Paul's story

“I came to James’ Place Liverpool last year after a suicide attempt. I am a recovering alcoholic and have had depression managed by medication, but after a heart attack my medication was changed and things began to spiral. My thoughts became really negative and disturbing. I was very low when I was referred to James’ Place, I felt a bit let down by the system really I’ve been handed over from pillar to post and this was somewhere else new. But this was really different. I found it really helpful, just the structure of the sessions, encouraging me to take small steps so it wasn’t too overwhelming helped me gradually come out of my crisis.”

“I was able to express what was in my head and to be honest it was probably the first time I seriously engaged with something, and I’ve had experiences with quite a few counselling and rehab places. James’ Place encouraged me to go back to the doctor about my medication and start engaging with other mental health services again – I’ve got a long way to go but the suicidal ideation has gone. I feel like it was only James’ Place and my dog Sally that kept me here at certain points so I’m really grateful for that.”

“My dog Sally really helped me when I was in crisis. The thought of leaving her behind devastated me and I knew I had to keep going for her. Sally knows me better than I do, she can tell when I’m having a low moment. She gives me structure and routine, as I have to walk her and feed her at certain times. She’s my sense of purpose and I would be lost without her.”

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