Mental health battle: ‘OCD and anxiety made me think I was going to kill my mum’

Despite setting up and selling a successful business – Adam’s lifelong struggle led him to the brink of suicide. But it was at that point he sought the help he needed to recover from the illness.

He praised psychologist Lauren, who helped him cope with his OCD, and has written a book called Pulling the Trigger, OCD, Anxiety, Panic Attacks and Related Depression, The Definitive Survival and Recovery Approach.

“Lauren changed my life around. She taught me not to fight the fight the thoughts,” said Adam. “The key to recovery is about how you respond to them.”

Adam, who is now in recovery from his OCD, has established a global charity, the Shaw Mind Foundation to provide help and support for people with mental health issues.