Who am I and what is the cause?

My name is Alec and this year I will be raising money for 'The Open Door Centre' in Wallasy

What is the Open Door Centre?

The Open Door Centre is a FREE access centre for teenagers and young adults which offers support mainly for depression and anxiety issues, amongst other things. It relies purely on grants, charitable contributions and volunteers

Why The Open Door Centre?

Growing up has never been easy and is made all the harder with the explosion of the digital era with problems such as cyber bullying becoming inescapable everyday problems for some youths

Mental health is as important as physical health however there aren't many accessible mental health services, especially for the youth. They may not always feel their issue is something they can confide in a close friend or relative and that is where the open door centre come in

The issue of mental health, especially depression and anxiety, is something personal to me. My first experience was when a friend and a long time rugby team mate who had been suffering with depression, took his own life. I couldn't understand how anyone could be feeling that so low as to want to end it all

Then, in 2015/2016 after some devastating news about my health, along with other personal issues, I too had my own experience of depression. I began to have thoughts of a similar nature to what I expect my friend had and, even surrounded by friends and family, I'd never felt so alone. No matter how many times I was told I never believed things would get better. Fortunately, through work, I gained access to services which helped me to overcome the depression. After this I came to realise it's something that could happen to anyone, and I need to do something about it.
I will be completing the Chester Dee Mile Open Water Swim this year to raise money.
please check out my Facebook page for more info; https://www#facebook#com/profile#php?id=100016718289119
or search 'Al Ec' on facebook