Kelly

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Kelly wanted to share her lived experience of mental health in the hope of helping others better understand conditions that are often misunderstood.

In this video, Kelly speaks openly about living with several mental health diagnoses, including OCD and schizophrenia, and the impact stigma and misunderstanding can have on people experiencing mental ill health. She explains how OCD affects her daily life through rituals and routines, and challenges some of the misconceptions people may have around schizophrenia.

More importantly, Kelly’s story highlights the person behind the diagnosis – her warmth, kindness, honesty and the love she has for her family, especially her son, who she describes as a huge source of support.

Kelly also reflects on the importance of support from friends, family and ISL staff, encouraging others to keep talking, accept help and “keep plodding along”.

We are incredibly grateful to Kelly for sharing her story so openly to help raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage understanding around mental health.