“It’s a full circle moment”: Jodie on how Shout supported her through recovery and why she became a Volunteer

When Jodie first reached out to Shout, she was navigating the challenges of eating disorder recovery, exam pressure and low mood. Like many others who use our service, she found that having someone to talk to - anonymously and without judgment - helped her feel less alone and more empowered to take her next steps.

Now, Jodie is a Shout Volunteer, offering the same safe, supportive space to others that once helped her through difficult moments.

This blog is based on an interview Jodie recently did on the Hurt to Healing podcast, where she shared how text support gave her hope, what it means to hold space for someone else, and the ways she cares for her own mental health while helping others.

Why did you decide to volunteer with Shout?

After using text lines like Shout in my teen years to help me stay on track with recovering from my eating disorder, I experienced firsthand the power of feeling heard and supported.

Speaking to volunteers made me realise how valuable anonymous support can be, particularly for young people who feel isolated or like a burden. As soon as I turned 18, I knew I wanted to be that safe space for someone else, the way Shout had been for me. Volunteering became more than just giving back, it was a way to channel something difficult in my life into something meaningful and positive for others. It is really a full circle moment!

How have your personal experiences shaped the way you show up as a volunteer?

My experiences have definitely instilled empathy for anyone struggling, no matter how big or small their problem is. I’m able to hold space for people because I know how much I needed that when I was going through tough times, especially when I was recovering from anorexia. I needed someone to listen and validate how I was feeling, and now I’m able to be there for others in the moments where they can’t cope and feel alone. Going through my own personal experiences made me realise how valuable this work is.

What does it mean to hold space for someone as a Shout Volunteer?

I think it’s just being able to be fully present for someone, even if someone doesn’t know what to say or what they want. As a Shout Volunteer, I speak to a lot of texters who just want someone to talk to. They don’t know what they want to happen or the goal they have in mind, or sometimes even why they texted in. But being able to be there and hold that space for them - you don’t have to fix them. We’re just here to listen, signpost and support them through the moment when they can’t cope.

How do you look after your mental health while supporting others?

It can be difficult, but at the end of the day you can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to put yourself first and realise that there’s always going to people who need Shout and need you to be there, but you need to look after yourself first to be fully present for someone. I have to be in a good headspace to volunteer.

I have a really strong support system I can reach out to, and I also find it helpful to get out of the house, whether it’s to see a friend or take myself out for a walk or run - whatever it is to take myself away from my laptop. There’s also a lot of volunteer support at Shout - your supervisor is always there to support you and debrief and talk through things, no matter how big or small.

Listen to Jodie's full interview on the Hurt to Healing podcast.