2 minute read
My new chapter
After suffering from a mental breakdown last year, Graham felt at a loss. He spent 28 days as an inpatient on a ward.
“I was living through my darkest days,” he said. “My confidence was completely knocked. I had so much guilt for what had happened and the effect it had on my family – I even felt guilty for feeling happy.”
With support from his wife Ruth, he took the leap and attended The Life Rooms in Walton which has played a crucial role in his recovery through the support offered and courses available.
A few months on, Graham is now a regular and has tried out courses in drama, poetry, nutrition and health.
“My new mantra is, ‘you don’t know until you try’.”
Finding his niche in drama and writing, Graham says he is now a different person.
“I developed a stutter after my breakdown but when I’m performing it goes completely.”
“I don’t know where I’d be without The Life Rooms.
Graham explains how he couldn’t see a future when he was in hospital but he’s now excited about each day. “I feel like the old me again but with new values and morals.”
A former driving instructor, Graham felt he prioritised his pupils’ learning and developing their confidence over his own health and wellbeing.
“If my pupils made a mistake, I used to say, ‘It’s only a mistake if you don’t learn from it’.”
Graham is now taking his own advice as he starts his new chapter.
For information about the support The Life Rooms offer, visit their website: liferooms.org/ support
