Inspiring County Durham young man encourages 'taking time to talk' about mental health

A young man overcame significant mental health challenges by addressing his mental and physical wellbeing simultaneously with the support of Wellbeing for Life (WBFL).

Kieren Kemp had been through a difficult time in his life, leading him to a point of severe depression and suicidal thoughts. After a 12-week wellbeing programme and building a relationship with his practitioner where he could share the challenges he was experiencing, Kieren had secured a new job, and his friends and family noticed a remarkable change in him.

Speaking of his experience, and his encouragement to others, Kieren said: “It can sometimes be surprising where you find support, for me it has been from a community organisation who champion the wellbeing of everyone. I’ve got the motivation to look after myself now and want to share my story so that anyone who might be in a similar place to where I was will see, you’re not alone. Reach out and there will be someone who can help.”

An excitement for the future and its possibilities has been sparked in Kieren. He said: “I’m looking forward to being myself, enjoying my new self-confidence and being able to socialise more.”

Kevin Howe, Wellbeing Practitioner (left) and Kieren Kemp (right)

In County Durham, the prevalence of mental health conditions has increased by 5.8% since 2023/24. This rise is higher than the North East region, and England as a whole. It is ever more important to break down barriers; to listen, share, and encourage others to talk.

At the point of referral to WBFL from the County Durham Resilience service, Kieren was struggling with low self-esteem and was underweight. It was at this moment that he began his journey to recovery.

Kevin Howe, Wellbeing Practitioner at WBFL, reached out to Kieren; he arranged their first meeting at the Pioneering Care Centre in Newton Aycliffe. Kevin’s own experiences with similar challenges allowed him to connect with Kieren on a personal level, providing invaluable support and creating a safe, open space to talk.

On Thursday 5 February, Pioneering Care Partnership is hosting a coffee morning with WBFL in attendance at the Pioneering Care Centre in Newton Aycliffe from 1pm to 3pm. On Friday 6 February, WBFL is hosting a coffee morning at Healthworks in Easington from 9am to 11:30am. These are open drop-in events focused on wellbeing and mental health support – they’re opportunities to share a drink and biscuits, and for anyone who could benefit, to enter a welcoming environment, find someone to talk to, and access support.

Wellbeing for Life is a free service available to anyone over 16 years old who lives, works, or is registered with a GP in County Durham. For more information about the mental wellbeing support the team offers, contact 0800 876 6887, email cdda-tr.CBS@nhs.net, or visit www.yourwellbeingservices.uk/mental-wellbeing.