In this powerful episode of Tackling it Together, we are joined by Matt Appleton for one of our most emotional and impactful conversations to date.Reflecting on periods of difficulty in his life, Matt opens up about his experiences of poor mental health and suicidal ideation.Remarkably, it was listening to a Podcast episode that talked about the tragic suicide of Gary Speed that proved to be the catalyst for Matt recognising that he desperately needed to seek professional help. Matt expresses how listening to that conversation made him realise just how close he was to taking his own life which gave him the courage to access support.In February of this year, Matt was diagnosed with Stage 3 Colon Cancer. Matt bravely shares the impact this had had, the heart breaking reality of telling his young children, the strength he has taken from the love and support of his wife and family and the kindness and compassion he has been shown from people all over the world. Approaching his diagnosis, surgery and treatment with an incredible mindset, Matt demonstrates inspiring strength and resilience and shares his poignant reflections on how he has coped with such a significant challenge. Exploring his relationship with vulnerability growing up and how this has evolved, Matt is a huge advocate of the transformative effect therapy can have. Matt talks openly about being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and his journey of seeking to understand himself and his triggers more effectively. With some thoughtful reflections around challenging your internal script and the ability you have to change the voice in your head, Matt’s message around reframing perspectives and narratives is incredibly powerful. Matt, it’s fair to say that you have had an absolutely huge impact on the Little Blackbird team and we are so grateful to you for trusting us with your story and for being so open and vulnerable. Your courage, bravery and strength of character is going to have a positive impact on every single listener and give hope to those who need it most. Thank you!

A huge thank you to Nuclear Transport Solutions for sponsoring this episode of Tackling it Together.

Trigger warning – This episode of Tackling it Together includes reference to suicidal ideation and cancer diagnosis.