‘When I became unemployed, depression quickly set in’

In 2006, I didn’t have much to complain about – life was going pretty well. Back then I’d just graduated from university and was full of hope as I struck out on my own in search of a career within the creative sector. It wasn’t easy, but the following year, after a stint in a call centre, I finally found what I thought was my big break at a local design studio.

It wasn’t to be. After my probationary period expired I really hoped they would offer me a full-time role, but it never materialised and while I had gained some experience to put on the CV it was hard not to feel that I was back at square one.

You see, having grown up with cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition which affects the lungs and digestive system, I’ve always felt that I had a point to prove to the world. As a result I quickly became fiercely independent and have never liked relying on anyone.

When I became unemployed, depression quickly set in and I soon began to doubt I had any prospect of ever getting work as a designer. So began a domino effect.

Unable to see a future for myself, my health took a significant dip and led me to being signed off for more than two years owing to poor health. There were some bleak days as the weeks turned into months.

It was incredibly hard for me to accept the loss of my independence and the idea of being a burden to the taxpayer never sat comfortably with me.

Unable to see a way out, I became extremely disengaged and withdrawn.

While I ate only sporadically, I was binge drinking regularly and occasionally experimented with drugs. It created a perfect storm.

All the time I wasn’t looking after myself, my health would never improve, but the things that were making me feel bad also allowed some escape from the situation I had found myself in.

I know now that I am not alone. The Youth Index 2014 revealed that almost one in four people in this region have experienced symptoms of mental illness as a direct result of unemployment. For some that means panic attacks; for others it’s thoughts of suicide. For many alcohol and drugs become a cushion it’s difficult to let go of.

It was my mum who first told me about The Prince’s Trust after seeing a feature for the charity on daytime TV. I was a little reluctant at first but after a few nudges I eventually made an enquiry about their Enterprise programme.

I told them about my hopes of becoming a graphic designer and soon after, I attended their Exploring Enterprise course where a genuine business idea began to emerge from what had been idle daydreams.

It was a difficult process and life didn’t change overnight, but I did feel that I at least had control of my own destiny. And that is how Tearaway Studios was born.

The business survived the turbulent first 12 months and has continued to grow. The Trust’s support allowed me to invest in new technology and equipment which had a significant impact on my ability to compete for design briefs.

Not only is the business still running but it now also offers a platform for creative graduates to help them gain the necessary experience through paid projects. I also work part-time for The Prince’s Trust as a Job Ambassador, helping other young people gain the support and opportunities they need to be able to find employment.

I can certainly understand the findings of Youth Index. I found myself continually downbeat about my prospects whilst unemployed, despite an eagerness to regain my independence. Being out of work while all your friends and family are gainfully employed means that you quickly find yourself isolated.

Although I never contemplated suicide, I can certainly understand how those thoughts can start to envelop someone who has been out of work for a prolonged period and who is also suffering with depression.

Those young people who continually face rejection are bound to feel the negative effects on their mental wellbeing and it’s something which is difficult to comprehend for someone who hasn’t had first-hand experience of it.

However, my message to those who are struggling with the burden of unemployment or those who know someone who is in that situation, is that there is support out there.

So put aside feelings of embarrassment and any idea that you are too proud and ask for help.

Jimmy Gregory is the founder of the Leeds-based graphic design agency Tearaway Studios.