Max lives with autism and ADHD and describes himself as extremely shy. He knew the week ahead at Forest Camp would present some challenging times, but set out with the aims to “make the most of every experience” and “overcome my fear of bugs“; two bold ambitions, given all that Forest Camp entails including two overnight expeditions sleeping in improvised shelters, abseiling, caving, and canoeing.
During our YAT programmes we focus on a concept called Mental Toughness as part of our outcomes measurement strategy. We look at 4 concepts; Confidence, Control, Commitment and Challenge, supporting young people to recognise their strengths and work on these 4 areas to build resilience. Through the week to come at camp, it was evident Max was stretching himself in all of these areas, and his determination and resilience showed up in some memorable and moving moments.
On the Forest Adventure Mission, Max proved to be a valued green-team member as he confidently coached others as they abseiled into the cave. During a creative session making paracord bracelets, having mastered the technique himself, Max thoughtfully and patiently assisted other young people in making theirs. On the overnight bushcraft expedition, Max stepped well beyond his comfort zone as he slept in a bivi bag beneath a tarp in the woods. With a shelter open to the elements and surrounded by the beasts and bugs that make their home on the forest floor, Max’s teammates kindly chose to sleep on either side of him to help him feel safe.
The week wasn’t without its challenges. A moment that really stood out took place as his group were being briefed for their canoeing session on the final full day of camp. As Max’s aim to “make the most of every experience” was within his reach, the fear of missing out created anxiety and worry. Unfortunately, his anxieties led to him missing the group launch their canoes. But with some skilled and empathetic support from one of our Programme Volunteers he was able to reflect positively on the experience and the circumstances that led to it. His response to the whole situation was incredible and the way in which he conducted himself was truly inspiring.
Later in the day, when Max was reunited with his team, they requested an opportunity to get back into the river so that they could include him in a final swim together before setting up camp. This was evidence of the respect they had for Max, but also the awareness they had of the challenges he had faced, and overcome, that day.
Later that day, Max emotionally reflected on the experience during the group’s review session at the end of the day, and in his Reflective Journal:
The best thing about camp has been…
“When I went swimming with my friends after I made a bad moment way more positive.”
Something I’ve learnt about myself is…
“I am now more positive about stuff and I can do a lot more than I realise.”
It was an inspiration to witness Max’s journey at Forest Camp; his resilience, self-awareness, compassion, determination, and positivity was a true representation of Mental Toughness, and we are confident these experiences and memories will help him in approaching challenging times well into his future life.