Newport Man Shares Struggle with Anxiety and Mental Health Issues
Louis Watkins, a 24-year-old from Newport, recently opened up about his battle with anxiety and mental health concerns. Louis vividly recalls his first encounter with anxiety, mistaking it for a heart attack, and his subsequent panic attacks that left him feeling like he was on the brink of death. The root of Louis’ misunderstanding stemmed from a lack of open discussions about emotions and mental health, especially among young men like himself.
Louis’ journey with anxiety intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, mirroring the experiences of many individuals in Wales who faced challenges with their mental well-being. The impact of the pandemic exacerbated Louis’ existing struggles, leading to heightened anxiety levels and feelings of isolation. The constant fear and uncertainty surrounding the virus left Louis feeling like a mere shadow of his former self, struggling to cope with the sudden changes in his routine and environment.
Growing up in Newport, Louis initially focused on his education during his GCSEs and A-levels, placing immense pressure on himself to achieve top grades. Despite not meeting his academic expectations, Louis transitioned to an apprenticeship in design engineering and began his professional journey. However, the onset of the nationwide lockdown further intensified Louis’ anxiety, triggering distressing physical symptoms that he initially misinterpreted as signs of a heart attack.
Louis’ struggle with anxiety reached a tipping point in 2020 when he experienced a severe episode while at his grandparents’ house. Overwhelmed by feelings of lightheadedness and tingling sensations in his arms, Louis sought medical attention, convinced that he was facing a life-threatening situation. It wasn’t until doctors reassured him that his physical symptoms were manifestations of anxiety that Louis began to comprehend the true nature of his condition.
In addition to his anxiety, Louis also battled periods of emotional numbness, where he felt detached from his own emotions and unable to express his feelings. This emotional detachment further isolated Louis, leading him to question his inability to confide in his friends and family about his inner struggles. Recognising the importance of breaking the silence surrounding mental health, Louis embarked on a mission to empower men to engage in open conversations about their emotions and seek support when needed.
Taking a proactive approach to destigmatise mental health discussions among men, Louis launched Clear For Men, a self-care brand aimed at promoting confidence and well-being. Through his brand, Louis not only encourages men to prioritise their skincare routines but also fosters dialogue around mental health issues within the male community. By sharing his personal journey and advocating for mental health awareness, Louis hopes to inspire others to address their own emotional well-being and seek help when necessary.
Despite facing challenges in balancing his business endeavours with his apprenticeship, Louis remains dedicated to supporting men’s mental health initiatives. With a portion of Clear For Men’s profits directed towards mental health charities, Louis continues to make a positive impact in destigmatising mental health discussions and providing support to those in need. As Louis’ brand gains traction and his advocacy efforts expand, he remains committed to creating a more inclusive environment where men feel comfortable discussing their mental health challenges.
Louis’ story sheds light on the importance of addressing mental health openly and seeking support during times of distress. By sharing his experiences and encouraging conversations around mental well-being, Louis serves as a beacon of hope for individuals struggling with anxiety and other mental health issues. Through his resilience and advocacy efforts, Louis exemplifies the transformative power of self-care, compassion, and community support in overcoming mental health challenges.