A remarkable individual from Cockermouth is leveraging his personal mental health challenges to assist others facing similar difficulties. George Bean, a 26-year-old electrician, has ADHD and has battled anxiety and depression for much of his life. In December, he launched a podcast titled 'Share Your Story,' where he interviews people on topics related to mental health. Additionally, at the start of this year, he committed to completing the Three Peaks in Three Months challenge to support veterans who may also be living with anxiety and depression.
Turning Struggles into Support
George shared his motivation, stating, "I know what it’s like to struggle with your mental health, and I’ve found it particularly difficult over the past few years. I wanted to do something positive about my experience to try and help other people." He explained that the podcasts allow him to explore mental health issues with interesting local individuals, aiming to provide useful insights for listeners.
A Personal Challenge for a Greater Cause
Inspired by a veterans' charity, Help for Heroes, George signed up for their Three Peaks in Three Months challenge. He said, "At the end of last year, I knew I needed to set myself a challenge. I saw an advert from veterans’ charity Help for Heroes for their Three Peaks in Three Months challenge – and I signed up straight away." His training has involved completing numerous Wainwright routes weekly since January, with a chart on his wall to track progress. So far, he has completed 41 routes, covering an incredible 97 miles, lost over a stone in weight, and feels much fitter and healthier.
Inspiring Others Through Action
George emphasized the importance of seeking help, noting, "My great grandad served in World War II and my grandad was an RAF pilot, and I know that veterans can be affected by mental ill health as a result of their service. My message to anyone who is struggling is, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. It isn’t weakness to talk about how you’re feeling." He added that the training program has been beneficial for him, providing focus and receiving heart-warming support from friends, family, and strangers.
Community and Charity Support
The Three Peaks in Three Months is part of a series of seven guided Heroes Hikes organized by Help for Heroes. Siobhan Warren, part of the team behind the hikes, expressed gratitude, saying, "We can’t thank George enough for putting his own problems to one side to help our former service men and women. Everything George is doing to try and help others living with mental health problems is inspiring." She highlighted that participants of all ages and fitness levels support each other, with experts on hand for encouragement.
Upcoming Challenge Details
George will begin his challenge with Scafell Pike on April 25, followed by Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) on May 9, and finish with Ben Nevis on June 6. Help for Heroes champions the Armed Forces community, supporting veterans and their families with physical and mental health, welfare, and social needs. The charity has assisted tens of thousands and continues to work until every veteran receives the support they deserve, covering all branches of the UK military, regulars, reserves, and locally embedded civilians.
