I’ve found that comic books have really helped me cope with my mental health, when I was younger I used to read the Hulk comics. I really liked them because I found the Hulk to be a relatable character because I was quite a tall kid and I struggled to control my anger. The Hulk was always a bit misunderstood and I related to him a bit. Since then comics have become a good release for me and I love to read and buy them. When I’m having a bad day I usually read some comics, or I let off some steam on the Xbox. I find this helps because playing video games that are a little bit aggressive lets me release some of my stress and anger without any real-world consequences.
I think having a sense of humour about things is really important to be a bit happier. Depression isn’t just going to go away, and you might still have that dark voice in the back of your head, but you can dull it a little by having a laugh. I like making people laugh because I know that I’m being useful and making someone happy. I got help for my mental health and I realised that all I needed was a guiding hand. Knowing that someone is there to help me out if I fall backwards has really helped me. I still have mental health worries, but I do feel like I’ve now got the tools to help myself. I know how to look after myself and I know that there are people that I can turn to when I’m struggling with my mental health.
What’s your advice for other young people?
Don’t be ashamed. Mental health problems happen to most people. I know it’s scary and difficult to ask for help, but it’s the best thing that you can do. Asking for help is the first step to getting on the right path and I feel like I’m better prepared to help myself because I asked for help.
