Topics mentioned: depression, reaching out for help
About: We’re thrilled to announce that Daniel Howell is the latest YoungMinds Ambassador. He talks openly about struggling with depression as he becomes a YoungMinds ambassador.
With 6.5 million subscribers to his YouTube channel, Dan is no stranger when it comes to people knowing about his life. But something he hadn’t shared before was his experience of living with depression. Following World Mental Health Day, Dan opens up about his mental health and why he’s now ready to talk about it.
I thought I should share this now because it’s a big part of my story I think people should know and understand, and I want other people going through mental health issues to know that they can talk about it and it can get better. Which for me, it has.
In the video, Dan shares his experiences of antidepressants and therapy, reminding us that depression affects different people in different ways. Dan had to try several dosages of medication before finding the one that was right for him: “Everyone's body has different reactions so it was an adventure I had to go on to find out what worked for me.”
For Dan, talking about what he was going through was an important part of his journey to getting better. His honesty about his depression started with the acknowledgement that he couldn’t do it alone.
I couldn’t do it alone. Once I acknowledged this I told people I trusted about it and that I wanted to work to get better. And just being able to tell someone…can make all the difference.
Dan’s honesty is something to admire, and we look forward to working with him more as an ambassador. We hope his willingness to share his story will show people that you are not alone, and that you can speak out and get help.
Talking to someone you like and trust, like a parent, friend, teacher or counsellor, can be a really important first step if you think you might have depression.
More information and advice
We have tips and advice to help you find the support you need. Take a look at our guides.
Read more blogs from young people
6 min read
4 min read
Where to get help
However you're feeling, there are people who can help you if you are struggling. Here are some services that can support you.
-
The Mix
Free, short-term online counselling for young people aged 25 or under. Their website also provides lots of information and advice about mental health and wellbeing.
Email support is available via their online contact form.
They have a free 1-2-1 webchat service available during opening hours.
- Opening times:
- 4pm - 11pm, Monday - Friday
-
Childline
If you’re under 19 you can confidentially call, chat online or email about any problem big or small.
Sign up for a free Childline locker (real name or email address not needed) to use their free 1-2-1 counsellor chat and email support service.
Can provide a BSL interpreter if you are deaf or hearing-impaired.
Hosts online message boards where you can share your experiences, have fun and get support from other young people in similar situations.
- Opening times:
- 24/7
-
Shout
Text SHOUT to 85258.
Shout provides free, 24/7 text support for young people across the UK experiencing a mental health crisis.
All texts are answered by trained volunteers, with support from experienced clinical supervisors.
Texts are free from EE, O2, Vodafone, 3, Virgin Mobile, BT Mobile, GiffGaff, Tesco Mobile and Telecom Plus.
Texts can be anonymous, but if the volunteer believes you are at immediate risk of harm, they may share your details with people who can provide support.
- Opening times:
- 24/7