Soon I concluded that for me to get better, my friends and teachers needed to know what I was going through. Fortunately I was on good terms with my form tutor who appeared sensitive and understanding. Indeed, this proved to be the case when one day I stayed behind to discuss the problems that I had been having. (Matt)
Depression: "I am a stronger person... because I talked about it"

How can I help?

The aim of the Time to Change campaign is to encourage us all to be more open about our mental health, and to start conversations with those who might need our support.

Why not find out how you could start a conversation about mental health?

You could share a blog story to raise awareness. You could sign up to receive Time to Change emails. And, you might want to add your name to our pledge wall, joining the thousands of people who are taking small steps to be more open about mental health.

Personal blogs from young people with experience of mental health problems

The following blog posts are written by young people with personal experience of mental health problems. By talking openly, our bloggers hope to increase understanding around mental health, break down stereotypes and take the taboo out of something that – like physical health – affects us all.

OCD is hard but supportive family and friends help

, September 22, 2016

For far too long I have put off writing a blog about my experience of mental health. I suppose I was frightened of reliving such dark days and feared the judgement of others. However, for me it's time I shared my story. I need to help change attitudes around mental health by speaking up about my journey and aiding others to understand that actually mental illness can be just as debilitating as physical illness.

You need to stop joking about mental illness

August 31, 2016

A lot of people see mental health stigma as attacks on people with mental health problems, as people who sneer and judge us, or try and deny that mental health is a real issue – that it's all made up. However, over the years I've noticed it can be in the little things too, someone chiding us for being lazy or withdrawn, despite the fact they know we have depression and/or anxiety.

A mental illness does not define a mother

August 20, 2016

I became a mother for the first time this year. I have struggled with moderate mental health issues, for as long as I can remember. Stigma is something we all come across in our lives, in school, work, our social circle or in public and social situations we encounter.

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