Musician David “Bo” Ramsay has struggled with his mental health he sees raising awareness and keeping up the conversation as vital to supporting people.
Bo is a member of DN One Events who have been raising awareness for mental health since local guitarist James Miller tragically took his own life earlier this year.
The musician explained that speaking up made all the difference to him and provides a community for local musicians together, play music and chat.
“I believe everyone has mental health struggles throughout their lives and that’s why I wanted to be part of this kit launch,” said Bo.
“When I suffered with my mental health many years ago, there was no one to talk to and there was still a stigma attached to it. That shouldn’t be the case.
“Everyone – sooner or later – will suffer with some form of mental health whether it’s small or large and you don’t know how it’s going to affect you until it does but if you can talk about it, it starts to get better.”
The third shirt itself is a blackout design meaning that the detailing on the front is difficult to see at first glance – just like mental health struggles. Supporters will need to look twice at the shirt, as Rovers encourages everyone to ask twice when checking in on a friend.
“You can’t see mental health so you have to open up about it otherwise you’ll start retracting into yourself and once you do that, it can be hard to come back,” Bo added.
“If you can recognize the signs, you can do something about it sooner.
“There are people and charities out there that will talk to you and talk through things with you and your friends and family will help as well. Be aware of what’s available around you and the help you can receive.
“I was really lucky. I was able to get the therapy I needed at the age of 32. I’ve put in safe mechanisms and have simple things like music and cooking that can make me happy.”
£5 from every third shirt sold will be donated to CALM. You can purchase the shirt online now.