Following on from our PFAS Mental Health Awareness Week, we sat down with Adam Vincent, a passionate mental health advocate and Clinical Operations Manager in our team, to discuss his personal journey with mental health.
He touches on the importance of meaningful conversations and his amazing collaboration with the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride in support of Movember.
Q: Adam, can you tell us about your relationship with mental health before your own experience?
Up until a few years ago, my experience with mental health was entirely professional. I dealt with it through my work in PIP and my nursing background. It was something I supported others through, never something I imagined would affect me personally. The thought of it impacting me never crossed my mind.
Q: What changed?
Around 2–3 years ago, a chain of stressors built up into the “perfect storm.” On top of the usual daily stress I had been managing, my world erupted. At first, I just didn’t feel like myself. It felt strange, and I assumed it would pass, a blip. It never occurred to me that this was my body warning me I had reached my limit.
Q: What were the signs that something more serious was happening?
If you fall over and break your arm, it hurts, and you can see the toy your children left for you to trip over! This is self-explanatory… What I was going through was totally different, it was not until I felt totally powerless and could not even seem to think or concentrate how to cope with the day to day, when my friends and family started to notice differences and had the courage to talk to me and ask ‘Are you okay?’, it was then I realised what was going on, I had just tried to push on and that clearly was not working….
Q: How did that question impact you?
I am incredibly grateful that I had friends and family members that were willing and brave enough to ask me the hard question, this encouraged me to accept and be more open and honest about the acknowledgement of my own mental health. That in whatever way mental health does affect us and will impact us all at some point in our lives and it is nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about.
Q: Movember has been central to your advocacy. What key facts stand out to you from their research?
One of the most alarming findings is that globally, on average, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day, that’s over half a million men every year. The issue is complex, but research shows that improving men’s mental health and fostering strong social connections can significantly reduce suicide risk.
Q: What advice do you have for someone who wants to help a friend or loved one struggling with their mental health?
Movember and RUOK provide a simple, effective four-step guide for starting important conversations:
- Ask. Start by asking how they’re feeling. Mention any changes you’ve noticed.
- Listen. Be fully present, without judgement.
- Encourage action. Talk about small positive steps – sleep, exercise, support systems – and suggest professional help if needed.
- Check in. Follow up and show you care. That alone can make a difference.
Movember also offers a tool called Movember Conversations, an online simulator to help people practice talking to men who might be struggling. It’s a great resource for building confidence in having those chats.
Q: You’re taking part in the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride this year. Tell us about it!
Yes, I’m incredibly proud to have taken part in this year’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, which took place on Sunday, May 18th, right at the end of Mental Health Awareness Week. It supports Movember and raises funds and awareness for men’s mental health.
The event is global – with over 63,000 riders participating in organised motorbike rides across the world. Whether you ride solo or as a pillion, it’s a powerful way to show support and create visibility for a cause that impacts us all.
Final Thoughts
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Adam Vincent for bravely sharing his personal journey with mental health. His openness is a powerful reminder that mental health affects us all -regardless of background or profession.
Mental health is not a weakness, and it’s certainly nothing to be ashamed of. By speaking up, reaching out, and supporting one another, we can make a real difference. Stories like Adam’s help break down stigma and remind those who are struggling that they are not alone.
If even one person feels seen or supported because of this conversation, then it’s a step in the right direction.
To learn more or support the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, visit gentlemansride.com. For mental health support and resources, reach out to your GP or visit movember.com.
Image: Assembled bikes, 250+ riders including Adam Vincent, ahead of the Gentleman’s Ride.