Writer to share his experiences at mental health talk

An author who shares his experiences of living with depression is set to inspire listeners to follow their dreams at a free talk in Wrexham next week.

Matthew Williams is headlining a mental health event at Wrexham Glyndwr University on Wednesday, March 21, at 6pm in the Nick Whitehead Theatre.

The original event was due to take place March 1 to mark University Mental Health Day, however it had to be postponed due to heavy snow.

In 2006 Matthew had a ‘perfect’ life, newly married and with a career in sport that he loved, until he suffered a severe bout of depression. After recovering he landed his dream job in boxing and he and his wife had two children, but depression struck again in 2013.

Once more he fought back to recovery but in 2014 his marriage collapsed and life as he knew it was turned upside down.

In 2015 Matthew hit back, by taking up his pen and writing. He discovered a new passion, and a talent that he never knew he had. Writing led to many new opportunities culminating in the publication of his first book in December 2017, the bestselling Something Changed: Stumbling through Divorce, Dating and Depression.

Now Matthew wants to use his experiences to inspire others to reach their goals and to find greater purpose and meaning. After the talk Matthew will take part in a question and answer session and sign copies of his book.

Also attending will be Advance Brighter Futures, a charity that works in partnership with people experiencing mental distress in promoting health, wellbeing and recovery in the Wrexham. They will have information about the work that they do and projects that people can get involved with.

Event organiser Justine Mason, senior lecturer and mental health and wellbeing programme leader, said: “Matthew’s story of living with depression and the mechanisms he’s developed to help him is inspiring. I’m sure that all academics, students and members of the public attending will take some valuable pointers away with them from Matthew’s experiences.

“The event is almost sold out, so I would urge anyone who hasn’t booked their ticket yet to do so as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.”

Places are free but there are limited spaces so those attending should register here.