A YOUNG Thurrock woman has bravely shared her experience of mental health issues and is about to show even more courage by making a sky dive as way of saying thank-you for the help she received.

Lily Louise Griggs is a 22-year-old from Tilbury who is currently working as a teaching assistant at Deneholm Primary School in Little Thurrock as she completes her university studies at Canterbury Christ Church University.

She now has a career path ahead of her and is optimistic about her future but it is not so long ago that she faced a number of demons and suffered some mental health issues.

She was helped through the toughest patch of her life to date by members of health charity Mind.

Lily takes up the story, saying: "A year ago I was in a dark place, one which was scary and clouded my judgement.

"I felt hopeless, undetermined, worthless and that life wasn't for me.

"I became suicidal and wanted to overdose. Luckily my cousin who was worried about me contacted my parents and I was forced to the doctors just in time (which i am now grateful for).

"The next couple months were hard and difficult for not only myself but for my family and friends who had to sit by and watch my breakdowns, my refusals to get better and my cries for help, sticking with me through home appointments, hospital appointments, mood swings and bad days.

"Now, a year later, I am more confident and happy, have been discharged from the crisis team and from therapy.

"I understand my mental health much better and so do my family and friends. I'm still fighting and some days are better than others but I want to be alive and present.

"I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the amazing work MIND, hospitals and doctors do when it comes to mental health.

"They worked tirelessly with me, listening and understanding, putting in measures for me in which I felt comfortable with and even stayed calm with me when I broke down.

"They were always there whenever and whatever time I needed them through therapy sessions, phone calls and house visits. I am so thankful for their work and want to help as much as I can!"

So Lily has decided to face another of her fears - and plans a sky dive in August next year.

She says: "Next year I will be facing one of my biggest fears and recording the process in hope to raise money for MIND by jumping out of a plane!

"In order to do this I need to raise £500! So please help and give what you can."

You can read more about Lily and her story and donate to her great cause by clicking this link.