Local man urges counselling

LEAMINGTON — Steven Youssef of Leamington is hoping that his past struggles will be the catalyst to helping others when it comes to dealing with mental illness.

The 36-year-old was featured three years ago in the Sun, where he shared his experiences of being diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Bi-Polar Disorder.

Youssef has recently noted that any counsellors he’s talked to have had an increase in calls during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He wants to remind people who may be having a tough time, to reach out and talk to people.

“Getting proper counselling and therapy is important,” he said. “It’s amazing — they help you so much.”

Youssef says that his own struggles have been helped immensely by just talking to the right people. And it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. “There are always places for free counselling,” he said.

He noted that there are free counsellors through the Windsor Essex County Health Unit.

His own issues date back to age 21, when he was diagnosed with OCD.

“I’ve been dealing with that for 15 years now,” he said.

In the end, staying positive and not being afraid to seek help, have paved his road to success.

“It’s how you treat it, and how you defeat it,” he said. “Counselling makes you a better person.”