My Experience

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.

My Experience: The Starfish
Lauren

Lauren explains how finding purpose, exploring meditation, and challenging negative thoughts helped her thrive, not just survive after a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder.

The Benefits of Group Support

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. 

My Experience She Saved Me
Elaine

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.

My Experience: Transforming Pain into Purpose

This anonymous writer details her journey from the shadows of abandonment and rejection, to the rays of healing and hope. 

My Experience: Growing Up in Division
Anonymous Guest

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.

My Experience: Living in the Shadow of Sexual Abuse

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.

My Experience - The Journey to Admitting I had a Problem
Anonymous Guest

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.

My Experience: I was physically abused by my Father
Anonymous

I had to break the cycle of violence, seek professional help, and embrace self-discovery to heal and reclaim my life.

I came out as gay, to my husband
Anon

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.

Do's & Don'ts From a Counsellor Who Recovered From Bulimia
Bryony Jackson

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. 

Handling Homesickness
Vishnu Eyyarambil

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. 

The Impact of Caring
Lyn Campbell

Living with caring responsibilities can be challenging, especially in how it can impact the wider family.

Stay With The Ones Who Care
Ronan Hamiliton

Guest blogger, Ronan Hamiliton, shares their coming out experience and how it meant learning who their close friends are.

My Experience - Dealing With Grief
Orla McTasney, aged 21

Orla shares the story of her sister’s passing, how it affected her and how she learned to cope with grief.

Living With Depression
Georgia Ramm

Georgia Ramm shares her experience of depression, how it made her feel and the impact it had on her life.

It Can Be Great Again
Rachael Garland

Rachael shares her experience of being admitted to hospital and diagnosed with schizophrenia.

lifeline

If you are experiencing distress or are in a mental health crisis please contact
Lifeline on 0808 808 8000

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