A Co Antrim man has opened up about how walking more and making connections with others has helped on his mental health recovery journey.
Harry Armstrong, from Ballymena, has struggled with relapses of anxiety and depression for years. After reaching his breaking point, he visited his GP, where he was prescribed medication and received counselling.
He also joined an AWARE Support Group where he was able to find support from people in a similar situation.
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Harry has become determined to help promote positive mental health in Northern Ireland. He said: "I've struggled with depression and anxiety for many years - it came and went until the relapses became more regular and more severe.
"About three years ago, things got on top of me. There were days when my mood was extremely low, and I just didn't want to get out of bed.
"The low-point came when I found myself sitting on the bedroom floor crying and I remember saying out loud 'someone please help me.' I realised at that point if I didn't do something, it was downhill. It was the low, but it was also the turning point.
"I spoke to my GP and started a course of treatment. I was prescribed medication, received counselling and started to attend a local AWARE Support Group.
"Meeting other people in a similar situation made me realise I wasn't alone in my struggle. There are many ordinary people who are struggling in the same way.
"People were supportive and could put into words the thoughts and feelings that I found difficult to describe.
"Although the recovery process has felt slow, the important thing for me is that I'm on the recovery journey. Even if I stumble, I'm still moving forward."
A vital part of Harry's recovery has been achieved by joining a walking group. Highlighting the importance of staying active, he's encouraging others to join AWARE's Giant Steps event on the Causeway Coast on October 15 to reap the benefits of walking while fundraising for the charity's much-needed services.
Harry said: "The most important thing was getting out of the house, not looking at the four walls. Getting out into the fresh air and being active helps me feel good. I've also connected with people through walking, made new friends and widened my social circle.
"By getting involved in AWARE's Giant Steps, you will not only be doing something positive for your own mental health but helping AWARE to support others with theirs too."
Bridie Kelly, Community Fundraising Officer at AWARE, added: "With 1 in 5 people in Northern Ireland being affected by mental illness at some stage of their life, Harry's story is unfortunately all too common. At AWARE, our support services can help people to manage their depression or anxiety and start their journey toward better mental health.
"By taking part in AWARE's Giant Steps, you'll not only get the chance to walk the iconic North Coast with mind-blowing views of sea cliffs, white sand beaches and crashing waves beneath you, but you'll also meet new people who enjoy walking and fundraise to support others who may be struggling. We hope to see you there!"
AWARE's causeway coastal half marathon walk, Giant Steps, will bring you along the waymarked paths of the spectacular Causeway Coastline from Carrick-a-rede to Portballintrae before celebrating your accomplishment at the finish line with a burger and beer (or soft drink).
To find out more and register (tickets £35), please visit www.aware-ni.org/coast or email bridie@aware-ni.org.
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