Scott Harrison, 33, spent much of his life grappling with anxiety and depression before finding help from the Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust.
His struggles were impacted by not being diagnosed with autism and ADHD until the age of 31.
Mr Harrison said that early signs of his struggles were often overlooked.
He said: “I was always happier on my own.
“I was often uncomfortable playing with other children or attending social events like birthday parties as I found socialising difficult, particularly in big groups.”
His determination to achieve good marks at school often masked the pressure he placed on himself.
Scott Harrison as a child (Image: Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust)
Mr Harrison said: “I expected so much of myself and was determined to get good marks for everything I did.
“When a teacher praised my work, I felt overjoyed but fearful of not being able to do that well again.”
The situation worsened during secondary school following the loss of a childhood friend, his father’s heart attack, and relocating to an unfamiliar area, which led to a breakdown.
At the age of 13, he was referred to Bury child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) and said their support helped him to rebuild his confidence.
He went on to become deputy head boy, performing in school musicals and achieving good GCSE results.
However, as he entered adulthood, new challenges arose.
The Bury adult outpatient team continued to help manage the pressures of university and the “emotional toll of an early rejection in the performing arts industry”.
Mr Harrison said: “It was very toxic for me.
“I would audition for roles and not hear back.
“It sent me into endless spirals of depression.”
At one of his lowest points, Mr Harrison was barely eating, sleeping all day, and experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Consultant psychiatrist Dr Sarmad Nadeem helped Mr Harrison, adjusting his treatment and support.
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His mental health worsened after his mother’s cancer diagnosis in 2021, when he briefly turned to ‘harder’ drugs and excessive drinking.
But a particularly bad reaction to drugs in May 2022 motivated him to turn his life around.
Mr Harrison added: “I gave up drugs, alcohol, cigarettes – everything.
“My mum was, and still is, responding superbly to her treatment.
“This motivated me to start making the most of my life.”
A private assessment confirming autism and ADHD helped him understand his past.
Mr Harrison said: “Everything about my past finally made sense.
“It was a much-needed revelation.”
He now credits his recovery to the support he received, he said: “Dr Sarmad Nadeem is a credit to the NHS.
“His ability to truly listen has got me through some of my darkest moments.”
Mr Harrison performing ‘Stars’ from Les Misérables at Manchester Cathedral (Image: Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust)
Mr Harrison has returned to his love of musical theatre, performing Stars from Les Misérables at Manchester Cathedral last Christmas.
He now wants to help others who are struggling and has shared his story for Men’s Health Week, which takes place from June 9 to 15.
Mr Harrison said: “Mental health issues are real, and it’s OK to ask for help.
“Pennine Care gave me the tools to improve my life and the courage to speak out.
“Don’t wait until you hit rock bottom.
“Reach out because there are people who care and services that can help you.”