Chloe McEwan, known as Miss Yorkshire, has recently become a Suicide Prevention First Aider. Her commitment to mental health advocacy is deeply personal, stemming from her own experiences and recovery journey.
By joining a training course run by the Yorkshire-based Community Interest Company, HelloHope, Chloe aims to support individuals with suicidal thoughts and guide them to safety.
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
Chloe McEwan, the reigning Miss Yorkshire, has faced significant personal challenges. At the age of 16, she experienced a severe breakdown and was subsequently sectioned in psychiatric hospitals.
Through fitness, mindfulness, meditation, and a healthy lifestyle, Chloe managed to turn her life around. She has since pursued a successful career as a Level 3 personal trainer and volunteers for a mental health charity.
HelloHope Training
In May this year, Chloe attended the launch event for HelloHope. The organisation provides Mental Health and Suicide Prevention First Aid training.
The training, led by HelloHope’s founder and CEO, focused on recognising the signs of suicidal thoughts and guiding individuals to safety. Chloe found the course insightful and confidence-building.
Impact of Training
Completing the training, Chloe now feels more equipped to spot signs of suicidal thoughts in others.
She stated, “Completing HelloHope’s Suicide Prevention course has already helped me be more aware of how to spot the signs of suicidal thoughts as well as allowing me to feel more confident asking the question – whether someone is thinking about suicide, knowing this could potentially save a life.”
Chloe emphasised the clarity and support provided by the course instructor. Ellie MacDonald, who ensured comprehensive understanding among participants.
Broader Implications
Suicide remains a critical issue, being the leading cause of death among individuals under 35 and men under 50 in the UK.
The training provided by HelloHope is accessible to people from all walks of life, including entrepreneurs, employees, HR managers, and small business owners.
The organisation strives to expand its reach, aiming to equip more individuals with the skills needed to support those struggling with mental health issues.
Founder’s Vision
Ellie MacDonald, the founder and CEO of HelloHope, launched the organisation in May due to her personal experiences with mental health challenges and losing her father to suicide.
Ellie remarked, “It’s an honour to have someone like Chloe with a prominent platform invested in supporting others with their mental health.”
She stresses the importance of widespread training to combat the prevalence of suicide and support mental well-being community-wide.
Future Plans
HelloHope plans to continue offering Mental Health and Suicide Prevention First Aid training to both individuals and businesses.
Private courses can be arranged, and individual slots are available on open training dates. The organisation aims to broaden its impact and support network.
Ongoing Commitment
Chloe’s dedication to mental health advocacy does not end with this training. She continues to volunteer and support mental health initiatives in her community.
Community Impact
Chloe’s involvement and certification as a Suicide Prevention First Aider highlight the importance of community support in addressing mental health issues.
Chloe McEwan’s journey from personal struggle to becoming a Suicide Prevention First Aider underscores the importance of mental health advocacy.
Her efforts, along with HelloHope’s training, aim to create a supportive environment for those battling mental health challenges.