Blinkie on BBC Radio Leicester.

Strong black people go to therapy

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Listen to the full interview below

Blinkie had an honest conversation with Aminata Kamara from BBC Radio Leicester, and Eugene Ellis, Founder of the Black African and Asian Therapy Network discussing why he went to therapy and the dramatic impact it had on his life and career.

Have you ever perceived talking though your problems with a therapist as a sign of strength? I sat down with Eugene Ellis, Founder of the Black African and Asian therapy Network, and Artist and Producer Blinkie to discuss why they went to therapy. Blinkie speaks on his breakdown, and how his debut single "Dont Give Up" was a pivotal moment in his career, Whilst Eugene brings light on why strong black people DO go to therapy.

 
 

If you have been affected by anything you’ve heard or if you’d would like support for yourself/ a friend:
Remember you are never alone. There are a number of professionals and services available to support you.

You can reach out to a number of national and local support services. Here are a few:

MIND

Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems.
Phone: 0300 123 3393
Website: www.mind.org.uk

Men's Health Forum

24/7 stress support for men by text, chat and email.
Website: www.menshealthforum.org.uk

Anxiety UK

Charity providing support if you have been diagnosed with an anxiety condition.
Phone: 03444 775 774
Website: www.anxietyuk.org.uk

CALM

CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably. A charity providing a mental health helpline and webchat.
Phone: 0800 58 58 58
Website: www.thecalmzone.net

Samaritans

Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
Phone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
Website: www.samaritans.org.uk

You can also speak to a professional counsellor or therapist. Here are a few:

Black African and Asian Therapy Network

Home of the largest community of Counsellors and Psychotherapists of Black, African, Asian and Caribbean Heritage in the UK
Website: www.baatn.org.uk
Contact: administrator@baatn.org.uk

Counselling Directory

Team of experienced experts connecting you with professional counsellors and therapists near you to help you find the help you need.
Website: www.counselling-directory.org.uk
Phone: 0333 325 2500

BACP

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Website: www.bacp.co.uk
Music: 01455 883300

For local charities and organisations visit your Local Authority website and search for ‘mental health support’

If you are concerned for the welfare of yourself or someone you know, contact your local authority, or in an emergency call 999.