Chris's Story: Finding My Way Back from Depression

The pandemic hit me in ways I didn't expect. I'd always been someone who coped — who got on with things. But when the world shut down, so did I.

I lost my job, my routine, my sense of purpose. The isolation was crushing. I started drinking more to fill the silence, and my thoughts became darker and darker. One night, it all became too much.

After my suicide attempt, I was connected with a local mental health crisis team through NHS 111. For the first time, I had real, professional support. It wasn't instant — recovery never is — but having people in my corner made the difference.

I was referred to a talking therapist and started attending a peer support group. Hearing other men talk about what they'd been through – without shame – was transformative. I realised I wasn't broken. I was struggling, and struggling is human.

Two years on, I'm still here. I have good days and hard days. I'm open about my mental health now in a way I never was before. That openness has saved me more times than I can count.

To any man reading this who is in that dark place: you are not alone. Reach out to CALM, Samaritans, NHS 111 — whoever feels right. There are people who want to help.

Watch Chris's full story on YouTube – Mind UK