Depression forced Andy out of the teaching career he’d enjoyed for years. Then a challenge from a friend revealed a hidden talent – and opened a door to a new life…
YOUR STORIES
Your stories are at the heart of Happiful's mission to end the stigmas around mental health. Read our inspirational and uplifting true life stories
Instagram changed my life: Julia's story
Julia was crippled by depression and social anxiety, until she created a happy place for herself online. Now her award-winning books blog is helping her, and others, move forward…
Bringing the walls down: Jason's story
Following the deaths of both his parents, Jason felt immense pressure to be ‘the man of the house’, and to bottle up his emotions. But, with time, he discovered the healing power of vulnerability…
The light after the darkness: Victoria's story
Victoria struggled with self-harm and an eating disorder for years. But with the help of a strong support system, she learned to live alongside her depression, and a new hobby ignited a sense of hope for the future…
Embracing my perfectly imperfect self: Sheena's story
Self-doubt and social anxiety ruled Sheena’s world, until her children became her motivation to push past the fear and step into the next phase of her life…
Back from the brink: Kevin's story
Financial disasters and family tragedies left Kevin homeless and helpless. But with a determination to rebuild his life, and the generosity of strangers, he is on course towards a brighter future…
Surviving the trauma of grief: Tayo's story
Losing her little brother so suddenly sent shockwaves through Tayo’s life. This traumatic life event resulted in her having to grow up too soon, feeling like an outsider, and experiencing severe anxiety…
Putting anorexia in the past: Emily's story
After struggling for years in the grips of an eating disorder, Emily’s support network, and speaking out honestly, helped her to break free. And now, she’s using her own experience of anorexia to help others…
Behind my painted smile: Kirsty's story
On the surface, Kirsty was living the good life. But in reality, she was masking intense feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, and failure. Now, having come through her own crisis, she wants to help others who may be on a similar journey…