Personal Stories

Stuart, North East

Now aged 72, ex-serviceman Stuart has battled with nervous breakdowns and depression throughout his adult life.

Some years ago, having completed several tours of duty, Stuart left the army and found work as a joiner. However, after being injured in a roadside bombing and witnessing the death of six fellow soldiers, his experiences in the army haunted him and left him feeling severely depressed.

Over the years, he suffered several breakdowns and he found it increasingly difficult to stay in long-term work.

Stuart felt his situation was hopeless and became suicidal - often staring at the road and wanting to walk out in front of the next car to end his turmoil.

Fortunately, he saw an advert for Harbour Place, a drop in centre that supports vulnerable people in the Grimsby area. Stuart paid a visit and has been going there almost every day for the past 13 years.

Whilst there, he received the long-overdue emotional support he needed to deal with his depression and the centre has given him practical support too.

After years of feeling alone, Stuart has now found people who really listen and, in his own words, “a family.”