Every journey starts with a single step

Ben: My mental health journey started after my marriage broke down. I found myself with an emotional pain in my head that I couldn’t get rid of. I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression and started using alcohol to cope. It felt like I was stuck in a hole. When I finally asked for help, it was like someone reached down and said: “I’ve been there. I’ll help you out.” That changed everything.  

Alistair: I’ve also had anxiety and depression for many years and suffered a number of breakdowns. I’m now being assessed for autism and ADHD. What I’ve learned is that getting better is not an event, it’s a journey and a direction.  

Ben: If you need to start that journey, a great first step is to talk to your Mental Health First Aider.  

Alistair: Absolutely. You’re not a burden. When you’re down that hole, you’ll find many people reaching a hand down to pull you out. It’s OK to feel and to talk.  

Ben: Yes, talking is essential. Therapy and joining the men’s mental health group helped me become more emotionally available for my kids. I’m sober now, and I focus on being present for them.  

Alistair: That’s so important. Being a dad helped me to express a softer side of myself. I want to be a ‘proper daddy’ and not distant like my own father was. I’ve learned I need to rest, be gentle and show love.  

Ben: I grew up thinking that being a man meant being tough and silent. Now I know it’s about being emotionally available, guiding my children and helping them understand that emotions are a part of life and that’s OK.  

Alistair: It breaks my heart when I read about young men struggling with their identity. We need to show them that there are many ways to be a man. Masculinity should include kindness and care. Being strong means protecting, not dominating.  

Ben: I’m proud of the work I’ve done even though it’s been hard. I just want to be a good dad – there’s nothing more important to me in the world.  

Alistair: Thank goodness we’re now in this space where men are learning that we can talk and reach out. When you do, you’ll find many people ready to listen and help. As fellow human beings, we want to see each other thrive.