James Knott
Specialisms: Mental Health & Wellbeing, Positive Psychology, Mental Health Stigma & Advocacy, Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa) Workplace Mental Health, Scam Awareness & Vulnerability
James is a dedicated mental health advocate and campaigner on a mission to improve mental health in the workplace and local communities.
Having battled Anorexia Nervosa in 2015, James is now committed to sharing his story to raise awareness and inspire others to seek help. His efforts to destigmatise mental health began in 2021 when he became a guest editor for MIND's monthly newsletter, offering a personal perspective on mental health, especially in the construction industry.
James's journey into mental health advocacy began as he sought to transform his personal struggles into a platform for change. He bravely shared his experiences through various channels, including guest speaking at tier one contractor sites in London and participating in IOSH meetings.
Collaborations with renowned organisations like Beat, Mental Health UK, Shout, Mental Health Foundation, SANE, Peppy, SHP Health and Safety News, and SIX MHS allowed him to spread awareness through articles, vlogs, and podcast talks. James's passion to break down stigmas surrounding mental health, especially in male-dominated industries like construction, continues to inspire many.
Understanding the impact of sharing personal stories, James volunteered as a Lived Experience volunteer at the Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience (IOPPN) in London, providing insights to third-year medical students about the experiences of mental health sufferers. By offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by those with mental health issues, James aims to nurture empathy and compassion among future medical professionals.
In 2023, James founded 'Manmade,' a support group dedicated to men's mental health. Recognising that societal pressures often hinder men from expressing vulnerability, 'Manmade' aims to create a safe and non-judgmental space where men can openly share their struggles. By fostering an environment of support and understanding, James hopes to empower men to break free from the shackles of silence and seek the help they deserve.
In a twist of fate, James fell prey to a financial scam that left him feeling hopeless and ashamed. Rather than keeping this experience to himself, he chose transparency and openness. Turning his setback into an opportunity to help others, James now advocates for scam awareness, aiming to protect individuals' finances and emotional well-being. He believes that discussing one's struggles and seeking help are crucial steps toward preventing such scams and supporting others through challenging times.
James's inspiring journey of mental health advocacy and scam awareness showcases the power of turning personal hardships into a force for positive change. Through his dedication to destigmatise mental health, empower men to open up, and protect others from scams, James serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for those facing similar challenges. As he continues to share his story and spread awareness, James reminds us that compassion, honesty, and seeking help are the keys to building a healthier and safer community for everyone.
