Leah adds her Voice to campaign

THE local woman who was runner-up in the second series of BBC hit The Voice has lent her support a new charity campaign to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Former Antrim Grammar School student Leah McFall has joined professional MMA fighter Leah McCourt and Olympian Rhys McClenaghan to promote a new campaign by AWARE NI.

They have launched a new clothing line called ‘Courage, Dear Heart’ - inspired by a line in the CS Lewis book ‘The Voyage of the Dawn Treader’ - with all profits supporting those facing mental health challenges in Northern Ireland.

 AWARE NI is the depression charity for Northern Ireland that works hard to support those living with mental illness and to educate communities on how to look after their mental health.

 Having only been released in October this year, the clothing line is quickly gaining local celebrity endorsement - including Leah’s 49,000 followers.

The 34-year-old said she welcomed the opportunity to raise awareness of mental illness.'

“The highs and lows of the music industry can take a huge hit on your mental health,” said Leah.

“For me personally, I have loved ones who face mental health challenges every day.

“If we are being honest, there still is a belief within our society that mental illness is a weakness. I absolutely love the message behind this campaign that directly combats that belief by saying you - those facing mental health challenges - overcome in your daily lives in massive ways.

“You are the strongest, most courageous people we know. I want my loved ones to know I view them this way.”

The local woman also urged those considering seeking mental health support to consider attending an AWARE NI group.

“Tap into the strength we know and believe you to have and have Courage, Dear Heart. Take the first step,” she said.

“And as for the rest of us? Buy a T-shirt, jumper, tote bag– whatever you like - and stand with us in this campaign to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. And to help us raise vital funds to keep these services free and available!”

Weakness

AWARE have also stressed that support is available - and accepting it was not a sign of weakness.

“At AWARE NI, we believe that it is not the absence of mental illness that makes someone 'strong'; instead, it takes incredible strength to live with mental illness, seek support and embark on a road to recovery,” said a spokesperson.

“We recognise that the journey can feel slow, and the darkness you are experiencing can sometimes feel overwhelming and discouraging. 

“But you are not alone.

“We run a network of free-to-attend peer support groups where you can meet with people on the same journey as yourself, be understood, and discuss ways to move forward.

“We recognise that walking through the front door of one of these groups for the first time can feel overwhelming; however, we often hear their life-changing impact on our attendees.

“And so, we say to you now in your darkness, 'Courage, Dear Heart,' and take the first step.”

To find a support group near you, visit www.aware-ni.org/lets-talk

 To shop or to look up a support group near you, visit www.aware-ni.org