Mental Health Hero

It is estimated 1 in 5 of us will be affected by a mental health condition at some point in our lives. Depression is one of the most common, and some have described it as feeling helplessly alone and even numb to emotions, whilst joyful things may no longer even raise a smile. Sometimes people lack the motivation to get up in the morning, or even the afternoon. Thrust into a digital society, adverts gleefully tell us how communication and technology are bringing us together, whilst looks and charisma bring you happiness. Social media drives home the notion that instant gratification and likability are the key to a successful life. With the likes and opportunities thrust upon Instagram influencers, it can be quite intoxifying whilst scrolling. A simple Google search will reveal that there has been a steady rise in mental health concerns, particularly amongst youngsters. Surprisingly, many often do not communicate this to their loved ones due to fear of the isolation...

It began on Monday. Nothing good happens on Monday.  I was working in the student coursework department as a humble office administrator. This involved filing, photocopying, alphabetising, organising marks and hitting my head against the wall. Maybe I shouldn't have skipped that catchup with my Careers Advisor. I had made some big mistakes recently, and had apologised to my manager about my growing ineptitude. She gave me that look in response. You know the one, seething with disapproval. Concerned I was going to get the sack, I adopted a butter-wouldn't-melt attitude, and went through my work with a fine tooth comb. I even laughed at my manager's attempt at being funny.  With my work ethic now matching the discipline of a soldier, I felt nothing could go wrong now. No more disapproving looks. I was going to be the best administrator that the world had ever heard of.  Yet I couldn't help myself. I was sat on the reception desk, and needed a quick repriev...