Nadia’s Story

Nadia, 18, was referred to Mind in Bradford’s Know Your Mind service for 1-1 support. She was struggling with anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Watch or read her story below. 

Trigger warning: suicide, drugs, self-harm

My name is Nadia. I’m 18 years old and I live in Bradford. 

I’ve struggled with my mental health for a long time but don’t feel like there is anyone I can talk to. 

I’ve felt anxious, depressed and lonely. 

To cope with my thoughts sometimes I hurt myself and use drugs.

I experience suicidal thoughts often and have tried to take my own life. 

I was referred to Know Your Mind where I met with a Wellbeing Worker to talk about my mental health. Usually when people ask, I just tell them I’m ok, but this time, I felt like I could be honest.  

When I first met my Wellbeing Worker we set some goals together. One goal was that I would turn up for all of my sessions with them. My second goal was that I wanted to feel more positive about the future. 

At the end of my one-to-one sessions I feel a lot differently now. I have stopped self-harming and no longer have suicidal thoughts. When people ask, I feel like I can be more honest about how I am feeling. I have started community work because I want to help others who might have gone through similar things to me.

I feel more positive about my future and what’s possible for me.

*Nadia, Young client, name changed to protect confidentiality

Know Your Mind supports children and young people in the Bradford central area who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing.

Posted on: 22nd November 2023