When Kian’s mental health began to decline, it was a devastating time for his family.
Once full of laughter, Kian found himself struggling with suicidal thoughts and self-harming.
“I never thought in a million years that my children would suffer with depression because they’re loved,” his mum explains.
“You just think that’s all a child needs. But the big wide world has such a huge part to play in it.
“When it hit Kian, he was the happiest person. It knocked me off my feet. It was horrible. We tried so many different things, nothing worked.
“Every time I went into his room, I didn’t know if I’d find him alive.”
Kian shared how difficult his day to day was at the time.
“I struggled to sleep and eating was tough – I was either undereating or overeating. Physically I felt awful. I just locked myself away and hardly spoke to anyone,” he said.
“I’d had counselling on and off for years, but I was still struggling. I’d heard good things about Inspire through college and I knew I needed to nip things in the bud.”
That decision was the turning point. From his very first session, Kian began to feel the difference. His wellbeing worker, Sharon, helped him feel safe enough to open up.
Kian’s mum explains: “In the past, people had taken a very textbook approach to Kian.
“But Sharon saw the individual and worked with him. She spent time getting to know Kian and what made him, him. She treats everyone as unique. I’m forever grateful because she’s the only person who has managed to give me my son back.”
For Kian, that personal approach was life-changing.
“I was anxious going into my first session, but Sharon soon got me talking and I started to open up, “ he said. “I’ve definitely gained more confidence since starting. I’ve come to terms with things I can’t change, and I value myself so much more now. I realise that what’s happened to me isn’t my fault.
“I’m proud of myself again – and I’ve even got my sense of humour back.”
His mum has seen the transformation too saying: “It was like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders when we came to Inspire. Honestly, I would love to think that more parents had access to this for their children, because there are so many kids out there who aren’t heard. With Inspire, they are heard.”
