Paul’s positive Facebook page aims to brighten up Lockdown lows

Paul Cranston is no stranger to mental health issues having suffered work related stress two years ago.

But it is because of that knowledge, he spotted that many people he knew were feeling down.

And so he decided to set up a Facebook page, full of positivity, including shared stories and photos, poems and memes.

Paul, who has worked as a Pharmacy Technician at Craigavon Hospital for over 15 years, is currently priming the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at South Lakes Leisure Centre in Craigavon.

“Once I prime the vaccine it is given to a vaccinator who draws up the vaccine and administers it,” he said.

Paul, who is married to Valerie and has two children Sarah (12) and Luke (8) , said he had been toying with the idea of a Facebook page for several months.

A former pupil of Killicomaine JHS and Portadown College, Paul said: “I wanted to create a page that allowed those who have suffered during the pandemic (financially, mental health issues, loneliness etc) to have a space to share positive stories, pictures, photos, poems, memes or anything that gives that person a positive outlook on life.

“ I thought if people would be willing to share, then it may just help that one person who needs a pick me up that day.

“I put the page to the back of my mind until the next lockdown was announced and that made me decide to do it.

“I heard so many negative stories on Facebook and the media about how people are suffering from the pandemic and the fall out around it, I thought it was about time that people could begin to reflect on the positives and remember what they have already got, and not to dwell on the negatives. So on 26th Dec 2020, the ABC Positivity group page was created.

“In November 2019 I suffered from work-related stress and was off work for three months. With guidance from my GP and a counselling service I was able to recover and manage any future mental health problems. I feel this has helped me understand what some people are going through and this is “my” way of trying to help.

“I have received some amazing encouragement and responses from the public. Within a couple of weeks I had over 800 members and now I have over 1,000.

“The response has been overwhelming.

“I also would like to thank members of all parties in Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon Council who have private messaged me with words of encouragement or offering me help if needed. Some of the council members have even shared the page whilst also participating in posting messages and pics etc.

“I have got various messages publicly and privately. One lady said: ‘It’s lovely being part of a group where everyone is on the same page and people are supporting and caring online, rather than tearing each other apart.’

“Another member said: ‘I want to say a big ‘thank you’ for starting this page. I was at an all-time low leading up to and during Christmas. Now I feel like a spring chicken, and ready to face whatever. Each post I read boosts me up more and more’.”

Paul said: “These comments were special and struck a chord with me. It showed me that my idea was working and that there was positivity out there and helping those in need.”

After his own recovery from mental health issues, the 44-year-old decided to get out and about more. “I love getting out on my mountain bike and also purchased a drone. I now love getting out at any opportunity and try to get amazing pictures from different areas,

“I completed my drone pilot license in December 2020 and have another Facebook page called “Blackbox Aerial Photography”. This activity helps me relax and focus my mind on something else.”

Check out ABC Positivity at www.facebook.com/groups/325534008490987

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