My mental health challenges.
I wanted to share my story with you all. Why? Because I feel it’s important to let others know that we can all struggle, but we can also overcome adversity through hard work, resilience and trusting in others.
My story began many years ago, at a time when not only men but women just didn’t talk about what is now referred to as mental health ‘issues’. I was 15 and recognised I struggled with my thoughts and subsequent behaviour. This effected my actions, moods and relationships. Ultimately it made a difference to my work situations and my personal life. Prozac was prescribed and I soldiered on.
I’ve never felt like I have reached anywhere near my full potential but I don’t think I identified that mental health and anxiety were instrumental in many decisions through. my life. Now I find that as we feel more comfortable discussing our problems with others and through talking to friends, colleagues and people I admire I’ve found a way. Talking has saved my life.
In January 2020 I wanted to take my own life. I couldn’t cope, I hated myself, the situation I found myself in and I couldn’t see how I would have the mental strength to carry on. But I did cope, my children were my WHY!
The journey is ongoing and after leaving a job I loved (a mixture of Covid and bad decisions), changing careers (although briefly) and my industry struggling as a whole I know I have a way to go, BUT… the most important thing is I’m still here and without mentioning names, I’ve had so much help through this toughest of years. I took the decision to ‘flick the switch’ and through positive thinking and picking up the phone and asking for help, I feel I’m going in the right direction. Thank you to those special friends, you know who you are.
Please do not keep it all to yourself, trust people to talk to and ask for help. Set new goals, take one small step at a time and keep believing. DO NOT JUST STAY QUIET OR KEEP IT ALL TO YOURSELF.
If you’ve taken the time to read this, if you are in a situation that’s caused you concern through suffering with mental health issues, feel free to drop me a line, pick up the phone or just send me a message. I might not have all the answers but I’m happy to listen at least.
If this makes you feel that you might not be able to work with me or continue as a client, I understand and would rather not have that working relationship with you. Some things are bigger and more important.
Thanks for listening. Be kind to others. Be positive.
Marc Fitchett
Personal Travel Advisor
07970 971041
marc.fitchett@notjusttravel.com
