Stuart's story

Stuart Baker-Brown was diagnosed with schizophrenia thirteen years ago.  His condition was triggered a few years before this when he found himself falling into a world of anxiety and fear.

As well as coping with his mental health problem Stuart has had to deal with the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness which has had devastating effects on all aspects of his life.

‘The reaction towards my diagnosis can cause many people to step away, without taking the chance to get to know me further.  People’s lack of understanding and the unfounded fears attached to my diagnosis can be just as destructive as the mental health problem itself.'

After many years of coping with his mental illness and people’s negative reactions Stuart now feels with the help of his family and a positive outlook that he is on a journey to recovery. 

‘My friends and family have played a very important role in my life and their support and understanding has been greatly valued.  This combined with spending time in the great outdoors has had a hugely positive effect in helping me to lead a normal life and rise above people’s negative stereotypes.’
 
Stuart was keen to get involved with Time to Change and stars in our online films.

‘I jumped at the opportunity to be involved with the new online films.  I see the Time to Change campaign as our biggest opportunity yet to help with far greater awareness and understanding of mental illness. 

I am hoping deeply, those who see the films, will learn that people with mental health problems are not a threat to society and shouldn’t be shunned or locked away.'