ttxela
New member
I don't claim to be an expert (in caving or mental health!) however I am very close to someone who suffers from depression and anxiety.
Although she doesn't enjoy caving there are other outdoor activities she enjoys, whilst I agree that this should be no bar on going I would say it has some bearing on the arrangements and considerations when planning a trip. In my experience on a good day it will not be an issue however on a bad day you may need to be more prepared than normal to scrub the trip or cut it short.
Also in a previous life when I ran a shooting club I was asked to teach a lad with learning difficulties to shoot, whilst I readily agreed and there were no real issues either around safety or ability we effectively had to start from scratch each week which I think both of us found frustrating and after a few sessions the lad stopped coming.
So with more severe issues I would perhaps say that you may need to consider your own patience and temperament however well intentioned you may be - and also perhaps be realistic about what can be achieved?
Although she doesn't enjoy caving there are other outdoor activities she enjoys, whilst I agree that this should be no bar on going I would say it has some bearing on the arrangements and considerations when planning a trip. In my experience on a good day it will not be an issue however on a bad day you may need to be more prepared than normal to scrub the trip or cut it short.
Also in a previous life when I ran a shooting club I was asked to teach a lad with learning difficulties to shoot, whilst I readily agreed and there were no real issues either around safety or ability we effectively had to start from scratch each week which I think both of us found frustrating and after a few sessions the lad stopped coming.
So with more severe issues I would perhaps say that you may need to consider your own patience and temperament however well intentioned you may be - and also perhaps be realistic about what can be achieved?