Farida Rahman

Background

About Farida Rahman

I am an empathetic and dedicated supporter of those with mental health issues as well as an influencer of services, with 20 years lived experience with a diagnosis of Bipolar disorder. Following an episode of depression and psychosis shortly after graduating with a Masters in Engineering from UCL, I recovered to work in Central Government as a Civil Servant for 10 years, mainly in Nutrition. My most severe and most recent mental illness episode was post natal, with a longer recovery period. My recovery journey has involved various therapies and I have facilitated a community Bipolar support group for 7 years, co-facilitated an NHS Bipolar group during lockdown and has been volunteering for Shout from 2019 to date. More recently, I have been employed as an Expert by Experience for my local NHS Mental Health Trust, providing a service user’s point of view on interview panels and various NHS projects. I also have an interest in Life Coaching, particularly using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, having completed three coaching courses. I like to do design work using Photoshop as a side interest.