MP to apply for parliamentary debate to support Wilmslow mental health campaigner

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Tatton MP Esther McVey is supporting a Wilmslow resident's campaign to help prevent suicides.

Ms McVey is helping John Junior to get a parliamentary debate for his DBT For All campaign to make dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) more widely available on the NHS.

The Wilmslow resident who has lived with depression, borderline personality disorder and other mental health for more than 20 years, said: "This life-changing therapy would not only change their world but also help thousands if not millions of others across the UK."

DBT is a type of cognitive behavioural therapy. It tries to identify and change negative thinking patterns and pushes for positive behavioural changes. It is used to treat people with depression, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety and eating disorders.

John who is 31 years old and gender-fluid set up John and Charlie's Journey to raise awareness for mental health. Accompanied by Charlie, who is a stuffed duck providing John with comfort from past traumas, they travel across the UK to encourage others to talk instead of worry about judgement and stigma.

Esther McVey said "I am hugely impressed by John's commitment and vision. I am more than happy to apply for a debate in Westminster so the issue can be discussed more widely."

Scottish professional golfer, Carly Booth, is is also giving her support to John and Charlie's campaign.

John said: "I wake up every morning wanting to die," said John. "I have suicidal thoughts and everything. I think about jumping off a bridge or hanging myself. It makes me feel better that there is an escape from this hell I am

going through every single day, struggling alone and no help, but I distract myself and keep busy. It's hell, but I push through it, and you can push through it as well.

"I have tried to take my own life many times and I am so glad I didn't die. I am so glad that I have the will and strength to fight for the people, to serve others and get DBT therapy for everyone who needs it.

"Sign the petition today and help make history and be part of prevention of suicide."

John's petition is located at www.change.org/dbtherapy4everyone

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