My mental health issues started back in 2008. Unbeknown to me I had PTSD. I've battled with my demons and still do. I find it impossible to socialise with people I don't know and always need a family member or a trusted friend with me.

I find the time when I'm out in the sea so great that it feels like it's just me, the earth and the sea together although I have friends with me.

I very rarely leave the house alone and when I do I have to make sure that a trusted friend is going to be at the destination. I wear sunglasses at all times outside and when I'm with someone in a shop, at the Dr's, etc to hide my anxiety. If I do hear or see something that causes me to be anxious I tend to panic. During these episodes I hyperventilate, have clammy hands, find it hard to focus, have a pounding heartbeat. I also have a feeling to take flight.

We're Cornwall Mind and we’re here to help.

We believe no-one should have to face a mental health problem alone. Each year the demand for our services increases as more people seek support for their mental health.

Although we’re affiliated to Mind the national charity, Cornwall Mind is an independently registered and funded charity dependent on fundraising and donations, like yours, to continue our vital work in the community.

With your support, you can help us to continue our life-changing work, and for that we cannot thank you enough.