THE last few months have been the hardest of Stuart Rogerson’s life.

The 56-year-old, from Clacton, has lived a full life so far.

He has worked a variety of jobs, including taxi driver and special police officer, and took part in the spectacular Olympic Games in London as a part of the much-lauded team of volunteers.

He is usually a jovial man with a cheeky sense of humour.

But a quick-fire series of unfortunate events have led him to the brink of darkness this year, struggling badly with depression.

Stuart said: “It was not just one thing, but a few things that caused it.

“I split up from my girlfriend in January and had my taxi vandalised in February.

“That led to me getting into arrears and being fired by my taxi company the following month.

“I briefly worked at the Clacton taxi ranks before being forced to sign on at the job centre, and in the end I became homeless in June.

“It was soon after that that I realised I had depression. I sent emails out detailing my planned suicide. It was that moment when I realised and contacted my doctor immediately.”

Now on top of the condition, Stuart has gone back into education to earn extra qualifications.

He also wants to pass on advice to anyone else struggling in the position he was just a few months ago.

Stuart added: “Seek immediate help. Don't feel embarrassed. Don't feel ashamed.

“It is more common than appreciated and it is not your fault. You are not alone.”

Stuart received advice and support from the Health in Mind scheme, run by charity Rethink Mental Illness and has urged other sufferers to utilise the charity.

For help and information visit rethink.org or call 0300 5000 927.

For the full feature on Stuart's depression experience, read this week's Clacton Gazette - out now.