Colin using his award to help inspire others

PERTH: Graduate in mental health peer support has come through his own ‘rough times’

A graduate who has battled severe mental health problems hopes his academic success can inspire others in his position.

Colin McNicol recently graduated from Perth’s Highlands and Islands University with a degree in mental health peer support.

The 67-year-old’s achievement was particularly sweet, since it came just three years after he tried to take his own life.

Now, as a member of the Andy’s Man Club group in the Fair City, he is giving support to others who are going through difficult times.

Colin has completed his Professional Development Award in mental health peer support.

Life is good just now for the part-time tree surgeon – but three years ago dark clouds were taking him over.

He was admitted to Murray Royal Hospital after his suicide attempt, and said he was “feeling like an empty vessel”.

However, thanks to the hospital staff and local charities Mindspace and Andy’s Man Club, he came out the other side all the stronger.

Colin said: “The illness I had was called major depression disorder.

“Apparently, I had been suffering from it for some years without knowing.

“Just before my suicide attempt a medic put me on anti-depressants.

“However, that took my energy and robbed me of my motivation. I lost interest in all things.

“This wasn’t just something that went on for a few weeks – it was a lot longer.”

Now Colin helps others suffering from similar issues at the club and at Smart Recovery meetings.

He added: “Andy’s Man Club gives men a chance to open up in a safe environment and share their feelings. It is a lifesaver.

“I’m thankful to everyone who stood by me and helped me get through the rough times.

“Mental health illness can cripple you, it can kill you. So go and get help.”

Andy’s Man Club was launched by Luke Ambler – a former Rugby League player from Halifax after he lost his brother-in-law, Andy Roberts, to suicide in 2016.

The Perth branch was the first north of the border when it started in 2017.

There are now also groups operating in Dundee, Dunfermline and Glenrothes, as well as one at Perth Prison.

The Perth community group meets every Monday at 7pm in the Muirton suite at McDiarmid Park.

The aim is to provide peer-to-peer support for men over the age of 18 to help them deal with difficulties in their lives.

The charity also works to challenge the stigma around mental ill health and to promote suicide prevention.

Andy’s Man Club gives men a chance to open up in a safe environment and share their feelings. It is a lifesaver. COLIN MCNICOL

Colin McNicol is a member of the Perth branch of Andy’s Man Club, which he calls a “lifesaver”.