It's my birthday in a month! Those of you who know me will know how much I like to party on my birthday!

This year I don't feel like going out. I have recently been suffering from a bout of anxiety and depression.

As some of you may know, I suffered from a similar illness whilst at University. Since I have recovered I have felt embarrassed by what I went through, like it was a blot on my character and exposed a weakness. Having depression for a second time has made me appreciate that depression and anxiety is an illness, much like anything else that you might see the doctor for. If you have a heart problem you see a doctor and by the Grace of God and modern medicine you hopefully recover. It's not your fault that you got ill and when you are ill you are gentle with yourself. Mental illness is when your brain chemicals mess up. Again not your fault and certainly not an embarrassment that you had it.

Depression and anxiety makes the most mundane tasks really difficult. It's not because you're weak or pathetic, it's an illness much like any other.

This year I don't feel like going out for my birthday. Instead I would really love if we could use the money that we would have spent on drinking and dancing, supporting other people that don't feel like going out.

I am being looked after by West London Mental Health. They run an incredible service which wouldn't be possible without the support of other people's charitable donations. I'd also like some of the money to go to Heads Together. They are aiming to end the stigma connected with Mental Health. Mental Illness makes the most mundane tasks difficult. It's not an embarrassment and it's not because you're weak - it's an illness.