A DAD-OF-TWO has bravely opened up about how suicidal thoughts tried to take over his life after hitting rock bottom.

A decade ago, Dave Yii, 31, wrestled with the idea of taking his own life – his feelings masked by the smile he wore on his face.

For many years, he remained silent about the struggles he faced but he has finally decided to open up about his journey in a bid to help others who feel as if they are unable to cope.

The 31-year-old, who lives in Orford, was inspired to speak out after reading about the bravery of Danny Parr’s parents who courageously shared their son’s story. Read more by clicking here.

Dave now understands how his journey is not one of shame, but one of strength that could potentially save the lives of others who are struggling.

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“You don’t wear it like a badge. People can’t see the black cloud that looms over you. People can’t see the battle you have every single day just to function or get through the day,” said Dave, who works as a project coordinator for Talk Talk.

“Every aspect of your life can seem good to the outsider and as a matter of fact, that may be true. But the root cause can be something that happened weeks, months even years in the past.”

At the age of 21, Dave was involved in a fight while playing in a rugby match for Warrington Wizards. He had never been in trouble with the police before.

He was charged with section 20 assault and given a 20-week sentence which was suspended for 18 months as well as community service at Preston Crown Court.

“The stress of this incident made me lose my job and, afterwards with a criminal record, I struggled to even get a response to a job application let alone an actual job,” said Dave.

“I was heavily depressed, I felt like a burden to my family and close friends, I had a girlfriend at the time but that ended, and I hit rock bottom. 

“I felt so alone. I felt worthless and I couldn’t see any way back so I attempted to end my life.

“It’s crazy because it actually seemed the logical thing at that moment.

“Luckily I was interrupted and saved – it could have all been so different.”

This suicide attempt forced Dave to tackle his feelings head on and made him realise that other things in his life contributed to this spiral.

“From that moment to now things couldn’t be any better,” he added.

“I have a great wife, two beautiful children, I work full time, I have a loving and supportive family and a really great group of close friends. 

“Life is good and for the most part, it always has been. At my lowest, I never thought I’d be where I am today but I am. 

“There is always a reason to go on – always find your reason.”

While Dave still has days where he struggles and doesn’t want to get out of bed, he knows how important is it is to talk about how he is feeling. 

“At the end of the day, we only get one life so love it and live it,” said Dave.

The 31-year-old has shared his journey in a blog post. To read his post in full click here.

There has been an outpouring of support for Dave Yii who bravely shared his story about his struggles with mental health issues.

Monday, September 10, is World Suicide Prevention Day. We want to hear from those who have been affected by mental health through personal experience or through a loved one.

Sharing your story could help us spread the word and help those who are struggling with mental health problems - we want them to know they are not alone.

If you are happy to share your story email lauren.hirst@nqnw.co.uk with your contact details.