Thornaby vlogger says we must talk more about mental health
Dean Appleton has depression and made a video diary charting his ups and downs.
A Teesside man who recorded videos charting his battle with depression says it's essential we talk more about mental health.
As part of Time to Talk Day, an initiative to get us all discussing mental illness, we've been speaking to Dean Appleton from Thornaby.
When he was diagnosed with depression, he decided to share his journey with the world, but recording a 14-day video diary showing the ups and downs of his condition.
The 22-year-old received messages of support not only from old friends, but from people across the world, thanking him for his openess.
Time to Talk Day has been launched by charity Time to Change, whose research found that two thirds of people in the North East with a mental health problem felt isolated or worthless.
Many found that the stigma surrounding mental illness is still too prevelant.
Although over half of respondents in our region said it has become marginally easier to discuss problems than in previous years.
Dean said: "I've always wanted to speak to people about something important and when I was diagnosed with depression it seemed like the perfect time.
"Talking about mental health is one of the most important things about our generation.
"It's something that everyone needs to start doing.
"Not only is it a massively great release for those people with the issues but the fact that people are more aware of the problems and how they manifest can only be a positive thing for our society."
Sue Baker, Director of Time to Change, said: “This survey shows that stigma is still having a huge impact on how people feel about themselves and holding back their lives.
"We have got to continue to make progress, show that mental health isn’t something to be ashamed of and tackle the causes of stigma and discrimination.
“Having a day when we encourage the nation to talk about mental health collectively can give people the confidence to have these conversations and show that you don’t have to be an expert on mental health.
"We need to replace silence and stigma with talking, greater understanding and support.”
You can find Dean's video's HERE.