Wellbeing literally saved my life - Anthony's story
Some people think that therapy is an extreme option, and that unless things get really bad you should try to manage on your own. But this isn't true. It's ok to try therapy at any point in your life, whatever your background.
Anthony is a self-aware, professional, intelligent man who didn’t think therapy was for him, he said “I arrogantly believed that, no one could tell me better than me, how to deal with things.”
After experiencing mental health issues, including waves of uncontrollable emotion, hating his life, being unable to focus and seeing no future or hope that things could change Anthony contacted the wellbeing service after talking to his GP.
He said: “With the Wellbeing service I had access to the Mind helpline who knew me and, built up notes on me so that I could talk about how I was now, rather than going over the past. As the aim was to move forward, it was a great help. They were also talking to me - not just listening and that, was so important in dealing with the loneliness linked to my condition.
“I got to know many of them and, as a result, when I was at my lowest ebb and contemplating suicide saying no one would miss me, they said they would, and it meant something.
“They literally saved my life.”
Anthony wants to encourage anyone thinking about contacting the wellbeing service to make the call.
“I refused to believe for months that things would get better but with their patience, care and friendship I am out the other side and I am so pleased they were by my side holding my hand through the worst time of my life.
“You don't have to face things alone. Don’t think it’s not for you and that it’s hopeless. It is possible for things to get better and you will feel supported and no longer alone with these lovely people.
“I am back to full strength thanks to this service and I would recommend anyone to use them to help them whatever they are feeling and however desperate life feels.”
There’s more to wellbeing than therapy. The team has employment advisors who have been working with Anthony to help him find voluntary work and prepare for returning to employment.
He said: “The employment advisor supported me to be in a position now where I am shortlisted for 5 jobs.”
You can refer yourself to wellbeing by visiting www.wellbeingnands.co.uk or calling: 0300 123 1503.