Mental Health Awareness Week: Why Our Stories Matter
Life happens - and it happens to all of us, in ways that are often complex, painful, and deeply personal. Some of us will face abuse, others financial hardship, and many will encounter profound loss. These experiences don’t just pass through us - they shape us. They alter how we see the world and how we move through it. They change our mental makeup.
At times, our mental health can feel bruised and battered as we try to make sense of who we are after these moments. And yet, for many, there's still a reluctance to speak out. A fear that being honest about mental health will make us seem weak or less capable. That taking time off for emotional recovery will be judged differently than time off for physical illness. That admitting we’re struggling might impact how others see us, or how we see ourselves.
That’s why Mental Health Awareness Week still matters.
We’re proud to play even a small part in changing this narrative. The Property Pulse with the Two Russellspodcast - hosted by Russell Jervis (Rayner Personnel) and Russell Quirk (Proper PR) - offers a platform not only for professional insight but also for human connection. It’s become a space where some of the most respected leaders in our industry have shared stories not just of success, but of adversity.
These aren’t just tales of achievement - they are reminders that even those at the top have moments where they look in the mirror and ask, “How am I going to get through this?”
Strip away the job titles, the status, the years of experience, and what you’re left with is the truth: we are all human. All of us are walking through life for the first time, doing our best to navigate its messiest, most emotionally challenging moments.
To every guest who has come on the podcast and shared their inner world with such courage - thank you. Your openness is helping break down barriers and push the conversation forward. And to everyone who listens - thank you for showing up. Your willingness to engage with these stories is how change begins.
We look forward to sharing many more candid, raw, and eye-opening conversations. Together, let’s keep breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Because it affects us all, and it deserves our attention, our empathy, and our voice.
Next week The Two Russells are joined by Ben Maddenas he shares his experience with running the Boys Club - a safe place created for male property professionals to come and share what their going through.
