Sedgefield businessman reveals battle against suicide

In a dramatic interview, business coach Ian Kinnery spoke about the mental health issues that drove him to the brink of suicide.

He told the PRsonal podcast how he attempted suicide at his lowest point – only to wake up a few hours later.

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“The guess is that there was some thought that stopped me from moving on,” he told PRsonal host Charlotte Nichols.

“I messed up. I went through it, woke up and was still alive – it was either lucky or unlucky depending on how you look at it.”

Now he has bravely gone public about his past battle with depression to raise awareness for a new campaign to help business leaders struggling with mental health issues.

The Save the Entrepreneur campaign was launched after data showed 63 percent of entrepreneurs admitted to neglecting their mental health for success.

In general, the North East has the grim reputation of being the suicide capital of the UK.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics show over 300 people took their own lives in the region last year – an average of one every 27 hours.

And as he dealt with his own depression that he experienced several years ago, Ian opened up on the podcast about the methodical steps he took to ensure that nothing could stop him from ending his life.

However, due to a stroke of fate, he did not realize that his new vehicle had a catalytic converter – which ultimately prevented him from taking his own life.

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After surviving, he was treated at a secure facility before getting back on his feet.

Since then he has been successful as a scale-up coach, supporting and supporting business people throughout the region.

After telling his story, Ian is determined to help stop as many people as possible from going down the same dark path that led him to his suicide attempt – with a clear message to those already on the brink.

“I totally understand the pain. I understand the feeling that this is the only way out,” he told the podcast.

“Talk to someone, set a fire – or just delay it for 24 hours – just give yourself the chance.”

“I’m just so grateful it never happened.”