Connor's story

“It was just before Christmas that I started struggling. It’s a difficult time of year for me as I lost my best friend around that time of year as well as my grandad. I was feeling really low and down, not that you’d know it as I am always smiling and laughing, I’d be the last person you’d think was going through a bad time. The relationship I was in then broke down and I just spiralled really. I was drinking more to cope which wasn’t helping. I spoke to a mate’s girlfriend who works in mental health and she told me about James’ Place so I went to see them for one or two sessions but played down how I was feeling and didn’t finish the treatment.  I thought I was doing better but then after Christmas I hit rock bottom, then shortly after I made an attempt on my life.

I went back to James’ Place for help and this time stayed until the treatment was finished. My therapist really helped me, she opened my eyes that the feelings I was having were normal and that a lot of other people go through the same thing. She helped me to understand that I was putting a lot of pressure on myself. I started to accept things rather than pretending everything was ok.

Since I left James’ Place I feel like a new person. I’m in a good place now and doing things which I know are good for my mental health like staying away from too much alcohol and focusing on my music. If I have a bad day I know what to do to get through it. I want to share my experiences in the hope they can help someone else because it really can happen to anyone and the person you least expect could be struggling. Men need to talk more. I’m so glad that I did.”

Watch Connor on ITV Granada Reports

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