Addiction stole everything from me my health, my home, my relationships, and at times, even my will to live. It stripped me of security, self-worth, and identity, leaving me trapped in an unrelenting cycle of hopelessness. The weight of loss of the person I once was, of those I loved, and of the future I had imagined became unbearable. Suicidal thoughts lingered like an ever-present shadow, whispering that there was no way out.
But even in my darkest moments, small glimmers of light would break through kind words, acts of compassion, and the realisation that others, too, were fighting battles of their own. Those moments reminded me I wasn’t alone. Recovery wasn’t easy it never is but with every step forward, I proved to myself that healing was possible. That even after losing everything, life could be rebuilt.
I got clean on 31.05.2021.
That journey is what inspired this charity. It’s more than an organisation it’s a lifeline. A reminder that no matter how lost you feel, no matter how deep the darkness, there is always a way back to the light. That’s why we chose a star as our emblem. It represents not only the memory of my late partner but also the guiding light of hope we strive to offer to those who are struggling.
If you are reading this and feel lost, overwhelmed by grief, addiction, or mental illness, please hear this:
You are not alone. Your pain does not define you. There is a way forward, even when you can’t see it yet. And we will walk every step with you.
You are stronger than you know. Let us help you find the light within again.
At Guiding Light Mental Health Charity, we illuminate the hidden struggles of those facing mental health challenges, addiction, and eating disorders. No one should suffer in silence.
We will fight to end stigma, campaign for change, and provide support proving that recovery is possible, and no one is beyond help. Mental illness affects not just individuals but their loved ones too, which is why we offer resources and guidance for those supporting someone else.
Help is just a text away If you or someone you love is struggling…
Text ‘LIGHT’ to 85258 for free, confidential support from trained professionals.
You are not alone. Recovery is possible. And we’ll walk this journey with you.
Explore the critical statistics underscoring the importance of our mission. Discover the costs incurred by the NHS due to eating disorders and the heart-breaking number of lives lost to suicide since our charity’s inception. These numbers fuel our dedication to providing hope and support for those struggling with mental health challenges.
With suicide rates rising and mental health struggles affecting more lives than ever, Guiding Light Mental Health Charity was founded to be a beacon of hope. We exist to raise awareness, build genuine connections, and support those battling in the dark.
Our founder, Ben, is living proof that help saves lives. A survivor of mental illness, addiction, and grief, he has walked the path of despair but also discovered the power of resilience, support, and community. Without the help he received, he wouldn’t be here today. Now, we are committed to ensuring that more individuals get the same life-saving support that helped him find his way back to the light.
We recognise that mental health challenges come in many forms, including eating disorders, addiction, and the struggles faced by neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism. Too often, these conditions go unseen or misunderstood, leaving people to suffer in silence. We are here to change that by providing support, education, and advocacy so that no one feels alone in their fight.
No matter how lost or broken you feel, there is always a light in the darkness. Just like a star shining in the night sky, hope is always there even when you can’t see it yet. In your hardest moments, let that light guide you forward.
You are not alone. You are worthy of help. And together, we will find the way through.
Our charity’s roots run deep, nurtured by personal experiences of struggle, loss, and recovery.
When we decided to start Guiding Light Mental Health Charity, 1,379 lives had already been lost to suicide in the first three months of 2024 alone. Each of those lives mattered. Each was a story cut short too soon.
We planted 1,379 trees to honour them not just as a tribute, but as a commitment to stand with those still fighting.
We believe that in the right environment, anyone can grow, heal, and rebuild. Just like trees that grow stronger through storms, resilience can flourish when met with compassion and support. Guiding Light exists to be that environment to offer hope, healing, and the tools needed to overcome even the darkest struggles.
Our story is one of redemption, proof that no one is beyond help.
And now, we are here to help others write theirs.
Your beacon of hope and guidance through the challenging terrain of addiction and mental health. Tune in to hear personal stories, expert insights, and build a supportive community. Illuminate your path to recovery and well-being with inspiring narratives and evidence-based strategies. Together, we light the way to a brighter future, one step at a time.
Your beacon of hope and guidance through the challenging terrain of addiction and mental health. Tune in to hear personal stories, expert insights, and build a supportive community. Illuminate your path to recovery and well-being with inspiring narratives and evidence-based strategies. Together, we light the way to a brighter future, one step at a time.
Take a moment to read these heartfelt testimonials from individuals whose lives have been transformed by our charity’s support.
"Before finding this charity, I felt completely alone in my battle with addiction and mental health issues. Thanks to Ben and his dedicated team, I now have the support and resources I need to navigate my recovery. Their compassion and understanding have been a beacon of hope during my darkest times. I am eternally grateful for the positive impact they have had on my life."
"Struggling with an eating disorder and feeling misunderstood as an autistic individual, I was on the brink of giving up. This charity has provided me with invaluable support and a community that truly understands my struggles. Ben’s personal journey and openness have inspired me to embrace my own path to healing. I finally feel seen and empowered to continue my recovery."
We are here to assist you with any questions or concerns about our mission, services, or how you can get involved.
Whether you need support, want to volunteer, or have inquiries about our initiatives, we’re here to help.
Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates, inspiring stories, and mental health advocacy. Stay informed about our initiatives, including our podcast, community events, and the work we’re doing to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Join the conversation and be part of the movement for change.