World Mental health day 2025

I've long been a skeptic of highlighting specific days like World Mental Health Day or World Suicide Prevention Day. In fact, for a very long time, I actively avoided them. These events were so deeply intertwined with some of my darkest days that even thinking about them felt impossible without dredging up painful memories and essentially triggering myself. So, I took a deliberate step back.

For those who are new to ASCND, I have a history of mental illness. I've been sectioned, and at my worst, I attempted to take my own life. There was a time when I thought being vocal was the key to healing, showing others there was hope. I was open, sometimes too honest and in doing so, I opened myself up to the toxic side of social media. Things did not go well.

Rather than rehashing the "gory details," I want to focus on the change. You can read some of my previous posts HERE and HERE, but be warned: they come with a serious trigger warning. What I want to talk about now is the shift in perspective, how I am today, and some of the things and people who have helped me get here.

I feel like I’ve kept to myself a lot, shied away from the social media limelight. The last year in particular has seen a real change, I’m happier being around people, I’m able to express emotions like joy and I definitely give fewer fucks about the little things. I’m not as easily triggered and I’m able to go out and ride with other people. It’s a big change from where I was and has made me feel like ASCND still has a place in the world.

Mid 2022, ASCND was on the verge of becoming something big. I hosted rides and events, produced podcasts, and even set up Mental Health First Aid Courses, raising around £50,000 for two charities. One ride we organized brought together friends from all over the world, with over 500 people turning out in London, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Copenhagen, and Oslo. It was insane.

I still feel that there's a pretty unhealthy and toxic relationship between social media and mental health. I struggle not to look at everything cynically and to question people's motives. Despite that, I still believe there is a need for a resource, a place to signpost help and support. It’s hard to find help and sometimes even harder to accept it.

There is a profound connection between cycling and its ability to break down barriers. It allows difficult conversations to start with ease, fostering bonds, creating support networks, and making you realise you are not alone.

I'm not looking to return to the so-called "glory days." I'm not opening myself up to that world again. Instead, I'm finding a new path forward, a different way to contribute, and a healthier and quieter way to live. This year, World Mental Health Day is less about a public spectacle and more about a quiet, personal reflection, acknowledging the journey, celebrating the progress, and offering a gentle reminder that even in the darkest moments, a new path can always be found. Those who know me of have seen “The Rebrand” over the last five years will testify, there is hope and you like I have can change.

We've become so skilled at hiding our struggles behind a curated smile or a quick, "I'm fine." But beneath the surface, there's a universe of thoughts, anxieties, and triumphs that deserves to be seen. This day is a reminder that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a profound strength. It’s a chance to open up and connect, to realise the true power of shared experiences. 

Friday October 10th is World Mental Health Day. Join us for a few Richmond Park Laps before returning to The ClubHouse Putney for a coffee and to hear more about the work and support provided by The New Normal Charity. Details can be found here on the ASCND Strava page.

A side note, I fully understand the irony of posting this on social media and hosting a ride with a bunch of strangers is exactly what I used to do and have avoided for the last three years.