Billy's story

“I came to James’ Place in November last year. I was going through a really tough time, I lost my job, everything seemed to be going wrong and I couldn’t see a way out of it. I just felt like a loser.

I started taking more risks because I didn’t really care whether I was alive or not. I didn’t know what to do. I saw an interview with (UFC fighter) Paddy Pimblett when he mentioned James’ Place so I thought maybe I’d contact them. I was quite averse to going to the GP or going via the NHS but this seemed like a good option although to be honest I wasn’t sure talking would help much.

I referred myself and was given an appointment very quickly. I was very nervous beforehand, I think I arrived 45 minutes early and walked past the front door three times before I rang the bell but as soon as I was in the centre I felt more comfortable. It was really nice, like a friend’s living room.

My therapist was really good and I found it quite easy to open up despite having never really talked like that before. I was surprised at the difference it made. It helped me to challenge and organise my thoughts, to see another way, a different path. As the weeks went on and I did more therapy sessions I started to feel like I was coming out of it, it was kind of like three steps forward two steps back but I was still making slow progress. Now I’m doing much better, I try to challenge any negative thoughts I have, I try to be more open with the people I’m close to, I found another job.

Life’s not perfect but it’s much improved. I’m really glad I went to James’ Place – I don’t think I’d still be here if I hadn’t found them.”

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