Father-of-two who learnt about mother's depression after her suicide brings campaign to Portsmouth

Marcus Tisson was left devastated when his mother Margaret took her own life in 2016 at Mile End underground station in London. His father Winston, who also suffered from mental health issues, died just a month later.

But the 40-year-old decided to use his experience to create a campaign and support group to raise awareness of mental health and break the stigma.

He said: ‘When I got the call to tell me what had happened to my mum I was shocked. Just the day before we were talking about plans for her 60th birthday and laughing.

‘Our whole family had no idea what she had been going through for so many years and the nightmare she was battling alone. My parents hadn’t been together for over 30 years but I think my dad died of a broken heart.

‘I wanted to start the campaign because I think mental health is still not talked about enough especially in the Caribbean community. My mother was by no means the only person who suffered without telling anyone and I just don’t want anyone to through what our family went through.’

Marcus has held three black tie galas with backing from reality star Kerry Katona and Jack Fowler and Joanna Chimonides from Love Island. He also held Stand Up 4 Mental Health comedy nights to give a laugh to those who need it.

The comedian, who used to live in east London, is moving to Portsmouth to become a teaching assistant at The Harbour School in Tipner and wants to bring his campaign with him.

He said: ‘We have our social media for people to get support from but I am excited to move to Portsmouth and bring my work to break the stigma of mental health.

‘I run walks and talks where people can chat with each other and I think Portsmouth will be such a good place to walk, especially along the sea. I hope to find venues for the comedy nights so people who really need a laugh can have one.’

For more information visit Don't suffer in silence on Facebook or on Instagram at dontsufferinsilence1.