A Blackwood man who used the experience of his own depression and anxiety to talk a young woman out of suicide has been commended.
Barrie Hemmings, 44, was praised by Gwent Police and the mental health charity he volunteers for, Gofal, after he helped the desperate young woman on the Chartist Bridge on July 31 this year.
Mr Hemmings was walking home from a Gofal IT class when he assisted three men who were helping the distressed young woman on the bridge.
The men had secured her from falling, with a strap to their van, but could not persuade her to join them over the barrier to a safe place.
Mr Hemmings, who has been helped with his mental illness by Gofal, lay on the floor next to her, held her hand and started talking to her.
He explained that he had experienced depression and knew what it felt like to suffer from a mental health problem. He emphasised that help and support was out there and encouraged her to try and think positively about the future.
Mr Hemmings said: “She needed help. The men needed help. I couldn’t be the type of person to walk past. It’s not like me to walk past someone who is injured or needs help.”
Gofal Chief Executive Ewan Hilton said: “This story highlights the importance of talking openly about mental health.
“By talking openly about mental health we can all play an important role in improving understanding, reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help.”
In a letter to Mr Hemmings Inspector Carl Williams of Gwent Police said: “I wanted to personally contact you to pass on my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to you.
“You could have walked on by, but your actions undoubtedly saved this lady and you should be immensely proud of this.”