Living with mental illness: in their own words
“A sense of belonging” – Oliver’s story
19/05/2025
Oliver shares his journey with schizoaffective disorder, complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) and Tourette’s. He now plays wheelchair rugby league and has found a sense of belonging amongst his teammates.
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"Being detained is never someone’s life plan, but reforms to the Mental Health Act could help people move forward"
19/05/2025
As the new Mental Health Bill finally enters the House of Commons this week, Ian from Rethink Mental Illness shares his experience of the Mental Health Act, and how the proposed reforms could make a difference to people’s lives.
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“The extraordinary power of love” – Ylang’s story
13/05/2025
After very sadly losing her son to suicide, Ylang was offered help from Rethink Surrey Support After Suicide. She is fundraising for Rethink Mental Illness and next year, will be embarking on an unforgettable marathon through the Sahara Desert to honour her son.
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“There was a lot of hope” – Andrew’s story
11/05/2025
Andrew has been attending our Wiltshire Hearing Voices group after struggling with voice-hearing and unusual beliefs. For Mental Health Awareness Week, he shares how the group’s welcoming and supportive environment has helped him to live a more peaceful life.
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Left behind - Peter and Janine's story
09/05/2025
Peter and Janine reflect on the death of their daughter, Becky, who took her life 18 months ago. They were offered support from Rethink Mental Illness’ Support After Suicide service in Surrey, which is run in partnership with the Surrey County Council.
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“Life has a way of guiding you” – Alexander’s story
06/05/2025
Alexander reflects on his long journey with mental illness and the hope he found along the way. Dedicated to breaking the unhealthy cycles he experienced as a child, Alexander looks forward to the future with his own family.
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What is a community that cares?
02/05/2025
At Rethink Mental Illness, our mission is to create communities that care about people living with mental illness. Because everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, not just survive. But what is a community that cares?
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