Mental health shouldn’t be shamed, ignored or hidden. It affects 1 in 3 of us, regardless of upbringing, race or gender – it can happen to anyone at any time.

I decided my way of accepting my mental health would be to talk; endlessly and openly in order to reduce the ignorance and stigma that surrounds me daily. This isn’t easy or within my comfort zone, but that place can get pretty boring at times even if it makes me feel safe.

Sometimes I need to remind myself that the only way to get stronger and happier is to take steps outside of this and prove to myself that I am in control of my life; not Ben.