TheCraftyBlackdog has been created from my own battle with the Black Dog - a term most commonly used to describe a state of depression.

This was something I had unknowingly been battling for over 20 years following my time in the military. It wasn’t until I became a mother and I could no longer do the things I used to do, to escape, that things started to unravel and I had to ask for help, that was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, making that admission.

I first became interested in arts and crafts in 2019 whilst at a place called ‘Combat Stress’ in Surrey, this is where Military Veterans like myself can go and get help for Mental Health matters. Whilst there I discovered Art Therapy (I hated art at school!) and a love for making things in the OT room. I started by making Remembrance Day related crafts and this quickly moved onto Military Insignia.

The Black Dog has stolen the mass of confidence I used to have, so I am hoping this adventure will help me to connect with people again and inspire those of you out there also having your own battle, it is one that may never be won, but it certainly can be helped.