Trigger warning

This post talks about suicide – please look after yourself.

 

 

Mike is an inspiration to so many people.

Dad Matters is so proud to count him as one of our volunteers!

Thank you, Mike, for sharing this, it must’ve been hard to write.

If you need someone to talk to because suicide is something you’re thinking about, the Samaritans link is in Mike’s Post and you can find more support here – https://hubofhope.co.uk/need-help-now

If you’re not in crisis, but have a child under 2 and would like to talk to someone, get in touch with us.

If you’re a dad, and you’d like to help other dads get the support they need by volunteering for an hour or two each month, get in touch…

Words from Mike.

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week 2022 and the theme is Loneliness.

When our mental health is at a low point it can be difficult not to feel lonely. As though we are the only ones going through this troubling or traumatic time.

Below are two pictures. Both have only ever been seen by my eyes.

The first picture was taken on the 21st December 2020.

The second picture was taken on the 21st December 2021.

One year apart.

Both are nice pictures. Mum and son sleeping peacefully. Looking happy and content.

The second picture has a happy backstory.

The first picture is a lot different.

The first picture was suppose to be the last picture I ever took because it was the last time I knew for definite that both my fiancée and son were safe and happy.

The reason for this was because before I took the picture. I planned my whole suicide, where, when, and if I was leaving a note.

I got up from my place on the couch and took the picture and headed to the front door.

When I got to the front door, Atlas woke up crying. I comforted Atlas back to sleep. When I did this, Atlas nuzzled into me and fell back to sleep.

The penny then dropped.

What was I doing?!

I wanted to commit suicide because I felt lonely. As though I was the only one going through PTSD, PND, and a rough time.

But if I did commit suicide. I was leaving my fiancée and my son to become lonely.

Instead of ending my feeling of loneliness, I would’ve triggered the feeling of loneliness and guilt in the people who love and care about me.

I may have saved my son’s life on the 29th November 2020 but my son saved me on the 21st December 2020.

This is why I am sharing this story because the feeling of loneliness is a short term problem and suicide is a long term solution to a short term problem.

Dad Matters UK helped me to get through this tough time. I volunteer for such a great organisation that help Dads in Greater Manchester, and currently expanding elsewhere. If it wasn’t for their support and signposting. I may not be here.

Samaritans (116 123) are a great organisation you can contact if you are thinking of commiting suicide but please…

If you are in immediate danger please seek help through your GP or better yet ring the emergency services; 999.

Remember; loneliness is a feeling, not a reality. 💚