Eight-year-old Ariella from Pontypool faced heartbreaking challenges following the tragic loss of her father, Lee Robinson, to suicide at the age of 42. Struggling with separation anxiety, Ariella found it challenging to even leave the house after her father’s passing. In a touching video message shared on social media, Ariella bravely shared her emotions and urged others who might be experiencing similar feelings to remember that they are not alone.
Ariella’s poignant message resonated with thousands online as she expressed her deep sadness over losing her father and the cherished moments they would never get to share again. She highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, particularly focusing on men’s mental health, to prevent others from enduring the pain her family went through. Her courageous act of speaking out was part of a wider initiative to raise awareness and support for men struggling with their mental well-being.
The heartbreaking impact of Lee’s death on his family was evident as Ariella’s mother, Chione Matthews, recounted the challenges they faced. Following the devastating loss, Chione and her friend organised the “Full Monty in Ponty” event to raise awareness about men’s mental health and support the charity Andy’s Man Club. The event not only raised over £3,000 but also created a platform for open discussions about mental health issues among men in the community.
The event featured a group of brave men who participated in a calendar shoot named “One Day at a Time” to keep the conversation going and provide support to those struggling with their mental health. The calendar, filled with inspiring messages and advice, aimed to honour the memory of loved ones lost to suicide while advocating for mental health awareness and support services in the community. Chione emphasised the importance of addressing mental health issues openly and encouraging men to seek help when needed.
The rise in suicide rates among men in Wales and England, as highlighted by recent data from the Office for National Statistics, underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and support for mental health issues. Chione revealed that Lee had sought counselling before his passing, highlighting the importance of timely access to mental health services for those in need. Through Ariella’s heartfelt message and the community’s initiatives, the hope is to prevent further tragedies and support those struggling with their mental well-being.
Chione expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support and generosity towards the cause, acknowledging the invaluable impact of community efforts in promoting mental health awareness. The collaborative spirit demonstrated through events like the “Full Monty in Ponty” and the calendar project exemplifies the power of community solidarity in addressing mental health challenges. By sharing personal stories and raising awareness, individuals like Ariella and Chione are paving the way for a more compassionate and supportive approach to mental health issues in society.
The importance of destigmatizing conversations around mental health, particularly among men, cannot be overstated. Ariella’s courage in speaking out about her father’s death and its impact on her family serves as a poignant reminder of the profound effects of suicide and the importance of providing support and understanding to those in need. Through initiatives like the calendar project and community events, strides are being made towards fostering a more inclusive and empathetic environment for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.