Gary's story

When Gary Gilfillan, from Dunfermline (pictured below on the right), joined See Me as a volunteer in 2023, he was keen to use his experience to show others that they weren’t alone. He’s made a big impact so far – in his community, his family, and for himself.  

What inspired you to join See Me as a volunteer?  

Helping others was a big factor for getting involved. I wanted to push mental health forwards. I wanted to tackle stigma discrimination, especially in the workplace. I also wanted to share my own lived experience for the benefit of others, and wanted to make a difference. I wanted to show that you can cope, work and live with an acute mental illness, such as mine.  

What sort of thing have you been involved with so far?  

I've represented See Me at quite a few wellbeing events, in particular, one with emergency services. These have included me sharing my own mental health journey, speaking publicly and giving mental health advice to work colleagues, wellbeing champions and line managers. I've also presented as part of a video presentation, speaking of personal experience for the benefit of others, in particular, giving advice and having open conversations at work.  

What experiences have stood out for you?  

I delivered a 45-minute presentation at a wellbeing conference in February 2024. I was totally buzzing after that. The reaction from the audience was humbling. I had a standing ovation, I had people in tears, people personally thanking me. I was approached by people who thought they were the only ones seriously struggling. And then when they heard my journey and my struggles, they felt they were no longer alone.   

What have you learned through volunteering?  

I’ve learned how to speak on camera! I have gained in confidence with the help of See Me staff. I've learned how to share information I’m comfortable with. I’ve learned how to address audiences, take questions. I can help people in organisations with a variety of things – I've learned data, facts, figures, including information around stigma and discrimination, and I've learned new people skills along the way.  

How’s it contributed to your development?  

It's allowed me to fulfil an ambition to speak, openly and frankly about mental health. It's given me the opportunity to present at events I previously wouldn't have been able to do.  

How does volunteering make you feel?  

What I'm doing gives me a real sense of satisfaction, personal achievement. Speaking about my mental health openly is so liberating. At times, it can be extremely mentally challenging, but for me, it works. It makes me feel respected, humbled – I get so much enjoyment and satisfaction out of it.  

How would you say it’s impacted on people around you? 

My family are proud of me. I think I have a bit more respect from them, because of what I’m doing. I've given people hope, real hope, that you can be well supported on a variety of different levels, in your personal or professional life.