Stories

Matthew has experienced depression from a young age. In his teens, he tried to take his own life and was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Matthew explains how “without talking therapy, I would not be here today”.

Depression impacted Connor’s life hugely, pushing him to make life changing decisions. He explains how counselling and family support were key to his recovery and how he has gone from dropping out of school to achieving his dream job as a football coach.

Winston was first diagnosed with manic depression when he was 16. 20 years on, he has adapted his daily routine and lifestyle to best manage the impact that his manic depression has on his day-to-day life.

Natalie shares her experiences of what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder and hearing voices. Following a severe episode of psychosis, Natalie worked out a range of strategies that help her to manage her condition, ranging from aerobics to knitting.

Mary’s story about how she and her family are dealing with her husband John’s dementia. A short film produced by the Mental Health Foundation for the Dementia Choices project.

Sarah first experienced panic attacks in her late teens and became agoraphobic when these panic attacks combined with the effects of a very difficult pregnancy. 13 years on, Sarah explains how agoraphobia and panic affects her everyday life.

Kayla realised in her teens that she was unlike her peers, but it wasn’t until her 30s that she was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Kayla now works as a professional musician, promoting positive awareness of Personality Disorder.

Karen experienced depression as a result of bereavement, redundancy and physical illness. She has now become a dance instructor and feels that this has helped her to manage both her mental and physical health, as well as helping others to do the same.

Eddie began suffering from depression after years in a highly stressful job. During his recovery he has found talking therapies very supportive and now feels like a better person.

Having struggled with depression since her early teens, Mei is now on the Advisory Board of the Right Here project with the aim to radically change how we look after the mental health of young people in the UK.