It’s funny how time can become an abstract concept, especially when you’re busy.
If you asked me how much time I’ve got to do all the things I have to do I’d probably say that I don’t have a second to think.
If you asked me about the past even yesterday would feel like it was lost somewhere in the mists of time.
So I was pleasantly surprised this morning when Facebook presented me with the following memory:
[box] Sophie Cook Talks — 29 September 2015
One of the many messages I’ve received since I posted my video online earlier:
Hi Sophie, hope you don’t mind me contacting you. I’ve been thinking about the video you posted earlier, while I am a cis gay man, so can’t directly draw any comparison with your and thousands of others journey, I can relate to the issues surrounding acceptance and feelings of social isolation and ultimately suicide.
After over 2 decades of struggling with a roller coaster of a life I was diagnosed with bipolar 7 years ago, following my 3rd (thankfully) serious attempt on my life. Now although my meds have stabilised me, and my life is back on track, I feel that the issues surrounding my suicide attempts still need to be addressed.
I do have a wonderful supportive family and a close group of friends who look out for me, but it’s still something that is never discussed. I guess I really just wanted to say thanks for starting the discussion, which needs to be had, by so many families in the country.
I am no shrinking Violet, but, I know it takes a very special individual to stand in front of others and bare their sole so eloquently. Thank you for being that person! x Please share the video and start the discussion[/box]
I can’t believe it’s a year since I first spoke publicly about my journey, to an audience of 15 at a business lunch.
In the past 12 months I’ve spoken to thousands of people and I’ve received a standing ovation at the TUC and Stonewall.
I’ve spoken at Wembley Stadium & Anfield, and my client list includes amazing companies like Google, JP Morgan, Virgin Media, Nationwide.
I’ve also spoken at conferences all over the country and, soon to be, abroad.
And now I’ve got my biggest challenge, presenting on the TV, all of which I’ve done whilst fighting my mental health issues and trying my best to lead an authentic life and learn to love myself.
Thank you so much to everyone that believed in me, to everyone that booked me to speak or gave me an opportunity or support.
And of course, thank you to everyone that’s listened to me and opened their hearts and to those of you that follow me on social media, your love, support and kind words help to give me the strength to keep doing what I’m doing.