There is little surprise to you all that mental health awareness is hugely important to me.  

Having climbed out of my own anxiety-ridden well, with a million knocks, bruises and scars along the way, the lessons indeed have inspired me to become a mentor.  A healer.  A guide.  There are those battling with their brains but also those suffering from the loss of a loved one to suicide.  I want to help all affected.  

I’d like to take this opportunity to shine a light on Samaritans, a UK-based charity aimed at providing emotional support to anyone struggling to cope or at risk of ending their life.    Through their helpline, I myself have had life-changing conversations with anonymous members of the public.  To speak to someone until your words run dry, without being judged, is blissful.  Unlike a 50 minute wallet-busting session with an in-demand therapist, Samaritans’ time is unlimited.

This is what we need.  Timeless therapy - at least until you feel you don’t need it anymore.  Knowing that you haven’t had to clock watch is freeing and settling and in my experience, aids quicker resolutions.  I can honestly tell you that I was able to end each phonecall with a huge sigh of relief and a great big thank you; wishing this wonderful voice a wonderful day and a wonderful life.  They do it for nothing, but they deserve everything.  

I appreciate not everyone will benefit from this form of therapy - particularly those that find it hard to open up - but I would certainly urge you to try it in your quest for a better life.  

My motto is this:  

If you feel like nothing is working, it could just mean you haven’t got the right help.  Keep trying and do not give up.   There are other ways, I promise.   If you are lacking the motivation to help yourself (I’ve been there!) - speak to someone you trust.  Speak to me.  Speak to Samaritans. 

You’re a soldier.  You got this.   Life IS worth living and the more you believe that the more everything starts to align.