Elliot's Story

“Not many people understand me”

Elliot was referred by his school to attend counselling treatment to confront his intrusive thoughts. He was dealing with bullying from his peers and stated, “Not many people understand me”.

At his first session with Mid and North East Essex Mind, he was accompanied by a school staff member to ease his anxiety. He started with just a ten-minute session to decide if he wanted to continue, and he chose to stay.

Elliot and his counsellor quickly built a trusting and supportive relationship, where he felt truly heard and accepted. This safe space allowed him to open up in his own way.

Sharing feelings

Elliot soon begun using animated characters he created to share his feelings. These characters became a powerful way for him to express his experiences and emotions, like anger and fear. One character, for instance, had Tourette’s, reflecting some of Elliots own challenges.

As the sessions went on, Elliot begun using his animated characters to represent real people in his life, like teachers. This approach made him better understand his interactions and feelings. One character’s journey with their own identity also encouraged Elliot to face his own uncertainties.

A significant breakthrough came when Elliot realised that his troubling thoughts, including those about ending his life, were just temporary and that he had control over his thoughts. This insight was a turning point for him.

By the end of counselling, Elliot felt understood and connected. He shared, “Not many people understand me, but you do.”

Now, he is excited about his future as an animator and has been accepted into further education, feeling more clear, confident, and hopeful about his future.

Your play make a difference

When you play make a smile lottery to support Mid and North East Essex Mind, you are helping them secure their future. So they can continue to support other people just like Elliot*.

*Name used to protect identity.