In a new taboo-tackling podcast interview, Campaign Collective Member Tom York shares his personal experiences of managing anxiety and stress at work, and of living with bipolar disorder.
Published to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 (15-21 May), Tom’s in-depth interview with campaigner and Top 10 ranked UK Mental Health Blogger Mike Douglas, is featured in the latest episode of the Open Journal Podcast.
In the interview, Tom speaks about the impact mental health issues can have on relationships, the importance of finding the right support, the joy he experiences from having a pet dog, and how his husband confronts mental illness with sensitivity and humour – most recently by writing and directing an award-winning stage play that challenges misconceptions about ‘queer love mental health’.
Tom also talks about his passion for The Rooftop – the online home of positive news – which was founded by Campaign Collective in 2018.
“A huge thanks to Mike Douglas for giving me an opportunity to share my experiences with mental health on the Open Journal,” said Tom. “I am a long-time fan of the podcast and hope that sharing my story can raise further awareness and contribute to ending the stigmas that still prevent many people who are struggling from asking for help.”
Tom added: “It’s so important for everyone, particularly those of us who work in campaigning, charity or social enterprise sectors to remember that no matter how passionate and driven we may feel about our jobs, the emotional investment we place in our work should never come at the cost of our mental health.”
Listen to Tom's interview on Spotify and Apple Podcasts at the links below
Find mental health support
If you are experiencing a mental health problem, or supporting someone who is, there’s lots of useful information and advice on mind.org.uk.
If you need to talk to someone about your problems, you may find an emotional support line helpful.
In the UK, you can call Samaritans on 116 123 – calls are free any time, from any phone. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can also email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org. Or you can text SHOUT to 85258.
If you live in the USA, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, and you can also contact the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741).
