A BANKER who was struggling with his mental health has put pen to paper to outline how he turned his life around in a bid to help others.

Rick Benno, 41, from Northwich, was wrestling a longstanding battle with his mental health but has since published a book about his experiences.

"Throughout my life, I’ve suffered from depression, anxiety, stress and self-loathing," Rick explained.

"I was seeing a counsellor at the time and I made the decision that 2020 would be my year."

In the midst of a global pandemic, Rick took on the role of giving back to others on Belmont Road in Rudheath, keeping them involved in a Facebook group, and using social media and blogging – another hobby of his - to great effect.

"I’m not a writer," Rick said.

"But I just thought, hearing how people have been affected by mental health throughout the pandemic, if I can make a difference to one person’s life it’s all worth it.

"So, I thought I’d start a blog to show people that they can get through it.

“It’s to try and help people - and possibly try and help people learn from my mistakes.

"My book, at the minute, is almost like the best bits of the blog to date.

"I just thought I’d put it all together and self-publish it because it doesn’t cost anything, and put it out there on Amazon and see if I can get it in front of people.

"There are chapters in there about my morning routine, the importance of exercise, living with purpose, values, and working out what your values are, living towards your values, and how that can make you a happier person."

Rick says he owes his thanks to his supportive work-family and his daughter.

He added: "I was grateful for the support I was given by Barclays and AXA, our private medical health care company.

"I work for Barclays bank - I’ve been with them for just short of 10 years and they’ve been amazing.

"Their support totally got me through my darkest days and I wouldn’t be writing a book without them.

"My daughter - she’s only 18 - but she’s been amazing with me the last 12 months and she’s helped me through as well."

Rick's book, Living a Different Life, only stays free for a week on Amazon, but if anyone wants a copy, he is happy to be contacted to send it for free.

Visit rickbenno.wordpress.com/contact.