9-5, yesterday and today was spent teaching the Youth MHFA (Mental Health First Aid) course to nine lovely staff members at a school for children with hearing difficulties.

Each session evoked memories and emotions – confusing, happy and sad. But it was fun. We all laughed and learnt a lot. At the end each one shared one action they would take as a result of the course. They said:

• I will prioritise listening to my students over all the other stuff I have to do.
• I will make people aware of the stigma associated with Mental illness and work with them to develop a better understanding of it in the school.
• I feel confident to ask someone if they are thinking of suicide.
• I will not pre-judge
• I will make time for others and try to understand them.

This was music to my ears. I felt like I had found some meaning out of utter and complete meaninglessness. I shared Saagar’s story and felt a deep connection with them. I had a smile on my face, tears in my eyes and my heart overflowed with love and gratitude.
This is how it must feel to be alive.