand her experiences too.

Joining Tracks&Dales gave Isobel the opportunity to step away from some of these pressures and spend time outdoors in a supportive and understanding environment. Being active, exploring new places and having the space to talk helped her begin to reconnect with herself and think about what she wanted and needed in her own life.

Over time, Isobel developed a much stronger understanding of herself. She began to recognise that her own needs and wellbeing were important and that putting herself first at times was not selfish—it was necessary.

This growing sense of self-worth has had a positive impact beyond her time with Tracks&Dales. Isobel has become more able to respect herself, recognise her boundaries and make choices that work for her. In turn, this has helped improve her relationship with her child, as well as her relationships with family and friends.

For Isobel, Tracks&Dales has been about much more than getting outdoors. It has given her the time and space to understand herself, value who she is and recognise that her needs matter too.