Outspoken Mental Health (Kids) - Ben West, The Truly Incredible Mental Health Campaigner

*This episode is part of a huge collaboration with Dr Paw Paw. Together we're raising loads of money for the kids mental health charity Young Minds and raising awareness about mental health*

Trigger Warning: Ben's brother took his own life and this is referenced in the episode

I can't believe October is finally here. I've been SO eager to get my collaboration with Dr Paw Paw started. This month we have a huge event with Anxiety Josh where we'll be talking about how to keep our mental health healthy and what to do when things get hard. We'll also be selling special Outspoken Beauty X Dr Paw Paw lip-balm sets with 100% of profits going to Young Minds. Finally, we have this series of Outspoken Mental Health where we're focusing on helping children.

This first episode is with one of the most prolific and truly incredible mental health campaigners in the UK, Ben West.

Ben's story was shaped by the loss of his younger brother to suicide. This spurred him on to take his life in a whole new direction and try to make much needed changes in the mental health arena.

Ben has lobbied government and works tirelessly to make improvements in the education system. He has also written "This Book Could Save Your Life" which is an incredibly powerful and important read.

It is an absolute honour to start the series with his story and I am so grateful to him for the way he has shared it so honestly.

If you or someone you know needs help then this is the number for Samaritans: 116 123. They also provide online chat.

Young Minds provide support to parents and children. Their number is 0808 802 5544

Ben mentions https://hubofhope.co.uk/ during the episode. It provides info about local mental health support.