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Photography Saved My Life, Says Mental Health Advocate
16 May
Summary
- A Coventry man's photography group supports those with mental ill health.
- He credits photography with saving his life and aiding recovery.
- The group meets weekly at a pub to encourage social interaction.
A man from Coventry has shared how photography was instrumental in saving his life amidst his struggles with mental ill health. Neil J Catley, who lives with schizoaffective disorder, autism, and dyslexia, established the Confidence Through Photography group eight years ago.
He found that existing health services were not meeting his needs, prompting him to create a supportive environment for himself and others. Catley, 37, explained that photography provided a crucial focus during a mental health crisis, helping him to gain confidence and engage with the world.
Having been diagnosed at 15, he experienced five years of agoraphobia. A camera gifted by his mother helped manage anxiety and panic attacks. While attendance dipped post-pandemic, the group is actively rebuilding, meeting weekly at The Stag and Hen pub to foster social connection.
