**”A Hug that Saved a Life: Aled’s Story”** 💙
Meet Aled Edwards, a brave dad from Bangor who openly shares his journey with mental health, shining a light on a topic that’s not spoken about enough. His story reminds us of the power of vulnerability and love in the face of darkness.
Four years ago, Aled found himself at his lowest. Thoughts of ending his life overwhelmed him until a hug from his young son Sulli, who was three at the time, brought him back from the edge. “It was just a hug,” Aled recalls, “but it was everything I needed to remind me there’s a reason to stay.”
Aled’s battles with nightmares began when he and his wife welcomed their son, Sullivan. Though he tried to shrug it off as new dad anxiety, the dreams—always centring around self-sacrifice—hinted at something deeper. The dreams paused, but when their daughter Bea was born, they returned with a vengeance, taking a toll on Aled’s mental health.
He admits he masked his struggles well, portraying a perfect life on social media. Two days after his attempt, when a health visitor’s query about “safeguarding issues” sent chills down his spine, Aled realised the importance of honesty in his recovery journey.
Aled has since dedicated himself to supporting others, especially dads. He overcame misconceptions about postnatal depression being a purely female issue, understanding that men too can experience this condition. Through his social enterprise “Sut Mae Dad?” Aled aims to break the stigma, offering a community for fathers to share and heal.
He’s grateful for his wife, Sophie, and the support they received, yet highlights the long waits in mental health care. Aled’s advocacy has a clear message: “It’s okay to seek help. It doesn’t make you any less of a man.”
His story is not just about the past but an ongoing fight for better mental health support, dreaming of a world where reaching out is met with understanding and care. Let’s be that understanding shoulder for one another. ❤️
Need support? Samaritans: 116 123 | Mind: info@mind.org.uk