In a world which can feel overwhelming, challenging and sometimes difficult to navigate, reading and sharing lived experiences can help us feel less alone.
Read these inspiring real life stories written by people who overcame personal challenges by finding the right support and developing ways to cope. Each story offers a look into how others have made the time to look after their mental wellbeing.
Lauren explains how finding purpose, exploring meditation, and challenging negative thoughts helped her thrive, not just survive after a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder.
While professional mental health support is helpful for some, maybe even life saving, it's equally important to shed light on the benefits of alternative interventions, like peer support or group work.
Elaine looks back on her journey of recovery from self-harm and suicidal thoughts. She recounts how reaching out to a helpline was the first step towards saving herself.
This anonymous writer details her journey from the shadows of abandonment and rejection, to the rays of healing and hope.
I felt like there was no way out. It was like I was stuck in a rut where it was a straight line to crime, drugs, self destruction.
At just 14 years old, Martina, our “My Experience” writer's life took a dark turn as abuse began, leaving her with an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame.
A local businessman who bravely shares his inspiring tale of confronting and triumphing over addiction with the help of family, friends and Find Help NI.
I had to break the cycle of violence, seek professional help, and embrace self-discovery to heal and reclaim my life.
Waking up to who I really was, finding my own true self and more importantly - accepting my own true self, was one of the biggest pieces of work I've ever taken on. It’s also one of my proudest achievements.
People can experience disordered eating and eating disorders for a variety of different reasons, and sometimes feel ‘triggered’ to fall into unhealthy patterns with food.
Living and studying in a new country can be challenging, and as you adjust to a new routine in a new place, it’s normal to miss home. But once homesickness settles in, it’s important to take care of your mental health so it doesn’t take a knock for the worst.
Living with caring responsibilities can be challenging, especially in how it can impact the wider family.
Guest blogger, Ronan Hamiliton, shares their coming out experience and how it meant learning who their close friends are.
Orla shares the story of her sister’s passing, how it affected her and how she learned to cope with grief.
Georgia Ramm shares her experience of depression, how it made her feel and the impact it had on her life.
Rachael shares her experience of being admitted to hospital and diagnosed with schizophrenia.