Daniel suffered from depression and anxiety for a number of years prior to him starting Team Talk. He was visiting a family member in hospital when he got talking to someone else on the ward. The conversation led to them discussing the positive effects Team Talk had on the gentleman’s life, who suggested that they attend the session together.

Although Daniel was a little anxious at the thought of attending Team Talk, he felt comfort in the fact that he had some support from someone who was already attending and the positive feedback he had provided Daniel during their discussion.

Daniel attended the first session, at which he pointed out the session was nothing like he expected. Staff were non-judgemental, he had a choice to whether he wanted to share his thoughts and feelings or not. He also found the atmosphere at the venue was relaxed, there were games to get involved in and also a room where he could talk to staff and the wider group as and when he wanted. Staff at the session were always reassuring to the blokes, outlining it was a safe place to talk.

Daniel has taken part in a number of activities and as a result of Team Talk Daniel has also joined a charity football team, where he plays football (something he loves) whilst at the same time raises money for charitable causes - the next match is to raise money for ex-service personnel.

Daniel outlined what a positive impact Team Talk has had on not only his own mental and physical health but has also helped him to give back to his community and other people who are going through a similar situation. He has recently undertaken Mental Health First Aid training through Derby County Community Trust and is now a peer mentor at the Team Talk sessions running across the city. In addition, he also supports the wider Trust providing volunteering hours as and when needed.

He also recognised that Tackle It, our adolescent male wellbeing group, could support his 17 year old son.

Daniel now feels much better about himself and life in general, he feels able to talk to others not about his own worries and concerns but also help them to find their way their own issues. He feels through his own life experiences, mental health issues and the mental health training he received has led to him being more confident to speak to others and support them through their individual journeys.

He admits he continues to have his own challenges in life but finds them easier to cope with every day, saying, “Team Talk has opened my world of possibilities and has helped me make friends.”

You can find out more about our men's mental health project, Team Talk, below.

TEAM TALK