Hello, I’m Zave. 

I am a 25-year-old psychology student at the Open University. I chose this subject because I have a profound passion for raising awareness for complex, and often misunderstood, mental health difficulties. In fact, this platform exists for that sole purpose. 

I guess you could say that my personal experiences with mental health are a significant reason for my involvement and deep concern in this area. Having a selection of different complex mental illnesses, treated by a cocktail of antipsychotics, antidepressants and therapy, I have faced very challenging times. I know what it is like to be overwhelmed by your own thoughts, and feel misunderstood by the world; it can leave you feeling isolated and uncertain of your place in the world. Personally, they also ignited a fire in me to learn more about mental illness, human nature, and how to create a compassionate and inclusive environment for those in need. 

I understand what it is like to feel unseen, judged, and reduced to stereotypes. Therefore, I am determined to do everything in my power to ensure that nobody else has to endure those feelings, at least not with me. I can’t control the rest of the world, and I can’t change what you have been through, but I can do my best to make sure that I am a safe space for you. 

Furthermore, as a physically disabled and trans man, I am uncomfortably aware of how marginalised identities can impact mental wellbeing. Mental health is impacted by every aspect of our lives; our identities, social barriers, communities, and treatment by others all play a role. But, often, those already struggling feel even more isolated because they don’t conform to others’ expectations or understandings of what it means to be ‘normal’. This is a cause I care deeply about, both academically and personally. 

I have always struggled to find a purpose in life, a sense of belonging, but studying psychology has provided me with a way of channelling my passion into something meaningful. The more I learn, the more determined I become to contribute to mental health discussions in an honest, compassionate and inclusive way. I want to challenge stigma, especially around conditions that are often feared, dismissed, or misrepresented in everyday life. I want to encourage understanding instead of judgement, and empathy where there is, very often, silence. 

 This website embodies that mission. 

I hope this will be a safe space where people feel safe, seen and understood. I hope this will be a place where mental health can be discussed openly and honestly without shame because, too often, people are made to feel shame for speaking out. People are made to feel like attention-seekers, or dramatic, so they stay quiet. They suffer in silence. But nobody should have to face mental illness alone. There is no shame in speaking out or asking for help when you feel you need it. 

Above all, I want those who are struggling to know that they are not alone. I want those who feel misunderstood to know that there are others who understand and see you. If I can create that space, here, by simply sharing my experience of mental health then I will gladly do so. 

And, in time, please feel free to send me your stories if you feel comfortable. I truly mean it when I say that I want to help if I can, I want to listen, I want to be that safe space. Please don’t suffer in silence. 

I’m so happy you’re here.