It all started in 2010 when at the age of 31 my wife and young children left me. To say my whole world had come crashing down is an understatement. We had been together for ten years, so the thought of living without her and my very young children was unbearable. I found the new transition to single life a struggle and started to envision ways to make the pain all go away. Suicidal thoughts became a daily ritual, how would I end it?
What would be the most painless ways and away from loved ones to ensure they never found me. I felt alone, isolated, with no one to talk to, however stumbled upon an Employee assistance program within my workplace and thankfully dialled the number. Thank god I did, as it helped me hugely. However this wasn’t the end, yes it helped me to focus away from suicidal thoughts, but I have always struggled since with self-worth and being good enough. I turned to many self-help books and worked hard within my job and have slowly transitioned into a life which is fulfilled with my new wife Kate. I still have down days, but thanks to the support from Kate, my kids and a handful of brilliant friends see the positives of life.
I will never forget my fight with depression/mental health and want to do my bit to give back to help others through HIMvisible.