One of the most poignant parts of the excellent Tackle Guru Podcast with Tom Pickering, was this clip, when Tommy talks about some of his darkest days... For the full podcast, follow the link below: • The Fishing Gurus Podc...
Tom thank you for sharing and Guru for airing it. I'm a 20+ stone ex rugby prop forward. I had a massive breakdown to the point I was nearly committed to stop me harming myself about 16 years ago. Many things had gone wrong in my life and the relationship with my then partner that all exploded one evening. It took some 14-16 months of therapy to understand why it happened. I had not asked for help when I/we needed it, I buried everything thinking I can handle it WRONG I couldn't. Again I am at a cross roads that is proving very stressful but the difference is I now know that all I need to do is TALK. If anyone reads this and thinks they know someone who may need help ask then if they are truly ok because you care. If this message saves just one person from taking their life... Nuff said Tommy your a true HERO. Tight lines all
You don't realize just how much of an impact your truths can have on suffering people. I have been tempted several times over the past 8 or 9 years to finish it all. There's always been just enough conscience to through me into a powerful guilt trip for even thinking that. Very different circumstances, but the same possible out comes. With me, after surviving a murder attempt, the resulting brain damage has slowly continued to take it's toll on my body. Now, barely able to walk, no finances coming in, (thanks to a very screwed up PIP system), no transport, no one able to help, I'm imprisoned in my front room, and can just about make it to the toilet. Let alone persue the only pastime that meant anything. You're not alone Tom, I fight daily to combat theses thoughts, and focus on what I have left. 5 kids to love, and a new granddaughter born last week. And of course, my little dog.
I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety thankfully fishing has eased it and I’m looking to start match fishing always puts a smile on my face watching Tommy and all the fishing videos on RU-vid im only 25 never thought in my life I’d get depression but it is what it is
So many people don't think why i chap might seem strange or distant they don't stop to think he might be suffering depression had a breakdown when all he wants is to feel what people call normal around his company. Thanks Tommy
Tom what a fantastic, honest and humble interview. I live with someone who has been to those dark places you talk about and has come out of the dark into the light. I believe it was a very brave thing you did, asking for help and thanks to all those who potentially saved one of Englands greatest anglers. I will be seeking you out for some coaching as and when it is possible and if you still do it. Cheers
Wow. Just wow. Been there and experienced that sir Tom and it’s the lowest feeling imaginable. You have reduced a 43 year old overweight Yorkshire man to tears watching this. Much respect sir, just for talking abt it.
Powerful, powerful words from someone you wouldn't think had many troubles. Always be kind to people, you do not know what is going on in their lives. Kindness costs nothing. #Bekind
Fantastic from all involved well done, a subject that needs talking about a lot more and now more than ever, been there myself, talking, a good support network and fishing and golf with mates helped me to start getting back on the right path
Thanks Tom, you've helped me feel better about myself. I was in that frame of mind a few years ago. Although I'm still here I've felt less of a man since feeling that way. Seeing someone I've admired for years has had those feelings and the balls to speak about, really does help me, and hopefully help anyone else who gets to that lowest point. Thankyou Tommy
Thank you for posting this and thank you to Tommy for being honest and open about his past. The turn right or turn left situation is all too common and it is a horrible position to be in. It is the hardest thing to do, to pick that phone up and make a call. It took me 6/7yrs and I still find life hard. Taking a life is as easy as breathing, but saving a life is one most difficult things to do These dark places are horrible and I haven’t spoken about it, as don’t think I could. Having nearly turned left on a couple of occasions, isn’t good. What people see and their perception of you is one thing, what’s under that skin is a whole different ball game.
not only a fantastic angler, but a brave and thoughtful bloke. moving but also a motivation for people in a similar situation as i have been. good on ya mate!
Great respect to you Tom, It takes a lot of guts to come out and talk about this. I've been there myself, and your voice will obviously be heard and respected more because of the celebrity status you have. I always respected you as an angler, but after watching and listening to this, you are respected even more and on a much higher level.
