I’m not less of a man for it...

Before I joined Youth Insearch, I felt lost, and had no one to reach out to for support about what I was feeling and what I was going through.

I was referred to Youth Insearch by a Peer from my School. I met with a Peer worker who was working out of the school and they explained what support they could provide me. I was hesitant at first but made the decision to go on camp at the chance to have my feelings heard and to be around others like me.

On my first camp, when I opened up for the first time and told my story, I felt very supported by the leaders and fellow participants after worrying no one would want to listen to me.The team was very supportive and helped me identify my struggles and work through those with their support. I was too afraid to ask for help, but they gave me help without asking.

Being able to now help other young people as a leader and give them the chance that I was given is something that I’m proud of.Being a leader has changed my perspective when going through tough times and what is means to be human, I feel more mature and have a better understanding of myself.

One of the stand out (sic) moments for me was when I first went on camp. I was told it’s ok to cry and I’m not less of a man for it, being accepted for who I am in the moment when I needed the support.

I hope to continue work with Youth in the mental health space and continue to support young people like me.