Following a series of traumatic experiences in my own life, I could never have imagined just how quickly my mental health would spiral downward into depths of despair that I had never known. To suddenly find myself struggling to come to terms with these events, and not knowing who or where to turn to, left me completely vulnerable and isolated. I was completely lost.
However, I eventually found hope and solace in music and nature, above all else, and a passion to help others dealing with similar issues. I hope that my plight can help others find the strength to go on, remove the continuing stigma around mental health and prevent the ever worrying number of suicides in the world today.
As an ambassador for MH and a sufferer of EUD/BPD, i will, as always be doing my utmost throughout the week, and beyond, to continue to raise awareness, provide information and raise funds for Mental Health Charities.
Personally I dont think we should be limited to one week a year to try and engage more people. MH is a daily battle for many, myself included and sadly if im honest i dont feel much has changed in a year, despite the pandemic and deteriorating MH for many.
Mental health is an illness. Just like diabeties is an illness. You do not get a choice and more often than not it is caused by the brains reaction to an event, circumstance or ill treatment, ie divorce, death, bullying, etc. Why then are those suffering made to feel isolated, lonely and like it’s their fault.
Peoples attitudes towards MH need to change and fast. With far more pressure on people these days, especially from social media, to be “living your best life”, I see more and more people suffering everyday, feeling like failures because their life isn’t that way or they don’t “look” perfect.
I am one person. I can’t do it all on my own and I wish I could do more to make people care, listen and support, but unfortunately I am not responsible for peoples attitudes. I can TRY my best though, and as long as I’m on this planet, i will continue to do so and to fight for sufferers, because I can’t think of a better cause.
If you know someone struggling, reach out, pop round, pick up the phone, arrange a walk or a meet up, send a card, whatever it takes to make one person suffering from MH feel a little less lonely in the world today. Remember loneliness kills. I know if I hadn’t felt as lonely and alone i would NEVER have attempted my own life. Sadly I still feel very lonely today, as do many, especially following the pandemic.
Friendship, family and support is crucial. It is so much more than sending a text message now and again. It’s about real connection, spending REAL time together, making memories, making plans together, being part of something, belonging and finding your tribe. Yes, life is busy, but it should never be too busy to make time for what is important in life and I believe this to be love, family and friendship. Life is short…
Keep safe. Keep fighting. Keep caring and keep being kind. This strange world needs it now more than ever.
Lots of love,
AJ xxx