Nathan from Westmeath is one of thousands of people in Ireland & Northern Ireland taking on a 24-Hour Challenge for Samaritans Awareness Day. His reason for taking part is deeply personal.
“Samaritans have saved my life on a few occasions when things were hard,” shares Nathan.
“For people who know me, that might come as a surprise. I’m always seen as the bubbly and happy, outgoing character who wants to put a smile on everyone's face. It doesn’t mean I’m happy all the time, and that's ok!
“Samaritans were there for me when I felt I had no-one else to turn to. You don't have to be in crisis to call; I've called before when I just needed a good cry. The person on the other end of the phone was so understanding, and by the end of it, I felt so much better, I was actually laughing.
“That is why Samaritans is such a cherished organisation to me. Whenever all hope felt lost, they were my go-to phone call, just to get everything out, to unload my feelings. Whether I needed to cry or someone to talk to, they were always so gentle and caring.
“I believe that talking about your emotions with your friends and family should be normal. I also believe that mental health or just having a bad day should be spoken about more with your peers and colleagues, not just your friends.
“No matter who you are, you are loved and cared for deeply by someone in your life, even if you can’t see it because everything is so tough. Trust me when I say, your loved ones would rather you cry on their shoulder for a week, even a year, than lose you for the rest of their lives.
Nathan with his partner
“I hope my fundraiser and my story inspire other people to reach out for help. My story is what makes me the person I am today, and that is something I am very proud of.”
We're so grateful to Nathan for taking part in #24Hours4Sams and for sharing his story.
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