Talking mental health

Some of LionHeart’s ambassadors have shared their experiences of having struggled with poor mental health – and the things that helped them – to mark Mental Health Awareness Week and its theme of taking action for yourself and for others.

Three short videos have been shared throughout the week, and aim to remind people that they are not alone even when poor mental health leaves them feeling anxious and isolated.

Kim

“At my lowest point, I had little sense of self worth and had suicidal thoughts. I suffered for many years and wish I’d recognised that vulnerability wasn't weakness and that bottling up feelings and emotions wasn't the answer.

“The most important action was the first step, telling someone how I was feeling.”

Harry

“One of the things that helped the most was being able to wear my insecurities with pride. I felt ashamed of the things I was feeling and the things that were going on in my head but learning to be proud of the person I am really helped.

“Knowing you’ve got someone there that understands what you’re going through – connecting in that sense has really really helped me.”

Derek

“I first turned to LionHeart when I was suffering with stress. I didn’t really know it at the time.

“I knew LionHeart was a fully confidential service so I thought I’d give a call. And I’m so pleased I did. I know it’s difficult especially for men to be recognising there might be something that concerns them, or that they might need to seek support on.

“But go out there and get support, recognise it. The help is there for you and hopefully you’ll get back to being who you want to be, because that’s the most important thing.”

The theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is taking action - for yourself and for others. Everybody has a part to play in creating mentally healthy workplaces and communities. While awareness is vital, real change comes when we take action too, even if that action is as small as making conversation or asking how someone’s day is going.

Find out more:

• LionHeart offers support including professional counselling to RICS members and their partners and dependants who may be struggling with their mental health. Click here to find out more 
• Contact the LionHeart helpline