“I didn’t think there was a way out”: Paul’s story for World Mental Health Day
In Sefton, two thirds of the people who died by suicide between 2022 and 2024 were men.
Sean’s Place is a Sefton-based charity offering free, practical mental health support for men in a relaxed, non-clinical setting. Founded in 2019 by Debbie in memory of her brother Sean, who died aged 34 after a long struggle with his mental health, it runs coffee mornings, pool tournaments, fishing trips, sound baths and more. Men can refer themselves or be referred by a professional.
Paul found Sean’s Place after his doctor told him about it. This is his story, in his own words.
“A couple of years ago, I went through a messy divorce and turned to drugs to mask the pain. For two years, I locked myself away and pushed everyone out. Then the intrusive thoughts started, telling me I wasn’t good enough, not worthy, no one loved me.
One day I walked into a police station and said, “I can’t do this anymore, I need proper help.” I ended up in hospital, then a psychiatric hospital. When I came back up here, I had nothing but a bag of clothes. A fresh start.
About six weeks ago, my doctor told me about Sean’s Place. A few days later I got a call: “When you coming in then Paul?” I said, “I’ll be in tomorrow.” I’ve not looked back since. Best decision I’ve ever made.
I hit rock bottom. I didn’t think there was a way out except taking my own life. But with the support here, I realised life is worth living. I’m now 20 weeks clean. No medication, no programme. I just decided I’d had enough.
This place gives me a reason to live. A reason to get up, even if just for two hours a day. Everyone here treats you like a brother. I call it the adult youth club. Coffee mornings, pool tournaments, fishing, sound baths, kickboxing. There’s always something. My calendar is full.
I’ve got real friends now. I thought I had hundreds, but they were just around for the drugs. Now I’ve got my mum and sister back in my life. My mum said the other day, “It’s good to have you back.” That nearly made me cry.
Honestly, I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for this place. It saved me.”
Stories like Paul’s are why we fund local mental health support. Last financial year, we gave out over £600,000 to projects supporting people struggling with their mental health, including Sean’s Place.
If you’re struggling, or you know someone who’s gone quiet, Sean’s Place offers self-referral and referral through professionals. Visit seansplace.org.uk.
If you need to talk now, Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123 (free). You can also text SHOUT to 85258, or call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option (option 2). In an emergency, call 999.