Yesterday I learned of the tragic news that Chloe Weil had died. I’m still in shock. I had only met Chloe a few times but considered her to be a friend and whenever our paths did cross I was always met with the biggest of smiles.

I cannot begin to imagine the reasons behind somebody taking their own life. However as somebody who has been battling with depression for the last eighteen months I can completely understand the anguish that negative thoughts can cause and the desperation to do anything to make that suffering stop.

Mental health is still something we all find incredibly hard to talk about. Depression often arises from feelings of self-doubt and self-criticism so the idea of talking openly about our ‘weaknesses’ and ‘failings’ can be terrifying. It is far easier to keep the pain and hurt inside than burdening others with it.

I want each of you reading this to do something for me. If you suffer depression or anxiety talk to somebody. That can be a health professional (doctor or counsellor), friend, family member or complete stranger but you do not need to keep your feelings to yourself and do not deserve to be feeling the way you do.

Secondly if you know somebody suffering depression or mental health problems reach out to them. Pick up the phone, send them a message and make sure they are okay. Let them know that the pain will not always be there. They may have some issues to overcome or chemical imbalance to address but things won’t always be this way.

Chloe we only met a few times but I consider you to be a friend and I miss you. Sleep well xx

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