Episode 60

 We need purpose, not just pills. 

 Since he was a child Alex Staniforth has spoken with a stammer. Given his current role involves public speaking, and his appearance on this podcast as an intelligent, and articulate young man, that may come as a surprise to you. As a child Alex's stammer restricted his ability to communicate and lead to bullying, the consequences of which were periods of severe anxiety and depression for Alex. 

As a teenager, Alex discovered a love for the outdoors, and in particular endurance activities. Through his new found passion, Alex was able to overcome his anxieties, and now finds himself as a campaigner for better understanding and treatment options for mental ill health. 

Along the way Alex has continued to battle with depression, as well as an eating disorder, and also feelings of survivor guilt after he encountered two near death experiences whilst attempting to summit Mount Everest. 

The charity Alex co-founded, Mind Over Mountains, can be found here https://mindovermountains.org.uk/

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You can find us on Twitter @marking_man and don't forget to use the hashtag #WheresTheTalkingLads 

If you have been affected by any of the themes discussed in today's episode, we have listed some organisations below who are there if you need to talk:

Samaritans 

https://www.samaritans.org/

Papyrus UK

Papyrus Website

CALM ZONE

https://www.thecalmzone.net/help/helpline/

MIND

https://www.mind.org.uk/

The Kaleidoscope Plus Group

https://www.kaleidoscopeplus.org.uk/