So many young people and adults struggle with their mental health – in the UK in any one year, 1 in 4 people will experience issues. Too many people are suffering alone and in silence. Too many remain unseen and unheard. Stigma and discrimination towards people with mental health issues is common place in our society....but the semicolon is now being used as a universal symbol to increase awareness and show solidarity for people who face the daily battle with mental health.

For me personally there have been heavy moments in my life, moments that have worn me down and made me feel sad and defeated. But I've picked myself up again and come out stronger on the other side, smiling and feeling happier. In 2013 I took a big step and left a job that was bringing me down, causing me anxiety, making me ill. After talking to my doctor and counsellor I set on a path to make myself better, and here I am today, doing what I want to do, not being brought down and not letting anxiety take over.